Kalamata

For the culture-seekers, Kalamata has many museums and galleries, including The Modern Greek Art Gallery, The Benakeion Archaeological Museum, and The Folklore and History Museum – and the City Hall and Municipal Theatre both have packed programmes of performances.

If you’re after sun, sea and sand, there are countless watersports companies, whether you want to go water skiing, jet skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, or you just want to hire some giant inflatables to kick back on and drink cocktails. You could also combine culture and beach activities – and take a boat tour to see the famous lighthouse, visit secret tavernas, explore caves, and enjoy the best swimming and snorkelling spots Kalamata has to offer.

As you’d expect in the Mediterranean, Kalamata has a rich café culture and food scene, with lots of charming traditional eateries that favour alfresco dining. Of course, you’ll find kalamata olives in abundance, but the Peloponnese peninsula is also known for its oranges, aubergines (moussaka is usually on the menu here), cured meats and salty feta cheese.

Owing to its sun-drenched climate the region has also been producing wine for thousands of years, and Kalamata is the largest grape-growing area in the country, serving up sweet whites and juicy reds. Of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to Kalamata without an olive tour and tasting experience, and there are plenty to choose from. Visit one of the olive groves to learn about the area’s history, taste fresh olive oil and sip local wines – and most tours also have the option to include dinner.

The central public market is a huge attraction in Kalamata, featuring about 400 different vendors – it’s warm and welcoming, and you’ll be encouraged to sample the local delicacies, including nuts, cheeses, honey, figs, and lalagia (delicious little cinnamon dough rings that are especially popular at Christmas).

In the pretty and picturesque Old Town you’ll find charming cafés, traditional taverns and interesting little souvenir shops. The historic quarter, in the north of the city, houses imposing churches and the striking Ipapanti Cathedral. Visit the famous Castle of Kalamata (commonly known as ‘the kastro’), which sits on a low rocky hill above the Nedon river and offers breathtaking and romantic views of the sunset over the city.