From ancient open-air theater performances to wine tasting in Greece's most respected red wine region, the Peloponnese rewards travelers who go beyond ruin-hopping.
Famous for near-perfect acoustics that let a whisper from center stage reach the back row unamplified, this 4th-century BCE theater still hosts live performances of ancient Greek drama each summer as part of the Epidaurus Festival. Even outside festival dates, visitors can test the acoustics themselves by dropping a coin or speaking from the stone stage.
A self-drive or guided loop through the rugged, sparsely populated Mani peninsula passes striking multi-story stone tower houses, Byzantine chapels tucked into olive groves, and dramatic coastal cliffs, ending at the cave village of Vathia or the harbor town of Gerolimenas. It is one of the least-visited, most atmospheric corners of mainland Greece.
The Nemea valley is Greece's most respected red wine region, built around the bold, dark Agiorgitiko grape. Family-run wineries offer tastings and cellar tours a short drive from Ancient Nemea's own archaeological site and stadium, making it easy to combine history and wine in a single afternoon outing.