Constantly evolving, with a dynamic and extroverted profile, crowned by the imposing Taygetus Mountain and embraced by the beautiful Messinian Gulf, Kalamata is one of the rare destinations that are suitable for both active city breaks and relaxing summer vacations.
Divide your vacation time between its wonderful beach, strolling through the historic city’s neighborhoods, biking along the coastline, enjoying the panoramic view from the castle over the silver iridescence of the olive groves to the reflections of sailboats in the marina’s waters, sampling traditional and local dishes, exploring nearby idyllic villages or excellent archaeological sites, and diving into the crystal-clear waters of the beaches surrounding the Messinian capital.
With its air connection, the advantage of being close to Athens, and a reputation that continuously solidifies its place on the Mediterranean tourist map, Kalamata—a unique blend of sea, mountain, history, and cultural events—has all the potential to become our new favorite destination.
Why Go in July
Established and now globally recognized as a premier cultural event, the Kalamata International Dance Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and is set to welcome top Greek and international artists, who will present their work between July 12 and 21. At this celebration of the art of dance and how the human body expresses itself, the atmosphere experienced by visitors is unique, with amazing dancers and creators impressing with performances this year at the Dance Hall and the city’s central square.
Equally interesting are the educational workshops catering to all ages, which will add a touch of inspiration and creativity to your vacation. Meanwhile, as the beaches of Messinia usually form small coves, you still have time to enjoy them with relative ease before they become crowded with August holidaymakers.
What to Do
Starting from the medieval castle, the 13th-century Frankish fortress known as “Isabella’s Castle” from Angelos Terzakis’s famous novel, located on the site of the acropolis of the Homeric city of Pharae, you will get a comprehensive view of the city and the Messinian Gulf stretching out at its feet. Also worth seeing are the important Byzantine churches of Kalamata—one of your first stops could be the semi-cave church of Saint John at the foot of the castle.
A walk through the bustling Old Town is a must, as it comes alive at night with a youthful crowd. A symbol of the historical center and the entire Kalamata, the Byzantine church of the Holy Apostles, built in 1317, has significant historical symbolism as it hosted the first thanksgiving service of liberated Kalamata on March 23, 1821.
Another important site is the famous Moni Kalogreon, the 18th-century women’s monastery, known for its silk fabrics produced by the nuns raising silkworms. Even today, you can purchase the famous “Kalamata scarf” from here, known from the popular folk song.
Closely connected to folk tradition is the “Victoria G. Karelias” Collection of Greek Costumes, with around 100 traditional outfits—real masterpieces presented with artistic flair. The collection’s courtyard hosts various events during summer. In a similar vein, the Historical and Folklore Museum revives both a traditional house and a café, transporting visitors to past everyday life, while the renovated Archaeological Museum’s exhibits cover the period from prehistory to modern times.
Children will also greatly appreciate a visit to the Railway Park, a unique outdoor museum combining the history of Greek railways with a walk in the green, pond-dotted surrounding area, popular with locals for strolls.
On the other hand, if relaxation under the sun and swimming are what you’re after, the beaches around Kalamata cater to every taste. Even if you don’t stray far from the city, swimming at the 4 km long Blue Flag beach, under the vigilant eye of Taygetus, is a unique experience. You’ll find fewer people at Kitri’s Bay, where you can regain your energy after a swim at the two nearby tavernas.
In a completely different style, Santova, 12 km from the city, attracts younger crowds who enjoy the lively beats of beach bars and a party atmosphere. The nearby Mandinia and Almyros beaches are also popular, while Stoupa, with its golden sand, the adjacent, also sandy Kalogria beach with its exotic water hues and connection to Nikos Kazantzakis who lived there, and Fonias with its pebbly shoreline and dramatic rock dividing it, hold the spotlight.
Day trips to nearby villages will offer truly enchanting views. Sunset makes the fairy-tale setting of Methoni even more idyllic, with its Venetian castle—one of the largest in the Mediterranean—the 14-arched stone bridge, the fortified islet of Bourtzi, and the picturesque mansions.
Similarly, Koroni boasts its Venetian castle, spectacularly perched on the Akritas promontory, as well as a wonderful island atmosphere stretching from its picturesque harbor to its whitewashed alleys. Kardamyli, with its imposing stone houses, flower-filled cobbled streets, Maniot towers, and pebbly shoreline, will leave a lasting impression.
It’s also worth traveling the 30 km northwest of Kalamata to the well-preserved archaeological site of Ancient Messene, the city built in the 4th century BC, named after the mythical Messene, daughter of the Argive king Triopas, where public religious spaces, fortifications, several houses, and tombs are in very good condition.
Among the rich mix of experiences, gastronomic ones are not to be missed, with the fertile Messinian land generously providing its produce and local tradition utilizing them in exquisite flavors: Kalamata olives and olive oil, figs, artichokes from the Taygetus foothills, honey, watermelon spoon sweet, rose or orange blossom liqueur, homemade cold cuts like traditional salted pork, and of course, honey pasteli are some of the products to look for in Kalamata’s central market and traditional shops.
Must-visit places include Androvitsanea bakery for delicious Maniot lalaggia, Lampos’s pasteli shops for healthier snacks, and pastry shops with tempting stacks of handmade traditional diples made with eggs, honey, olive oil, and walnuts. The most characteristic and favorite local dish, roasted pork, is an integral part of the local gastronomy you will experience in its authentic form—always with the skin—baked in special ovens, as well as in advanced versions in creative burgers.
Where to Stay
With its lush grounds and elegant, well-maintained facilities stretching between the sturdy mass of the highest mountain in the Peloponnese and the serene coastline—much like Kalamata itself—Filoxenia Kalamata by Grecotel, true to its hospitable name, remains a timeless value in the tourist profile of the Messinian capital. An ideal base for relaxed strolls to the city, located at its edge, and a starting point for exploring the fascinating landscape surrounding it, the 4-star resort is hidden among rich gardens, with its most prominent features being impressive palm trees, a network of pathways connecting the neoclassical-style main building with its 188 spacious, luxurious rooms in natural tones—accommodating 3 to 6 people—and a large outdoor pool with an integrated circular jacuzzi.
Just a few steps away, the well-organized 300-meter beach with fine pebbles is perfect for relaxation, beach games, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, while the Ipanema Beach Bar with its shaded terrace—as well as the Pool Bar of Filoxenia Kalamata—will provide you with refreshing drinks and snacks right by the sea. More dining options by the pool, enjoying the Mediterranean or purely Greek flavors, are offered at the Olive Restaurant.
The aromas of grilled meats, fresh seafood, and traditional dishes attract us to the welcoming terrace at lunchtime, where the day begins with a rich American breakfast buffet full of healthy options that provide energy and delicious treats. Meanwhile, children aged 3-12 eat for free at the Tasty Corner, and as the sun sets behind Taygetus, the tables welcome excellent à la carte options—by reservation—while Sundays are dedicated to traditional flavors.
As children engage in creative play and have fun in the kids’ pool or the ZooZoo Playroom, adults enjoy their own oasis of relaxation and wellness at the Elixir Olive Spa, where body and mind are rejuvenated in an environment of absolute tranquility. The sounds of water, gentle music, the scents of fresh flowers and aromatic candles calm the senses, especially with the indoor pool with its jacuzzi, sauna, relaxing massages with essential oils, and aromatherapies provided by specialized therapists.
Every experience at this well-appointed resort, with the dual advantage of proximity to Kalamata and its beachfront location, proves as enjoyable as the various facets of the fascinating Messinian capital.
