EO Monemvasias Krokeon, Monemvasia 230 70, Greece
Monemvasia
We will be hosting our wedding in and around the medieval island town of Monemvasia, Greece, nicknamed the “Gibraltar of the East” for its resemblance to the Rock of Gibraltar. The wedding ceremony will be held at the Church of Panagia Chryssafitissa and the dinner and reception will be held at the beautiful Kinsterna Hotel.
Monemvasia, its name meaning "single entrance," was founded in the 6th century AD. Monemvasia became a bustling hub of trade and culture during the Byzantine era. The well-preserved architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea make Monemvasia a popular destination for history enthusiasts and travelers of all kinds.
How to Get There
For those flying in from the United States, we recommend flying into Athens (Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos", ATH). We recommend arriving on June 21 and spending a few days seeing the city and adjusting to the time change.
For those traveling from within Europe, we recommend flying into either Athens, as described above, or into Kalamata (Kalamata International Airport “Captain Vasilis Konstantakopoulos”, KLX). Please see the travel details for both destinations below.
From Athens
Consider making a memorable road trip from Athens airport to Monemvasia by renting a car or carpooling for the approximately four-hour journey (around 350 km). This scenic drive offers the opportunity to visit ancient cities like Corinth and Sparta along the way. Make the most of your trip by planning a stop in one city on the route to Monemvasia and another on the return journey to Athens.
From Kalamata
The drive from Kalamata to Monemvasia is shorter, approximately two and one half hours (~175 km), and the trip also passes through the city of Sparta.
What to Do
Activities in Monemvasia and the surrounding region
Explore the Castle Town
Monemvasia's old town is a marvel frozen in time. This medieval treasure transports visitors back centuries with its narrow cobblestone streets, well-preserved stone buildings, and ancient fortress walls. A stroll down its alleyways reveals quaint shops, charming restaurants, and stunning sea views. If you enjoy hiking or are willing to walk for a great view, you can climb up the stairs to the Agia Sofia Church, which rests near the top of the island’s mountain.
Go to the Beach or Relax at the Hotel
If you want to relax, you have several options - you are in Greece, after all! You will find sandy beaches within 5 miles north and south of Monemvasia, including one right along the “new city” that connects to the island. A 45 minute drive from the hotel will bring you to the harbor of Pounta. From there you can take a short ferry ride to the island of Elafonisos, where you can visit the the well-known beaches of “Simou” and “Sarakiniko” and surrounding sand dunes. If you are looking for something less crowded, southeast of Neapoli, a one hour drive from the Kinsterna Hotel, you can visit the beaches and petrified forest of Agios Nikolaos. Our wedding venue, the Kinsterna Hotel, also has plenty of activities on site, which you can learn more about here.
Take a Day Trip
The city of Sparta is about a one and a half hour drive from the Kinsterna Hotel. Unveil the rich history of Sparta by visiting the Archaeological Museum and Ancient Sparta ruins. The city also features an olive oil museum and several tavernas and cafes. You can also relax on the shores of Gytheio Beach. If you are driving to Monemvasia, we highly recommend planning a stop here!