A stay in the Peloponnese makes you an eye? Discover the best things to do in Kalamata right away before leaving on the peninsula!
The capital of Messenia, Kalamata is often a passing city when visiting the south of Greece. With a little less than 60,000 inhabitants, it is a small seaside town where it is pleasant to stay one day or two. Known for its fertile land since ancient times, its speciality is the production of olive oil. The best of all the country is said, you already know what to bring back your luggage to the return of your stay!
To visit Kalamata, you don’t have to linger even if the city is an excellent starting point to discover the Peloponnese. Don't waste time, get to know our top 10 things to do in Kalamata!
1. The historic centre
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The city centre of Kalamata is full of beautiful shops and small restaurants nestled in the heart of narrow pedestrian streets. Stop the time of a coffee on a sunny terrace to put you in Greek time. An effervescent neighborhood to travel absolutely if you visit Kalamata!
2. The Château de Villehardouin
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Kalamata is known for its castle among others. Well preserved, its ruins are one of the most interesting places you can see there. Dominating the old town with pride, the fortress was built in 1208, and then destroyed by the Turks.
Finally, in the last century, she was the victim of an important earthquake. In short, if you visit Kalamata, don’t miss this place full of history!
3. The beach
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Of course, a passage to Kalamata would not be complete without enjoying the seafront and especially its effervescence at nightfall. In fact, if there is something appreciable in the city, it is its mild climate that it is possible to soak the gambettes all year round! The large beach, several kilometers long, is lined with restaurants and bars facing the Mediterranean.
Another appointment not to be missed: the port of the city, where you see all types of boats. Flying is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Kalamata.
4. Museums
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If Kalamata is a modest city, it still has some interesting museums to visit.
Victoria G. Karelias Museum
This very original museum is perhaps THE must-see museum in Kalamata! Indeed, you will find many pieces of traditional Greek costumes as well as jewelry and other everyday objects from all regions of Greece.
Join your passport or identity card to get a free tablet loan to guide you in your visit! To appreciate the full potential of this museum, plan a minimum time range of one hour.
The Archaeological Museum of Messenia
This very beautiful museum retraces the different historical periods that have shaped Greece as we know it today. Very educational and interactive, it is suitable if you visit Kalamata with children. It includes beautiful sculptures, ceramics and mosaics as well as beautiful pieces from the surrounding archaeological sites.
The Museum of Military History
Founded in 2005, this museum in Kalamata is located in the heart of the city. It houses exhibitions with the theme of the military history of the modern Greek state, from 1821 to today. Most of the museum is dedicated to Greek involvement in the Second World War. A large collection of artillery objects, tanks and even aircraft is visible. We advise you to take advantage of the very informative guided tour offered by museum staff.
5. The market
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On Wednesday or Saturday morning, a market outing is one of the must-sees in Kalamata to immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere. A friendly atmosphere prevails and producers are always happy to exchange with their visitors on the fresh products they offer.
After strolling through the colorful stalls and doing your shopping, stop in one of the taverns bordering the market for a drink.
6. The Church of the Holy Apostles
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This Byzantine church dating from the 12th century is famous for being the starting point of the revolution against the Turkish presence in 1821. Inside this monument, you will find sumptuous paintings dating back to the 14th century. Difficult to visit Kalamata without stopping by this church which is one of the city’s icons!
7. The International Dance Festival
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Kalamata International Dance Festival
At the end of August, the Kalamata International Dance Festival takes place every year. Come and take part in the show and enjoy all kinds of artistic experiments during these ten days. This world meeting welcomes young Greek hopes so well as great names from all over the globe, making it the major event in the city.
On the other hand, what gives its originality to this event is its workshops for young dancers. In short, it is a celebration full of creativity that is part of the immanquable to see in Kalamata, whether you’re a dancer yourself or simply a choreographer.
8. The Greek Modern Art Gallery
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Opinions to art lovers: the Greek Modern Art Gallery is also one of the best visiting ideas in Kalamata. In the centre of the city, you can admire the exhibitions composed of works by local painters and sculptors, actors from different artistic currents.
9. The Municipal Park of the Railway
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This park actually houses the old railway station of the city, converted into a restaurant by the municipality. Walking through this real open-air museum is one of the most original things to do in Kalamata. In a green setting, it is fun to walk through the vestiges of old locomotives and cars that put an end to their good and loyal services.
10. Kalograion Monastery
Don’t miss making a detour by this monastery located in the castle enclosure. This orthodox building dating from the late eighteenth century is reserved for women. Built around a rectangular building, it houses a church, the living spaces of the nuns and a large library with rare works.
But if this monument is so famous, it is especially in relation to the historical production of silkries that is made there. The weaving workshop and its weaving professions is therefore the organ of this exciting visit to Kalamata.
How to get to Kalamata?
- Located in the south of the Peloponnese, Kalamata has an international airport. However, if you want to land directly, your flight will most likely include one or more stopovers depending on your destination. To find the best flight, you can consult an online flight comparison such as Skyscanner. The latter will take your criteria into account. In addition, you also have the opportunity to join Athens then you go to Kalamata.
- To do this, you will have the choice between bus and train. If you are already in the Peloponnese, then the question is not: very tourist, the peninsula is gridded with bus and train connections between the cities.
Where to stay in Kalamata?
One thing is for sure: in Kalamata, you will be quite well housed! In fact, the majority of the hotel establishments in the city are large beachfront complexes, often equipped with a spa and a swimming pool. In the city centre, you will find other accommodations (such as one Airbnb for example) , more discreet but close to the major attractions of the city. So take a ride on one Compare hotels in order to give free course to your desires and to draw the stay of your dreams!
Now you're ready to visit Kalamata!
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