Spartathlon
Since 1983 this 246 km ultramarathon runs in late September from Athens to Sparta, following the footsteps of the ancient runner Pheidippides.
PlizioGo
Try this traditional Laconian smoked pork, often boiled with oranges, available in authentic local tavernas.
Expect generous use of the world-famous local olive oil in almost all traditional dishes and salads.
A delicious milk pie pastry found in local bakeries, first-rate for a sweet morning treat.
Buy some high-quality extra virgin olive oil directly from producers or specialized shops in the city center.
Local stores offer excellent varieties of olives from the wider region, great for taking home.
Walk down towards the river on the edge of town for a peaceful stroll among the citrus groves.
A quiet historical site within the modern town, often surrounded by shade trees and fewer crowds.
Water temperature…
Since 1983 this 246 km ultramarathon runs in late September from Athens to Sparta, following the footsteps of the ancient runner Pheidippides.
On the first weekend of August the village of Sellasia near Sparta hosts this festival celebrating Laconian olive oil and olives.
Sparta, located in the heart of the Peloponnese region, is the administrative capital of Laconia, situated along the banks of the Eurotas River. The modern city was refounded in 1834 by decree of King Otto of Greece on the ruins of the ancient settlement, following a strict geometric urban plan with wide boulevards and large public squares. In contrast to its ancient predecessor, which was renowned for military austerity and lacked monumental buildings, today's Sparta is a bustling commercial center focused on the trade of citrus fruits and olive oil. To the north of the modern town lie the remains of the ancient acropolis, including a theater from the Hellenistic period and the Temple of Athena Chalkioikos. A prominent landmark is the statue of King Leonidas in front of the municipal stadium, honoring the hero of the Battle of Thermopylae. Nearby lies the Byzantine ruined city of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Archaeological Museum of Sparta, established in 1874, preserves significant local finds, including archaic sculptures and intricate Roman mosaics.
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 7 | 9 | 13 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 22 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 98 | 80 | 55 | 30 | 23 | 21 | 13 | 8 | 36 | 56 | 86 | 100 |
See what it looks like near Sparta right now.
Sparta › North-west: Mystras Grand Palace Resort & Spa · 3.7 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Start your day in the bustling Central Square to feel the modern Spartan atmosphere. The morning is dedicated to antiquity, with a deep dive into the Archaeological Museum, followed by a visit to the ruins of ancient Sparta where history comes to life. In the afternoon, explore the cultural significance of the olive at the fascinating Museum of the Olive. Your walk will take you further to sacred sites and honorable monuments like the Tomb of Leonidas. End the day strolling through the streets, reflecting on the city's austere yet fascinating heritage.
Morning starts at the rainy central square, but the Archaeological Museum quickly provides shelter and ancient wonders. At midday, we brave the rain with umbrellas to see Leonidas and the ruins of the ancient acropolis. In the afternoon, the Museum of the Olive offers a dry and fascinating look at local traditions. Evening concludes with a cozy dinner in the city center, relaxing in a warm environment away from the wet streets.
A crisp winter morning at the central square starts the day energetically before the museum provides warmth. At midday, we take advantage of the clear winter light for photos of Leonidas and explore the ancient sites. In the afternoon, the Museum of the Olive offers a fascinating and warm break from the cool valley breeze. As the sun sets early, we enjoy the twilight at the sanctuary before returning to the lively city center.
Hop on your bike in the morning and start from the Central Square before diving into history at the Archaeological Museum. The midday bike tour takes you to the iconic sites of ancient Sparta, including the Statue of Leonidas and the Sanctuary of Artemis. The afternoon brings a challenge with the climb to the Menelaion, rewarded with breathtaking views, followed by an informative break at the Museum of the Olive. End your tour at the Tomb of Leonidas, letting the city's heroic past sink in.
The bike tour starts cautiously on the slippery main square before seeking shelter at the museum. At midday, we cycle through the rain to Leonidas and the ruins, being careful of wet roads. In the afternoon, we head towards Menelaion and back to the Olive Museum to warm up. In the evening, we safely finish the tour at the Tomb of Leonidas and find a dry spot.
Fresh and clear, the cycling tour starts at the square as we warm up by pedaling. At midday, we enjoy the sun on the way to the ancient sites and the sanctuary. In the afternoon, we challenge ourselves with the climb to Menelaion and reward ourselves with a museum visit. To finish, we visit the Tomb of Leonidas before the evening cold sets in.
In the morning, park in the center and explore the square and the Archaeological Museum on foot. A short car trip then takes you to the ancient core, where you can walk between the statue of Leonidas and the ruins. At noon, drive up to the Menelaion hill to enjoy the breathtaking view – a perfect spot for a break. The afternoon is dedicated to Sparta's liquid gold. Visit the Museum of the Olive to immerse yourself in the world of olive culture. The day ends after this final stop, rich with impressions of ancient grandeur and modern culture.
We comfortably start the tour at the main square, taking advantage of the short drive to the museum. At midday, we drive directly to the ancient sites, with the car serving as a perfect retreat. In the afternoon, we explore Menelaion and the Olive Museum, staying dry throughout. The evening ends relaxingly at the Statue of Leonidas before returning to the hotel.
Starting from the square in a warm car, we visit the museum. At midday, we explore the ancient sites and enjoy the clear winter air. In the afternoon, the drive takes us to Menelaion with its superb views and to the Olive Museum. To finish, we visit the monuments of Leonidas in the gentle evening light.
A museum housing artifacts found at the ancient sites of Sparta and Laconia.
