Elis Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Elis, Greece. Read about local culture, food, and safety tips.


Introduction to Elis

Elis is a stunning region in the Peloponnese peninsula of Greece, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. It’s a popular destination for travelers seeking to explore ancient ruins, indulge in outdoor adventures, and soak up the Mediterranean sun. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Elis, including must-see attractions, the best things to do, and where to stay.

List of Places to Visit in Elis

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Elis has a wealth of cultural and historical attractions for visitors to explore. Check out some of the ones below:

  • Ancient Olympia: This ancient site was once the location of the Olympic Games, an event that took place every four years in honor of Zeus. The ruins include the stadium, temples, and the workshop of Phidias, the famous sculptor.
  • Archaeological Museum of Olympia: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Ancient Olympia, including sculptures, pottery, and tools.
  • The Temple of Zeus at Olympia: This temple was one of the largest in Greece and was dedicated to the god Zeus. The temple was also the location of the renowned statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Chlemoutsi Castle: This medieval castle is located on a hill overlooking the nearby countryside and sea. The castle features a maze of corridors, turrets, and defensive walls.
  • The Ancient Town of Pylos: This ancient town has many well-preserved ruins, including its fortress walls, tombs, and the palace of Nestor, king of Pylos.

Natural Attractions of Elis: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Elis is blessed with beautiful natural scenery, from its rolling hills and fertile plains to its stunning coastline. Check out some of the amazing natural attractions below:

  • Kaiafas Lake: This lake is a natural freshwater pool and is famous for its hot springs, believed to have therapeutic properties.
  • Neda Waterfalls: The Neda River flows through a valley, surrounded by lush, green vegetation and towering cliffs. The water then cascades over several waterfalls, creating a stunning sight.
  • The Thermal Springs of Kyllini: In Kyllini, there are natural thermal springs, considered to have healing properties, offering a therapeutic soak.
  • Kastro Theodoroka: Kastro Theodoroka is an imposing castle located on the side of a steep cliff, overlooking the sea. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding land and sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elis

For visitors seeking to explore the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and biking routes in Elis. Wandering through small villages, olive groves, and wooded valleys is the perfect way to experience the tranquil setting. Here are a few of the hiking and biking trails worth checking out:

  • Kaiafas Lake Trail: A 1.5 km out-and-back trail, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride along the shore of Kaiafas Lake.
  • The Lagoon of Kotychi: A 3 km easy trail that winds through a unique habitat of sand dunes, salt marshes, and brackish lagoons.
  • Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site Trail: A 4.5 km trail that takes you through the ruins of Ancient Olympia, allowing you to learn more about the history of the Olympic Games.

Best Things to Do in Elis: Activities and Tours

Elis has a lot more to offer than its famous ancient ruins and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Tasting Local Traditional Wine: Discover the local vineyards and taste the traditional Greek wine of Elis. You can also sample the products of the famous local liqueur, tentura.
  • Experience the Cuisine: Try the local Greek cuisine, breakfast in particular. With lots of fresh produce, you are guaranteed to enjoy authentic local dishes filled with flavor.
  • Go on a Sea Kayak Adventure: Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea and explore the coastline, the coves, hidden alcoves, caves, and beaches by kayak.
  • Take an Olive Oil Tasting Tour: Visit the olive groves of Elis, learn about traditional olive oil production and take part in tasting sessions.
  • Shopping Tour in Pyrgos: Take a shopping tour in Pyrgos to discover the local markets of the city, filled with a variety of products ranging from imported, traditional and upscale brands. The market run from morning till mid-afternoon and is open six days a week.
  • Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour: Visit some of the local vineyards and taste their wine alongside learning about the local traditions and winemaking techniques.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elis

If you have a week to spend in Elis, we recommend the following itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Visit Ancient Olympia and its museum, and explore the Olympia area.
  • Day 3: Explore the seaside town of Katakolo, a small village with a harbor and scenic views.
  • Day 4-5: Visit Chlemoutsi Castle, Pyrgos, the town of Miraka, and Ladera Beach.
  • Day 6: Enjoy the beauty of the Neda Waterfalls and tour the local vineyards of Elis.
  • Day 7: Take a day trip to the town of Patras and visit the Achaia Clauss winery.

Food and Drink Scene of Elis

Must-Try Dishes

If you’re a foodie, Elis won’t disappoint you as the region is well-known for its delicious cuisine, here are some dishes to try while there:

  • Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms: Squash blossoms filled with rice, herbs and vegetables, drenched in rich flavours, for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
  • Gemista: Stuffed tomatoes & peppers with rice, ground beef, and fragrant herbs baked in the oven and drizzled in olive oil.
  • Lamb Baked in a Pot: Delicious lamb or goat with plenty of onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms, baked in a clay pot covered in lemon and wine sauce, rich in flavors and aromas.
  • Pasteli: Honey and sesame bars, a sweet dessert that makes an ideal to-go snack or gift.
  • Loukoumades: Bite-sized honey syrup covered deep-fried dough balls for your sweet tooth.

Local Beverages

Elis is famous for its delicious wines. If you’re a wine enthusiast, be sure to try the wines produced locally.

  • White Wines: Savatiano is the most famous white grape, known for producing dry and well-structured wines high in acidity, with aromas of citrus and peach.
  • Red Wines: The red Mavrodafni grape is an indigenous variety, typical of the region; producing wines high in tannins, flavors of sour cherry, and spices.

Where to Stay in Elis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in Elis, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some options:

  • The Olympia Palace Hotel: A luxurious hotel that offers spacious rooms with balconies and all the amenities you could ask for, including an outdoor pool, spa, restaurant, and bar.
  • Hotel Antonios: A more budget-friendly option, the Hotel Antonios offers comfortable rooms close to the center of Pyrgos.
  • Camping Agroktima:Tents, RV or camper await at Camping Agroktima featuring a coffee shop, an outdoor pool and a green garden where one can relax and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Different sport activities, horse riding, bird watching, and hiking are available.

What to Buy in Elis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Elis is renowned for its local produce and crafts. Here are some souvenirs and local products you can bring home:

  • Olive Oil: Elis is known for the quality and flavor of its olive oil, making it the perfect souvenir to bring home.
  • Honey: In Elis, bees gather nectar from some unique flowers, producing organic honey which is well-known throughout Greece.
  • Sweet Spices and Herbs: Katharmi and faskomilo herbs, thyme, and oregano are just some of the delicious spices that grow in Elis, making them ideal gifts for cooking enthusiasts.

Local Culture and Customs of Elis

If you’re traveling from outside Greece, the country’s customs and traditions may seem a bit unfamiliar. To blend in more easily with the locals, here’s some cultural information about Elis:

  • Greeks put great importance on a friendly greeting; it is considered polite to greet those around you and especially store or restaurant owners.
  • If you visit a Greek household or business, you will be offered coffee, tea, or sweets. It is bad manners to refuse as it is considered a sign of rejection.
  • Smoking is legal, but you must inquire before you light up and obey non-smoking signs or restrictions in hotels, restaurants and other public places.

Best Time to Visit Elis

The best time to visit Elis is between May and October, when the weather is sunny and warm. July and August are popular months for tourists, so expect bigger crowds, slightly higher hotel prices, but more lively atmosphere in general.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elis

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Take part in traditional Greek cultural events when possible.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on the beach or in public areas, always beware of pickpockets.
  • Shoot photographs of military installations or other sensitive locations.
  • Mistreat the local flora and fauna.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elis

Elis is a relatively safe region, but like all places, it’s important to take precautions and keep your belongings safe. Here are a few tips:

  • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
  • Drive carefully; the roads may be narrow and winding.
  • If you’re hiking in the countryside, stay on designated trails.

Health in Elis

Greek hospitals have high-quality medical care, and prescription medicines are widely available without issue. However, it’s always recommended to have health insurance that covers medical costs abroad.

Getting to Elis: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Elis

The nearest airport to Elis is Araxos Airport (GPA), which is located approximately 38 kilometers away. The airport is served by several airlines and offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Elis

KTEL Intercity Bus is the main bus transport provider in Greece and has many bus lines, which emcompass most of the Peloponnese area. Buses to Elis run regularly from Athens, Patras, Pyrgos, Amfilochia and other nearby towns.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from Athens, you can take the train or bus connecting directly to the Kalamata station and continue by taxi from there. Taxi services are also a available but the cost to Elis can be high.

How to Get Around in Elis

The best way to get around Elis is by car, as some of the attractions may be remote and difficult to reach by public transportation. Rental cars or bikes can be easily rented from local rental shops or the airport.

Where to Go Next from Elis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Greece after visiting Elis, here are some nearby destinations worth checking out:

  • Kalamata: A charming seaside town and the capital of the Peloponnese region, famous for its local food, beaches, and history.
  • Monemvasia: A powerful medieval castle town along the coast, offering scenic views of the Aegean Sea.
  • Sparta: The ancient capital of Laconia, is famous for its historical and archaeological sites.

Conclusion

Elis has so much to offer to travelers seeking to explore Greece’s hidden gems. From ancient ruins and natural beauty to traditional cuisine and cultural heritage, this region is sure to captivate your heart and soul. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide, and you’ll be bound to have an unforgettable experience. Bon Voyage!



    Kyllini