Pylos Travel Guide

Read our comprehensive Pylos travel guide to explore the best things to do, where to stay, best time to visit, safety measures, and transportation options in Messenia, Greece.


Introduction to Pylos

Pylos, a coastal town located in the southern part of Peloponnese, Greece, is famous for its diverse cultural and historical landmarks, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant dining scenes. It’s a must-visit destination for travelers who want to relax and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Pylos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Castle of Pylos - Built-in 1573, the castle offers a panoramic view of the Navarino Bay and the surrounding areas. It’s a well-preserved fortress that stands as a testament to the town’s strategic value during the Venetian era.

  • Niokastro Fortress - Built by the Ottomans in the early 15th century, Niokastro Fortress is another historical landmark worth visiting. It features a museum that showcases the region’s history and artifacts.

  • Pylos Archaeological Site - The site is a must-visit destination for history buffs looking to uncover the town’s past. The site features ancient tombs, fortresses, and structures dating back to the Mycenaean era.

  • Antonopoulio Museum of Pylos - The museum houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts from various periods. It includes pottery, sculptures, and vases from the Mycenaean times to the Ottoman period.

Natural Attractions of Pylos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Voidokilia Beach - Visitors can explore the white sand beach and its clear waters. The beach is known for its rich wildlife and beautiful views.

  • Polylimnio Waterfall - The waterfall is a rare natural beauty that’s worth visiting. It’s located in the Polylimnio gorge, where visitors can also enjoy hiking and exploring.

  • Methoni Castle - The castle is a historic citadel that offers scenic views of the Methoni Bay. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its history while enjoying the scenic views.

  • Navarino Bay - The Navarino Bay is famous for its beautiful sunset views. Visitors can enjoy the view from the nearby cafes or go on a boat tour to explore the bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pylos

Pylos offers several hiking and biking routes that visitors can include in their itinerary. Some popular routes include:

  • Lagoon Walk - This walk offers a chance to explore the Gialova Lagoon and its nature reserve. It’s an easy walk that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.

  • Polylimnio Hike - This hike offers visitors a chance to explore the Polylimnio gorge and its waterfalls. It’s a moderately difficult hike suitable for visitors who are up for a challenge.

Best Things to Do in Pylos: Activities and Tours

  • Olive Oil Tour - Visitors can take a tour of the olive groves and learn about the olive oil production process. Visitors can also enjoy a tasting of the locally produced olive oil.

  • Navarino Bay Boat Tour - Visitors can enjoy a boat tour of the Navarino Bay and explore the region’s rich history and beautiful views.

  • Sea Kayak Tour - Visitors can explore the Pylos coastline and its caves and coves on a sea kayak tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pylos

Day Activity
Day 1 Pylos Archaeological Site
Day 2 Niokastro Fortress
Day 3 Polylimnio Waterfall
Day 4 Olive Oil Tour
Day 5 Methoni Castle
Day 6 Voidokilia Beach
Day 7 Navarino Bay Boat Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Pylos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stifado - A hearty meat stew made with onions, tomatoes, and herbs.

  • Seafood - Pylos is known for its fresh seafood, including squid, octopus, and fish.

  • Kalamata Olive Tapenade - A popular appetizer made with Kalamata olives, garlic, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Tsipouro - A strong alcoholic drink made from grapes.

  • Local Wines - The region produces several high-quality wines, including white wines and red wines.

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

Pylos offers several accommodation options, catering to different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • The Westin Resort Costa Navarino - A luxurious resort featuring beautiful sea views and world-class amenities.

  • Golden Sun Hotel - A family-friendly hotel located in the heart of Pylos town.

  • Angeliki Pension - A budget-friendly option offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

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

  • Olive Oil - Visitors can bring home locally produced olive oil, a must-try product in Pylos.

  • Kalamata Olives and Olive Products - The region produces high-quality Kalamata olives and olive-based products, such as tapenade and olive paste.

Local Culture and Customs of Pylos

Pylos’ culture is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Visitors are expected to respect the local culture and customs, such as dressing appropriately and avoiding loud behavior in public places.

Best Time to Visit Pylos

The best time to visit Pylos is during the spring and autumn months (April-June and September-October), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pylos

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites or conservative areas.

  • Explore the town’s rich history and culture.

  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to local customs and culture.

  • Litter or damage the natural sites.

  • Ignore safety and health precautions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pylos

Pylos is a safe destination, but visitors should take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Pylos

Visitors should take appropriate precautions to avoid falling ill, such as drinking bottled water and practicing good hygiene.

Getting to Pylos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pylos

  • Kalamata International Airport - 55 km from Pylos

  • Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport – 300 km from Pylos

Bus Stations Near Pylos

  • Kalamata Bus Station - 45 km from Pylos

  • Athens Bus Station - 280 km from Pylos

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to Pylos from the nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Pylos

Visitors can get around Pylos town on foot. To explore the surrounding areas, visitors can rent a car, take a taxi or use the local bus service.

Where to Go Next from Pylos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kalamata - A nearby coastal town known for its beaches and historical landmarks.

  • Costa Navarino - A luxurious resort town, located a few miles from Pylos, featuring world-class amenities and entertainment options.

Conclusion

Pylos is a hidden gem in Greece that offers something for everyone, from history and culture enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers and foodies. This comprehensive travel guide can help visitors plan an unforgettable trip to this charming coastal town in Messenia.

View of Pylos View of Pylos Voidokilia Bay Voidokilia Bay Glossa beach Glossa beach