Discover Epidaurus Greece! We recently embarked on an incredible 25-day journey through Greece, and one of the highlights was our visit to Epidaurus, a charming valley nestled in the Peloponnese region. This area is rich in history, boasting archaeological sites that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Epidaurus is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, where you’ll find:
- The Temple of Asklepios
- The Tholos
- The Ancient Theatre, considered one of the purest masterpieces of classical Greek architecture
Join us as we explore these iconic sites and more. Stick around until the end to get our detailed Epidaurus Day Trip Itinerary, which includes hidden gems and a memorable olive oil tour and tasting experience. Ready to uncover the magic of Epidaurus? Let’s dive in!
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The History of Epidaurus – Greece
Let’s start by sharing a bit about the history of Epidaurus. For more details, you can check reliable sources like Ancient Greece, UNESCO, and Wikipedia, which we also referred to.
We decided to visit Epidaurus after researching things to do near Tolo Beach, where we were staying. The locals highly recommended the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, and after visiting, we understood why they are so proud of it.
Epidaurus, a small valley in the Peloponnese region, is rich in history and cultural significance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus is an ancient healing center dedicated to Asklepios, the god of medicine.
According Wikipedia, the name “Epidaurus” originates from Epidauro, a hero of the region and son of Apollo. This area was once a sanctuary where people from all over Greece came for healing and spiritual solace.
Discover Epidaurus Greece Main Monuments
- The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
- The Temple of Asklepios
- The Tholos
We will delve into more details about each of these fascinating sites in the “Things to Do in Epidaurus” section of this blog.
How to Get to Epidaurus – Greece
Getting to Epidaurus is an adventure in itself. Driving in Greece can be a bit daunting, with narrow streets and locals crossing lanes unexpectedly, but it’s all part of the experience.
We drove to Epidaurus from Tolo with our rental car, making it a seamless part of our 25-day journey.
Whether you’re traveling from Tolo, Nafplio, or Athens, here are some tips to help you reach this historic gem by car.
From Tolo: Getting to Epidaurus
- By Car: Enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive from Tolo to Epidaurus. Follow the signs towards Nafplio and then Epidaurus.
- Great news, there are no tolls on this route, making it an easy and cost-effective way to travel.
Getting to Epidaurus from Nafplio:
- By Car: It’s a quick 30-minute drive from Nafplio to Epidaurus. Follow the EO Epidavrou-Nafpliou road.
- Great news, there are no tolls on this route, making it an easy and cost-effective way to travel.
Getting to Epidaurus from Athens:
- By Car: It’s about a 2-hour drive via the A8 motorway. Follow the signs to Epidaurus.
- Please note that there are tolls along this route, so be prepared for some additional costs.
While we don’t know the exact amount to pay in tools from Athens to Epidaurus, we found a site called Toll Guru Greece, which can help you calculate the toll costs. We’re not sure how accurate this site is, but it might help you plan how much you’ll need in euros if you prefer to pay in cash, as we did.
You can access the Toll Guru Greece website < Clicking Here >.
Watch Our Vlog: Top Tips for Driving in Greece
Planning a road trip in Greece? Check out our vlog for essential tips on driving, parking, paying tolls, and more! Based on our 25-day adventure, we cover everything you need to know, from navigating busy streets in Athens to finding parking in Santorini.
Plus, discover hidden gems you can only reach by car. Watch the video to get all our insider tips and make your Greek road trip unforgettable!
No Car, No Problem: Discover Epidaurus with a Convenient Guided Tour
However, we understand that not everyone wants to drive around Greece.
Some might prefer the convenience of a guided day tour.
We suggest you check GetYourGuide to see what is available from your location, whether you are in Athens or any other region.
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Exploring the stunning landscapes on your way to Epidaurus is easier when you’re connected.
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Epidaurus Greece Things to Do
Leaving from Tolo beach, we embarked on a full day trip to Epidaurus.
Our adventure began with a stop at the ancient Mycenaean Bridge, which is part of the Arkadiko Mycenaean route leading us to the Epidaurus Archaeological Site.
There are so many amazing things to do in Epidaurus, from exploring historical sites to enjoying local experiences.
Let’s dive into our top recommendations, including a memorable olive oil tour.
1. Stop to See the Arkadiko Bridge – Mycenaean Bridge
Before leaving Tolo Beach, we researched things to do around Melas Olive Oil Mill, where we had an appointment for an olive oil tour and tasting.
The Mycenaean Bridge caught our attention as one of the oldest preserved bridges in Europe, dating back to the 13th century BC. We thought it would be cool to stop since it was on our way and looked like something straight out of a medieval movie or even a Game of Thrones scene.
This impressive structure is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Mycenaean civilization. It’s a perfect spot for a quick historical detour and some great photo opportunities.
We also saw signs indicating that you can explore the area by bike. The Mycenaean Bridge is the starting point of the Arkadiko Mycenaean route, marked as Arg-5.
2. Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit. The Sanctuary, dedicated to Asklepios, the god of medicine, is filled with ancient wonders.
We want to emphasize that the Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asklepios is more than just the Ancient Theatre. Before visiting, we thought the theatre was the only thing to see because most locals and sources mentioned it. However, there’s much more to explore.
Watch Our Epidaurus Adventure on YouTube!
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If you’re enjoying our blog about Epidaurus, Greece, you’ll love our vlog! Join us as we take you through the ancient wonders, including the stunning Ancient Theatre and Kazarma Bridge.
It’s a visual journey you won’t want to miss! Head over to our YouTube channel and watch the magic unfold. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus – Entrance Fees:
It’s not free to visit the Sanctuary of Asklepios. We paid €12 per person and bought the tickets directly at the entrance of the archaeological site in May 2024.
However, ticket prices and purchasing options may vary during the summer.
For the latest information, you can check directly on the official website here.
Now, let’s explore the top things to do at the Epidaurus Archaeological Site:
2.1 Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus – Greece
Upon arriving at the Sanctuary of Asklepios, we saw signs with information about the various walking and hiking routes, including difficulty levels and points of interest like the ancient cistern, the Chapel of Agia Anna, millennium-old olive trees, and of course, the unique Ancient Theatre.
Considered one of the purest masterpieces of classical Greek architecture, the theatre is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and well-preserved structure.
You can walk around, test the acoustics from the center of the theatre, climb the steps for amazing views, or simply sit and enjoy the moment. It’s still used today for performances, particularly during the Epidaurus Summer Festival. You can check upcoming events and ticket information at the Athens Epidaurus Festival website.
2.2 Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus – Greece
The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus, or Archaeological Museum of the Asclepieion, is a short walk from the Ancient Theatre. As you head towards the theatre, the museum is on your left.
Inside, you’ll find unique artifacts such as statues and columns from the temples located in the Sanctuary of Asklepios, along with more information about the Temple of Asklepios and the Temple of Artemis.
It’s a small museum, but it’s worth a visit.
2.3 Archaeological Site of Epidaurus – Greece
Our final destination was the Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asklepios. Although mostly ruins, it features informative signs with pictures and diagrams explaining the original structures.
We didn’t read everything, but the signs were incredibly helpful for understanding the history of this valley. They allowed us to imagine what life was like in the Sanctuary of Asklepios during the 6th century BC.
Among the many buildings, some of our favorite structures include:
- Temple of Asklepios
- The Stadium
- Tholos of Epidaurus
2.4 Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus – Facilities
At the entrance of the Sanctuary of Asklepios, on your way to visit the Epidaurus Theatre, you’ll find several facilities that you might want to check out before or after your visit:
- Restrooms: Conveniently located near the entrance for your comfort.
- Restaurant: Enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink before or after your exploration.
- Museum Shop: Browse for unique souvenirs, books, and gifts related to the history and culture of Epidaurus.
Is valid to say that we didn’t try the restaurant that is called Epidaurus Xenia. This said, it’s always better to check the Google reviews if you prefer before you try it.
Discover Melas Olive Oil Mill in Epidaurus
If you have the opportunity, especially if you’re driving to Epidaurus, we highly recommend visiting the Melas Olive Oil Mill, just as we did. This visit is an enriching experience, allowing you to delve into the world of olive oil production.
Why Visit Melas Olive Oil Mill?
- Learn About the Olive Oil Production Process: Gain fascinating insights into how olive oil is made, from harvesting the olives to the final product.
- Olive Oil Tasting Experience: Savor the rich flavors of various olive oils and learn how to distinguish quality oils.
- Enjoy a Delicious Olive Oil Snack: Treat yourself to delightful snacks prepared with fresh olive oil, enhancing your tasting experience.
Plan Your Visit to Melas Olive Oil Mill
To make the most of your trip, be sure to book in advance. For more details and to read about our amazing experience at Melas Olive Oil Mill, click here.
Click here Watch our Melas Olive Oil tour complete Vlog on YouTube.
Discover Sunken City of Epidaurus – Greece
One fascinating site we discovered later, but unfortunately didn’t have the chance to visit during our trip to Epidaurus, is the Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus.
According to the website Visit Greece, the Sunken City isn’t actually a city but rather a small settlement that might have served as a trading post in ancient times. The waters are so clear that you can see house foundations, pottery, structural supports, and floor sections.
Although we missed out on exploring this spot, it’s definitely on our list for our next visit to Greece. We’re sharing this information here on our blog and in our YouTube vlog about Epidaurus, so you can add it to your itinerary and let us know how it was!
The Sunken City is located about a 25-minute drive from the main archaeological sites. You can also book a tour from Athens through Get Your Guide, such as the “From Athens: Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus” tour.
Things Not Allowed at Epidaurus Theatre and Archaeological Site
During our visit to Epidaurus, we witnessed an unfortunate incident that serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the rules at historical sites.
While I, Eli, was sitting on the last step of the theatre, simply admiring the surroundings, Serge was taking photos near the lower steps. Suddenly, a man started playing his flute. Out of nowhere, someone began yelling at him, quite rudely, for not respecting the sacred nature of the place. The man quickly put away his flute and sat down near me.
We understood that there are rules in place, but perhaps he didn’t know that playing musical instruments without permission is prohibited. We decided to share this experience to inform you about what is not allowed at the Epidaurus Theatre and archaeological site.
Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- No Playing Musical Instruments: Playing any musical instrument without permission is strictly prohibited.
- Drones are not Allowed: Flying drones within the site is not permitted to protect the privacy and integrity of the area.
- Also No Pets: Pets, including dogs, are not allowed on the premises.
- No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the archaeological site.
- Respect the Site: Do not climb on the ruins or enter restricted areas marked with signs.
- Check Entrance Information: Always check the entrance for the most up-to-date information and specific rules for visitors.
Understanding and following these rules ensures that everyone can enjoy and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of Epidaurus.
Epidaurus Greece Travel Tips
We’ve separated some tips for you based on our amazing 25-day adventure through Greece in May 2024.
From where to stay to what to wear, where to eat, and how to get around, we’ve got you covered. Our personal experiences and insights will help you make the most of your visit to this historic gem.
Get ready for an unforgettable trip to Epidaurus!
Visiting Epidaurus – Where to Stay
There are charming accommodations in and around Epidaurus.
We suggest browsing Hotels.com for cozy guesthouses, traditional hotels, or luxurious resorts in nearby Nafplio, which is about 30 minutes by car from Epidaurus.
We stayed in Tolo Beach, around 40 minutes’ drive to Epidaurus. You can click here to learn more about our stay in Tolo, places to visit, and where to stay in Tolo Beach, Greece.
What to Wear at Epidaurus Archaeological Site
The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus is an archaeological site located in a valley surrounded by gorgeous nature. Here are some tips for what to wear:
- Comfortable, good walking shoes are essential.
- Light, comfortable clothing during the summer (check the weather for Epidaurus and the region before you leave).
- Summer travel essentials like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are highly recommended.
- Bring a reusable bottle for cool water.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture all the historical sites!
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Where to Eat in Epidaurus – Greece
There is a restaurant located at the archaeological site called Epidaurus Xenia, but we didn’t eat there. Instead, we had our lunch at the Melas Olive Oil tour. You can read about our olive oil experience by clicking here.
You can also enjoy local Greek cuisine at tavernas and restaurants in Epidaurus.
We saw a great recommendation at the Greeka website about a restaurant called To Perivoli tis Gogos, located 22 minutes from the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. While there, you can also check out the Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus, which is on our list for our next visit to Greece.
For more dining options, Nafplio offers amazing restaurants where you can try traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood.
About the Weather, Epidaurus – Greece
Epidaurus has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are usually hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet. The best time to visit is in spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.
We visited in mid-May 2024 and experienced very hot weather, so we can only imagine how it is in July and August!
Our suggestion is always check the local weather forecast before your trip based in the region you are visiting.
Epidaurus Events and Summer Festivals
Epidaurus is famous for its summer festivals, especially the Epidaurus Festival, which features performances in the ancient theatre.
We didn’t participate in any events or festivals, but we recommend checking online for event schedules and ticket purchases to experience these cultural highlights.
Click here to visit a local website for Epidaurus summer festivals.
Epidaurus – Day Tours Tips
For those not driving and based in Athens or Nafplio, day tours to Epidaurus are a convenient option. Companies like Get Your Guide offer various tours that include transportation and guided experiences.
We suggest GetYourGuide because we’ve used it for day trips, like in Morocco, and had great experiences. We recently found a fantastic deal for a day tour from Athens: Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio for less than $100 CAD per person. It’s a great option with no need to worry about rental cars, insurance, gas, or driving! < Click Here > to learn more!
Stay connected eSIM Internet and Connectivity – Greece
Stay connected during your visit to Epidaurus, Greece with an eSIM card. Enjoy seamless connectivity to capture and share your Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus Experience in Greece effortlessly.
However, for reliable mobile data throughout Greece, including remote areas, we highly recommend using an eSIM card from Airalo. We’ve been using Airalo for a while now, including trips to Morocco, Ireland, Brazil, and most recently, Greece, and we’ve loved the experience.
During our travels, Airalo provided 100% reliable mobile data, which was crucial for staying connected. For instance, we even made a Facetime call to our family from the Sahara Desert to share the stunning sunset—a memorable experience made possible by Airalo’s service.
Fascinating Facts: Did You Know These About Epidaurus and Its Ancient Theatre?
1. Did you know? The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
Answer: Yes! Even if you’re sitting in the highest row, you can hear a pin drop on the stage. This incredible design has amazed visitors for centuries and continues to be used for performances today.
2. Did you know? The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus was an ancient healing center.
Answer: Absolutely! This sanctuary was dedicated to Asklepios, the god of medicine, and people from all over Greece came here seeking healing and spiritual comfort.
3. Did you know? The Tholos at Epidaurus is a mysterious round building that once held healing rituals.
Answer: That’s right! The Tholos, also known as the Thymele, is a circular building within the sanctuary. It’s believed to have played a significant role in the healing practices of the time, possibly even housing sacred snakes associated with Asklepios.
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We are really happy to share our experience in Greece, especially our visit to the special place of Epidaurus, where we discovered history, made friends, and had unique and memorable experiences that will last a lifetime. We hope our journey inspires you to explore this amazing destination as well.
If you enjoyed reading about our adventures, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Feel free to share this blog with your family and friends who might be interested in a travel experience to Epidaurus, Greece.
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Happy travels!
