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Highly recommend Jayway

Jayway made it so easy for us to get the most out of our trip. All the logistics were seamlessly taken care of so we just sit back and enjoy. We would say that our wonderful local guide, Martina, would just wave her magic wand and make everything great for us. We have already enthusiastically recommended Jayway to our friends and will continue to do so! They listened to our interests and crafted a perfect itinerary for us. Thank you for a wonderful trip!

Date of experience : May 12, 2024

Out trip to Italy was arranged by JayWay and every aspect was terrific. Boutique hotels were beautiful and centrally located, with easy access to restaurants. Guides were always on time, and very knowledgeable. Will definitely use JayWay again. Christine and Tim

Date of experience : May 18, 2024

You dream, JayWay delivers the plan

This was our second time using JayWay to plan our trip, this time a month in France. It was a great trip. JayWay met us from the beginning of the trip and Elana our tour coordinator met us at the end of our trip to do a evaluation debrief. Elana checked up on us throughout the trip. It was areal comfort knowing if we had a question,she had answers. We are taking a river trip next year, JayWay will plan our early arrival and the last few days when we depart the river. They are great to work with.

Date of experience : April 21, 2024

Visiting and seeing the birth place of …

Visiting and seeing the birth place of my grandparents was absolutely amazing. I embraced the entire culture of Polska. The people I meet in Warszawa and Krakow were kind, friendly, and fun. The cultural cites were simply marvelous. The food, both at the hotels and at local restaurants, cafes delicious, The transportation system, 5 stars. The JayWay guides exceptional

Date of experience : May 08, 2024

Trip to Bulgaria

Jayway delivered on all services and needs as promised. Their staff was informative and the guides we used were all excellent. we designed our own itinerary and Jayway carried it out expertly. Thank you Jayway.

Date of experience : May 10, 2024

No stress vacations with Jayway

Planning a vacation and traveling in Europe is stressful and challenging. If you want to eliminate the stress and challenges of travel use Jayway and you will have a fabulous vacation - it's that simple. They use the best transfer services that know the landscapes and what they're doing. They use the best tour guides and takes visiting a town or city to another level. Just finished our second fantastic European vacation with Jayway. Will be doing it again.

Date of experience : May 19, 2024

Wonderful trip through Jayway

Jayway provides exceptional service from trip planning through support during the trip. Every staff member I encountered was extremely helpful; our trip to Croatia couldn’t have been better. I plan on using them again for our next trip to Europe.

Date of experience : May 09, 2024

Wonderful - stress free vacation in France

The entire team worked hard to listen to what we wanted and did their best to provide an itinerary that was customized to our needs and desires while providing input to make sure we had a workable itinerary. The local manager stayed in touch regularly and resolved any travel questions or issues we experienced. The entire trip was stress free!

Date of experience : May 13, 2024

JayWay made our trip to Italy FLAWLESS

JayWay made our trip to Italy FLAWLESS! Everything was perfect! Contacts were available, drivers were at pick up locations, tickets were handled as we were told. Absolutely went off without a hitch!

Excellent communication and trip plans

Planned a 10 day trip to several locations in France with lots of moving parts. Lots of options and advice given, and the trip was perfect. Would definitely use again.

It was a wonderful experience

It was a wonderful experience! I have already recommended this company to another tourist that I met in France. I am going to continue to see if I can have this company in my future tours in Europe!

Date of experience : May 16, 2024

Debbi & Patrick - Texas, USA

JayWay worked with us to plan a trip itinerary that included a specific event that we wished to attend. Our final itinerary was perfect. Our hotels in each city were four star and centrally located, making it easy to walk and visit venues in each city. We learned so much about the history of Austria and the Czech Republic from our private guided tours and drivers. Dennis our personal travel planner was easy to work with from our first email and phone call through to following up with us when we returned home. We are looking forward to planning our next trip with JayWay in 2025.

Date of experience : April 15, 2024

We had a great experience with the…

We had a great experience with the JayWay in Greece Everything was organized very well. Our local contact Mido was amazing, he responded right the way and was very helpful

Overall, I cannot recommend Jayway highly enough for anyone looking to visit Croatia. Seeing the beauty and charm of Croatia first hand and through the eyes of our accomplished tour guides was an unforgettable adventure for our group of six. I look forward to going on another journey with Jayway in the future.

Date of experience : April 29, 2024

JayWay Provides Top-Notch Travel Guidance Every Step

We worked with JayWay a few years ago for private touring in Croatia and neighboring countries, so they were my "go to" for my trip to Italy. From the start Kaylea (U.S. agent) and I worked iteratively on dates, hotels, and the basic itinerary. Then Valentina (in Venice) and I emailed and WhatsApp-ed on the details of where to go, what to add, etc. to truly personalize our journey in Northern Italy. She was available whenever we needed for any uncertainties or questions. Her personally recommended restaurants and advice along the way were excellent. Both my "agents" were very knowledgeable and insightful, thus guiding us to have a terrific Italian experience!

Date of experience : May 05, 2024

JayWay Travel does a great job of…meeting stated needs.

JayWay Travel does a great job of putting trips together based upon the stated desires for the location and people in the group. We recently hiked in the Dolomites in June of 2023, then to Slovenia and Croatia. The entire trip was well planned. Our drivers and guides were very helpful and accomodating to our requests. The hiking was amazing. Our hotels were all very nice and we stayed in wonderful cities everywhere. There is very little I would change if I went here again. Our trip was 23 days and was very enjoyable. I would definitely recommend this company for Croatia and the surrounding countries.

Date of experience : June 15, 2023

Attention to details make JayWay Travel the best

We have already told many people that JayWay Travel is the best group we have worked with in many years of international travel because of their attention to detail, the quality of the people they arranged to host us, and the personal care and attention we received. We had the best in-country contact we could ever have wished for. JayWay's in-country coordinator was very professional, knowledgeable, timely, and always replied to our questions quickly and with useful answers. It really alleviates any stress while traveling for the first time in another country to know that you have someone who is keeping and eye on you and who can answer you questions. The accommodations were perfect, the guides and drivers were on time and knowledgeable, and the off-the-beaten-path attractions and cultural events made our trip to Italy truly outstanding.

Date of experience : May 03, 2024

JayWay Travel exceeded my expectations

My experience with JayWay was seamless from start to finish. All hotels, transfers and experiences exceeded my expectations. I loved the webpage JayWay created of my itinerary which I could update at any time with any changes I decided to make. I would highly recommend JayWay for anyone planning a trip to Europe.

Date of experience : April 08, 2024

18 days from Bucharest to Prague

We recently returned from an 18 day trip with JayWay that started in Bucharest, Romania and ended in Prague, Czech Republic. Our local contact, Dorka, did an exceptional job in setting up our itinerary. Every driver and tour guide were very knowledgeable and spoke English very well. Our driver from our hotel in Budapest to the train station was especially helpful. He waited with us until our train arrived and then loaded our luggage in the compartment where we were sitting. The driver in Vienna met us as we were getting off the train. All the hotels we stayed in were boutique and not part of a chain. The Beethoven Hotel in Vienna had a small concert on Sunday evening and went out of their way to be helpful. This was our third trip with JayWay and we love their attention to detail and professionalism. We have recommended them to our friends and family.

Date of experience : April 27, 2024

JayWay or Independent Travel

We contacted JayWay to set up a private travel plan for two of us for 9 days in Istria -Croatia and Slovenia. (2023). Initially, planning went well and we were glad to be with a travel agency that advertised personalized and flexible tours. However, we were discouraged from making any changes (each change cost $250 US). Costs began to climb and we soon became aware why. For example - we did not know that hotel room costs were for each person, We decided to forfeit our substantial deposit and make travel plans on our own. We had a great trip. Went to where we wanted to go and for how long. Our costs were substantially less than Jay Way’s proposal.

Date of experience : August 27, 2023

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New Rochelle, NY 10805

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A New York based custom tour operator providing an authentic and personal travel experience unlike any other company, since 2006. With local offices in Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb, Prague, Budapest, Berlin, Krakow and Tallinn, JayWay is much more than just a travel agency. Experts in Central & Eastern Europe, JayWay specializes in a specific region so we can offer the best of each destination. JayWay is available every step of the way, from the initial free pre-trip consultation and trip plan to the traveler phone we provide locally to contact the on-site team. It is this personal attention from start to finish that leaves a lasting impression. …

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Photo of Carol S.

Our family heading to prague//salzburg/vienna and budapest-fantastic vacation - Love Jay Way Went for christmas markets with older teens and loved entire trip Kristina from Jay Way met up in budapest - so wonderful the private tours were amazing! All transfers were on time and just enough to do but have down time too - Stay at Agnes Residence in Prague!! Never planned to go to Prague or Budapest but loved them!

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See all photos from Carol S. for JayWay Travel

We went to Czech/Austria and Budapest and truly loved it. We had the absolutely best experience as a family of 5. Each tour was just us, rides to different countries we on time! Had a fantastic experience! Would 100% use again! We loved the Christmas Markets!

Photo of Howard F.

If I could I would give 10 stars. The most complete, thorough, friendly, professional, available, caring travel organization I have ever been involved with. If we needed anything or anybody, they were immediately available... before and during our magnificent trip to Italy. Everything was perfectly planned and carried out. We had our personal concierge in Italy... always available. I will NEVER use another agency for my travel planning in Italy

Photo of Lynette P.

WOW! We had an amazing experience with JayWay Travel in June 2022. JayWay Travel made our trip very relaxing and enjoyable. We did not have to worry about one thing! All arrangements were perfectly planned. The extra bonus of the local rep in each location was impressive! They provided recommendations, answered questions promptly and communicated very well. From the planning process through the entire trip we dealt with very professional travel agents and reps. Every tour guide, transfer driver, and excursion went off perfectly! There was only one cancellation due to weather, and the local rep in Greece fixed it very quickly and it was better than we could have imagined. I will definitely use JayWay travel again!!

Photo of Samantha K.

One of the best decisions we have ever made was using JayWay for our honeymoon. They 100% planned and orchestrated a trip of a lifetime that we will never forget and that our family & friends are drooling over (even the ones who have been to the same places before!!!!). Kaylea, Simone and Maria were absolutely positively unbelievably amazing and worth every cent. We felt like celebrities for two weeks and the weeks/months leading up to the trip with their care, thoughtfullnes, and personalized tip-top service. THANK YOU!!! Will be recommending you to everyone we know!!!!

Photo of Daryle Elizabeth L.

My husband and I are recently back from a spectacular, 16-day tour of the Baltics (plus Helsinki). I would unequivocally and enthusiastically recommend JayWay Travel to anyone looking for a trusted agent to plan their vacation. Fantastic service, excellent value for the money. My husband and I are seasoned global travelers, but we're also busy professionals, and simply didn't have the time to plan our own Baltics adventure. We took a leap of faith and outsourced the trip planning to JayWay Travel based on the reviews we read - and we are so happy we did. The trip exceeded our expectations on every front! The trip was the perfect balance of fun, adventure, and learning about the history, culture, and food of these beautiful and unique countries. We did the capital cities (Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius) but also loved our time in smaller locals like Parnu and Klaipedia. If you've never been to the Curonian Spit, go! What a gorgeous, fascinating, strategic piece of geography! Special shout out to our in-region expert, Igor, who helped smooth over any very minor travel bumps we encountered. We will absolutely be repeat customers! Thanks, JayWay, for a truly epic experience!

Photo of Aliza S.

We have used Jared at JayWay twice in the past year to book a family trip to Croatia and a family trip to Greece. The customer service goes above and beyond. Jared's attention to detail is superb. He has provided great information on tours, hotels and restaurants making sure to meet the diverse needs of our entire family. We will definitely be using Jayway again and recommending Jared! The trips were truly vacations since I really just needed to pack and unpack. JayWay did the rest!

Photo of Stuart A.

About 1 year ago my wife and I discussed going to Europe. After researching online different travel companies I decided on Jay Way travel. After I gave them the country's I wanted to visit and the time frame and budget they went to work. I dealt with Jared one of their local representatives who sent me a sample itinerary. From that itinerary I was able to pick the hotels, tours and anything else. I was also put in contact with our local representative in Prague.Martina agreed to meet us upon our arrival at the hotel. She also printed out any tickets or vouchers we needed. Lastly, we were provided a local cell phone with charger and her phone number was programmed into the phone. Throughout the trip if we had questions or wanted to change something we either called or emailed her. We always received a prompt return call or a quick return email. Since everything is planned in advance we only reached out to Martina a few times during our vacation. All tours and drivers were always on time or early. Jay Way Travel takes all the hassles out of traveling. I would not hesitate to recommend them or use them again.

Photo of Howard G.

We just returned from our trip to Croatia. Jayway and our rep Jarod made the entire experience perfect. They took the time to answer evevy question and handle every change without issue. Every detail happened as they planned, completely stress free. The local rep Andrea was the BEST! Answered every question quickly and her recommendations were spot on. Of my many overseas trips, this was the easiest, use Jayway without hesitation.

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Home » Explorer Momma » Travel and Culture » Europe » Greece » JayWay Travel Review Greece

My tour with Jayway Travel: Review in Greece

Posted on Last updated: July 28, 2023

A view of the monastery at Mystras with greenery, flowers, and mountains

I recently had the pleasure of embarking on a journey through the Peloponnese with JayWay Travel, and let me tell you, it was an experience of a lifetime. Excitement and fascination filled every moment of this tour from the stunning views of Monemvasia to the historical wonders of Mystras and Sparta! So let’s get to it! My tour with JayWay Travel: Review in Greece.

Their attention to detail, expert knowledge of the areas we visited, and warm hospitality made for a seamless and thoroughly enjoyable trip. Keep reading to learn more about the highlights of my JayWay Travel tour in Greece, and why I highly recommend them for your next adventure.

Beautiful view of the cliffside and water from Monemvasia cliffs

This post may include Amazon and other affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

JayWay Travel | Itinerary Summary | Starting point: Kalamata | Kastori Salmon & Caviar Farm | Liotrivi Historical Mansion | Olive Oil & Wine Tastings | Monemvasia | Mystras | Sparta | Archaeological Museum | Olive Oil Museum | Mosaics | Mosaics Workshop | Where we ate | Hotels | Conclusion | Link to JayWay Travel Tours | More articles about my Greek travels

A trip to Greece with JayWay Travel

Are you like I was and looking to explore new areas of Greece, but really don’t know where to start? I have to say, I had an amazing tour with JayWay Travel. I don’t know how many JayWay Travel reviews are out there, but personally, I had an amazing experience.

The company is more known for its Eastern Europe tours, but they have tour opportunities all over Europe. The local rep specializes and actually creates the tour for your specific group. That way it can focus on what you’d like to experience. You can view the JayWay Travel website here.

Byzantine Church in Monemvasia Greece with a stone path and walls leading up to it

I absolutely loved that we had private tours with a local contact or tour guide at each location. They covered all the details of the planning process so I didn’t have to worry about other travelers, private drivers, car rental, where to eat, or anything. It really was a stress free memorable experience.

They generally suggest 10 days to two weeks for a tour, which is a good amount of time. My tour was shorter as it was sponsored by Jay Way Travel, but the opinions are all my own. I wouldn’t share otherwise!

Red poppy-type flowers growing out of a stone wall with a Byzantine church blurred in the background

🗺 Itinerary: from Kalamata to Monemvasia to Sparta

The itinerary included stops at Kastori salmon & caviar farm, Liotrivi Historical Mansion, Monemvasia Castle, Mystras, and Sparta. And let me tell you, each and every activity or stop was something I would not want to have missed!

JayWay Travel pulled out all the stops when it came to making sure we had the trip of a lifetime. Our driver was prompt, courteous, professional, and friendly. Also, we had several very knowledgeable local tour guides all about each area we explored, which I HIGHLY recommend.

A woman looking out over the Mediterranean Sea under a stone archway

Making stops at various local businesses to taste locally produced delicacies was an experience I would suggest to anyone who visits Greece. The olive oil and wine tasting lunch at Liotrivi Historical Mansion was out of this world! And don’t even get me started on the wine pairing dinner at Kinsterna Hotel.

So let’s get started, and I’ll tell you about some of the places and sites we visited. Then I’ll get into the food and accommodations. I may have eaten quite a bit on this trip! But, hey! It’s a necessary cultural experience, right?!

A plate of Greek food at the wine tasting at the Liotrivi Estate

BONUS: I was super pampered and got to relax and just enjoy the trip. I did not have to worry about anything because it was ALL taken care of for me!

🇬🇷 Starting point – Kalamata

Where is Kalamata and why was I there? Well, Kalamata is located in the southwestern Peloponnese region of Greece country, and it is known for its olive groves, sandy beaches, and picturesque mountain ranges. JayWay Travel arranged for us to start our tour here so we could get acquainted with the area and see some of the local sights.

A view of the beach in Kalamata Greece from the Grecotel with palm trees and the breakfast area of the hotel

I explored Kalamata on my own and attended TBEX, a content creator’s travel conference, which was absolutely awesome in itself. Don’t worry, I hope to share more about that with you later! However, that’s one reason we started our journey from Kalamata.

🐟 Kastori Salmon & Caviar Farm

Our first stop was the Kastori Salmon & Caviar Farm, located in the region of Laconia, just 17 kilometers from Sparta. It is one of the most tranquil destinations a food lover could ask for! Nestled among the rolling hills and valleys, the Kastori Fish Farm invites visitors to experience a unique taste of locally sourced products from their perfectly seasoned and smoked salmon to their tender trout and hearty sturgeon.

The fish farm with trout, sturgeon, and salmon in the waterways

When you arrive at the farm, the gentle melodies of a flowing river by the mountain range greet you, providing an unforgettable backdrop for the experience. It’s perfect to whet your appetite for delectable, homemade, and savory dishes. I have to say, while I don’t always seek out fish as a favorite food, the fish I sampled at the farm was delicious and seasoned so well I even tried seconds of several kinds!

Sampling their freshly caught and smoked salmon, with its crisp and smoky flavor and tender texture, is a must-do! Truly, it’s no wonder that the farm has 22 awards for its smoked salmon!

Black stone plate of fish samples with toothpicks

I would also say definitely try the juicy trout, which easily falls apart in your mouth and brings out the freshness of the surrounding nature. Or you could go for something a little more upscale and complex, such as the indulgent caviar made from their very own sturgeon.

Not only is the food at Kastori Fish Farm top-notch, but the manager Mr. Gerontidis, is a bit of a celebrity himself! He appeared in a movie about caviar called God Loves Caviar , starring the elegant French actress Catherine Deneuve.

Black stone plate of fish samples with toothpicks

Great people, fun stories, and amazing fish make the Kastori Salmon & Caviar Farm a unique stop and a delicious way for me to kick off my tour with JayWay Travel in Greece.

🍊 Liotrivi Historical Mansion

Our second stop on the tour was the Liotrivi Historical Mansion, and let me tell you, it was absolutely stunning! The location alone was enough to take your breath away. Amongst ancient olive trees, the mansion sits with breathtaking views of the rolling hills and picturesque landscape of the Peloponnese region.

The front of the Liotrivi Estate guest houses

But the beauty of the mansion didn’t just stop at its location. The antique decor is captivating, and history and tradition are on display in every detail of the mansion, from the intricate woodwork to the elegant tapestries. It truly felt like we had stepped back in time to a bygone era.

After taking in the sights and marveling at the mansion’s splendor, a delicious olive oil and wine tasting lunch was a treat.

🫒 Olive oil tasting

First off, the olive oil tasting experience I had with this family-owned estate was like nothing I’d done before. I never knew that there were so many different varieties of olive oil, each with a unique flavor and acidity. The fruity and slightly bitter taste of the Koroneiki olive oil and the buttery and smooth texture of the Athenolia variety blew me away! The true diversity of flavors is nothing like the olive oil you get at the grocery store at home.

The table at the Liotrivi Estate set for the olive oil tasting

The specialist who conducted the live meeting was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about olive oil production. She shared fascinating information about the harvesting process and the different stages of production in the olive mill. I am now a true olive oil enthusiast and would highly encourage anyone who is interested in learning more about olive oil to give this tasting experience a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

A lineup of the bottles of olive oil ready for the olive oil tasting

Another highlight of our visit to the Liotrivi Historical Mansion was the fascinating look into the history of the region. I learned about the time-honored techniques used to harvest, press, and refine the olive oil. Also, the region’s unique climate and soil composition contribute to its unparalleled flavor and quality similar to wine.

Go there! Start planning right now 😂

Indeed, our visit to the Liotrivi Historical Mansion was an unforgettable experience that left me with a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and cuisine of the Peloponnese region. If you’re looking for a truly authentic and enriching cultural experience, I highly recommend a visit to this stunning and historic mansion. Also, you can check out the Liotrivi Estate website beforehand and even sponsor an olive tree for a year!

Bottles of wine set on a table with a Greek salad

🏰 Monemvasia Castle

After the unforgettable adventure at the Liotrivi Estate, our group drove the short 20 minute drive to reach Monemvasia Castle on the east coast of the Peloponnese. A small island, where the castle’s located, connects to the mainland by a causeway. The views of the surrounding sea and the castle’s impressive structure are simply breathtaking and a popular stop for cruise ships. In my mind, I immediately compared it to a Greek version of the Mont St. Michel in France.

The island of Monemvasia

Monemvasia is an incredibly well-preserved Medieval castle, with two distinct parts: the Upper Town and the Lower Town. The Upper Town perches atop a steep rock and is home to impressive churches and fortified walls. Colorful houses line the narrow streets, while every corner reveals a new breathtaking view of the sea below.

A stone archway going into the lower section of Monemvasia

Lower town Monemvasia

This part of the castle is much lower and closer to sea level, with its sea wall stretching along the shore. It was truly a magical sight – as if we were walking through a fairytale!

We started our exploration going by one of the many Byzantine churches and wandered through the narrow streets taking in the little shops and cafes.

Lower town Monemvasia view with a tree at the center and several churches in the back

As we first entered, our Monemvasia travel guide explained how the ancient Spartans and other peoples originally settled the area. Then the people built up the city during the Byzantine era, and then various conquerors fought for control of the castle over the centuries. The Turks and Venetians were a large part of all this conquering, and the different architectural styles used throughout the castle show how it evolved with time.

A view going up the hill to the upper section of Monemvasia

Upper town Monemvasia

The magnificent views of the sea and surrounding mountains left us completely speechless once we got to the upper level. It was an awe-inspiring experience, made even more so by our local guide, Effie. She provided us with fascinating insights as she actually worked on the excavations and shared stories that really added depth to our visit.

Our guide Effie, standing next to some of the structures recently uncovered

Be prepared!

I do want to mention that wearing comfortable and closed shoes is essential to navigating the numerous steps and steep paths of the castle. So, don’t forget to prioritize your footwear!

This stop in the Monemvasia area was a fantastic chance to explore local history and architecture, and our local guide was crucial in helping us appreciate and understand its significance. The place was so peaceful and tranquil, which made it all the more special. The castle’s rich history and spectacular views are a must-see for anyone visiting Greece. I definitely would say not to miss this glorious spot.

Lauren at the top of Monemvasia upper town enjoying the view

A stop in a bakery in modern Monemvasia

After our fabulous time exploring Monemvasia, we got to do something completely different – make cookies! I wrote about our visit to see Maria at the Doukata Bakery in my blogpost on Greek Almond Cookies – Amygdolata (Low Carb) . This was so much fun, and yum!!

Maria helping me to make Greek almond cookies on a large sheet pan

Mystras private tour

After our unforgettable experience in Monemvasia, I couldn’t imagine anything topping it. But boy, was I wrong! Our Mystras private tour turned out to be just as exciting and impressive. One of the highlights of our guided tour was definitely the fortress, built in 1249 by the prince of Achaia and later surrendered to the Byzantines.

Ruins next to the church of Agia Sofia in Mystras

Standing at the top of a 620 m high hill overlooking Sparta, it was the center of Byzantine power in southern Greece and played an important role on the political chessboard of the time. The view from the top is breathtaking and provided us with an excellent photo opportunity.

A view looking down from Mystras

Another highlight of our tour was the visit to the impressive Orthodox church, Agia Sofia. A blend of styles, we even found a stone in the wall of the Byzantine church placed upside down with writing from a temple of Apollo!

Piece of the ruin from the temple of Apollo used in the Byzantine Orthodox Church.

You can see the Byzantine architecture influenced the city’s distinct structures. It’s amazing how you can see the history of the area in any of the many churches around. When the Turks invaded, they didn’t destroy the churches but used the buildings for their armies or storage. Today you can see where they maliciously scratched out the eyes of the icons and destroyed many of the murals.

The inside of an Orthodox Church in Mystras with the remaining icons

How to prepare

Our guide was super knowledgeable and passionate about the history and culture of the area. He was also practical and reminded us to bring water, a hat, and sunglasses. However, in our case, as it was a cloudy day, we also made use of an umbrella and good shoes. You can imagine, wet stones are slippery to walk on so be careful!

View of the ruins around Mystras

We also learned about the city’s complex history through its fortifications, palaces, churches, convents, houses, and public squares. This stop was an impressive way to experience local history and culture. Buses of schoolchildren were even there to understand how this city played a significant role in the Mediterranean world and beyond.

A local guide with a group looking at one of the gates of Mystras to block out invaders

🗡 Sparta

Next stop, Sparta! What does Sparta mean to you? For me, before this visit, it conjured up a picture of the famous Leonidas and his 300 Spartans full of indomitable spirit holding the pass and getting their pictures on bags of chocolates.

The Leonidas statue in Sparta near the Acropolis of Sparta

Archaeological Museum of Sparta

Our visit to the Archaeological Museum of Sparta was super informative, and I got to meet my hero, Leonidas! Or rather, the bust they believe to be Leonidas.

An impressive collection of artifacts greeted us and truly brought the ancient city of Sparta to life. The museum contains numerous sculptures, pottery, mosaics, and other objects used in daily life.

Bust on display at the Archaeological Museum of Sparta

Also, displays of weapons and armor, offer remarkable insight into the military culture of the time. The highlight of the museum, however, was the exhibition dedicated to Leonidas himself. It showcases his legendary helmet with his bust and leg from the original statue. Earlier in the day we got to see the giant statue of Leonidas in town and touch his foot for good luck.

Mosaic of Medusa on display at the Archaeological Museum of Sparta

🕊 Museum of Olive and Greek Olive Oil

The Museum of Olive and Greek Olive Oil was a fascinating place to visit and learn about the importance of the olive tree and how it has affected the culture of Sparta. We learned interesting facts about the history of olive oil production in Greece, as well as the multiple uses of this magical ingredient.

A sign going into the Olive Oil Museum

We’d already tasted different types of olive oil (I’m up for that any day!), and the guide told us how to distinguish between high-quality and lower-quality oil.

Also, the exhibits displayed the many health benefits of olive oil. Did you know it is used in everything from soap to traditional Greek cuisine? Could olive oil be the true elixir of the gods?!

🪨 The mosaics of Sparta

One of the most remarkable highlights of our trip to Sparta was visiting the mosaics of Sparta. Glass-walled buildings protect the intricate and detailed mosaics in situ just down the street from the Olive Oil Museum. They have not been moved so are in the original places they were found.

A mosaic in situe in the middle of the town of Sparta

It’s free to view the various scenes depicted in the floor art on a seemingly normal street in the Greek town. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the mosaics were truly admirable, and it was an unforgettable experience to witness the artwork of ancient Greece in person.

Mosaics workshop with Dimitra Kolomvakou

Entrance to the mosaics workshop with three signs, a small round table with a red potted flower sitting on it

I absolutely adored the mosaics workshop with Dimitra Kolomvakou. Located in her tranquil and idyllic backyard studio, surrounded by picturesque orange and fig trees, the atmosphere was incredibly serene and calming. As Dimitra showed us her mosaic-making techniques, it was evident how attentive and passionate she was about her artwork.

She shared her love for the classical art of mosaic-making and taught us the basics of the craft, allowing us to try our hand at creating our own unique mosaic pieces. I even bought a small mosaic of a Spartan for my father, as his high school mascot was the Spartans!

Dimitra demonstrating one of the techniques used in mosaics in a neon green apron next to a table with samples

Overall, it was a fantastic moment to gain insight into the art of mosaic-making from a true expert.

These stops truly exhibited the diverse culture and industries of the region, highlighting the achievements of the people of Sparta throughout their history. From the artistic brilliance of the mosaics to the cultural significance of olive oil production and the historic value of the Archaeological Museum, each stop served as a vital point in uncovering the spirit of Sparta.

Lauren in a blue scarf and neon green apron working on one of the styles of mosaics

I loved this activity and the fact I got to try out the techniques myself! It was truly an unforgettable and enjoyable look at the joy of creating art, Greek art!

View of handmade modern mosaics hanging on the wall of a building.

👩‍🍳 Where we ate in Greece: I’m in love with Greek food!

Liotrivi historic mansion.

Oh, you simply must experience the pure joy of dining outside the Liotrivi Historic Mansion! After indulging in their incredible olive oil and wine tastings – the locally-sourced ingredients and traditional recipes make for an absolutely scrumptious meal. Indeed, it perfectly complements the charming and rustic atmosphere of the mansion.

Glass of white wine in front of plates of Greek salad, sausages, etc.

Kinsterna Hotel

Overhead view of the pear and proscuitto salad

At the Kinsterna Hotel, I experienced the most delightful wine pairing dinner. They have a selection of exquisite Kinsterna wines I enjoyed very much.

The head chef explained how the wine paired with each course in the array of delectable modern Greek dishes they served to us. The short but informative presentations on each course were the cherry on top of a truly exceptional evening.

Overhead view of my filet mignon with peas, carrots, and a sweet potato puree

Oh my, you simply must indulge in the breakfast experience at the Kinsterna Hotel! With a focus on fresh and local ingredients, this Greek breakfast is a true feast for the senses. Picture baskets overflowing with lush citrus fruits and vegetables.

There was Greek yogurt, homemade breads, pastries, cakes, and deliciously fresh eggs prepared to your liking. And let’s not forget the star of the show here – the Kinsterna’s own virgin olive oil, a true taste of Greece. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this heavenly breakfast spread!

Breakfast buffet tables at the Kinsterna Hotel

Skreka Tavern, Mystras

Skreka Tavern in Mystras is a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of a traditional Greek village with a fabulous view. Here we indulged in delicious regional cuisine including local specialties like moussaka, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce.

Overhead view of many dishes at the tavern near Mystras

Mystras Grand Resort and Spa

Dinner at Mystras Grand Resort and Spa was an unforgettable culinary experience. Their talented chefs utilized only the freshest local ingredients to serve up mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine. Definitely expect to indulge your senses in a gastronomical journey.

Pork dinner with asparagus and a cream sauce

Oh, let me tell you about breakfast at Mystras Grand Resort and Spa! You won’t believe the delicious spread of traditional Greek breakfast dishes. Of course, they are made with the freshest local ingredients; from creamy Greek yogurt and honey to savory feta cheese, eggs, and crispy phyllo pastry pies. It’s the perfect way to start your day in Greece.

Tsipouradiko to 50, Sparta

Our festive lunch at Tsipouradiko in Sparta was truly a delightful experience. There we indulged in mouth-watering Greek delicacies like saganaki, maniatiki salad, a mixed greens salad with feta cheese, pork steaks, and more!

Plate of pork and a stewed tomato

All the while we sipped on the best tsipouro (a strong spirit distilled from the grape pulp) in town. It was a fabulous lunch with great company and conversation.

Manaiaki salad with oranges, ham, etc.

🌳 Our fabulous hotels

My pictures don’t do it justice! You really need to go there and experience it on your own!

View of the Kinsterna Hotel

The Kinsterna Hotel is a stunning restored mansion located in the picturesque region of Monemvasia, boasting individually designed rooms, a private beach, swimming pools, exquisite dining options, and all sorts of on site activities for kids and adults – making for a truly unforgettable vacation experience. I would love to take my friends and family back here for a week or so!

Bottles of wine, olive oil, soap, and other estate made items on a decorated table

Agios Stefanos, Monemvasia, Greece, 23070

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.kinsternahotel.gr/

Mystras Grand Palace Resort and Spa

Nestled among the lush green hills of the Peloponnese, the Mystras Grand Palace Resort and Spa offers fabulous luxury and relaxation. It boasts a wide array of facilities ranging from outdoor swimming pools, to a state-of-the-art spa and wellness center. Even with limited time, I thoroughly enjoyed my massage, and the room was fabulous!

Mystras Resort and Spa sign

It also has exquisite dining options that feature gourmet cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

My room at the Mystras Resort and Spa with a red bed, stone wall, and wood flooring.

Sparta, Greece, 23100

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.mystraspalace.com

Rectangular swimming pool at the Mystras Grand Resort and Spa

Conclusion – It’s time to go back

What an incredible tour! From Kalamata to Monemvasia, Sparta, and Athens, my journey with JayWay Travel was filled with unforgettable experiences. This article definitely got to be a lot longer than I had originally planned, and I may have gotten carried away with adding photos, only a fraction of which I actually took. I tried to include the highlights, but there were also things I know I left out. What an amazing trip!!

So to sum up. I had the chance to visit a salmon and caviar farm, taste exquisite local products, tour the Kinsterna Hotel Estate, explore the Monemvasia Castle, and enjoy a wine pairing dinner with Kinsterna wines. Later on, we discovered the ancient city of Mystras with a knowledgeable guide, tasted delicious Greek food at a local tavern, and roamed around Sparta’s famous Acropolis.

Giant twisted olive tree at the Mystras Grand Resort and Spa

Moreover, the visit to the Archaeological Museum of Sparta, a baking lesson with Maria at the Doukato Bakery in Monemvasia, and the Mosaics Workshop with Dimitra Kolomvakou were exceptional experiences that enriched my understanding of Greek history and culture.

Our tour group in front of the monastery in Mystras

Thank you JayWay Travel : Review is 5 stars!

I cannot thank JayWay Travel and our amazing guide/tour organizer Elena Sergeeva enough for making this tour a reality. The dedication to ensure everything ran smoothly and the exemplary hospitality was truly appreciated. While I’m not always sold on tours, JayWay made all the arrangements for such a relaxing and meaningful trip with things I never would have thought of. I loved meeting the locals, the artisans, visiting the restaurants, and especially the historical sites with local guides. Everyone was so welcoming and hospitable.

Our driver, appropriately named Leonidas, was friendly and helpful and even drove me directly to my Airbnb apartment near the Athens airport the night before I flew out instead of the originally planned dropoff point for the transfer. He and Elena were concerned I wouldn’t easily get a taxi from the location, and I so appreciate their care and attentiveness!

I absolutely had a fantastic time, and I strongly encourage anyone seeking an authentic and exciting travel experience to book a tour with JayWay Travel . I’d love to make a second trip with my own family. You’ll fall in love with Greece’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history, just like I did.

Pin the article here:

View of handmade modern mosaics hanging on the wall of a building over a picture of the Orthodox church in Mystras, Greece

🇬🇷 Read more about my Greek travels!

Dimitsana to Stemnitsa Greece: A Mountain Village History Tour

Greek Almond Cookies: Amygdolata

Hiking Greece: Discover the Menalon Trail

Greek Cucumber Salad Recipe

One Day in Athens Itinerary: What to do in 24 Hours

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