KalamataPeloponnese · Greece

All About Kalamata

Kalamata is a fascinating seaside city in Messinia, the most southwestern part of the Peloponnese region of Greece. Famous for its beautiful nature, the Kalamatianos traditional dance, and, of course, Kalamata olives, this underrated destination is well worth a visit on your explorations of mainland Greece. With a population of around 60,000, Kalamata is a bustling and noteworthy port. Surrounded by rolling green valleys, framed by the dark waters of the Messinian Gulf and nestled next to the Nedon River, it’s perfectly positioned within a wide network of excellent tourism destinations.

Kalamata’s Old Town is lined with historical buildings, rustic churches, and traditional architecture, while the decidedly more cosmopolitan center has everyone you could expect from a modern-day city. Enjoy Kalamata’s contemporary spirit, visiting its many taverns, restaurants, bars, and museums. Afterward, head to the coast to discover some wonderful beaches, both organized and wild, or go inland towards the fertile swathes of the countryside that envelop the area. Whatever your interests for a Mediterranean holiday, Kalamata has everything you’ll need – a perfect portal to the southern tip of Greece.

Kalamata has a long and ancient history, first mentioned in Homer’s Iliad, but most likely dating back to the Bronze Age. Like the rest of the Peloponnese, Kalamata fell prey to many an invading force, meaning it has a fascinating legacy of different cultural influences – most of it immortalized in nearby historical sites. Following the Greek War of Independence in 1821, Kalamata was the first city to be liberated. Since then, it has grown into an important town, with a dynamic port that was once the most important in the Mediterranean. While there, don’t miss the opportunity to sample some Kalamata olives; a delicious product widely accepted to be one of the world’s finest.
 

Routes and Ferries to Kalamata

If you’re ready to begin exploring the Peloponnese, book your ferry tickets to Kalamata with Ferryscanner from a range of destinations. You will find ferry tickets to Kalamata from the island of Crete, with departures from the port of Kissamos once a week for a 9.4-hour journey. Alternatively, you can book ferry tickets to Kalamata from the island of Kythira and arrive in approximately 6 hours.

You can also reach Kalamata from Athens by car in 2 hours or on the KTEL bus, which is a 4-hour journey. Kalamata also has an international airport, with flights arriving from Europe and selected destinations in the Middle East.
 

Port of Kalamata

The Port of Kalamata is both rustic and modern, acting as the central hub of the wider city. Serving sea traffic to nearby islands, as well as being an occasional stop for international trade routes, the port has all the facilities you could need, while still holding onto the charm of a low-key fishing harbor.

After taking a ferry to Kalamata you will be greeted at the port by a long promenade framed by neo-classical and modern apartment buildings. Below them, there are lots of cafés and restaurants for enjoying a light meal or refreshment by the bay. The nearby Kalamata Marina is often home to lots of sailing boats and yachts; a result of the city becoming a favorite for coastal travelers and yacht enthusiasts.
 

Best Beaches

The Peloponnesian coastline is somewhat of a Greek secret. While tourists tend to flock to the islands, the locals know that some of the most beautiful and unspoiled coves lie south on the mainland. From Kalamata, you’re close to many hidden gems, and whether you prefer organized beaches with sunbeds or secret bays with no other tourists, you’re sure to find a perfect destination for a beach day.

Kalamata Beach

A favorite for locals and those enjoying a day trip to the area, Kalamata Beach is a stunning city beach only 1km away from the main town. A long line of fine sand is home to a range of beach bars, sunbeds, and umbrellas, while the water is crystal clear and refreshing. Dive in and stare out at the tall green mountains framing the city, then enjoy dinner and cocktails alongside the port.

Santova Beach

Only a 14 km drive away from Kalamata is Santova Beach; a beautiful cove with some of the best beach bars in the area. The water is crystal clear, while the sand is lined with wooden deckings that house lounges, restaurants, and sunbeds. Stay until evening, when young locals turn it into a thriving beachside nightlife spot.

Kitries Beach

If you’re looking for a laid-back beach getaway, Kitries Beach is the place to go. After a 25-minute drive down the south coast of Kalamata, you’ll arrive at the rustic fishing village of Kitries. The beach is peaceful and never overcrowded, while the nearby taverns serve some of the best seafood in the area, freshly caught from the surrounding bay.

Almyros Beach

Almyros Beach is one of the closest to the city of Kalamata, only a 10-minute drive from the port. It’s well-developed with plenty of dining and drinking options, but still maintains an easy-going, laid-back atmosphere that’s great for kids. The restaurants are open all day long, so it’s a great idea to head down for brunch by the beach and stick around for evening cocktails.

Foneas Beach

For a proper day trip away from the city, away from the crowds, Foneas Beach is a must. It’s an hour-long drive along the coast away from Kalamata, but it’s well worth the journey. A huge, green-covered rock separates the white-sand cove, creating a seascape that’s at once dramatic and beautiful. There are no bars or restaurants, just a humble canteen serving refreshments. If you’re after tranquility and a secluded taste of the Peloponnese, Foneas is the place for you.
 

Things to Do

Explore the Town

While there is a lot to see in the surrounding areas, the city of Kalamata is well worth exploring. It has a quintessential small-city feeling to it – small enough to walk around on foot or by bike, yet large enough to have an energetic and lively nightlife scene.

In the morning, enjoy breakfast by the port, watching the sun rising over the sea as the locals enjoy their morning coffees and chat. Next, head up to the Old Town of Kalamata, around a 30-minute walk from the port. Neoclassical mansions, red-roofed houses, and cobblestone streets make for an enchanting old-world atmosphere – a taste of a bygone era. At night, the riverside comes to life with a range of bars, lounges, and nightclubs – some of the most active in the entire region. Traditional or modern, peaceful or buzzing, you can find exactly what you’re after in this unexpectedly varied city.

Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Ypapanti

A must-see for lovers of history and architecture, the Cathedral of Ypapanti is a highlight of Kalamata, attracting visitors from around the country into its imposing atmosphere. Walk 25-minutes from the port into the Old Town, where you will find the cathedral in a large marble square. Over 150 years old, the Cathedral is usually packed during February for religious festivities and communal gatherings.

Walk to the Castle of Kalamata

Only 5-minutes away from the Cathedral, in the old town, the Castle of Kalamata lies high on the hillsides overlooking the city below. Built in the 13th century by the Franks, the medieval structure now offers panoramic views of Kalamata’s coastline, as well as a theatre in the summer months. Stroll through the labyrinth-like halls and get a feel for the rich history that flows throughout the region.

Taste Local Produce at the Central Farmer’s Market

No trip to Kalamata is complete without sampling some of the fresh fruit, vegetables, and local products made in the region. Make your way north along the river from the port, around 30-minutes from the port or 5-minutes from the Castle, and find yourself at the Central Farmer’s Market. Follow the locals as they select the best picks, taste some local Sfela cheese and make sure you take home a jar of Kalamata olives – fresh from the source!
 

Transportation Around Kalamata

Kalamata is a fairly large city, meaning it comes with all the public transport networks one could hope for. You can happily make your way around on foot, or by renting a bike, but you’ll also benefit from making use of the local bus system which connects the port to the Old Town and other areas of the city. If you’re looking to go further afield, the KTEL bus service connects Kalamata to other towns, villages, and beaches, but this can often be limited. Your best bet is to rent a car or motorcycle and have the freedom to explore wherever you like. Regardless of your choice of transport, you’ll find everything easily accessible and navigable.