Kalavryta is a charming mountain town nestled in one of the most picturesque areas of northern Peloponnese, in the Achaia region. It’s no wonder why—it’s surrounded by beautiful villages, incredible caves, gorges, and rivers, making it an outdoor paradise!
I’ve visited Kalavryta so many times that I’ve lost count, but each trip has been unforgettable. There are truly countless fun things to do in Kalavryta! While hiking is a popular activity, most visitors come for the charming cog train through the Vouraikos Gorge or for a romantic weekend getaway.
While it’s easy to take a day trip from Athens, I highly recommend staying overnight in Kalavryta—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve created this guide to the best things to do in Kalavryta.
Read on and start planning your trip to this beautiful town!
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Things to Do in Kalavryta Greece
Explore Kalavryta Town
As soon as you arrive in the scenic town, take a stroll through its charming, cobblestone streets lined with traditional stone houses and cozy cafes. Stop by the central square to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the local tavernas. Kalavryta is the perfect place to soak up the local culture and enjoy its relaxed atmosphere.
Visit the Kalavryta Holocaust Museum to learn about the town’s tragic history during World War II, when all men over 16 were executed by the Germans. It’s a deeply emotional visit, but worthwhile, and the execution site is just 500 meters from the museum.
One of my favorite things to do in Kalavryta is to visit the Metropolitan Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, with its two clock towers. One shows the current time, while the other is frozen at 14:34—the time of the execution of the town’s male population by the Germans on December 13, 1943. Just a block away stands the exceptional Filoxenia Hotel & Spa.
For coffee and locally made loukoumades (fried dough balls) with various pralines or freshly baked orange pies go to ‘Nero & Alevri,‘ (25th of March 44 street). If you are ready for a meal then I suggest you go to ‘Peri Orexeos’ (25th of March 57 street), a cozy traditional tavern that also offers vegetarian options, where everything we tried was excellent – make sure to order their chickpeas; they are a delightful surprise.
Another great meat-focused tavern is ‘Varvitsiotis‘ (Paleon Patron Germanou 28). Must-try dishes include their amazing sausages, wild boar stew, pork with mustard, thyme, and pasta, savory zucchini pie, feta with honey, and a delicious ‘bougiourdi’ (baked feta with tomatoes and peppers).
Discover Mega Spileon Monastery
You should definitely visit the Mega Spileon Monastery (10 km NE of Kalavryta), the oldest monastery in Greece, founded in 362 CE by the Thessalonian brothers Symeon and Theodor. While in Jerusalem, each brother had a vision instructing them to travel to Kalavryta to find the Holy Icon of the Virgin Mary, crafted from mastic and wax by the Apostle Luke.
When the two brothers arrived in Kalavryta, a shepherdess named Euphrosyne led the brothers to a cave where the Holy Icon had been discovered earlier. The monastery was then built around this cave, which you can still visit today.
Mega Spileon Monastery is an awe-inspiring 8-story structure carved directly into the slopes of Mount Chelmos, perched inside a vast cave on a steep cliff at 900 meters. Inside the Catholicon, you’ll find 16th-century frescoes.
On December 8, 1943, the monastery was destroyed by the Germans, who brutally executed 22 monks and visitors in an act of reprisal. Fortunately, the monastery was fully rebuilt after the war and now stands as a symbol of resilience. When you visit, consider purchasing a small token from their shop to support their efforts in the local community.
My personal favorite part of visiting Mega Spileon is exploring the cave beneath the main church. The serene atmosphere, golden-plated icons, and glowing candles create an unforgettable experience.
Visit Kalavryta Greece Ski resort
Just 14 km from Kalavryta lies Greece’s second-largest ski resort, sitting at an altitude of 1,700 to 2,340 meters. The resort offers 13 tracks totaling 20 km and features 8 ski lifts, including 3 for children, making it perfect for both beginners and advanced skiers. You can also rent sleds and enjoy the Snow Park, ideal for families. If you love snow and skiing, this place is a must, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
There are special programs for children, with lifts providing easy access to the tracks. If you do not want to ski, you can stay at the warm and hospitable Hippocrates Farm Chalet which offers lunches and drinks.
Find here info about the Kalavryta ski resort’s prices and here about the other ski resorts in Greece.
Ride the Thrilling Rack Railway “Odontotos”
Riding the cog train is one of the most fun things to do in Kalavryta for the whole family. The area is famous for Odontotos, as we call it in Greek, the rack railway on cogs train first ran in 1896. Start this really exciting train trip from Diakopto village, and enjoy the 22km route in Vouraikos river, through imposing mountainsides, tunnels, and breathtaking iron bridges. The trip lasts about an hour and it operates all year round.
It’s one of the few rack railways in the world, named after the special system it uses to climb steep slopes over 10%. What makes it even cooler is that it’s the narrowest railway in the world, with a track only 75 centimeters wide!
Stunning mountainous views all around you, the river’s water running speedily, offers one of the most scenic natural areas in the world. The train stops at Mega Spileon Monastery and the green and picturesque small village of Kato Zachlorou. On weekends and holidays, it is a very popular activity so I suggest you book your tickets in advance here: Official Rack Railway.
Explore the Cave of the Lakes
The Cave of Lakes is 17 km from Kalavryta in the village of Kastria. What makes this cave unique are the 13 flowing lakes spread across three different levels, with fascinating rock formations. A safe corridor has been constructed to help visitors explore the cave’s chambers with ease. Be sure to take in the stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations all around you
Depending on the season you visit the Cave of Lakes, the experience can vary. In winter the cave turns into a flowing underground river with waterfalls. During summer, as the water dries up, it reveals impressive formations on the cave floor.
- What to wear: a warm fleece is a must, no matter the season you are visiting
- When to visit: all year round!
- Ticket information is here.
Tour Ancient Corinth, Cave of Lakes & Odontotos with Lunch
After my unforgettable experience on the private tour in Kalavryta, I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to visit this area. Skip the hassle of self-driving to Kalavryta for the Odontotos Rack Railway and enjoy a seamless experience with a private driver. This private tour will take you to Ancient Corinth, Corinth Canal, Kalavryta for food tasting, the Cave of the Lakes, and ride the Odontotos Railway.
Book this highly-rated private tour here.
Go to the Historical Agia Lavra Monastery
The Agia Lavra monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in the Peloponnese built in 961 CE. It is famous for its historical contribution to the Greek War of Independence against the Turks in 1821 initiated by Bishop Germanos of Patras.
The Bishop raised a Greek flag that can be seen in the monastery’s small museum. Other important exhibits include its collection of crosses with precious stones as well as artifacts of icons and religious symbols. A special exhibit is the diamond-decorated Gospel, a gift from Catherine the Great of Russia
How to get there: It is only 4,5 km away from Kalavryta Greece.
When to visit? All year round with free entrance
Other Monasteries in the area are the Monastery of St. Nicholas Vlasias built in the 7th century AD. Situated in a Meteora-like rock, the Monastery of Makelaria built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 532.
Stroll Planitero and Lousoi Villages
Near Kalavryta you can visit Ano and Kato Lousoi gorgeous villages with fine old mansions. A characteristic example is the Tower of Petmezaion which dates from the 17th century.
25 km from Kalavryta Greece is the stunning Planitero village, surrounded by a dense plane-tree forest of exceptional beauty. Planitero is a Natura-protected area, mostly known for its breathtaking treks, natural springs, waterfalls by the river Aroanios, trout and salmon farming, and exceptional traditional taverns.
Stay at Kato Zachlorou Village
About halfway along the route of the Odontotos Railway, which connects the coastal town of Diakopto with Kalavryta (12 km), lies the small and peaceful village of Kato Zachlorou.
The village has just 38 permanent residents, and as a result, there are only a few houses, all built in the traditional style. During the cold winter months, chimneys release the warmth and coziness that fills these homes. The railway and the Vouraikos River both cross the picturesque village where a few hiking trails to Kalavryta and Mega Spileon have their starting points.
Where to eat in Zachlorou:
- At “Romantzo,” located within the village you’ll find excellent home-cooked meals that will make you feel right at home. The taverna is set in an idyllic location, with wooden tables overlooking the Vouraikos River.
- At the traditional restaurant of “Antonis and Polly” set on a stunning veranda right next to the Odontotos railway tracks. Don’t miss the meatballs, the “exohiko” (slow-cooked lamb on parchment paper), and the wild boar stew.
- At “To Spiti tis Marios” – on the way to Kalavryta, just outside the village of Zachlorou, you’ll find delicious handmade pies, flavorful “kontosouvli” (slow-cooked pork), village-style sausages, and incredible homemade bread baked fresh daily in the restaurant’s kitchen.
A fantastic hotel in Zachlorou is the Olympios Zeus Hotel (family-friendly, mid-range).
Hike Vouraikos Gorge
Take the opportunity to hike through the Vouraikos Gorge, a stunning trail that’s part of the E4 European Trails Network. It’s generally an easy hike, but be mindful when crossing the tunnels as trains do pass through.
You’ll also encounter wobbly metal bridges over the fierce Vouraikos River, adding some excitement (and maybe a little thrill) to your adventure. Just stay cautious. Best of all, you can enjoy this hike year-round!
Read here for a complete guide to hiking Vouraikos National Park
The Vouraikos bridges are extremely dangerous for small children as they can fall through the large gaps to the void below (life-threatening) as has happened in the past.
Hike Chelmos Trail
Hike Overview
- Distance: 11 km
- Start Altitude: 1600 m
- Finish Altitude: 890 m
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: (3/5), requires good physical condition.
- Trail Condition: Variable with a very steep downhill, challenging route. Not very good signposts
- Mobile Phone Reception: Very good
- Water, Food: Bring 1-2 liters of water (depending on the season), energy food, and fruit
- Gear: Wear anti-slippery, water-resistant, ankle-protective hiking boots that will reduce your chance of sliding during the steep descent. If there is snow, crampon-compatible boots. Walking sticks. Rain – snow protection garments.
This particular route starts from the Ski Resort, at the leveled planes right across the chalet. The hike at first follows the dirt road until the red signposted path leads you to the dense and lush fir forest of the area.
The trail through the forest is not signposted so at times may not be so easy to discern. You need to watch out for painted stones, arrows, numbers, or a piece of plastic garland, hanging from a tree.
This is a very picturesque and demanding trail that ends at the entrance of the Mega Spileon Monastery.
Get the Kalavryta City Pass
On my recent visit, I was very happy to discover Kalavryta City Pass which offers visitors and locals the chance to enjoy a range of activities. The pass costs only €24.80 per person and is available at the train stations of Kalavryta, Diakopto, and Patras. It is valid for one month from the date of purchase and can be used on dates chosen by the passenger.
Free entry options you get from the Kalavryta City Pass are:
- Kalavryta Ski Center
- Odontotos Railway through the Vouraikos Gorge (Kalavryta-Diakopto route with return)
- Vathia Lakka lift ride or visit the “TETRAMYTHOS” winery.
- Cave of Lakes with a guided tour
- Kalavryta Holocaust Museum
You can buy the Kalavryta City Pass at the railway stations of Kalavryta, Diakofto, and Patra.
How to Get to Kalavryta Greece
You can take public transport, (KTEL buses) from Kifisos station in Athens that runs every day.
For me, however, the best means of transport, if you want to explore a region in-depth, is by driving your car. Renting a car offers the invaluable freedom of traveling everywhere at your own pace and timetable and at a low cost.
Where Best to Stay in Kalavryta Greece
I usually stay centrally in the town and explore the area. Here are a few options for you to consider:
- Kalavryta Town: Staying in the heart of the town offers easy access to the town’s attractions, restaurants, and shops. A fantastic mid-range and family-friendly property is Maron Suites (mid-range, family-friendly), very centrally located, and elegantly decorated, with cold water in the fridge, a cake, and cookies waiting for you. Find out about prices and availability for Maron Suites on Booking or Expedia.
- Nearby Villages: Kalavryta is surrounded by charming villages which offer a more rustic and authentic Greek experience. Consider staying in one of these villages for a quieter and more immersive stay, while still being within easy reach of Kalavryta’s main attractions. Chalet in the Forest (luxury, family-friendly) is a stunning property with a capacity for up to 8 people in a scenic natural environment.
Explore the Peloponnese Archaeological Sites
If you are a history buff like me, then from Kalavryta you can travel to a large number of spectacular archaeological sites:
- Ancient Corinth & Museum (Apostle Paul Bema)
- Nemea Archaeological site
- Mycenae – UNESCO-listed site
- Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus – UNESCO-listed site
- Ancient Messene
- Ancient Olympia – UNESCO-listed site
- Mystras – UNESCO-listed site
- Temple of Apollo Epicurious – UNESCO-listed site
Quiz: Are You a Good Match for Kalavryta?
- What’s your ideal way to explore a new town?
a) Strolling through cobblestone streets and taking in the local vibe
b) Hitting the slopes or going for a hike
c) Visiting museums and historical sites - What’s your favorite season to travel?
a) Winter for skiing and snow
b) Summer for outdoor adventures
c) Fall for scenic landscapes and mild weather - How do you like to spend your evenings?
a) Enjoying a cozy dinner at a local taverna
b) Unwinding after a day of skiing or hiking
c) Exploring a town’s culture and history - What excites you most about Kalavryta?
a) Riding the Odontotos Rack Railway through the Vouraikos Gorge
b) Hiking through scenic trails and exploring nature
c) Learning about its rich history, including WWII events - Which type of accommodations do you prefer?
a) A cozy guesthouse or boutique hotel in town
b) A mountain lodge with easy access to hiking or skiing
c) A historic inn full of character and local charm - What’s your preferred pace on vacation?
a) Relaxed with plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere
b) Active, with lots of outdoor activities planned
c) A mix of sightseeing and downtime - How do you like to start your day?
a) Grabbing a coffee and strolling through the town square
b) Heading straight to the mountains for an adventure
c) Visiting a museum or local cultural site - How do you prefer to get around when exploring a place?
a) By public transport—it’s convenient and lets you see the sights
b) Driving a car for the freedom to go wherever you want
c) Joining a guided tour to learn more about the area
Personalized Recommendations Based on Your Answers:
- Mostly A’s: Kalavryta’s charming town and cultural experiences are perfect for you! Enjoy wandering through its picturesque streets, sampling local food, and soaking in the history. Make sure to visit the church with the stopped clock, reflecting on the town’s past.
- Mostly B’s: You’re an adventurer at heart! Kalavryta’s outdoor paradise is calling—whether it’s skiing in winter, hiking in summer, or riding the Odontotos train. Don’t miss the Vouraikos Gorge and the stunning views.
- Mostly C’s: You appreciate history and culture. Kalavryta’s museums, especially the Holocaust Museum, will offer a profound experience. Combine this with a scenic train ride and some downtime in town for a perfect balance.
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