Kalamata Greece is perhaps the most underrated spot in all of Greece. Surrounded by towering mountains and the stunning Ionian Sea, it’s not only eye candy, but also is packed with history, culture and amazing food. Here are the absolute best things to do in Kalamata Greece!
This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my disclosures.
Real quick, for first-timers asking where is Kalamata Greece is: Kalamata is in the southern Peloponnese region (not an island), set between the Taygetos Mountains and the sea.
The location is a big part of its appeal. You can do castles and museums in the morning, spend the afternoon swimming, and still have time for a wine or olive oil tour before dinner!
After spending time here, I can confidently say Kalamata is one of Greece’s most underrated destinations. It blends history, culture, food, and coastal beauty without the crowds you find elsewhere.
Here are my favorite things to do in Kalamata Greece if it is your first visit, including a few extra local experiences that belong on any solid Kalamata things to do list.
Things to do in Kalamata Greece
Gah! I’m so excited for you to visit this amazing region. Let’s dive in!
1. Experience olive oil tasting (because this is Kalamata!)
Kalamata is famous for olives and olive oil, so you’ve absolutely got to take an olive oil tour! It’s one of my favorite experiences I had while visiting Kalamata!
Taking an olive oil tour means visiting 800 year old olive trees, the process of making high quality olive oil, and of course, tasting it! Being from the states, I can say hands down, the best olive oil I’ve ever had was in Kalamata, on a local tour!
Book this tour2. Soak in the views at the Kalamata Castle
One of the first things to do in Kalamata Greece is head up to Kalamata Castle. It sits above the old town, and the views are really pretty at the top. You can see rooftops of the town, the coastline, and the dramatic mountains all at once.
The castle itself is in need of repair, but the chapel is in good shape. For just a few Euro, it’s a quick but fun stop, and one you should definitely include in your southern Greece itinerary.
Note: be sure to go to the edge of the castle grounds for the best views!
👉Book a walking tour of the castle and Kalamata for the best insider knowledge!
Taking a walking tour is my favorite way to answer what to do in Kalamata if you only have one extra morning or afternoon. You get context, stories, and local tips you would never find on your own.
3. Take a food tour (one of my favorite things to do in Kalamata Greece)
Hands down, Greece has been one of my favorite food destinations! (Surprisingly, Ireland made that list too!)
Anyway, one of the best ways to experience the local flavors of Kalamata and this region of Greece is by a food tour. I love a food tour because you get to taste a bunch of foods in a short amount of time, and the Kalamata tour is no different!
Book this tour
4. Visit the Church of the Holy Apostles
Dating back to the 11th century, this tiny church is a big deal historically, and it is also just a lovely stop. It is right in the old town and easy to pair with nearby attractions.
The Church of the Holy Apostles is where the Greek War of Independence was officially declared in Kalamata in 1821. It held the first Greek Orthodox mass on free Greek territory in over 360 years, so it’s kind of a big deal!
It sits right on 23rd of March Square, making it easy to visit while exploring the old town. It is a must-see when planning Kalamata things to do if you’re a history buff.
5. Hang out at 23rd of March Square
23rd of March Square is one of those places you’ll walk though as you explore the town of Kalamata. In the heart of the city, it’s lively, and full of character. Cafés spill onto the square, and it feels especially vibrant as people are out in the evening.
This is a great place to slow down, grab a coffee, and people watch. If you are creating a relaxed itinerary and wondering what to do in Kalamata, just spending time here absolutely counts.
More things to do Kalamata
Just 1/2 way through this list – can you believe this beautiful, underrated spot? Let’s keep going – my favorite is up next!
6. Experience the Ionian Sea on a boat
One of the most fun things to do in Kalamata is enjoying time on the water! I loooooved my experience the day I enjoyed a catamaran excursion!
Being on the open sea, enjoying the views of the coastline and the Peoponnese Greece was simply spectacular.
For boating experiences, you have a few options. The first is a Messinia Half-Day Private Yacht Cruise. (This works best with families or groups up to 10.) You’ll see the surrounding areas, beautiful landscapes and visit gorgeous beaches!
Book a day tripAlternatively, you can expand your time in Kalamata with a private chartered catamaran vacation. If I didn’t get seasick from too much time on the sea, I’d 100% do this experience!
For this, you can rent a boat for a week, including multiple sleeping spaces (perfect for multiple couples traveling together or families). You work directly with the captain to create a unique-to-you sailing experience!
Book a catamaran vacation7. Dive into history at the Archaeological Museum of Messenia
Located near old town, the Archaeological Museum of Messenia is a great way to understand the history of Greece and this region. The exhibits give context to how important this part of Greece has been for thousands of years.
It’s a smaller museum (compared to the ones I visited in Athens and Thessaloniki), so it’s manageable to do in an hour or two. Visiting this museum one of those things to do in Kalamata Greece that deepens your understanding of the place without feeling overwhelming.
8. Check out the Historical and Folklore Museum of Kalamata
This one is all about how people lived. Traditional items, local life, and a more personal look at the region. I actually didn’t get a chance to visit the Historical and Folklore Museum of Kalamata, but I had friends that did and they loved it! Apparently the clothing inside is really cool.
9. Dine at Kastraki Kalamata (for gorgeous views!)
For one more food option, dining at Kastraki is one of those meals you remember because it’s such an experience. It’s literally a castle on a cliff overlooking the mountain, town and beautiful coastline.
Go in the evening if you can, when the views feel extra magical at sunset! Try the Messinian fried goat cheese, crayfish bolognese, or the zucchini risotto. I also heard the beef short ribs were really good!
If you are trying to answer what to do in Kalamata with the best views of the town, this is it!
Note: I’d highly recommend reservations for Kastraki, especially at sunset hour.
10. Relax on the beaches in Kalamata Greece
If you need a reset after museums and sightseeing, the beach is a great place to be!
Kalamata Beach is the easy, classic option. It is right by town, great for a simple beach day, and you will find plenty of places nearby to grab food after you swim.
This is one of my favorite no planning required answers to what to do in Kalamata. I mean really in Kalamata or anywhere. 😆 Just show up, swim, relax, repeat.
Note: the Kalamata beaches aren’t like the white sand in Thailand or the Caribbean. You’ll want water shoes for walking on the rocky surface.
Bonus day trip from Kalamata: Voidokilia Beach
For a beach day that feels next-level, you’ve got to do a trip to Voidokilia. Voidokilia is often mentioned specifically as the beach stop on tours from Kalamata, because it’s just so pretty!
There are several hiking trails in the area, or you can go kayaking or just enjoy the soft sandy beach.
I loved visiting Voidokilia Beach, and it’s one of my favorite things I did on my 2 weeks Greece mainland itinerary!
What to do in Kalamata Greece – that’s a wrap!
If you are wondering is Kalamata worth visiting, let me make this easy: yes. Kalamata has that laid-back Greek coastal feel, but it is packed with history, culture, amazing food and easy day trips that make you feel like you are seeing the real Greece.
Between the castle, local tours, museums, beaches in Kalamata Greece, and the day trips, this place gives you variety without the crowds! I truly hope you enjoy your time in this underrated spot!
Related content:
Off the Beaten Path: 2 Weeks Greece Mainland Itinerary (Skip the Crowded Islands)
AMAZING 2 Days in Athens Itinerary You’ll Love (+ Map & Tips for First Timers)
29 Best Greek Islands for Couples You’ll Love (Romance, Beaches, Adventure + More)
Mykonos vs Santorini: Which is the PERFECT Greek Island for You?
Incredible Aegean Cruise in the Greek Islands (Plus Honest Celestyal Cruises Review)
Find this guide helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!
