Visiting Mystra (Mistra) is a fabulous experience. However, you should be aware that this place is like no other. You need to take your time and be well equipped, as the site is located on a rocky outcrop. It’s a real little hike. Here’s some information to help you prepare.
=> And to find out more about the history of Mystra, click here.
How to get to Mystra
Mystra is located in the southern Peloponnese, a 15-minute drive from Sparta.
The city is well served by the Peloponnese freeway, which runs from Corinth to Kalamata. From Athens, the drive takes just under 3 hours.
There are several bus journeys a day between Athens and Sparta. Departures are also available from the airport. See the KTEL bus website. Then take a Sparta-Mystra bus.
When should you visit Mystra?
As elsewhere in Greece, the ideal seasons to visit Mystra are spring and autumn. Firstly, because it’s much cooler than in summer. Then, in spring, it’s a joy to see all the wild flowers blooming on the rock. In autumn, the vegetation takes on superb orange hues.
In summer, it can be hot, very hot indeed. And since you’ll be walking, be sure to bring sun protection: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. There are no on-site catering facilities, so take precautions before entering the site.
Mystra, a sporting tour
It’s going up!
Mystra is situated on a rocky outcrop, so inevitably it’s a bit of a climb. You’ll need good shoes to walk around the Mystra site.
The main entrance is at the bottom of the rock, so you’ll have to hike up and then back down again.
It’s a climb of around 2.5km and 220m of ascent to the top, which takes around an hour. The descent is a little easier, taking around 45 minutes. But be careful with your knees, as the path is slippery and steep!
Of course, there are plenty of stops to be made at the various churches and monuments along the way. All in all, it takes 2 to 3 hours to visit Mystra.
Plan B: for those who don’t want to climb
If you don’t feel like doing the whole ride, there are three alternatives:
- the first is to do only part of the climb. For example, you can visit the lower town in its entirety.
- The second is to use the entrance at the top of the site, just below the fortress. From here, it’s easy to climb up to the Kastro, and then back down again. This requires a car at the bottom of the site, or you can try hitchhiking (it works, I’ve tested it!).
- Last but not least, you can also visit the lower town separately from the upper town. You first take the lower entrance to visit the lower town. Come out, go to the entrance of the upper town, and visit the upper town. The ticket is valid for 24 hours.
Where to stay in Mystra?
If you want to visit in the morning, it’s best to sleep in.
You can opt for the actual city of Mystra, which lies just below the rock. It has a pleasant little square, home to two or three establishments. We particularly recommend: the Mystra Inn . It offers comfortable, value-for-money family rooms in a traditional stone house. It has its own restaurant, serving excellent specialities and a hearty breakfast. What’s more, you can even meet a Frenchman who volunteers to show you around part of the site!
A little more upmarket, the Mazarakis Guest House is not lacking in charm. The view from up there is superb. What’s more, there’s a swimming pool on site, a big plus if you want to cool off after your visit.
Another option: the Castle View Camping & Bungalows offers camping facilities for tents and motorhomes, as well as bungalows for rent. In addition to a swimming pool, Castle View is located 1 km from the site of Mystra, among olive and mulberry trees. Open from early April to around late September-mid October.
There are also many
accommodations offered on AirBnB
. But don’t hesitate to take a close look at the reviews and make sure the location is right. Some houses offer incredible views of the heights.
Where to eat in Mystra
In the village center, on the main square, you’ll find a number of tavernas with shaded terraces.
We also tested a tavern Ores in the village of Parorio . Good traditional cooking, with a surprising decor of clocks, each more original than the last (including one that goes back in time… quite a state of mind!).
High up with a beautiful view, the restaurant Ktima Skreka is a little more chic but still very affordable. Children can play in a small garden adjoining the terrace.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Mystra (Mistra)
- Can I visit Mystra with children? Even if you have to walk, children love this site, because it’s full of surprises: the fortress, the churches, the little paths…
- Can I visit Mystra with a baby? You’ll need to bring a baby carrier, as the paths are not suitable for baby carriages.
- How long does it take to visit Mystra? It takes between 2 and 3 hours to visit Mystra.
- If I have difficulty walking, how can I visit Mystra? Please refer to our Plan B solutions, above.
- How much does it cost to enter Mystra? See all prices at the bottom of the article. And take advantage of our many free days.
- What are the opening hours? See all timetables at the bottom of the article. Please note that there are different opening times in winter and summer, as well as on certain days of the year.
Sophie B.
