Where to Stay in Palaia Epidavros: The Best Areas and 14 Accommodations

Palaia Epidavros is a small seaside settlement in Argolis, built around two bays, with calm waters and views towards the Saronic Gulf. It’s a more relaxed option compared to other Peloponnese destinations, with a few tavernas right on the waterfront and small accommodations that don't spoil the neighbourhood. Its proximity to the Ancient Theatre of Epidavros, a few kilometres inland, makes it an ideal base for those wishing to combine sea and culture.

Your choice of accommodation mainly depends on whether you want to be within the settlement, next to the small harbour, or a little more secluded towards Nea Epidavros and Lygourio, closer to the ancient theatre. Distances are short, so wherever you stay, the other areas are just a few minutes' drive away.

Below, we analyse the main accommodation areas, provide practical information on transport and seasonality, and suggest specific accommodations with indicative prices, to help you find what suits your trip.

What to See and Do in Palaia Epidavros

The biggest attraction in the area is the Ancient Theatre of Epidavros, built in the 4th century BC, known for its exceptional acoustics, which still allow every sound from the stage to be heard clearly in the highest tiers. Every summer, it hosts the Epidavros Festival, with performances of ancient drama that attract people from all over Greece. The theatre is about 12 km from Palaia Epidavros, approximately 15 to 20 minutes by car.

The settlement of Palaia Epidavros itself is built around two bays separated by a small peninsula. One bay hosts the main harbour with tavernas, while the other features the central beach of the settlement. The water is usually calm, making the area popular for families and for those who want quiet holidays without waves.

The local gastronomy is dominated by fresh fish and seafood, with several fish tavernas around the harbour having been established for years. You'll also find simple tavernas with traditional vegetable dishes and mezes, while in Lygourio, the village near the ancient theatre, there are shops selling local products and honey from the surrounding area.

Besides the theatre, a stroll around the small harbour of Palaia Epidavros in the morning, when the fishermen return, is worthwhile, as is a stop in Nea Epidavros, a small village a little further north, with its own beaches and a quieter character. For swimming, most people choose the central beach of the settlement or smaller coves around the peninsula, many of which are only accessible on foot or by small boat.

Getting around the area is mainly by car. Palaia Epidavros is about 30 km from Nafplio, a journey of about 40 minutes, and approximately 150 km from Athens, a distance covered in just over two hours via the Athens-Corinth national road and then the provincial road to Epidavros. There are also KTEL bus routes from Athens, although more limited compared to other destinations.

The best time to visit is from May to October, with July standing out due to the Epidavros Festival, so if you want to attend a performance, it's best to book accommodation early. Autumn and spring offer calmer days, with fewer crowds on the beaches and an opportunity for a more comfortable visit to the ancient theatre, without the August heatwave.

The Best Areas to Stay in Palaia Epidavros

1. The Small Harbour and Palaia Epidavros Centre, Ideal for Walks and Waterfront Fish Tavernas

The centre of the settlement, around the small harbour, is the most popular accommodation area. Here you'll find most tavernas, small cafés, and shops, while the central beach is just a few minutes' walk from most accommodations. It's a good choice for those who want to leave the car and get around on foot all day, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the small harbour.

Pros:

• Everything within walking distance
• Many dining options
• Calm waters for swimming

Cons:

• Limited parking in summer
• Can be busy during festival days

Recommended Accommodations:

1. Binji Hotel
A small hotel near the harbour of Palaia Epidavros, with simple and clean rooms. A good choice for those who want to be within walking distance of tavernas and the beach, without high demands on amenities.

• Average cost: approx. 65€ per night

2. Poseidon
A hotel with a long presence in the area, by the sea, with views of the bay. Suitable for families and couples who want traditional hospitality and direct access to the water.

• Average cost: approx. 70€ per night

3. AKRON Luxury Holidays
A more modern accommodation option, with refined aesthetics and comfortable spaces. Aimed at couples seeking a little more luxury without straying far from the centre of the settlement.

• Average cost: approx. 110€ per night

4. Hotel Apollon
A family-run hotel near the centre, with simple rooms and friendly service. A good choice for budget holidays, with easy access to tavernas and the beach.

• Average cost: approx. 60€ per night

5. Saronis Hotel
A hotel by the sea, with views of the Saronic Gulf and a quiet atmosphere. Suitable for those who want to relax without much fuss, with direct access to swimming.

• Average cost: approx. 75€ per night

6. Aktis Hotel
A small hotel near the harbour, with comfortable rooms and sea views from many of them. A good base for walks in the settlement and excursions to the ancient theatre.

• Average cost: approx. 72€ per night

7. Hotel Mike
A simple, affordable hotel in Palaia Epidavros, suitable for short stays or for those who want basic amenities without great cost. Close to the central tavernas of the settlement.

• Average cost: approx. 55€ per night

8. Verdelis Inn
A small inn with personal hospitality, a quiet environment and close proximity to the centre. Suitable for couples seeking a calmer stay.

• Average cost: approx. 68€ per night

2. Coastal Zone and Designed Accommodations, For a More Modern Stay with Sea Views

In the wider coastal zone of Palaia Epidavros, more modern accommodations have been developed in recent years, with refined design and greater emphasis on comfort. They are located a few minutes from the centre, usually with their own beach access or terraces with views of the bay. This is a good choice for couples who want something more contemporary than the traditional hotels of the harbour, while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of the area.

Pros:

• More modern aesthetics
• Often with sea views
• Quiet environment

Cons:

• A little further from the harbour
• Usually requires a car for transport

Recommended Accommodations:

9. Epidavros Seascape - Palaia Epidavros
Accommodation with modern aesthetics and sea views, just outside the centre of the settlement. Suitable for couples who want a quiet stay with comfortable spaces and beautiful morning views.

• Average cost: approx. 100€ per night

10. STORK Design Suites - Palaia Epidavros
Suites with sophisticated design, suitable for couples seeking something more modern. Located in a quiet spot, with easy access to the centre and beaches of the settlement.

• Average cost: approx. 120€ per night

11. Hotel Michel Palaia Epidavros
A hotel with simple, comfortable rooms, close to the beach. A good choice for families who want a quiet stay without long distances for swimming.

• Average cost: approx. 70€ per night

12. Onar hotel Palaia Epidavros
A small hotel with a friendly atmosphere, suitable for couples and small families. Located near the coastal zone, with easy access to the centre of the settlement.

• Average cost: approx. 65€ per night

3. Nea Epidavros and Surrounding Area, For a Quieter Stay Just Outside the Main Settlement

Nea Epidavros is located a few kilometres north of Palaia Epidavros, with its own small beaches and a more secluded atmosphere. It's an option for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the main settlement, especially during festival days, while still maintaining easy access to both Palaia Epidavros and the ancient theatre. The area is quieter, with fewer dining options, so a short drive is usually needed for dinner.

Pros:

• Quieter environment
• Small, less crowded beaches
• Close to the ancient theatre

Cons:

• Fewer tavernas and shops
• A car is needed for everything

Recommended Accommodations:

13. marilena
Simple accommodation in Nea Epidavros, suitable for those who want a quiet stay away from the hustle and bustle of the main settlement. A good choice for a short stay with basic amenities.

• Average cost: approx. 55€ per night

4. Lygourio, For Those Who Want to Be Closer to the Ancient Theatre

Lygourio is the village closest to the Ancient Theatre of Epidavros, about 5 minutes by car, which makes it a convenient choice for those coming primarily for the Festival or who want to visit the archaeological site early in the morning. It has a more rural character, with tavernas around the square, and is about 15 km from the sea at Palaia Epidavros.

Pros:

• Very close to the ancient theatre
• More rural, authentic atmosphere
• Usually more affordable prices

Cons:

• Away from the sea
• Less lively outside of festival season

Recommended Accommodations:

14. Thimeli Hotel
A hotel in Lygourio, close to the ancient theatre, with simple and comfortable rooms. Suitable for those coming mainly for the Epidavros Festival and wanting to be very close to the archaeological site.

• Average cost: approx. 60€ per night

Practical Tips Before You Book

• Book early for the festival in July. During performance days at the ancient theatre, accommodations fill up quickly, so if you want to attend a performance, book your stay well in advance.
• See the theatre early in the morning. Before the tourist groups arrive, the archaeological site is quieter and photography is better due to the lighting.
• Ask if the accommodation has beach access. Some are right on the waterfront, while others are a few minutes' walk away, so it's good to confirm this before booking.
• Combine your stay with a trip to Nafplio. It's about a 40-minute drive and worth a day trip, especially if you're staying more than two days in the area.
• Take a car if you're staying in Lygourio or Nea Epidavros. Distances are short, but without a car, you'll struggle to get to beaches or the theatre, as public transport is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Palaia Epidavros from the ancient theatre?

The distance is about 12 km, with the drive taking around 15 to 20 minutes by car. Lygourio, the village next to the theatre, is even closer.

When is the best time to see a performance at the Epidavros Festival?

The festival mainly takes place in July, with ancient drama performances on weekends. If you want to attend a performance, book accommodation and tickets well in advance.

Is it better to stay in Palaia Epidavros or Nafplio?

Nafplio has more nightlife, shops, and entertainment options, while Palaia Epidavros is quieter and closer to the ancient theatre. The choice depends on whether you prefer a town or a peaceful seaside settlement.

Do I need a car in Palaia Epidavros?

Within the settlement, you can get around on foot, but for visiting the ancient theatre, Nea Epidavros, or Lygourio, a car is very helpful, as public transport is limited.

Which is the best beach in Palaia Epidavros?

The central beach of the settlement is the most popular, with calm waters suitable for children. There are also smaller coves around the peninsula for a quieter swim.

How far is Palaia Epidavros from Athens?

The distance is approximately 150 km, with the journey taking about two hours and a bit via the Athens-Corinth national road and the provincial road to Epidavros.

The Verdict

If you're primarily coming for the Epidavros Festival, consider staying in Lygourio, closer to the ancient theatre. For families and couples seeking sea and quiet holidays, the centre of Palaia Epidavros around the harbour is the most convenient option, with tavernas and the beach within walking distance. Those looking for a quieter environment can turn to Nea Epidavros, without losing easy access to the area's attractions.

Also see our guides on where to stay in Parga and accommodation in Pylos.