When people think of Epidavros or Epidaurus, the ancient theater usually comes to mind first. And for good reason—it’s one of the most stunning and well-preserved theaters of antiquity. But Epidavros is more than just a theater. It’s a place with deep history, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
The archaeological site itself is packed with fascinating ruins. Beyond the famous theater, you’ll find the Sanctuary of Asclepius, an ancient healing center that once attracted visitors from all over Greece. There’s also the Tholos, the Stadium, the Temple of Asclepius, ancient baths, and the Stoa of Abaton. The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus, open since 1909, displays incredible finds from the area.
But Epidavros isn’t just about history—it’s also about nature and local life. The region is home to three villages: Ancient Epidavros, New Epidavros, and Ligourio. Ancient Epidavros sits by the sea, offering peaceful views and the charming Small Theater. Ligourio is the closest village to the archaeological site, while New Epidavros is a bit further away, surrounded by hills and greenery.
From ancient wonders to coastal beauty and traditional villages, Epidavros has so much more to offer than just its legendary theater. If you visit, take the time to explore—you won’t regret it!
1. Ancient Epidavros: A Perfect Destination for Families
Ancient Epidavros, once known as Palaia Epidaurus, is a charming seaside village on the shores of the Saronic Gulf. With its small, picturesque harbor and relaxed atmosphere, it’s easily the most beautiful village in the region. Its history goes back thousands of years, and it became famous thanks to the nearby Sanctuary of Asclepius, just 15 km away.
One of its hidden treasures is the Small Theater of Epidaurus, also called the Theater of the Ancient City. Yes, Epidavros has two ancient theaters! Built in the 4th century BC, this intimate venue once held 2,000 spectators but today seats about 1,000. It’s still used for performances, offering a magical setting under the stars.
For those looking to stay in the area, Ancient Epidavros has plenty of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and even a few organized campsites. If you love the sea, you’ll find some fantastic beaches here.
Kalamaki beach is a personal favorite, with pine trees that literally touch the water, creating an incredible natural backdrop. To get there, you’ll need to follow a path from Vagionia beach, a mix of sand and pebbles with a few umbrellas.
Other great spots for swimming include Yalasi beach, a sandy stretch right in front of a campsite, as well as Panagitsa and Nisi, the latter located just below the Small Theater.
Ancient Epidavros has the widest range of accommodations in the region, from simple rental rooms to luxury villas and boutique hotels. It’s an ideal place for families, offering easy access to the sea, great food, and a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Best Hotels in Ancient Epidavros
- (€€€) Yialasi Hotel
- (€€) Magda Hotel Apartments
- (€) Poseidon
2. Lygourio: Stay Close to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus
Lygourio is the closest village to the Archaeological Site of Asclepius and the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, just 1 km away. If you’re coming from Ancient Epidaurus, it’s about a 13 km drive. During the summer, the village comes to life, as visitors flock here for the Epidaurus Festival, a world-famous celebration of ancient drama featuring outstanding performances.
Beyond the theater, Lygourio has its own interesting sights. You’ll find 12 Byzantine chapels, each with unique history, the Kotsiomitis Natural History Museum, and the Pyramid of Lygourio, a mysterious structure possibly dating back to the 4th century BC—though today, only its base remains.
When it comes to food, Lygourio delivers. The village is packed with traditional tavernas, perfect for a post-theater meal. One of the most famous is Leonidas Taverna, but if you want a table after a show, good luck—it’s always packed!
Accommodation is limited, with only a handful of small hotels and rental rooms. If you want to stay near the theater and don’t mind being about 20 minutes from the sea, Lygourio is a great option. Just make sure to book early, as places fill up fast during festival season!
Best Hotels in Lygourio
- (€€) Hani Inn
- (€) Avaton Hotel
- (€) Actor Hotel
3. New Epidavros: A Scenic Village to Stay In
New Epidavros is built against a rocky hillside, a strategic location that once protected it from pirate raids. Unlike its coastal counterpart, this village sits inland, about 20 km from the Ancient Theater and less than 8 km from Ancient Epidaurus.
History lovers will appreciate its significance. This is where Greece’s First National Assembly took place in December 1821, a key moment in the country’s independence. The First National Assembly Square and its monument commemorate this event, and nearby, you’ll find the First National Assembly Museum, showcasing artifacts from that period.
The village itself is charming, with red-roofed houses and lush greenery creating a peaceful atmosphere. One of its highlights is the Castle, reachable via a short, 10-minute walk along a stone-paved path. The views from the top are worth the effort.
For nature lovers, I highly recommend the Vothyla Gorge Trail, one of the most beautiful in the Argolis region. Starting at the National Assembly Square, this 4 km trail is not too demanding but offers stunning landscapes along the way.
If you’re in the mood for a swim, New Epidavros Beach is just a 10-minute drive away. It’s a long stretch of pebble and sand, with crystal-clear waters and a peaceful vibe—perfect for unwinding. Accommodation here is mostly rental rooms and villas, making it a great option if you prefer a quiet stay surrounded by history and nature.
Best Hotels in New Epidavros
- (€€€) Irene’s Comfort Villa
- (€) Sea waves apartments
- (€) Hotel Avra
