There are many historical and cultural sights to see near Kalamata, such as the Villehardouin castle, the Ipapandis Byzantine church, the Kalograion monastery with its famous silk-weaving workshop where the beautiful Kalamata scarves are made, and the municipal railway park. It is also worth seeing the art collections housed at the Municipal Gallery, the Archaeological Museum of Messenia, and the Folk Art Museum.

Day Trips

One can plan day trips to the southern Peloponnese Mountains that form such a stunning backdrop to Kalamata. Keen walkers and nature lovers will find that the rugged mountain range throws up plenty of opportunity for challenging walks and rambles. The huge mountain that sits immediately behind the town has a trail from its base to the top. You have to set out early in the morning before the heat kicks in and then be prepared to spend between four and five hours getting to the top. Take along plenty of water and sunscreen. Remember to take your camera. Though the walk can be challenging, the views across the town and out to sea are breathtaking.

Finikounda

When visiting Kalamata, make a day trip to Finikounda. The pristine beaches around the fishing village of Finikounda offer a great atmosphere making it one of the best vacation destinations for families and beach lovers alike. There are different beaches around Finikounda, all easily accessible by foot. Paradise beach, Anemomilos beach, and others are all worth a visit. They offer splendid conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. You can also wind surf and sail during the summer.

Stoupa

Like most places in Kalamata, Stoupa too has many lovely beaches. Sandy Stoupa has a long stretch of golden sand. On the other hand, the Halikoura beach is smaller and rockier but offers scenic views that are simply breathtaking. Besides you must pay a visit to the tree shaded Kalogria beach. This place is a great one for families with small children. With its gently shelving fine sand, Kaligoria beach is fringed with tamarisk trees.

Kardamili

If you are a beach lover then a visit to the beautiful Kardamili is a must. This is an idyllic place located to the south of Kalamata. The Kalamitsi Beach is the perfect place to watch the sunset. The Ritsa, Salios, Neo Proastio, and Chalikia beaches are all picturesque and offer tremendous options for natural light photography.

In short, visit Kalamata if you love the beaches and mountains, for it is surrounded by them from all sides.