Peloponnese travel advice

My tip is to go in Spring, when the hotels and restaurants are empty, the roads aren't busy, and the weather is cool enough to sleep with windows open at night, while being pleasantly warm during the day. I would also strongly encourage you to add days to the itinerary. I added at the beginning and the end, and am glad I did. – Greg Leibman on our Greece cycling vacation, archaeology tour

Think about the time of year you visit – we went at the beginning of October, and even so found it rather hot for mid day cycling, although the evenings were cool. The sites and towns were not as overcrowded as in high season. Much of the cycling is on small tracks with few hills, but of course there are hills to be climbed – you can always stop for breath or get off and push, (as I did once or twice but am not a super fit person)... There are lots of dogs, but mostly on chains or behind fences. Learn at least a few words of Greek and the alphabet if you don't already know the language – it is appreciated and gives more opportunity to interact with those you meet. Knowing your letters helps decipher road signs quickly! For those of you as old as us (late 60s), remember to take your varifocals so you can read the Garmin and the road ahead...! – Fiona Eccles on our Greece cycling vacation, archaeology tour.

If you appreciate personalized care, great flexibility and a small group, this tour is excellent. We met the tour company owner for dinner the first night, and that proved to be a great orientation to Greece. The Mani is such a beautiful region, with tall mountains coming down to the sea; I really recommend this trip to those who are a bit adventurous and who want to see a part of Greece that's very different from your standard "Greek island vacation". – Karen Anderson on our Peloponnese vacation in Greece, Mani & Laconia.

It was absolutely fantastic to be able to visit so many places from the sea, going into small harbours and tying up among local fishing boats. Most visitors explore the Peloponnese by bus which involves long periods of travel, but we were never moored more than 30 minutes away from anything... It is a very intimate experience living with such a small group of fellow travelers and you have to be prepared to get along with others, as there is no escape for a week. We had a lovely group but I understand that not every group is the same – Hilary Richards on our Small ship cruise, ancient sites of the Peloponnese vacation.

Be aware that there is a lot of climbing up slopes and steps to the various monuments, and, at this time of year, in very warm sun, so good shoes and a sunhat essential. Also pace yourself as some of the climbs up (and down again) to monasteries, for example, are steep and uneven and more than 200 steps each way. – Margaret Carey on our tailor made vacation in Greece.