Athens to Epidaurus Greece: Travel Guide to the Ultimate Ancient Theater

Athens to Epidaurus is a legendary travel experience in Greece. Yet you can easily visit this epic archaeological site and the ultimate ancient theater on a day tour from the Greek capital.

Additionally, if your travel itinerary allows just a little more time than a day trip, then a road trip from Athens to Epidaurus becomes an immersive travel experience in the mythical Peloponnese region.

Let’s discover together the rich history and modern relevance of the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus and its awe-inspiring ancient theatre.

These glorious Greek landmarks rank among the most impressive archaeological sites not only in Greece but also in Europe.

Then, let’s consider the location, tour options, and logistics for visiting ancient Epidaurus. And also its quaint port of Archaia Epidavros, a little hidden gem of Argolida with its own special treasure to uncover.

You’ll also find a custom interactive map with need-to-know-travel info: parking lots!

As well as firsthand observations and candid recommendations from our years of meaningful travel on the Peloponnese peninsula and throughout Greece.

Ready? Let’s go!

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Athens to Epidaurus: Notes on Greek Names

The Greek language has developed over thousands of years, from antiquity to modern times.

Not only do translations differ from Archaic Greek to Classical, Byzantine, and Modern Greek. But also transliterations vary from the Greek alphabet to English.

For instance, the archaeological site of Epidaurus (Ἐπίδαυρος) is officially the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus (Ιερό του Ασκληπιού στην Επίδαυρο).

Epidaurus is also spelled Epidauros and Epidavros.

Asclepius can also be spelled Asclepios, Asklepios, Asklipios, and Asklepieion.

So, to clarify matters during this journey from Athens to Epidaurus, we’ll occasionally note different Greek key names and alternative spellings.

Epidaurus Greece in Antiquity: A Quick History

Archaeological excavations at Epidaurus, Greece, have revealed ruins from the 6th century BC, the Bronze Age – and likely much older.

However, the epic fame and enduring glory of Epidaurus began in the 4th century BC.

That’s when the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus (Ιερό του Ασκληπιού στην Επίδαυρο) attained its foremost status as a sacred site and healing center in the classical world.

In this golden era, Athenian sculptor and architect Polykleitos the Younger designed monuments of symmetry and grace, harmonizing with nature.

The sacred grove and lofty mountains create a serene setting appropriate to Asclepius the Healer, the ancient Greek god of medicine.

Later, the Roman imperial era renewed and re-invigorated Epidaurus’ eminent status. The Roman Emperor Hadrian particularly identified with Asclepius, and he visited the site between 124 and 125 AD.

The Romans expanded the ancient Greek theater of Epidaurus to an astonishing capacity of 13,000 to 14,000 seats.

Nowadays, the current capacity for modern audiences ranges from 10,000 to 12,000 seats.

The 1st century AD geographer Strabo noted the constant crowds of pilgrims to Epidaurus. Who sought miraculous cures amidst the soothing scenery.

Visiting in the 2nd century AD, the travel writer Pausanias marveled at the magnificent architecture against the majestic natural environment.

In the 5th century, the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II closed the Sanctuary of Asclepius site.

Ancient Epidaurus subsequently faded into obscurity, seemingly forgotten for over a thousand years.

Until that is, the late 19th century.

Epidaurus in Modern Times: A Triumphant Return

In 1881, Greek archaeologist Panagiotis Kavvadias and the Archaeological Society of Athens, also known as the Greek Archaeological Society, pioneered excavations at Epidaurus.

Finally, in the 20th century AD, the Sanctuary of Asclepius once again attained global recognition for its remarkable status.

In 1988, the United Nations registered Epidaurus as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Now in the 21st century AD, Epidaurus still welcomes constant crowds of pilgrims throughout the year.

For instance, individual travelers, tour groups, and cruise ship passengers. University professors, schoolteachers, and student groups. As well as audiences attending the annual Athens Epidaurus Festival, the ultimate Greek festival in the ultimate ancient theater.

Read on to learn more about the Athens Epidaurus Festival and its internationally celebrated cultural events.

Ancient Epidarus Archaeological Site

Ancient Epidaurus Theatre

Firstly, let’s start with the ultimate spectacle everyone wants to see: the fabled and famous Ancient Epidaurus Theatre (Αρχαίο Θέατρο Επιδαύρου).

From the entrance gate, a path leads you past the archaeological museum, through shady trees, and up to the awe-inspiring amphitheater.

Suddenly, a breathtaking sight appears before you in grandeur and glory:

Welcome to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus at the Sanctuary of Asclepius.

Verdant trees encompass the marble amphitheater, and rugged mountains pierce the sky.

Tiers upon tiers of marble seats ascend the hillside in sublime symmetry, curving around the performance space in an elegant arc.

As mentioned above, the artist and architect Polykleitos the Younger designed the amphitheater in the 4th century BC.

In later centuries, the Romans increased the seating to accommodate 13,000 to 14,000 spectators.

The perfect acoustics and impeccable clarity are as breathtaking as the beautiful architecture.

Step into center stage and speak in a quiet voice. The sound carries clearly all the way up to the highest seats. In hushed silence, you can literally hear a coin drop.

Finally, climb up to the topmost tier and let the sweeping panoramic views inspire you – and your camera, it’s a perfect instagrammable spot.

Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus

But wait, as the saying goes, there’s more! The vast complex offers significantly more to explore besides the amazing Epidarus ancient theater.

Pausanias describes the vital Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus (Ναός Ασκληπιού Επιδαύρου) in vivid detail.

He depicts the elaborate rituals, the eager supplicants, and the immense gold and ivory statue of Asclepius.

Restored columns and foundations convey the former majesty and beauty of the mighty Temple of Asclepius.

The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus displays some surviving remnants and inscriptions from the Asklepion.

Likewise, the National Archaeological Museum in Athens displays masterful sculptures that once adorned the temple pediments.

Tholos of Epidaurus

The same architect responsible for the spectacular theater also designed a singular temple here.

The circular Tholos of Epidauros (Θόλος Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρο or “dome” in Greek) is also called Tholos Polykleitou (“the Tholos of Polykleitos) and Thymele (Θυμέλη or “orchestra” in Greek).

Polykleitos the Younger defined the round Tholos of Epidaurus with 26 Doric columns on the exterior and 14 Corinthian columns on the interior.

Pausanias details the elegant dome and colorful embellishments of the Tholos of Epidaurus. Alas, neither he nor other ancient visitors mention the intentional reason for this Tholos at Epidaurus.

So the original purpose of Tholos Polykleitou remains a mystery. Some scholars opine its purpose may have been musically related. But it’s a matter of analysis and discussion until more evidence is unearthed.

At this time of publication, the Tholos of Epidaurus is undergoing restoration work. Scaffolding thus covers its symmetry, harmony, and beauty.

Stadium at Epidaurus

Similar to Ancient Olympia in Western Greece, home of the Ancient Olympic Games, Epidaurus hosted athletic competitions every four years.

The Stadium, Gymnasium, and other facilities here attest to the ancient connection between movement and medicine, health and healing, wellness and well-being.

The Stadium (Στάδιο Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου) still remains an active space. And yes, you can still run its length.

If you prefer to cheer instead, then take a seat either on the restored spectator benches or on the grassy green slopes.

Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus

Before you depart, make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus (Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου).

Your full ticket to the archaeological site also includes museum admission.

Opened in 1909, this is one of the oldest archaeological museums in Greece, built by the original archaeological team.

In 1881, eminent Greek archaeologist Panagiotis Kavvadias led the Archaeological Society of Athens, also known as the Greek Archaeological Society, to excavate Epidaurus.

Mr. Kavvadias dedicated his life to Epidaurus and to the Acropolis of Athens, landmarks now known and loved around the world.

Artifacts fill the rectangular interior space, the courtyard, and around the old building. The collection includes inscriptions, statuary, votives, columns, and architectural fragments.

It’s a diverse display gleaned from archaeological digs since the pioneering work of Mr. Kavvadias and his fellow archaeologists.

Athens to Epidaurus: Travel Tips

What to Bring to Epidaurus Archaeological Site

Whether you choose to take a guided tour or a road trip from Athens to Epidaurus, you’ll want to be prepared to explore the archaeological site properly.

The best things to bring are sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and water for wandering. In the summer months, the gift shop and cafe are open for purchasing water and snacks.

Additionally, make sure your camera battery is charged. You’ll surely want to capture the landmark theater, other monuments, and natural scenery in postcard-perfect shots.

Accessibility at Ancient Epidaurus Theater

Because the Ancient Epidaurus Theater is an active performance venue, accessibility both at the theater and across the Epidaurus archaeological site is consequently widespread.

Specific routes and ramps allow step-free and barrier-free passage throughout much of the site.

Still, it’s always a good idea to wear sturdy shoes – even for fleet-footed visitors. Especially for clambering up and down the ancient marble tiers and roaming beyond the theater.

Tickets Epidaurus Theatre and Archaeological Site

Tickets include admission to the Ancient Epidarurus Theatre, the Archaeological Museum, and the entire Epidaurus archaeological site.

As of April 1, 2024, admission to Epidaurus and other Greek archaeological sites, as well as major museums, are timed entry tickets.

Each timeframe allows a certain maximum number of entrants in order to reduce overcrowding and improve overall enjoyment.

Once you’ve entered, stay as long as you desire. Afterward, exit the site at your leisure.

If you’re booking a guided tour, then your timed entry ticket would be explicitly stated in the package inclusions.

If you’re choosing a road trip, then you have two options to get your entry ticket:

• Either walk up to the ticket window upon arrival; you may or may not have to wait for an open time.
• Or purchase your admission ticket online in advance.

We recommend the latter option, especially if you’re visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Centre in peak season due to many large bus groups.

Once you’ve entered the site, you may stay as long as you wish and exit at your leisure.

Check availability and get your advance admission ticket HERE.

Athens to Epidaurus: Guided Tours

Guided day tours from Athens to Epidaurus are a wonderful and wonderfully easy way to visit this monumental site in the Peloponnese.

The pre-arranged itinerary format and guaranteed admission tickets – not to mention the round-trip transportation between Athens and Epidaurus – puts all the travel planning and trip logistics in professional hands.

Additionally, the expert insight of a professional certified guide deepens your understanding and appreciation of the history, myths, and culture.

Lastly, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with children, a day trip provides the potential to meet and share the fun with a like-minded travel community.

There’s a range of tours from Athens to Epidaurus, such as tours from Athens both to Epidauros and Mycenae, the Bronze Age citadel.

Tours may also visit Nafplio, the lovely first capital of modern Greece in 1829.

Or the Corinth Canal, a modern wonder of the world when it opened in 1893.

Epidaurus and Mycenae, together with Nafplio and the Corinth Canal, certainly top the “greatest hits” travel bucket list in the Peloponnese region.

Athens to Epidaurus: Road Trips

Road trips from Athens to Epidaurus offer the most freedom and flexibility for an immersive epic travel experience.

Above all, road trips from Athens to Epidaurus allow the greatest freedom and flexibility to experience the ultimate ancient theater in an ideal way:

Either early in the morning when the gate first opens. Or later in the day before the site closes. With as few other visitors as possible. Or perhaps even none.

In essence, it can transform a sightseeing excursion into a moment that elevates the soul. A moment that echoes in memory.

Athens to Epidaurus: Transportation Options

Besides tour transportation, there are three main ways to get from Athens to Epidaurus:

• By car, whether personal vehicles or car rentals
• Private transfers via long-distance taxis
• Public transportation on the KTEL public bus network

Quite simply, rental cars are the most practical, easiest, and best way to take full advantage of the freedom and flexibility inherent in a road trip.

Athens International Airport “Eliftherios Venizelos” provides the greatest quantity of rental cars available in the Greek capital city.

Book your rental car on Booking or Expedia:

Athens to Epidaurus: How to Get Here

Let’s use Athens Airport (ATH) and the main parking lot at the Epidaurus archaeological site as standard points of reference.

Between these two locations, the driving distance is approximately 103 miles (166 km).

The driving route primarily follows Attiki Odos / E94, the Greek national superhighway.

The driving time takes approximately 2 hours, depending on prevailing traffic, tolls, and weather.

And also, the number of driving breaks. Because Attiki Odos offers well-planned rest stops throughout the route.

These rest stops offer full-service gas stations, generally clean modern restrooms, cafes with fresh food, and quite good specialty coffee.

Athens to Epidaurus: Where to Stay

Nafplio

The enchanting coastal town of Nafplio (Ναύπλιο), also spelled Nauplia and Nafplion, is a historic, cultural, and beautiful destination on its own.

As mentioned earlier, Nafplio became the first capital of newly independent Greece in 1829. King Otto later moved the capital to Athens.

With a magical Old Town and three medieval fortresses guarding the Argolic Gulf, Nafplio has always retained its enduring allure.

It’s a favorite weekend getaway for well-to-do Athenian families, as well as a romantic vacation for couples.

Given that, there’s no shortage of luxury hotels and upscale places to stay in Nafplio.

From Nafplio to Epidaurus archaeological site, the driving distance is roughly 17 miles (28 km) and takes approximately 30 minutes.

Palaia Epidavros, Archaia Epidavros

Palaia Epidavros (Παλαιά Επίδαυρος or “Old Epidauros” in Greek) is also known as Archaia Epidavros (Αρχαία Επίδαυρος or “Archaic Epidauros” in Greek), a more recent name.

Alternative spellings for Palaia Epidavros are Palaia Epidaurus, Palai Epidavros, and Palea Epidavros.

Palaia Epidavros and Archaia Epidavros are also called Ancient Epidavros.

In any case, it’s all one and the same place: The antique port of Epidaurus since prehistoric times. And a charming coastal village on the Saronic Gulf today.

Palaia Epidavros is the original location of the ancient city, located about 9 miles (15 km) away from the Epidaurus archaeological site.

In short, Palaia Epidavros is an authentic hidden gem off the beaten path. With its own unique treasures to uncover during your stay.

All things considered, we recommend staying in Palaia Epidavros when visiting the Epidaurus archaeological site.

B&B The Olive Tree, Palaia Epidavros: Our Honest Hotel Review

Opened in 2024, B&B The Olive Tree is a real-life dream come true.

It’s a dream come true not only for the owners, Margit and Peter, a Dutch couple. But also for savvy travelers like you who book the best place to stay in Ancient Epidavros.

Location

Located on the rural edge of Ancient Epidavros, The Olive Tree provides a peaceful and quiet environment in a pastoral setting.

Groves of orange, lemon, and olive trees surround the handsome stone building on a narrow lane. The owners’ residence rises above the vacation apartment below.

First Impressions

The first impression of The Olive Tree charms and delights: Birds chirping, bees buzzing, and flowers blooming.

Then the owner greets you and escorts you up to the garden patio and into the apartment. Where the second impression correspondingly charms and delights.

Accessibility

Like elsewhere in Greece, The Olive Tree building has multiple levels.

So there’s a flight of stairs from street level to the garden patio and another few steps to the apartment’s front door.

Once you’re inside the apartment, however, the open interior is barrier-free.

Guest Rooms

From the private garden patio set with tables and chairs, the olive-green door opens into the custom-built studio apartment.

The airy apartment is spacious at 377 square feet (31 m2). It’s simultaneously rustic in character and contemporary in design.

Floor plan and furniture layout denote different areas for different activities: A fully equipped kitchenette along one wall. A round dining table with chairs for four. A plush upholstered sofa and cute occasional tables.

Pretty wallpaper imparts the feeling of a bedroom. The queen-size bed is very comfortable. A built-in wardrobe offers ample closet and drawer space for unpacking your luggage.

The immaculate bathroom features a walk-in shower, good lighting over the vanity, and quality complimentary amenities.

Throughout the space, the fixtures, finishes, and details are thoughtfully considered and well crafted.

Air conditioning and heating controls make the apartment suitable throughout the seasons.

Dining

“B&B” stands for “bed and breakfast,” of course. And since the full formal name is “B&B The Olive Tree,” you can imagine that breakfast doesn’t disappoint.

At your designated timeframe, the owners deliver to your front door a sturdy wooden tray heaped with deliciousness.

Juices, breads and pastries, granola, yogurt, local specialties – the specific items differ daily. But the constant theme is fresh, tasty, and hearty.

For other meals, you have your kitchenette inside and the use of a barbecue outside. A supermarket is a few minutes’ drive away.

Cafes, tavernas, pizzerias, and patisseries abound just down the road in Archaia Epidavros. The owners, Margrit and Peter, happily share their favorite spots to eat in town.

WiFi and Work Space

The free WiFi is solid, with an Ookla speed rating of 26.4 Mbps.

Since we work while traveling, strong and steady WiFi is a necessity. For the same reason, we value abundant electrical outlets, ambient or task lighting, and sufficient space to stretch out.

The Olive Tree checked all the boxes. As an extra bonus, the free WiFi worked on the garden patio, too.

Address: B&B The Olive Tree | Minia | 21059 Archaia Epidavros Greece

Check the available dates and best prices, then book HERE.

Things to Do in Epidaurus, Greece

Athens Epidaurus Festival

Thousands of years after archaic construction and Roman expansion, the ancient Epidaurus theatre at the Sanctuary of Asclepius once again hosts annual live performances.

It’s part of the acclaimed Athens Epidaurus Festival, an annual summer celebration of music, theater, dance, and culture since 1955.

In 1957, opera star Maria Callas performed at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens. The ruined Roman landmark on the slopes of the Acropolis had been restored for her.

La Divina’s legendary performance of Norma by Bellini and Médée by Cherubini captivated audiences then. She also catapulted Athens Epidaurus Festival to international renown.

Global superstars and less famous yet equally important artists continue to captivate audiences now.

Today, Athens Epidaurus Festival venues presently comprise the Odeon in Athens, the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, and other venues – including the Little Theater of Ancient Epidauros described below.

Festival performances are a highlight of Athens’ cultural calendar every summer.

Attending a festival performance could be an unforgettable highlight of your cultural travel, too.

Little Theater of Ancient Epidauros

The Little Theater of Ancient Epidauros (Θέατρο Αρχαίας Πόλεως Επιδαύρου) may share a similar name to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus.

But it’s an emphatically different location and experience than its world-famous counterpart at the Sanctuary of Asclepius.

The Little Theater or Small Theater of Ancient Epidauros dates from the middle 4th century BC, with various modifications made during later Greek and Roman eras.

The intimate amphitheater seats perhaps 2,000 spectators. Following reconstruction and modernization, it’s one of the current venues for the Athens Epidarus Festival.

Whereas the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus hosts timeless works by ancient playwrights such as Aristophanes, Aeschylus, and Euripides, the Small Theater takes an innovative approach.

Theatrical programs at the Little Theater of Palaia Epidavros often blend ancient Greek comedy and drama with contemporary elements and dynamic flair.

Furthermore, the July and August schedule presents musical highlights of classical songs, traditional Greek folk music, and jazz concerts under the stars.

If your travel plans don’t coincide with the show agenda, you can still take a peek at the site. Even if the gate is locked – indeed, it’s frequently closed – the theater is visible from the street.

The Little Theatre of Palaia Epidavros has minimal parking due to its location on a narrow side street in a residential neighborhood.

Address: Little Theatre at the Ancient City of Epidaurus | Arxaiou Theatrou | 21059 Archaia Epidavros Greece

Epidauros Beaches

With white-washed houses, blue waters, bright bougainvillea, and boats at anchor, Archaia Epidavros evokes the relaxed ambiance of the Greek Islands.

Yet the village is on the Peloponnese peninsula of mainland Greece – no ferries or airplanes required!

Epidaurus beaches offer sheltered stone beaches on the scenic Saronic Gulf, known for its clear indigo waters.

Vagionia Beach (Παραλία Βαγιωνία) is a sheltered pebble beach near the Ancient Epidavros harbor. It’s a wild beach, not an organized beach. So the mood is tranquil.

Yialasi Beach (Παραλία Γιαλάσι) is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike “to see and be seen” by the sea. So the vibe is lively.

Also spelled Gialasi, Yialasi Beach is organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach bar.

Additionally, it’s home to the beachfront Yialasi Hotel, a top-rated hotel with stylish rooms, a swimming pool, and sea views.

Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus

What if the legendary Lost City of Atlantis was more than a myth by Plato or a movie by Disney?

What if the mythical Sunken City of Atlantis was a real place?

Well, some consider real-life inspirations for metaphorical underwater cities here in Greece:

The Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus is also known as the Sunken City in Palaia Epidavros.

The “Lost City of Argolida” lies off the beach shore near Palaia Epidavros – Archaia Epidavros in the crystalline Saronic Gulf.

A kayak tour, snorkeling adventure, or dive boat brings you from the beach to the ancient sunken city.

Please be aware that the pebble beach leads to a rocky seabed – an irresistible invitation to sea urchins.

So, in addition to the kayak equipment or snorkel gear that your outfitter provides, please wear water shoes to protect your feet.

The site begins approximately 147 feet (45 m) offshore, less than 10 feet (3 m) underwater.

In warm, sunny weather and calm, clear water, you can easily see the submerged ruins, including walls and terracotta tiles.

The focal point of marine archaeology is a large Roman Villa of the Dolia, named for the 20 large pots (dolia) still in place.

The Greek Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities and Italian counterparts oversee the identification, excavation, and conservation management of the Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus, a fascinating underwater archaeological site.

Address: Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus | Kalymnios Beach | 21059 Ancient Epidavros Greece

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Athens to Epidaurus Map

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Athens to Epidaurus: Sources and Recommendations

Michelin, Streetwise Athens and the Greek Islands Map: Laminated City Center Street Map of Athens, Greece. Michelin Streetwise Maps, 2023.

Pausanias, Guide to Greece Volume 1: Central Greece. Translated by Peter Levi, Penguin Classics, Penguin Publishing Group, 1984.

Pausanias, Guide to Greece Volume 2: Southern Greece. Translated by Peter Levi, Penguin Classics, Penguin Publishing Group, 1984.

Petriaggi, Barbara Davidde et al. “The Submerged “Villa of the Dolia” Near Ancient Epidaurus: The Preliminary Results of the First Excavation and Conservation Campaign.” Annuario della Scuola Archeologica di Atene e delle Missioni Italiane in Oriente, Volume 97, 2019.

Plato, Timaeus and Critias. Translated by Desmond Lee, Penguin Classics, Penguin Publishing Group, 2008.

Rosetta Stone, Greek Language Instruction Software: Learn Unlimited Languages with Lifetime Access. Rosetta Stone, 2019.

Schulz, Peter, and Bronwen Wickkiser, The Thymele at Epidauros: Healing, Space, and Musical Performance in Late Classical Greece. Theran Press, 2017.

Strabo, Strabo’s Geography: A Translation for the Modern World. Translated by Sarah Pothecary, Princeton University Press, 2024.

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