Epidaurus
Step back in time at Epidaurus, home to a breathtaking ancient theatre renowned for its perfect acoustics and a sanctuary dedicated to healing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Epidaurus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Epidaurus, home to a breathtaking ancient theatre renowned for its perfect acoustics and a sanctuary dedicated to healing.
"Hard to believe ancient Greeks built such a theatre with this view and acoustic quality."
🗣️ Test the Acoustics
Stand in the center of the theatre and speak; your voice will carry to the top rows! It's truly magical. :sparkles:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast site. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
Main archaeological site
A 4th-century BC masterpiece with acoustics that still amaze today. Experience its perfect symmetry and grandeur.
Sanctuary of Asclepius
Main archaeological site
Explore the ruins of this ancient healing center, once a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the god of medicine.
The Tholos
Main archaeological site
A circular temple, once a significant part of the sanctuary, now undergoing restoration. Its unique design is fascinating.
Sunken City of Ancient Epidaurus
Archaia Epidauros (port town)
Discover remnants of an ancient port city, visible from the water, offering a glimpse into maritime life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Acoustics
This marvel of ancient engineering is a must-experience.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗣️ Test the Acoustics
Stand in the center of the theatre and speak; your voice will carry to the top rows!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast site. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
The Greek sun can be intense. Stay hydrated and protected, especially during midday visits. :droplet: :sunwithface:
💰 Free Entry for EU Under 25s
Citizens of the EU under 25 can visit major archaeological sites for free with ID. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗣️ Test the Acoustics
Stand in the center of the theatre and speak; your voice will carry to the top rows!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast site. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
The Greek sun can be intense. Stay hydrated and protected, especially during midday visits. :droplet: :sunwithface:
💰 Free Entry for EU Under 25s
Citizens of the EU under 25 can visit major archaeological sites for free with ID. :moneywithwings:
🏛️ Explore Beyond the Theatre
Don't miss the Sanctuary of Asclepius and the Tholos. The museum is modest, but the ruins offer a palpable sense of scale. :ancient_ruins:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Epidaurus for its remarkably preserved Ancient Theatre and its astonishing acoustics, calling it a marvel of ancient engineering. The scale of the site and the historical significance of the Sanctuary of Asclepius are also highly appreciated. Some reviewers note that the on-site museum is modest and suggest exploring the less-defined paths for a more secluded experience.
"Amazing place. This is incredible, hard to believe that ancient Greeks built such a big theatre for probably 14000 people, with this view, acoustic, quality. They performed with no technology and thousands of people were arriving thousands of kilometres without cars, planes, only boats and carriages, to see the art of the theatre, not to watch killing people and animals.
It was even more advanced culture than we think usually."
Artur Kasprzyk
"This is closed but you can see almost everything from outside. It is very very close to the harbor through a walkway for bicycles and pedestrians only. There are two sites separated by an uphill dirt road. At the site next to the theater you can see clearly the roman walls on top of the ancient greek stone walls. The theater is a little marvel to see during the sunset. If you want to see more, go up the dirt road and turn right towards the church. After passing the church on top of the hill there is a less defined path which leads you to the ancient walls. Enjoy!"
Nick “Nikos” Papastamatiou
"Beautiful ancient town with amazing architecture. Entrance fee very reasonable as for such a nice place - 20 euros."
Piotr Golebiowski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Epidaurus from Athens is by car, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You can also take a bus from Athens' Kifissos bus station to Nafplio, and then a local bus or taxi to Epidaurus. Some visitors combine it with a day trip from Athens.
Yes, you can take a KTEL bus from Athens to Nafplio, and then a local bus or taxi to Epidaurus. The journey can take longer than driving.
Absolutely! Epidaurus is a popular day trip destination from Athens, often combined with other nearby sites like Mycenae and Nafplio.
The site is quite spread out. Consider wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water. You can explore the theatre, Sanctuary of Asclepius, and the Tholos.
Yes, there is usually ample parking available at the main archaeological site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the main archaeological site of Epidaurus is typically around 20 euros. However, EU citizens under 25 can often enter for free with valid ID.
Yes, EU citizens under 25 years old can visit for free with their ID.
Opening hours vary seasonally, but generally, the site is open from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
While some parts might be visible from outside, to fully explore the theatre, Sanctuary of Asclepius, and Tholos, a ticket is required.
For general visits, booking in advance is usually not necessary, especially outside of peak festival times. However, for special events or performances, booking ahead is highly recommended.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The theatre is famous for its exceptional acoustics, allowing a whisper from the stage to be heard in the highest seats.
Beyond the theatre, explore the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the ancient healing center, and the Tholos, a circular temple.
The site's museum is described as modest. While it offers some insights, the main draw is the archaeological site itself.
Yes, during the summer months, the Epidaurus Festival hosts performances, including ancient Greek tragedies, in the ancient theatre.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the main archaeological site thoroughly. If you're combining it with other nearby attractions, plan for a full day.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ancient Theatre offers stunning perspectives from various angles, especially during sunrise or sunset. Drone shots of the theatre and the surrounding landscape are also popular.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for the theatre and ruins. Early mornings also offer fewer crowds and softer light.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the theatre and throughout the archaeological site for personal use.
While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or the use of tripods might require special permission. Always respect signage and staff instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The vastness of the site and the stories of ancient healing at the Sanctuary of Asclepius can spark their imagination. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as there's limited shade. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. The nearby town of Archaia Epidauros offers a more relaxed atmosphere with opportunities for swimming and enjoying local food, making it a good complement to the historical exploration.
The free entry for EU citizens under 25 is also a great perk for families. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own water and snacks can also help keep costs down. Many visitors find that exploring the site thoroughly provides a rich experience without needing additional paid activities.
For accommodation, look for guesthouses or apartments in Nafplio or smaller villages nearby, which are often more budget-friendly than staying directly in tourist centers.🏛️ History Enthusiasts
The Ancient Theatre's acoustic perfection is a testament to ancient engineering, while the Sanctuary of Asclepius reveals the advanced medical practices and beliefs of the time. +1 The Tholos adds another layer of architectural mystery to explore. Combine your visit with nearby historical gems like Mycenae and Nafplio for a comprehensive understanding of the Argolis region's rich past.
Consider attending a performance at the theatre during the summer festival for an unparalleled immersive historical experience. Reading up on the history of Asclepius and ancient Greek theatre beforehand will greatly enhance your appreciation of the site. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of Epidaurus Acoustics
This remarkable feat of ancient engineering means that even a soft whisper or the rustle of a leaf can be heard by thousands of spectators. Visitors are often astounded when they stand at the center of the orchestra and test its capabilities, experiencing firsthand how voices carry without amplification. +1This acoustic brilliance was not accidental; it was a deliberate design choice by the architect Polykleitos the Younger. The precise curvature of the seating tiers and the materials used contribute to the sound's clarity and projection.
The theatre's ability to amplify sound was crucial for ancient performances, ensuring that every word of dialogue and every note of music reached the entire audience. It's a testament to the advanced understanding of physics and architecture possessed by the ancient Greeks, making it a truly unique and unforgettable experience for any visitor. Beyond its acoustic properties, the theatre is also celebrated for its aesthetic beauty and symmetry.
It's considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient theatres in Greece, seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Experiencing a performance here, especially during the summer festival, offers a profound connection to history and art. +1The Sanctuary of Asclepius: A Healing Haven
Visitors would often sleep in the Abaton (or Enkoimeterion), a dormitory where they hoped to be visited by the god in their dreams, receiving diagnoses and treatments. The archaeological site reveals the remnants of this once-thriving center, including the Asclepieion itself, dormitories, baths, and a stadium.
The Tholos, a magnificent circular building, was a central part of the sanctuary, though its exact purpose remains a subject of scholarly debate, possibly serving as a temple or a place for healing rituals. The scale of the ruins gives a palpable sense of the importance and grandeur of this ancient healing complex. While the museum on-site is described as modest, the ruins themselves offer a powerful glimpse into ancient Greek beliefs about health, medicine, and divine intervention.
Exploring Archaia Epidauros and its Surroundings
This charming coastal village provides a different perspective on the region, with its tranquil harbor and seaside tavernas. It's a great place to unwind after exploring the ancient ruins, offering beautiful views of the Argolic Gulf. For those interested in a more active exploration, the Peloponnese region surrounding Epidaurus is ideal for biking tours.
These tours often include visits to other significant historical sites like Mycenae and Nafplio, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the rich history and stunning landscapes of the area. The 'Sunken City' of Ancient Epidaurus, visible from the water near the port, adds another layer of historical intrigue, hinting at submerged structures from antiquity. Archaia Epidauros also boasts its own historical significance, with ancient fortifications and a castle dating back to the Byzantine and Venetian periods.
This offers a chance to explore medieval history alongside the ancient wonders, making the broader Epidaurus region a multifaceted destination for history buffs and leisure travelers alike. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit