Arcadia Greece: Villages, Attractions & Where to Stay

The perfect autumn destination for 3–4 days in the heart of the Peloponnese!

Arcadia Greece is one of those destinations that stays with you. Not because it has one “spectacular” landmark, but because it offers what’s missing from everyday life: peace, clean air, nature, good food, and villages that feel like they’re from a time when everything was a little simpler.

I went to Arcadia Greece for a 4-day autumn break from Athens, and I can honestly say I didn’t regret it. It’s an ideal autumn destination that you can reach easily from Athens and it has everything: friendly people, fresh air, picturesque villages, great food and beautiful nature. If you’re looking for nightlife, this is not your destination. If you’re looking to truly relax, you’re in the right place.

Follow me through this article and I’ll show you what’s worth seeing, which villages to visit, the best things to do in Arcadia Greece, where to stay and how to plan a short trip!

Arcadia, Greece at a glance

Before you start your trip, as always on the My Pretty Travels blog, we first see what a destination has to offer so you can decide if it’s for you or not. Arcadia Greece is famous because:

• • It’s a short distance from Athens: about 2.5 hours by car to reach the villages
• It’s ideal for autumn and winter
• It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends and nature lovers
• The food is amazing: meat dishes, wines, honey and spoon sweets
• You’ll see doll-like villages that feel like another era
• You’ll enjoy clean air, quiet drives, many trails and mountains
• The villages themselves are sights: Dimitsana, Vytina, Stemnitsa, Karytaina, plus the Lousios area

The most beautiful villages of Arcadia, Greece

1. Dimitsana , the most cute village of Arcadia

If I had to choose just one village, it would be Dimitsana. Stone-built, clean, with incredible views and a kind of energy that’s hard to describe. It’s worth getting lost in Dimitsana’s narrow streets, sitting for a coffee, buying a small souvenir or at least some local honey, and just relaxing.

It has lovely cafes with mountain views and is a perfect base for nearby day trips.
Here you’ll also find the House of Palaion Patron Germanos, a historic site that deserves a stop.

This house is one of the most important historical points not only in Arcadia, but in all of Greece. You can learn more this hero here. His family settled here around 1720 and, according to historical sources, stayed in the house until 1897. Today the building has been renovated and operates as a small museum, open to the public.

My Pretty Travels personal experience:
When I visited, the house was closed. Honestly, I can’t understand why historical sights of such importance are not open on weekends, which is exactly when most people visit on short trips. It’s a real shame, because it’s a place of deep historical value that deserves to be seen up close.

My Pretty Travels TIP:
If you go on a weekend, park a bit outside the center of Dimitsana and walk in.

2. Stemnitsa, Nobility and calmness

In Stemnitsa, the atmosphere changes. It’s a less famous village in Arcadia, which means fewer people – and therefore more peace and quiet.

What will you find in Stemnitsa?

• • Stone mansions
• Small shops & handmade jewelry – the village is famous for its silversmithing and goldsmithing workshops
• Cute narrow streets perfect for photos
• A pretty main square with small cafes and tavernas

3. Karytaina: castles, tower and medieval landscapes

Karytaina is a very special village in Arcadia Greece, with a strong medieval character. I think it doesn’t get the attention it deserves, because for me, together with Dimitsana, it was one of the most beautiful places I saw in the area.

Karytaina is also called the “Toledo of Greece”. It’s perfect for a stroll and has more sights than you might think.

Unfortunately, when I went the castle was closed, which really disappointed me because it’s one of the landmark spots of the region. Still, even closed, its volume on top of the hill, overlooking the whole valley, is impressive.

And again, the same question: why are so many monuments not open on weekends, when most people visit? Even so, the walk up to the castle offers wonderful views of the area, so it’s definitely worth the short climb.

If you can’t enter the castle, the Tower of Levantaina is the perfect way to “feel” Karytaina’s history from the inside. Entrance is free.

Here we had the nicest surprise: the guard happily answered all our questions and made the whole experience even better. The space is well-maintained, with clear historical information for visitors. Definitely a must-see in the village.

Just before you enter the village you’ll find the famous stone bridge of Karytaina. It’s one of those spots where you want to stop for no particular reason, just to gaze at it. We also had lunch in the village and it was honestly one of the best meals of the trip. The options in the area have a common denominator: local products, generous portions and flavors that scream “Greek winter”. Make sure you try:

• Pork with leeks
• Traditional pies
• Local red wine
• Spoon sweets or anything with walnuts

4. Elati , for nature activities

Elati is another part of Arcadia Greece, ideal if you want more than just strolling around.
You can go horse riding in the forest (even if you’ve never done it before!). It’s such a beautiful experience: fresh air, connection with horses and nature – something that’s not easy to find in everyday life. And of course, it’s suitable for all ages. Just remember to book in advance!

5. Magouliana, The highest village in the Peloponnese

Magouliana is a small village that few visit, but it’s special. Why?

Because Magouliana is the highest inhabited settlement in the Peloponnese. The village is at 1,365 meters altitude and very close to Mount Mainalon.

But that’s not the only reason it stands out. We went to Magouliana for the famous “Taverna Iosif”! It was recommended to us as a hidden gem, and I highly recommend it too.

You absolutely need a reservation: even though it’s up on the mountain “in the middle of nowhere”, it gets packed, especially on holidays and long weekends. If you go, order the wild boar burgers, they’re exceptional!

6. Vytina: The most famous village of Arcadia Greece

Even though I didn’t manage to visit Vytina, you should know it’s one of the best-known villages in Arcadia Greece. It’s famous for its beauty, but since I went over the 28th of October long weekend when everything was crowded, I decided to leave Vytina for another trip and give more time to the lesser-known villages. And I didn’t regret it!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN ARCADIA, GREECE

1. Rafting or walking along the Lousios River

The Lousios River alone is a reason to visit. In Greek mythology, this is where the Nymphs are said to have bathed the newborn Zeus, and there really is something otherworldly about the silence and energy of the area.

The name “Lousios” (from the Greek verb “louzo” – to bathe) is no accident; the Arcadian nymphs “bathed” him with their waters.

If you love nature, you can go rafting. But even if you’re not very active, Lousios is a must-see stop. The route through nature is wonderful – a small paradise far from Athens’ chaos and one of the best things to do in Arcadia Greece.

2. Enjoy good, quality greek food

If you love good food, Arcadia Greece is a true gastronomic paradise.

You won’t find “touristy” food here. It’s homemade, authentic, cooked with love and with ingredients coming straight from the local villages.

What really impressed me is that wherever we ate, everything was high-quality – as if you’re eating at the houses of people who truly understand hospitality.

The food was eaten before I could even photograph it, so I don’t have much visual material. IT WAS THAT GOOD!

What to try:

• Slow-cooked veal in red sauce with hilopites (traditional pasta)
• Wild boar
• Pork with leeks
• Rooster in red sauce with pasta
• Pies (cheese pies, green pies, pumpkin pies)
• Local wine
• Spoon sweets

3. Visit the Open-Air Water Power Museum in Dimitsana

It’s small but very interesting, especially if you like local history and learning how old water mills and gunpowder mills used to work.

Combine it with a stroll in Dimitsana village!

4. Go horse riding

For me, horse riding was one of the best experiences of the whole trip. I went horse riding in Elati as I mentioned above, and it was my favorite nature activity.

You can book in other places too, but book a few days in advance, not last minute.

5. Visit the “Papakia” farm

The Papakia farm is for both kids and adults.

If you’re visiting Arcadia Greece with children, it’s definitely one of the best attractions, but even without kids it’s worth a stop.

Entrance is free. You can see donkeys, deer, many birds, and then sit for coffee or food at the farm’s taverna in Papakia.

WHERE TO STAY IN ARCADIA, GREECE

My choice: Archontiko Leontari

Leontari is not the most touristic village – and that’s its advantage. You get peace, calm and real rest.

At “Archontiko Leontari” we felt like we were staying in a real mansion where we were being hosted. The hoteliers were wonderful, the hospitality warm, the room beautiful and the location perfect for exploring nearby areas.

Ideal for anyone who truly wants to switch off.

You can check prices and availability here.

Recommended stays by village

Arcadia Greece has plenty of accommodation options, but not all are equally good. Below you’ll find the best places to stay per village, chosen because:

• They have very high ratings on Booking.com
• They offer good value for money
• They’re in great locations
• They have beautiful rooms and good breakfast
• And of course… they’re perfect for a winter or autumn escape

And most importantly: most of these options offer free cancellation..

Stay in Dimitsana

1. Baroutomilos Hotel

If you want to stay in Dimitsana without blowing your budget, Baroutomilos Hotel is one of the best balanced choices.

The hotel has traditional architecture, beautifully renovated rooms and that old-Dimitsana feel that makes it special. Rooms are comfortable, clean and warm, with stone details and wooden decor that give you the cozy atmosphere you want for a winter getaway.

Breakfast includes local products, pies, fresh bread and excellent coffee – the ideal start before your walks by the Lousios River.

Ideal for:
✓ Couples who want a romantic but affordable stay
✓ Friends & solo travelers
✓ Anyone who wants a central base in Dimitsana without noise

Highlight: The location! Just 2 minutes from the cafes, tavernas and main spots in Dimitsana, but quiet enough to actually sleep well.

➡️ Check prices and availability here.

2. Proselinos, Romantic boutique hotel with a view

If you want stone-built rooms, beautiful decor and panoramic views over Dimitsana, Proselinos is a great choice.

Ideal for:
✓ Couples
✓ Anniversaries, birthdays, special getaways
✓ Anyone who wants warm, premium accommodation

➡️ Check prices and availability here.

Stay in Stemnitsa

3. Trikolonion Country Arkadia

One of the most beautiful hotels in the area. Stone rooms, traditional aesthetics, spacious interiors and unique views of the slopes of Mainalon.

Ideal for:
✓ Couples
✓ Families
✓ Anyone who wants a “traditional” experience

Highlight: The large suites and the fireplace in some rooms.

➡️ Check prices and availability here.

Stay in Vytina

4. Art Mainalon Hotel — The top design hotel of the area

If you want something modern, stylish and special, Art Mainalon is an excellent choice. Minimal design, large rooms, cleanliness and very good breakfast.

Ιdeal for:
✓ Couples
✓ People who love taking photos
✓ Fans of modern architecture

Highlight: The view from the big windows.

➡️ Check prices and availability here.

5. Vytina Mountain View — Value for money with amazing views

One of the best value-for-money stays in Vytina. Clean rooms, good prices and truly stunning mountain views.

Ideal for:
✓ Budget travelers
✓ Groups of friends
✓ Short weekend trips

Highlight: The price–quality ratio is one of the best in Vytina.

➡️ Check prices and availability here.

So…what should I choose?
• Want something romantic? → Proselinos ή Art Mainalon
• Want a quite base? → Archontico Leontari
• Want something more budget friendly? → Baroutomilos
• First time in the area and wan to be central?→ Dimitsana or Vytina
• You love nature and nature trails? → Dimitsana as your base

3–4 Day Itinerary for Arcadia Greece

Here’s an example itinerary if you’re thinking of a short break in Arcadia Greece. This is my own itinerary, what I followed myself. I don’t suggest you copy–paste it exactly, but use it as a guide to build your own.

Day 1 — Athens → Tripoli → Check-in

I started from Athens and made a quick stop in Tripoli before reaching Arcadia.

I ate at the taverna “Klimataria” – the food was authentic, cheap and very good! I highly recommend it, especially if (like me) you haven’t had the chance to see Tripoli before.

Day 2 – Stemnitsa, Dimitsana & Lousios

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then head to Stemnitsa for a morning coffee – or, if you’re traveling with kids, to Papakia farm.

From there, for lunch you can drive to Dimitsana, and after your meal visit either the House of Germanos of Old Patras or the Open-Air Water Power Museum of Dimitsana.

Day 3 – Karytaina & Magouliana

The next day you can explore Karytaina, see the castle and the bridge, and then continue to a smaller village like Magouliana and eat… until you burst.

A walk in nature afterwards is absolutely necessary for digestion!

Day 4 – Elati – Horse Riding – Return

After you check out, why not make the most of your last day?

On your way back, you can pass through Elati, go horse riding for an hour and enjoy a relaxed coffee in the pretty village before returning to Athens.

FAQ about Arcadia Greece

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