The charming town of Gythio constitutes the largest settlement in Mani. It bears an island "color" and is surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings, amphitheatrically perched on the hillside of the green hill Akoumaros or Koumaros (Strawberry Tree). Neoclassical mansions in pastel shades, red tile roofs, small balconies and a picturesque harbor compose the scenery of this romantic sea-town. It is worth "losing yourself" in the narrow, picturesque alleys, that climb up the hill and reveal the beautiful "spots" of the town.

The busiest part of Gythio is its harbor along with the coastal road. Here, you will find taverns, restaurants, café/bars serving ouzo. There, you can also enjoy your meal, while watching the fishing boats and the fishermen patiently preparing their nets. Look for the impressive building of the City Hall, as well as the building of the Old Girls School. Those of you who love walking can visit Agii Pandes (All Saints) Church which dominates the hilltop of Koumaros hill and enjoy the magnificent view of Gythio and the Laconic Gulf! Gythio’s hallmark is the verdant islet of Kranai or Marathonisi, artificially connected to the opposite shore. Here, according to mythology, Paris and Helen found refuge! From the islet, the view of the colored city of Gythio, “mirrored” in the Laconic Gulf’s waters, resembles a painting! At one end of Kranai, covered with tiles, stands the whitewashed church of St. Peter. At the other end an impressive, octagonal, marble lighthouse predominates. Kranai benchmark is the impressive Tzannetaki stone Tower, which nowadays houses the Historical Ethnological Museum of Mani. Just north of the current town of Githio (location Palaiopoli), up on the hill, where the ancient city was formerly situated, the ruins of the ancient citadel are clearly discernible. At the foot of the hill, the well-preserved ancient theater, where several plays during the summer months are hosted, is situated.

Gythio, this romantic and tranquil "Earth of the Gods", makes a great destination for holidays all year round, as well as an ideal base for exploring the beautiful “corner”' of the wider Laconic Mani!