Epidaurus
Epidaurus is a small ancient Greek sanctuary on the Argolid Peninsula. It is famous worldwide for its spectacular ancient theatre (currently still in use).
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
Designed by the architect Polykleitos the Younger during the fourth century BC, the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is one of the best-kept amphitheaters in Greece. Nowadays, the ancient theatre is beautifully conserved and offers great acoustics. It's still used during the Athens Summer Festival.
The Theatre of Epidaurus has a 20-meter wide circular orchestra, 55 rows, and a seating capacity of up to 14,000 people. The first 34 rows are original and were excavated at the end of the nineteenth century.
To get a sense of just how big the monument is, we suggest you climb to the top of the theatre, without looking behind you, and stare down at the stage. It's also amusing to test the auditorium’s acoustics by talking from the orchestra.
Other landmarks in Epidaurus
The following sights are located in the archaeological site, near the ancient theatre:
- Temple of Asclepius: Founded in honor of Asclepius, son of Apollo and god of health, the Temple of Asclepius was one of the most important sanctuaries in Greece. Presently, only a few columns are still standing.
- Tholos: A circular building made of white marble with columns surrounding it. It's believed to have been a temple, but it hasn’t been confirmed.
- Stadium: The remains of a fifth-century stadium are still visible. The stadium once housed sporting events.
- Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus: This small museum houses various statues and relics found in the archaeological site of Epidaurus.
Getting to Epidaurus
Epidaurus is not as well connected to Athens as other nearby towns. You can book a tour online, or if you wish to visit Epidaurus, we recommend booking a guided tour or renting a car.
Booking Day Trips
You can book a day trip, which is the most comfortable way to explore the best of Epidaurus. We have day tours as well as various circuits which visit other cities.
By car
If you like to drive and prefer to visit the sanctuary at your own pace, you can hire a car and explore various parts of the peninsula. Check and compare rental car prices here.
The journey to Epidaurus from Athens is quite simple. Take the motorway to Corinth and once you cross the canal, take the exit to Epidaurus. Once you get off the highway, drive along the coastal road for approximately one hour and follow the signs “Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus”.
By coach
No line connects Athens and Epidaurus, but you can get to the ancient site by following these directions:
- Take a coach to the village of Epidaurus and from there take another bus to the archaeological site. The coach departs from Terminal A in Athens and runs every Friday and Sunday.
- Take a coach or train to Nafplio and from there take a bus to the archaeological site. The bus connects Naflio with the remains every day of the week and runs several times a day.
All the coaches depart from Terminal A in Athens (100 Kifissou street).
