6-day self-guided motorcycle tour of the Peloponnese, Greece. 1,275 km covering UNESCO sites and mountain passes (Taygetos, Parnonas). Includes 5 nights accommodation, motorcycle rental with luggage equipment, GPS navigation with pre-loaded routes, and insurance with excess. No rest day. Flexible departure dates. Moderate to advanced difficulty. Prices from €1200 per person.
This page presents the tour broken down in the following sections:
This Tour at a Glance:
Start / Finish
Athens, Greece
Duration
6 riding days with options.
Riding hours
Daily average: 4-5 hours on the saddle.
Distance
1275 kilometers / 795 miles
Accommodation
Mostly 4 star, elegant boutique hotels. All of them are among the best options available for each given destination, top rated and personally selected by us.
Difficulty
Most sections : “Moderate” level for most riders. Very few sections are “Advanced” because of the presence of tight and steep hairpins on small narrow (single lane) roads. Please read here about how our tours are graded!
Roads
100% paved. A large amount of this tour runs on narrow, single lane, secondary mountain routes. See below :
TYPE OF RIDING
This route uses the same roads as the 8-day tour for Days 1-3, then diverges by cutting the western coastal section. You’ll still ride the Taygetos Pass, Mount Parnonas, and the northern Arcadian mountains — the core technical sections remain intact.
Expect:
- Secondary and tertiary roads with minimal traffic outside town approaches
- Mountain sections that average 50-80 km of continuous curves (Taygetos, Parnonas, northern loop)
- Surface quality that’s generally excellent on main mountain routes, with occasional rough patches in villages and remote areas
- No rest day, so six consecutive riding days ranging from 185-245 km each
- The longest day (Dimitsana to Athens, 245 km) is also your final day, so plan energy accordingly. Most other days average 4-5 hours of actual riding.
This version has no built-in flexibility — if you need lighter days, consider the 8-day tour instead.
The following pictures taken on routes of this tour illustrate the types of roads that you will ride on:
HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR
This tour includes four UNESCO World Heritage Sites — skipping only the Temple of Apollo at Bassae, which requires the southwestern routing we’ve removed:
UNESCO Sites included:
- Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Mystras
Core locations (shared with 8-day):
- Nafplion, Monemvasia, Mani Peninsula, Diros Caves, Taygetos crossing, Arcadian villages
Not included:
- Temple of Apollo at Bassae
- Pylos and western Messinia region
The 6-day version prioritizes the eastern and central Peloponnese, where the most technically engaging roads are concentrated.
Itinerary
Day 1: Athens – Nafplion (185 kilometers / 115 miles)
Your first day follows the same route as our longer tours — a deliberate choice, as this section introduces Greek riding without demanding immediate adaptation. You’ll ride secondary coastal roads to bypass Athens, cross the Corinth Canal, then continue to Epidaurus on one of Greece’s most popular motorcycle routes.
The Corinth-to-Epidaurus section features moderate curves and good pavement — technical enough to feel engaging, but not challenging. The road climbs gradually through pine-forested hills with consistent surface quality and good sightlines. If you stop at both the Corinth Canal (5-10 minutes) and the ancient theater at Epidaurus (30-45 minutes including the acoustics demonstration), expect 4-5 hours total for the day.
The final leg to Nafplion runs flat, bringing you to your first overnight by late afternoon. Nafplion’s historic center is car-free, so you’ll explore on foot — accommodation, restaurants, and the Palamidi fortress are all within walking distance.
Note for 6-day riders: Unlike the 8-day version, you have no built-in rest day. Use this first evening to assess your energy level and riding rhythm — tomorrow introduces mountain terrain, and Day 4 is significantly longer than anything you’ll ride today.
Day 2: Nafplion – Monemvasia (200 kilometers / 125 miles)
Today you’ll cross Mount Parnonas — a long, forested mountain range that defines the character of Greek mountain riding. The route starts coastal heading south, then turns inland for an 80 km climb through dense pine forest.
Once you’re above the treeline, expect continuous curves with minimal straight sections, constant elevation changes, many switchbacks and road width that narrows to single-lane in places with passing zones. The pavement quality is good, but the isolation is real — you may ride 2-3 hours without seeing another vehicle. This is normal for Greek mountain roads outside tourist season, but it means self-sufficiency matters. Check your fuel before the climb; the next reliable station is after you’ve crossed the range.
You’ll climb to approximately 1,400 meters before descending toward the eastern coast. The descent is equally technical — tight curves with steep grades in sections. Take your time; there’s no schedule to maintain.
You’ll emerge on the eastern coast and follow it south to Monemvasia, a fortified medieval town built on a rock island connected by causeway. Your accommodation is either in the modern village (Gefyra) or inside the old town walls, depending on availability. If you’re staying inside, you’ll park outside and walk in — no vehicles are permitted in the medieval section.
Pacing note: This is a significant day by terrain, not just distance. The 6-day version doesn’t ease you in gradually — Day 2 brings you directly into technical mountain riding. If you’re feeling the demand, remember there’s no rest day coming — tomorrow continues the pace.
Day 3: Monemvasia – Mani (170 kilometers / 106 miles)
This is your shortest day by distance, and it’s deliberately placed here because of what’s coming on Day 4. The route takes you through the Mani Peninsula — an arid, geographically distinct region with stone-built tower houses, rugged coastline, and narrower roads than you’ve ridden so far.
You’ll ride south along the eastern coast, then loop around Cape Tainaron (Cape Matapan) — the southernmost point of mainland Greece. The roads through Mani are narrow. Expect village passages with tight corners, occasional livestock, and surface quality that varies from good asphalt to patched sections. Speeds stay low through villages (20-30 km/h), then open up on coastal stretches.
Before reaching Limeni, consider stopping at Diros Caves for the underground boat tour (approximately 20-30 minutes, though waiting time of about 20-30 minutes is often during summer). If you skip it today, you won’t have another opportunity — tomorrow you leave Mani and head north.
Your accommodation is in Limeni, a small bay settlement with swimming access. This is your last coastal stop before moving into the mountains for the remainder of the tour.
Critical timing note: Enjoy this evening. Tomorrow is 235 km through the Taygetos mountains and into Arcadia — your longest and most demanding day. Most riders use tonight to prepare mentally and physically for Day 4.
Day 4: Limeni – Dimitsana, 2 nights in Dimitsana (235 kilometers / 146 miles)
This is your longest and most technically varied day, combining coastal departure, a major mountain crossing, and arrival in a mountain village. It replaces two days from the 8-day version (the rest day and the Mani-to-Pylos routing) and includes the Taygetos Pass — one of Greece’s most technically engaging mountain roads.
You’ll start from sea level riding north along the coast of Mani, then climb into the Taygetos range. Expect 30 km of continuous climbing with tight hairpins, steep grades (8-12% in sections), and road width that narrows to a single lane in places. You’ll reach approximately 1,200 meters at the summit. The ascent features dozens of hairpin turns, many of them blind. The pavement is generally excellent, but the technical demand comes from the combination of grade, tightness, and exposure.
After the summit, you have the option to stop at Mystras (UNESCO site, 1-1.5 hours if visiting). The Byzantine ruins are extensive but require walking uphill on uneven terrain. Many riders skip it in favor of riding time — you’ll see the fortress from the road regardless.
From Mystras, the route continues north on a faster-flowing provincial road before entering the Arcadian mountains — smaller, tighter roads through forested highland terrain. The final approach to Dimitsana involves narrow village roads with mixed pavement quality.
You’ll reach Dimitsana by late afternoon or early evening depending on stops. This is a mountain village at roughly 950 meters elevation, and you’ll stay here two nights.
Why this day is longer: The 6-day version compresses the route by skipping the southwestern section, but the Taygetos crossing and northern approach to Arcadia can’t be shortened without losing the route’s character. Most riders take 5-6 hours of riding even without cultural stops.
Honest assessment: This is a demanding day. If you’re questioning whether you can handle it, that’s useful information — it means you’re thinking like an experienced rider. The day isn’t dangerous, but it requires sustained attention and energy management. Most riders report it as memorable but tiring.
Day 5: Dimitsana loop ride with options (205 or 240 kilometers / 128 or 150 miles)
This is a loop ride that departs from and returns to Dimitsana, with an optional stop at Olympia (UNESCO World Heritage Site). You have flexibility to adjust based on your interests — focus on riding, focus on the cultural site, or balance both.
The route takes you west toward the ancient site of Olympia (birthplace of the Olympic Games). If you visit, plan 1.5-2 hours at the site — it’s extensive and requires walking. From Olympia, the route loops back northeast then east through the countryside, returning to Dimitsana initially via a smooth provincial road. The final section tightens through a forested mountain route.
Traffic is minimal except near Olympia itself.
Pacing consideration: Many riders arrive at today feeling yesterday’s effort.
Logistics: You’ll return to the same accommodation tonight. Most riders pack light for the day (tank bag only) and leave luggage at the hotel.
Day 6: Dimitsana – Athens (245 kilometers / 153 miles)
Your final day is also your longest, covering 245 km with significant elevation changes. The route crosses the northern Peloponnese mountains, passes through ancient Mycenae, then returns to Athens via the Corinth Canal.
The first section climbs out of Dimitsana into alpine terrain, reaching elevation of 1,200 meters. You’ll ride through mountain landscapes with exposed ridgelines and sweeping views across the northern Peloponnese. The roads are well-maintained but technically engaging — continuous curves with switchbacks, elevation changes and limited straight sections.
After descending toward the northern plains, you have the option to stop at ancient Mycenae (UNESCO site, 45-60 minutes if visiting). The ruins include the famous Lion Gate and the citadel of King Agamemnon from Bronze Age Greece.
From Mycenae, the route becomes faster-flowing as you approach the Corinth Canal and eventually Athens. The final section into Athens is done via a ring motorway in order to avoid congestion during late afternoon (4-6 PM).
Final note for 6-day riders: This is a long final day after five consecutive riding days with no rest. The northern mountains justify the distance — most riders report this as one of the tour’s most scenic days despite fatigue. But if you’re questioning whether you want to push this distance on your last day, that’s worth considering before booking. The 8-day version offers the same overall route with more recovery time built in due to its one non-riding day.
DATES
There are no fixed dates for this tour. You may request to do this whenever you wish, provided there is availability of motorcycles and accommodation.
Best experienced during April*, May, early June, then from the 2nd half of September and October.
* In April: a couple of the mountain passes (during day 2 and day 6) may still hold some snow in the shoulders of the roads. Caution is required.
July and August can get hot and crowded. The sea will be at its best though, if you decide to add non-riding days by the sea!
In November :
- chances of rain are increased, temperatures on the highest parts of the mountain passes can sometimes be as low as 10 degrees Celsius.
- most hotels in the coastal location of Mani close for the season. If you decide to do this tour in November, that location will be swapped for the town of Kalamata. Accordingly the routes of days 3 and 4 will have to be altered significantly.
PRICING
Pricing for this tour is given in the table below. Prices vary per motorcycle selection and accommodation (solo, sharing room, or 2-up). Booking deposits and payment details are listed after the table.
2026 Prices
| (all prices in euros) | Single Rider, single room | Single rider, sharing twin room | Rider + Passenger *, double room |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW R 1300 GS | 2,155 | 1,770 | 2,330 |
| BMW R 1250 GS | 2,075 | 1,695 | 2,225 |
| HONDA NT 1100 DCT | 1,980 | 1,600 | 2,130 |
| BMW F 800 GS | 1,870 | 1,485 | 2,020 |
| HONDA NC 750X | 1,680 | 1,295 | 1,830 |
| HONDA ΝΧ500 | 1,585 | 1,200 | 1,735 |
(* Rider and Passenger price is for both people, not per person.)
Booking deposit, per person : 300 euros
Remaining amount is paid in 2 parts:
- 50% : 60 days before arrival. If you are placing your booking initially at a date less than 60 days prior to the starting date, the 50% are required as a deposit.
- 50 % : during motorcycle pick up
Note: prices shown are based on quotes from hotels offered to us for group tours on fixed dates. Depending on the exact dates of your travel, prices may be slightly higher. For example (but not restricted to) :
- From mid-July throughout August
- the “long weekends” around national holidays/anniversaries : 25th March, 28th October, Ash Monday, Greek orthodox Easter, Labour Day (1st of May), Orthodox Holy Spirit Sunday & Monday
INCLUSIONS/ EXCLUSIONS
The following are included in the price that you are paying:
– 5 nights accommodation with breakfasts, in personally selected hotels.
– Rental of Motorcycle, with side panniers, top case, comprehensive insurance with excess.
– Rental of 1 GPS per 4 people, with routes and POIs pre-loaded for every day
– Paper map with routes marked and a handbook with key information for the trip, suggestions, tips etc.
– 2 helmets, of basic quality, European standards approved. Options available to upgrade to high quality helmets, for an added daily fee.
– Free luggage storage at our premises.
– 24% VAT
The following are not included:
– accommodation in Athens, when you fly in and when you ride back to Athens (we can certainly arrange it if you wish)
– airport transfers (offered as an option)
– Fuel & tolls
– Food, drinks, personal daily expenses & tips
– Fines, tickets
– Entrance fees to local museums, tourist sites
– Accommodation & Environmental tax. This is paid directly to each hotel during your check out, and it ranges from 1.5 to 8.5 euros per night
– Ferries, parking
– Personal travel insurance
Also, not included are the costs of any “added” days you may choose to have. Those costs will typically have to include the daily rental rate of the motorcycle plus the accommodation cost, which varies depending on where you choose to spend those added days.
Optional Gear & Services
We offer the following equipment. All prices shown are in Euros, per item, and for the total duration of the trip. For any of the equipment listed below, you will need to request it in advance, as we have very limited stock. So a reservation must be made, and 25% of the cost will be added to the intitial booking deposit of the tour.
| Summer Jacket | 30 |
| 4 season Jacket | 30 |
| Premium Helmet | 30 |
| Helmet Intercom | 25 |
| Tank bag | 10 |
| GoPro | 35 |
| GPS | included as standard |
Summer Jackets: lightweight, fully ventilated with big mesh panels in front and back. Shoulders, elbows and back protectors included.
4-season Jackets: with removable thermal liner, and an inner removable waterproof layer. The outer shell is not waterproof, it is a standard cordura type. There are zipped ventilation openings in the chest and in the forearms. Exapmple of a jacket: RevIT Outback
Premium helmets: those can be HJC RPHA 90 or Schuberth C3 Pro, or other of same quality and level.
Intercoms: by Senna, MESH technology
Tank bags: those are generic, universal models, small to medium volumes.
GoPro: recent models (currently, the 13). We will provide you with one battery, and a couple of basic mounting hardware. If you wish to mount the camera in more complex ways other than on the helmet, please provide your own combination of mounting kit.
Also:
| Airport transfers. Prices are per 2-way transfer (to and from the airport), not per person. | |
|---|---|
| Up to 3 pax | 90 |
| 4 to 8 pax | 150 |
Please read the Tour Terms & Conditions which include our Cancellation Policy.
Check the Frequently Asked Questions.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for further information!
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