If you plan a trip to Sparta and Mystras, you may consider taking a private tour to ensure a personalized experience. A private tour can be a great way to explore these fascinating historic sites at your own pace and learn more about the region's rich culture and history. At Private Tours Greece, we understand that every traveler is unique. That's why we offer personalized tours catering to your needs and desires. Choose from our various tour packages and embark on a journey tailored just for you. Private Tours Greece offers a range of options, from half-day tours to full-day and multiple-day tours. It provides transportation and organizes your accommodation. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to visit the most significant sites in the area, including the medieval castle of Mystras, the ancient city of Sparta, and the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil. Our guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the region's history, culture, and traditions. They will be with you throughout the tour, providing fascinating insights and engaging commentary. With our Sparta and Mystras private tours, you can explore the places that intrigue you the most and customize your itinerary to suit your interests. So, if you want to experience the beauty and history of the Peloponnese, especially on our Sparta and Mystras private tours, in a personalized, informative, and hassle-free way, book with Private Tours Greece.

Sparta, the Kingdom of Menelaus and his beautiful Queen Helen, is between the Mountain of Taygetos and the River Evrotas. Paris of Troy abducted Helen after the promise of the goddess Aphrodite to him for the most beautiful woman on earth in return for a favor. This event led to the Trojan War. Under the leadership of his brother Agamemnon, King of Mycenae and leader of all the Greeks, Menelaus convinced the other kings of Greece to fight against the Trojans to retrieve his wife. This event marked the beginning of the most famous war in Ancient Greece. Sparta and Mystras are two popular destinations in the Peloponnese, and they are often included in our suggested private tours of Greece. According to legend, Sparta was founded by Lacedaemon, son of Zeus and husband of a woman named Sparta. Sparta is renowned in history for its military strength, discipline, and heroism. It is also known for its large number of slaves called Helots, Greeks from conquered neighboring cities, or war prisoners. Additionally, Sparta gained fame due to the myth of Helen of Troy, which led to the Trojan War. During the Archaic Period, Sparta emerged as Greece's dominant political and military power. Following the victory of the Peloponnesian War against Athens and its allies, Sparta reached its peak and established its hegemony and influence in much of the ancient world. Education was central to the Spartan system for raising children, per the policies introduced by the legendary legislator Lycurgus. The education system aimed to create the ideal Spartan model. This refers to young individuals who possess the physical strength necessary to endure harsh conditions, are economical, exhibit camaraderie with their fellow Spartans, are ruthless towards the state's enemies, and are skilled warriors with exceptional knowledge of weapons and battle tactics. The trainers instilled a sense of teamwork among the young students, which was crucial to the Spartan hoplite phalanx. A well-known phrase among those who identify with a people renowned for their honest and frugal way of life is 'e tan e epi tas.' The phrase means 'come back with your shield or on it - dead.' The Spartan mother, bidding farewell to her son departing for war, reminded him that his duty was to fight bravely for his country, honoring his arms even if it meant sacrificing his life. This mindset is evident in the historic battle of Thermopylae. King Leonidas, his 300 men, and the 700 Thespians of Demophilos fought against hundreds of thousands of Persians. Ultimately, they all perished, defending Greece and their own beliefs.

Mystras, situated southeast of the Peloponnese, is a historically significant town located just 6 km away from Sparta. Nestled at the foothills of Mount Taygetos, this charming town developed downhill from a fortress constructed by the prince of Achaia, William II of Villehardouin, in 1249. At a height of 620 m, the fortress offered breathtaking views overlooking Sparta. In 1262, the Franks surrendered the castle to the Byzantines, marking a significant turning point in Mystras' history. From then on, the town served as the epicenter of Byzantine power in southern Greece. Initially, it functioned as the base of the military governor and later became the seat of the Despotate of Morea. Despite being captured by the Turks in 1460 and subsequently occupied by the Turks and Venetians, Mystras retains its unique architectural style. The town's distinct architecture reflects the influence of the renowned "Helladic" school of Byzantine architecture and the architectural heritage of Constantinople. However, after 1834, the residents of Mystras gradually began to relocate to the modern town of Sparta. As a result, only the stunning medieval ruins now stand amidst the picturesque landscape, serving as a testament to the town's rich history and cultural significance.