Book a Photoshoot
in Monemvasia

Professional photoshoots in Monemvasia start from €310. Packages vary by duration and the number of edited photos — from a short session in the lower town's lanes to a longer route taking in the sea walls, the main square and the climb to Agia Sofia.

The main square, where the Elkomenos Christos church and its bell tower stand under the cliff, the vaulted stone lanes and bougainvillea between the gate and the far end of the lower town, the sea walls and the small Portello door that opens straight onto the rocks, the terrace of Panagia Chrysafitissa above the water, and Agia Sofia on the upper-town cliff edge. From the mainland at Gefyra, the whole rock fills the frame at sunset.

Sunrise, which is unusual for Greece. The town sits on the eastern face of the rock, so the sun comes up out of the sea in front of the sea walls while the lanes are still empty — and by the same geometry the lower town falls into the shadow of its own cliff in the late afternoon. Save the end of the day for the causeway and the Gefyra side, where the rock itself turns gold. May, June, September and October are the kind months; the stone holds heat in August.

It is one of the best in Greece for a small one. The lower town is car-free, walled and compact, so a whole day happens on foot between the gate, the square and the sea walls, and every backdrop is stone, sea and bougainvillea rather than modern building. The scale sets the guest list, though: the lanes are narrow, most venues are small hotels and terraces inside the walls, and luggage — like everything else — goes in on a handcart. Athens is about four hours by road, so guests arrive the day before. Ceremonies in the churches inside the walls need permission from the parish, and your photographer or planner should confirm the terms in writing well ahead.