What to see and do in Epidaurus: exploring the Sanctuary of Asclepius and the Greek Theatre

Discovering Epidaurus by car is an opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Greece and admire one of the best preserved theatres in the world. If you have a rental car from Record go, the journey to Epidaurus from Athens is quick and easy, allowing you to explore this fascinating place at your own pace. Here's what to see, what to do and how to make the most of your drive in and around Epidaurus.

Things to do in Epidaurus

Discover the Theatre of Epidaurus

This is one of the jewels of classical Greece, known for its perfect acoustics and architectural design. Built in the 4th century BC in honour of Asclepius, the god of medicine, this theatre could seat over 13,000 people and remains a landmark for lovers of culture and the performing arts. Even today, it is still used for classical theatre performances at the Epidaurus Festival held every summer, an unforgettable experience in this historic setting.

Visit the Sanctuary of Asclepius

This is another of the main sights of Epidaurus. This sanctuary was once an important healing centre where pilgrims came for healing and medicinal treatments. Exploring this site will give you an insight into how medicine was practised in ancient times and how priest-physicians treated various illnesses through rituals and natural methods. Thanks to the flexibility offered by a rental car with Record go, you can explore both sites at your own pace and without rushing.

Things to see in Epidaurus

In addition to the theatre and sanctuary, Epidaurus is home to the Archaeological Museum, which displays numerous artefacts found in and around the sanctuary. This museum is ideal for those who wish to better understand the history and culture of ancient Greece. Among the exhibits are statues, medical instruments, architectural fragments and reliefs illustrating the healing practices of the time. Visiting the museum after exploring the sanctuary will give you a better understanding of the importance of Epidaurus as a centre of healing and devotion.

If you love nature, don't miss out on a hike in the mountainous environment surrounding Epidaurus. The natural scenery is spectacular, and thanks to your hire car you can tour the area, stopping at scenic points and enjoying the views of the mountains and the sea. Epidaurus is an ideal destination for combining culture and nature, and the freedom your hire car gives you will allow you to explore every corner of the area.

Another interesting place along the way is Lygourio, a small village near Epidaurus, famous for its tranquillity and charm. Here you will find typical Greek tavernas, where you can sample the local cuisine and enjoy a break after a day of exploring.

Driving routes in and around Epidaurus

With a Record go rental car, you can follow several interesting routes from Epidaurus. The route from Athens to Epidaurus is about two hours, and the journey offers breathtaking scenery that makes the trip an experience in itself. If you have time, you can stop in Corinth to see its famous canal, a modern engineering feat that connects the Gulf of Corinth to the Aegean Sea.

Another recommended route is from Epidaurus to Nafplio, a historic and picturesque coastal town just 30 kilometres away. In Nafplio you can visit the Palamidi Castle and stroll through the old town with its Venetian-style buildings, cobbled streets and charming atmosphere. After a day of culture in Epidaurus, Nafplio is an ideal place to relax by the sea and enjoy a delicious dinner in its tavernas.

You can also head inland and explore the Peloponnese Mountains National Park. This park offers hiking trails of varying levels and is ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Having a rental car will allow you to enjoy these routes at your own pace, stopping at unique viewpoints and natural spots in the region.

Curiosities and History of Epidaurus: Beyond the Visit

Epidaurus is not only famous for its theatre and sanctuary, but it also has a fascinating history full of curiosities that enrich your visit. Here are some facts that might interest you:

• The healing power of the sanctuary of Asclepius: In ancient times, the Sanctuary of Asclepius in Epidaurus was one of the most important medical centres in Greece, and thousands of people made pilgrimages here in search of healing.
• The perfect acoustics of the Theatre of Epidaurus: The Theatre of Epidaurus is known for its exceptional acoustics, a feature that continues to fascinate modern scientists and architects.
• A design that inspires modern theatre: The layout and design of the Theatre of Epidaurus was not only revolutionary in its time, but has also influenced the design of modern theatres.
• A centre of pilgrimage for centuries: For over two thousand years, Epidaurus has been a pilgrimage destination. In ancient times, Greeks visited the sanctuary to honour Asclepius and seek healing; today, visitors from all over the world come to Epidaurus to marvel at the theatre and the ruins of the sanctuary.
• Contemporary theatrical performances on an ancient stage: Today, the Theatre of Epidaurus is still an active venue for the performing arts, especially during the Epidaurus Festival, which takes place in the summer.

Explore Epidaurus at your own pace with Record go

Having a rental car from Record go is the best way to enjoy Epidaurus and its surroundings without any rush or limitations. From the theatre and sanctuary to the driving routes and natural landscapes, Epidaurus is a unique destination that combines history, culture and natural beauty. The freedom of having a rental car will allow you to make the most of every moment and discover every corner at your own pace.

Book your car with Record go and embark on an unforgettable adventure through Classical Greece, exploring Epidaurus and much more.