10 Things To Do In The Little Town Of Livadeia

Livadeia, also known as Livadia, is a small town that is just under two hours drive from the capital, Athens. This picturesque spot is the perfect place to stop for refreshments and explore while on a road trip or stay for some peace and quiet. Livadeia is not a traditionally touristic town, so you can enjoy the shade of the plane trees, lush green river walks and great food, all in the company of just the lovely locals!

Explore Krya Springs

What makes Livadeia so picturesque is the river that runs through the heart of the city. Once adorned with many working watermills, what remains is now purely aesthetic. Livadeia has really made this river its most beautiful feature, and it has developed and blossomed into a green oasis that sets this town apart from any other.

The area at its centre is called Krya and here you can walk under the shady trees on cobbled paths, admire the many waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the peaceful trickling of the river Herkyna. It really is one of the best things to do in Livadeia.

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See The Medieval Castle Of Livadeia

Greece has no shortage of ancient ruins and Livadeia is no exception. Perched atop the hill behind Livadeia is a Catalan castle, one of four of its kind in Greece. The remnants of this castle date back to the 13^th century and it is aptly named after the Catalans who occupied the town from 1309 to 1380. While there is a short uphill trek, the views that you get of the town below are well worth it.

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Admire The Ancient Bridge

Take a riverside walk to the ancient Trichino bridge. Like many things in Greece, simple constructions tend to be hundreds of years old with fascinating histories. The name Trichino refers to its ‘hair’ like thinness because this bridge was not originally built for pedestrians but was an aqueduct for the original castle in the 15^th century. Clay pipes provided a water supply from the springs to the castle tanks. This is one of the many things to do in Livadeia as you stroll the river!

Grab A Coffee At Xenia

Xenia café right on the river is one of the most popular spots in Livadeia. Enjoy a coffee on the balcony that overhangs the river in summer or sit indoors and enjoy the warmth of the fire in winter. Whenever you visit, Xenia will be a home away from home in the magical lush green surroundings of Livadeia.

Try The Famous Local Souvlaki

One of the top things to do in Livadeia is to taste some of the local souvlaki. Famous in Greece, but particularly so in this town, this traditional Greek food cannot be missed.

Explore the city

Wandering around the streets, it allows you to learn a little about this town and the surrounding area. Traditionally Livadeia was an important agricultural contributor in Greece, producing livestock and feed, but also cotton and tobacco. Here you can see the everyday items that were used for farming and the old watermills that once powered the factories. It is one of the best things to do in Livadeia that gives you an insight into this small town’s historic importance.

Oracle Of Trophonius

There is nothing better than learning about the mysterious ancient myths that are tied to a town! In Livadeia these myths are centred on the Oracle of Trophonius. Trophonius was a famous hero who was able to channel the Greek god Apollo. People would come to him with questions they wanted to be answered, and if they adhered to his strict 6-day regime they would find the answers to their questions.

However, many people were unable to withstand the experience and did not live to foresee their prophecy! Visiting the Oracle of Trophonius is one of the things you can do in Livadeia, and while it may appear as merely a cave, the stories make this location all the more intriguing!

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Visit The Monastery Of Osios Loukas

Perched on the slopes of Mount Helicon and only a short drive from Livadeia lies one of the most well-preserved monasteries from the Middle Byzantine period. The Monastery of Osios Loukas is a UNESCO world heritage site and it is a stunning reminder of Greece’s rich history. Visit the burial crypt, wander the beautifully mosaiced interior and enjoy the expansive views of the olive groves below. If you are looking for things to do in Livadeia, then a trip to Osios Loukas is a must!

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Take A Short Trip To Arahova

Whether you are staying in Livadeia or merely passing through there is a place close by called Arahova that deserves your attention. This quaint mountainous town is perched on the foothills of Mount Parnassus and is fondly referred to as the ‘Mykonos of winter’. In the colder months, Arachova becomes alive with visitors. Both Greeks and tourists come here to spend their winter holiday. But Arachova’s charm is prominent no matter the season and you will be pleasantly surprised by what it has to offer.

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Head To The Snow

In Livadeia, you are only a stone’s throw away from one of the best ski fields in Greece, Mount Parnassus. So if you are visiting in winter and looking for things to do, how about grabbing your skis!? Parnassus is one of the oldest ski fields in Greece, with 21 pistes to choose from and stunning vies of the Gulf of Corinth, it really is a winter paradise.