From Sparta the medieval Byzantine complex of Mystras only about 20 minutes away by car and will be the highlight of your visit to the area. Among the best preserved Byzantine fortress cities Mystras, on a nice sunny spring day can be enchanting.
Heavily influenced and funded by the Byzantine Greek Orthodox Church of Constantinople naturally there are within several churches and convents with old icons and frescoes including many with gardens.
With its walls still intact, Mystras - is a unique example of a Byzantine fortified town. Exceptionally situated, overlooking the Evrotas Valley and Sparta from a steep spur of Mt. Taygetos, and its Byzantine churches, monasteries, ruined palaces and houses, testify to its former glory as ancient capital of Morea (the old name for the Peloponnese).
Ascending the lush green hillside is a truly amazing experience and wandering through the narrow winding streets of this medieval town which once had a population of up to 42,000 (though more typically, 20,000-still an impressive number) with some of the finest examples of 14th-15th century Byzantine architecture in Greece, and superbfrescoes in its many churches.
The 2 entrances are at the top and at the bottom. Drive to the top and walk down 1/2 way, return, got the car and use your same ticket to enter at the bottom... this is acceptable and will save you a long walk back up to the car.