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Whether you’re looking for an active holiday or a relaxing getaway, this city is sure to have something for everyone in our Nafplio travel guide !
Nafplio is a beautiful and historic town in Greece. It’s renowned for its stunning views, vibrant culture, delicious food, and welcoming locals. Nafplio is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the Greek islands and experience true Mediterranean hospitality.
The city boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to 5-star luxury hotels. Nafplio also offers a variety of attractions that will keep any traveler entertained – from ancient monuments to art galleries, museums, churches, and beaches.
Where is Nafplio located?
Nafplio is a beach city in Greece’s Peloponnese that serves as the capital of the Argolis regional unit and is a popular tourist attraction.
Nafplio is located in the northeast Peloponnese on the Argolic Gulf. The majority of the ancient town is located on a peninsula extending into the gulf, which provides a naturally sheltered harbor that the addition of man-made moles has reinforced. Originally almost completely surrounded by marshes, purposeful landfill efforts, particularly during the 1970s, have roughly quadrupled the city’s land size.
When to Visit Nafplio
Nafplio offers a delightful experience for travelers year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. The peak tourist season falls from May to September during the warm and sunny months. During this time, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the ancient ruins, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, and strolling through the charming streets of the Old Town. However, remember that this period can get quite crowded, and accommodation prices tend to be higher.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting Nafplio during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, you can still enjoy pleasant weather, albeit with slightly cooler temperatures, and have a more authentic encounter with the local culture. Winter, from November to March, is the low season. While some attractions may have reduced hours, it presents an excellent opportunity for budget travelers to explore Nafplio’s historical treasures without the hustle and bustle of tourists. Whatever the time of year, Nafplio’s timeless charm and historical allure are bound to captivate any visitor.
Getting to Nafplio
Nestled on the picturesque coast of the Peloponnese, Nafplio is easily accessible by various transportation options. If you’re arriving from international destinations, Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is the most common entry point. From there, you have several choices to reach Nafplio. One option is to take a scenic drive by renting a car from the airport. The journey usually takes around two to three hours, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can opt for a private transfer or a taxi service for a hassle-free and comfortable ride.
You can take a regional bus from Athens directly to Nafplio if you prefer public transportation. Buses depart regularly from the KTEL bus station in Athens, offering a cost-effective and straightforward way to reach the town. The bus journey typically takes around two to three hours, allowing you to enjoy the Greek countryside along the way.
View KTEL bus to Nafplio timetable
For a unique and memorable experience, consider traveling to Nafplio by boat. During the high tourist season, there are boat services available from some Greek islands, such as Hydra and Spetses, allowing you to combine your island adventure with a visit to Nafplio.
Once you arrive in Nafplio, you’ll find that the town is relatively compact and easily explorable on foot. Getting around the town is a breeze, making it convenient to uncover its rich history, stunning architecture, and delightful ambiance.
Getting around Nafplio
Nafplio is a charming and pedestrian-friendly town, making it easy and enjoyable to explore on foot. The town’s historic center, with its cobbled streets, quaint alleys, and picturesque squares, is best experienced by walking. As you stroll through the narrow lanes, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of historical landmarks, including the imposing Palamidi Fortress, the iconic Bourtzi Castle perched on a small islet, and numerous neoclassical buildings that reflect the town’s rich architectural heritage.
In addition to walking, renting a bicycle is another popular way to get around Nafplio. With its relatively flat terrain and scenic surroundings, cycling offers a fantastic opportunity to venture beyond the town center and discover the beautiful coastal areas and nearby beaches. Several bike rental shops are available in the town, providing convenient transportation for those seeking a more active and immersive experience.
If you’re planning to visit attractions located outside the town, such as the ancient site of Mycenae or the Epidaurus Theater, you can opt for local buses or organized tours. The KTEL bus station in Nafplio offers regular services to neighboring towns and historical sites, making planning day trips and excursions convenient.
Lastly, boat tours are available for travelers seeking a unique perspective of Nafplio’s coastline, offering leisurely cruises that showcase the town’s beauty from the sea. Whether on foot, bicycle, bus, or boat, navigating Nafplio is a delightful adventure, ensuring every corner of this historic gem can easily be explored and appreciated.
Where to Stay in Nafplio
Nafplio boasts diverse accommodation options that cater to various preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for every visitor. For those seeking an authentic experience, the charming Old Town is an ideal choice, with its narrow streets lined with boutique hotels, guesthouses, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts housed in restored neoclassical buildings. Staying in the Old Town allows easy access to the town’s historical landmarks, vibrant cafes, and traditional tavernas, creating an immersive experience in Nafplio’s rich culture and history.
Several upscale hotels and resorts can be found along the town’s coastline for travelers looking for a more luxurious retreat. These accommodations offer stunning sea views, upscale amenities, and easy access to the beaches, providing a serene and indulgent escape.
🏨GreeceFoodies’ recommendations for hotels in Nafplio: Rex Hotel , Omorfi Poli , Amymone Suites , Enalio Luxury apartments
For budget-conscious travelers, plenty of affordable options are available, including hostels and budget hotels in the town center and its surroundings. These budget accommodations provide a comfortable base for exploring Nafplio without breaking the bank.
Nafplio travel guide – Things to do.
1. Climb the 999 steps of Palamidi Castle
Climbing the steep slope will reward you with a panoramic view of Nafplio and the sea. Between 1711 and 1714, the stronghold was erected at record speed.
2. Check the historical sites of Bourtzi Castle
Bourtzi Castle resembles a beautiful stone sculpture. The fortress was established in 1473 and was previously home to the executioners of Palamidi captives. It also housed two governments (in 1824 and 1827) and a luxury hotel. It is now one of Nafplio’s most important attractions, hosting various cultural events and festivals.
3. View the architecture of Nafplio’s neoclassical buildings
Syntagma Square is the heart of the old town, surrounded by ancient structures such as Trianon, the Archaeological Museum, and the National Bank of Greece, which was established in the 1930s. You may experience Greece’s modern history on the adjacent streets, beginning with the Hellenic Parliament.
4. Visit the Acropolis of Nafplio
The Venetians built the Nafplio Acropolis, which the Turks called Its Kale, and it was eventually handed down to the Byzantines and Ottomans. It is divided into three levels, each with a separate castle and walls from various eras. The view from Akronafplia’s rock extends from Bourtzi Castle to Arvanitias beach.
5. Experience Food tours or Cooking Class in Nafplio
Cooking Class in Nafplio : Embark on a culinary adventure in Nafplio! Master Greek cuisine with expert chefs by the sea. Interactive cooking class from 90€/person.
Nafplio Food Tour : The Nafplio Food Tour offers a unique opportunity to sample regional spirits and flavors in Greece’s oldest city. This is one tour you won’t want to miss!
Nafplio City Tour: Join us on our Nafplio City Tour and get to know the unique culture of this Greek city. Make this year an unforgettable one. Learn more in our site!
Explore all Nafplio food tours
Where to eat and have fun in Nafplio
When it comes to dining, Nafplio has something for all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, traditional Greek dishes, or a quick snack on the go, Nafplio won’t disappoint. Popular tavernas include “Taverna Psalidas”, which serves up delicious local seafood dishes, and “To Teloneio”, an atmospheric tavern serving classic Greek specialties such as moussaka and pastitsio.
At night, Nafplio comes alive with vibrant bars and clubs. Try grabbing a drink at “Petrino Nafplio” – one of Nafplio’s most popular spots – or grooving away to live music at the iconic “Akrotiri Club” on the waterfront. Nafplio is also home to some of the best nightlife in Greece, so you won’t be disappointed!
In conclusion!
Whether looking for a cultural experience, a relaxing getaway, or a wild night out, this Nafplio travel guide will help you make the most of your Nafplio trip. With our comprehensive list of attractions, restaurants, and bars, Nafplio will surely provide something for everyone – from luxury lovers to budget travelers.
So pack your bags and let Nafplio be your destination in 2023!
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