Nafplion (or Nafplio) is a real authentic Greek city and one of the most beautiful in the Peloponnese. The town has a spectacular location on a quiet bay. Above Nafplio stands the medieval fortress Palamidi and the small island off the port houses a fort called Bourtzi, which once protected the harbor.
Narrow streets, elegant Venetian houses, a large choice of restaurants and cafés plus the beach round the corner: Nafplio is a beautiful city with a relaxed atmosphere that resembles a bit to the Plaka district of Athens.
The medieval fortress Palamidi in Nafplion
1. The old Nafplion
Nafplion is full of history. The area of Nafplion has been continuously inhabited since 3000 BC. Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Turks have ruled over the centuries about Nafplion and left their influences in this port city. As a result, Nafplion is the dream of every culture and history enthusiast as there are numerous ancient fortress walls, museums and fabulous monuments to explore.
The ancient fortress Palamidi shines upon the city. The climb of 900 steps to the top of this historic monument is worth it because here you will have fantastic views over the city.
From the Boulevard Akti Miauli, you look out on the islet Bourtzi, where the eponymous small castle is situated. With a water taxi, you visit the Venetian fortress that seems to float in the middle of the sea. From the island, you have great views of the old town.
View from the ancient fortress Palamidi
2. Explore the town Nafplion
The town of Nafplion itself is a tourist attraction due to its distinctive architecture that shows the former diligence of the town. The marble-lined streets, elegant Venetian houses and chic boutiques make of Nafplion a sophisticated city. You now understand why Athenians love to stay here for a weekend.
Stroll through the picturesque streets, overgrown with bougainvillea, or on the beautiful promenade. Here you can have a delicious meal in one of the many cozy taverns and restaurants. If you want to let your legs rest, take a tour through the colorful town with a train. Walk to the harbor when the sun goes down, and look out over the bay of Nafplion which changes color in various shades of orange and red. A beautiful sight!
Tip: if you have time, visit the Kolomboi museum. Kolomboi are those Greek necklaces with beads with which you see (usually older) men playing with. The museum is located in the center in an 18th-century building. It is open every day.
Romantic city Nafplion
3. Relax on the beach
In the area of Nafplio, you’ll find several beautiful beaches where you can relax for a few hours. The most popular are the Tolo (or Tolon) beach, 10 kilometers south of Nafplion. Karathona has a beautiful circular bay just south of the Palamidi fortress, a 10 minutes walk from Arvanitia beach.
Tolo Beach near Nafplion
How to get there?
By car: The journey by car takes about two hours from Athens.
By bus: Many buses connect daily Nafplion to Athens. The buses leave from Terminal A at the Kifissos bus station. The trip takes about two hours and costs € 20-25 (for a return).