What to Do in Nafplio
Alex - A former corporate business executive, I am a historical fiction writer. For almost ten years, Greece was one of my second homes due to my business responsibilities.
Baby Iris joined our travels since she was able to sit up.
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Nafplio, a jewel of the Peloponnese, beckons travelers with its timeless beauty, rich history, and enchanting atmosphere.
Nestled on the shores of the Argolic Gulf, this picturesque town is a captivating blend of medieval charm, neoclassical elegance, and stunning coastal vistas. It offers plenty of things to do and see.
As the first capital of modern Greece, Nafplio holds a significant place in its history, reflected in its well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks.
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Top Things to Do in Nafplio
What is the story of Nafplio?
Nafplio is one of the most visited places in Greece and one of the first areas to develop into a beacon for tourism in modern times.
The prevalent theory is that ancient Egyptian colonists first settled in the area. Initially independent, Nafplio became the port of the dominant power of nearby Argos.
Since its founding, Nafplio has changed masters many times. Over the centuries, it has been under Roman, Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman rule.
Finally, the Greeks decided to take matters into their own hands and liberated Nafplio in 1822 during the Greek War of Independence. Moreover, when the first head of independent Greece, Count Ioannis Kapodistrias, disembarked in Nafplio, he turned it into the country’s capital city.
Although Kapodistrias was assassinated in 1829 on the steps of the Church of Saint Spyridon in Nafplio, the capital remained there until 1834, when the newly-crowned King Otto moved it to Athens.
Since then, Nafplio has blossomed into the tourist magnet it is today. No wonder, given the unique legacy of so many conquering empires leaving their mark on the beautiful seaside settlement.
Where is Nafplio?
Nafplio is on the western coast of the Argolid Peninsula, overlooking the Argolic Gulf. It is circa 140 kilometers southwest of Athens.
How to get to Nafplio from Athens?
Nafplio can be reached by car or bus on a day trip.
If you choose to drive, prepare for an easy 2-hour trip. Go west on the A8 highway and then turn south on A7. The last leg will take you on a 1-lane road.
Please note that highways are not free. You can pay by cash or card as you go at the different toll gates—there is no way around them, so you can’t miss any payment.
A one-way trip from Athens to Nafplio will cost circa 10-12 euros, depending on where you exit the highway.
Read also: Driving in Greece – Your Complete Guide.
The other option is to book a guided bus tour.
There are several advantages to this approach: you can rest during the journey, you don’t have to worry about getting lost or finding a parking space, you’ll enjoy the services of a professional guide, and, lastly, many tours include a stop to other nearby attractions such as Mycenae, Epidaurus, or Argos.
Book your organized tour here!
Book your bus transfer from Athens to Nafplio here!
What are the best things to see and do in Nafplio?
Despite its relatively small size, there is plenty to see in Nafplio.
Palamidi Castle
The old city of Nafplio is dominated by the Palamidi Castle, which towers above it. The Venetians erected it during the second time they ruled the city. Although massive, the castle was built in a relatively short period of time between 1711 and 1714.
The Turks easily captured it due to the Venetians’ cost-cutting initiatives—at the time of the Turkish assault, only 80 soldiers defended the castle.
Finally, the Greeks liberated Nafplio and its castle in 1822.
According to local belief, 999 stairs lead up to the castle. In truth, I can tell you that one needs to tackle only a mere 913 stairs—not an easy feat with a baby cradled around your waist. Still, it is worth climbing to the castle for the lovely view, if nothing else.
The Old Town
Walking the streets of the old town, it’s a treat in itself. In addition to the historical buildings and the typical Mediterranean atmosphere, you can enjoy a coffee or a good meal in one of the many coffee shops and restaurants or browse for souvenirs in countless stores.
If you have a sweet tooth, we highly recommend sampling one of the local specialties: loukoumades (Greek donuts). Just be aware that portions can be rather large.
We tasted them at one of the pretty restaurants in Syntagma Square.
Since you are already in the old town, you should visit some of the famous local churches.
Agios Georgios
The Church of Saint George (Agios Georgios) is a beautiful example of the city’s cultural melting pot. Built by Venetians, it was later converted into a mosque by the conquering Turks. It became a cathedral once more during the second Venetian overlordship and then back to a mosque when the Turks returned. Finally, it became the Christian place of worship it is today.
The Church of Saint Spyridon
The Church of Saint Spyridon is well-known in Greek history because of one particular event. Modern Greece’s first head of state, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was assassinated on its steps by the brothers of a man he imprisoned, Petrobey Mavromichalis, leader of the Greek uprising against the Turkish occupiers. The first shot missed Kapodistrias, and the bullet stuck into the church wall, where it is still visible today.
The Church of Panaghia
The Church of Panaghia is one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Nafplio. Initially built in the 15th century during the first Venetian occupation, the building’s current form dates from the second period of Venetian rule in the early 18th century.
The Church of Metamorphosis Tou Sotiros
The Catholic Church of Metamorphosis Tou Sotiros is a converted former mosque. The structure has changed little, and it still retains the appearance of an Islamic place of worship.
Museums
Depending on your interests, you can visit several museums: the Archeological Museum, the War Museum, the Komboloi Museum, and the National Gallery.
The Lion of Bavaria
The Lion of Bavaria is a large statue carved into the rock face. If you wonder why the choice of a German feline, you should know that the first king of independent Greece, King Otto, was of Bavarian descent.
Akronauplia
Akronauplia is the oldest part of Nafplio; it was a town until the 13th century. Once the Crusaders arrived, they fortified Akronauplia, turning it into a fortified part of the larger city. The later Greek state transformed the place into a prison before deciding it was better suited as a tourist attraction.
Beaches
From Arkonauplia, you’ll probably notice an enticing beach below—Arvanitia Beach. I remember leaning against the walls of the fortress, flustered by the climb, as I looked on with envy at those frolicking in the azure waters.
Another beach, a bit further south, is Karathona Beach.
Nafplio Arvaniti Promenade
What is a Mediterranean city without a lovely waterfront, right?
Strolling on the Nafplio Arvanitia Promenade is a relaxing experience during any part of the day. Moreover, you’ll be rewarded with the unique view of the Bourtzi, a medieval castle built by the Venetians in the middle of Nafplio harbor.
Nearby Archeological Sites
The area also contains other interesting points of attraction: Mycenae, Epidaurus, Tyrnis, and Argos.
Mycenae
Renowned for its impressive Cyclopean walls, the city was a major center of Greek civilization during the Late Bronze Age. According to Greek mythology, Perseus founded Mycenae, and its most famous ruler was King Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War.
The Lion Gate, a monumental entrance adorned with a relief depicting two lions, is a formidable testament to the city’s grandeur.
You can read more about our experience in Mycenae here.
Epidaurus
The highlight of Epidaurus is its exceptionally well-preserved ancient theater, a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture. Built in the 4th century BCE, the theater is celebrated for its acoustics, allowing even the faintest whisper to be heard throughout the vast amphitheater.
I suggest you spend half a day visiting a couple of them and the other half focusing on Nafplio itself—our favorites are Epidaurus and Mycenae (for more info, read our relevant articles here and here).
For more info, please consult our post about Epidaurus.
What to bring to Nafplio?
Like most Greece, Nafplio can be very hot in the summer, so wear loose-fitting clothes and cover your head (e.g., wear a brimmed hat).
If you plan to climb the stairs to Palamidi Fortress or Agronauplia, make sure to wear a pair of comfy shoes. Carrying a bottle of water is always a good idea.
Lastly, if you plan to enjoy one of the beaches, remember to pack a towel and swimsuits.
Where to stay in Nafplio
Choosing where to stay in Nafplio isn’t too complicated because the city center is not that big.
Of course, the best option is to stay close to the promenade or at one of the hotels located on the city’s narrow streets.
Here are our top 3 choices for hotels in Nafplio:
Ilion Hotel – a unique picturesque hotel located in the city’s heart. The rooms are beautifully decorated and offer a cozy feel. However, because it is set in an old historical building, the hotel does not have an elevator, and the stairs to the rooms are narrow. See more here!
Agamemnon Hotel – With modern interiors, this hotel is located on the promenade and offers rooms with views of the Bourtzi Castle. See availability here!
Grande Bretagne – Nafplio – because of its location close to the sea, the hotel offers rooms with stunning views. The interior is impressive, and many guests appreciate the hotel’s breakfast. See more here!
When is the best time to visit Nafplio
The best time to visit Nafplio depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels.
Generally, the most favorable times to explore Nafplio are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons.
During spring, the weather is pleasantly warm, with blooming flowers and green landscapes.
We traveled in September, and the weather was still hot enough, and we could spend time at the beach. Additionally, autumn in Nafplio offers mild temperatures, making it suitable for exploring the town and nearby attractions.
How to get around Nafplio
The city is not too large, and since most of the main things to do and see are located in the Old Town, you can easily walk.
However, taking a hop-on-hop-off bus is always a great way to see a place and learn about it from the audioguides provided.
