Nafplio

Greece

About Nafplio

Nafplio is one of the most beautiful and romantic towns in Greece, perched on the edge of the Argolic Gulf in the Peloponnese. It served as the first capital of modern Greece (1823–1834) and retains an elegance shaped by Venetian, Ottoman, and early Greek state history. Three fortresses guard the town, narrow streets are lined with neoclassical mansions, and bougainvillea tumbles over balconies.

Nafplio is the perfect base for exploring the Peloponnese's archaeological treasures — Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Tiryns are all within easy reach. The town itself is a delight, with excellent restaurants, gelato shops, and a lovely seaside promenade. It's a favorite weekend getaway for Athenians.

Useful links:

Quick Tips

Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards accepted at most restaurants and shops. Cash useful for small tavernas.
Transport: The old town is compact and walkable. KTEL buses connect to Athens (2 hours) and nearby sites. Renting a car is ideal for day trips to Mycenae and Epidaurus.
Tipping: Round up or leave 5–10% at restaurants.
Palamidi steps: The climb to Palamidi Fortress is 999 steps (or drive up). Start early morning to avoid heat. The views are worth every step. Bring water.
Gelato: Nafplio is famous for its gelato — try Antica Gelateria di Roma, considered one of the best gelaterias in Greece. The flavors use local ingredients.

Interesting Places to Visit

Palamidi Fortress

A massive Venetian fortress from 1714 crowning the 216-meter hill above Nafplio. Eight self-contained bastions connected by tunnels and stairs. The panoramic views of the town, gulf, and Peloponnese mountains are spectacular. Climb the 999 steps or drive up.

Bourtzi Castle

A small Venetian water castle sitting on an islet in the harbor, one of the most photographed landmarks in Greece. Built in 1473 to protect the port. Take a short boat ride from the waterfront to explore up close.

Mycenae (Day Trip)

The legendary kingdom of Agamemnon, just 25 km from Nafplio. Walk through the Lion Gate, explore the citadel, and see the Treasury of Atreus (tholos tomb). A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Bronze Age sites in Europe.

Epidaurus Theater (Day Trip)

The best-preserved ancient Greek theater, famous for its perfect acoustics — a coin dropped on stage can be heard in the back row. Still hosts performances during the Athens & Epidaurus Festival in summer. 30 km from Nafplio.

Acronauplia

The oldest of Nafplio's three fortresses, occupying the rocky peninsula that forms the old town. Layers of Frankish, Venetian, and Turkish fortifications. Less visited than Palamidi but offers beautiful views and peaceful walks.

Syntagma Square & Old Town

The elegant main square surrounded by Venetian and neoclassical buildings, including the first Greek parliament building. The surrounding streets are filled with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Perfect for an evening stroll (volta).

Tiryns (Day Trip)

A Mycenaean citadel just 4 km from Nafplio with massive "Cyclopean" walls — so enormous the ancient Greeks believed only Cyclopes could have built them. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, less visited than Mycenae but equally impressive.

When to Visit

Nafplio enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with dry summers and mild winters:

🌸 Spring (March – May)

Perfect season. Warm (14–24°C), wildflowers in the Peloponnese hills, and comfortable for climbing Palamidi and visiting Mycenae. Easter celebrations are wonderful.

Greek Easter processions in the old town
Ideal temperatures for archaeological sites
Orange and lemon blossoms everywhere

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Hot (28–35°C) and dry. Popular with Athenian weekenders. Evening performances at Epidaurus are a highlight. Swimming at nearby Karathona Beach is excellent.

Athens & Epidaurus Festival performances
Beach season at Karathona and Tolo
Lively evening promenade along the waterfront

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

Warm (15–27°C) and pleasant. Fewer crowds, lower prices. The Peloponnese countryside turns golden. September is still warm enough for swimming. Wine and olive harvest season.

Grape and olive harvests in the countryside
Comfortable weather for hiking
Quieter archaeological sites

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Mild (7–14°C) with occasional rain. A romantic, quiet time to visit. The old town is atmospheric and uncrowded. Many restaurants and hotels remain open year-round.

Christmas decorations in the old town
Cozy tavernas and fireside dining
Weekend getaway from Athens

Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)

Nafplio punches above its weight for food, with excellent tavernas serving Peloponnese cuisine — fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional recipes:

Arapakos$$ – $$$

One of Nafplio's finest restaurants, specializing in fresh seafood and creative Greek cuisine. The grilled octopus, shrimp saganaki, and local fish are superb. Beautiful setting in the old town. Book ahead for dinner.

To Omorfo Tavernaki$ – $$

A charming taverna on a quiet old town street with tables under a bougainvillea canopy. Homestyle Greek cooking — moussaka, lamb kleftiko, and grilled meats. Generous portions and friendly service.

Antica Gelateria di Roma$

Widely considered the best gelato in Greece, made by an Italian family using local ingredients. Flavors like mastiha, sour cherry, and Greek yogurt with honey are outstanding. Always a queue in summer — worth the wait.

Noulis$ – $$

A popular waterfront souvlaki and grill spot right on the port. Excellent grilled meats, pork chops, and gyros at very fair prices. The view of Bourtzi Castle from the terrace is a bonus.

Alaloum$ – $$

A cozy mezedopoleio (meze restaurant) with a creative menu of small plates. Excellent local wine selection. The fried zucchini balls, baked feta with honey, and lamb chops are favorites. Great atmosphere.

Ta Fanaria$ – $$

A traditional taverna on Staikopoulou street in the heart of the old town. Classic Greek dishes done well — pastitsio, souvlaki, and fresh salads. Reliable quality and honest prices. Popular with locals and visitors alike.

3Sixty Café & Wine Bar$$

A stylish café and wine bar on Syntagma Square. Excellent Peloponnese wines by the glass, creative appetizers, and good coffee. The terrace overlooking the square is perfect for people-watching.