The historic city of Nafplio, nestled in the Peloponnese region of Greece, is without a doubt one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. Also known as Nafplion, Nauplion, or Nauplio, this enchanting coastal town once held the honor of being the first capital of independent Greece. Today, it offers a peaceful escape that feels worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of modern-day Athens.
The heart of Nafplio is its charming old town, a captivating maze of narrow alleys lined with neoclassical buildings, inviting cafés, and unique little shops. Wandering through these streets feels like stepping back in time. You can enjoy a relaxed stroll along the scenic seaside promenade, where stunning views of the town’s iconic fortresses and castles unfold before you. From the impressive Palamidi Fortress towering above the city to the picturesque Bourtzi Castle floating just offshore, Nafplio is a place steeped in history and character.
This coastal jewel is one of the most unexpected and photogenic spots to explore on the Greek mainland. In this blog, you’ll discover all the top sights and hidden gems of Nafplio, along with practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to this unforgettable destination.
Where is Nafplio in Greece?
Nafplio is the capital and largest town of the Argolis Peninsula, situated in the eastern part of the Peloponnese. The Peloponnese itself is a large peninsula in southwestern Greece, known for its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and charming towns—making it a popular holiday destination.
Just a two-hour drive from Athens, Nafplio is easy to combine with a city trip to the capital. Its close proximity also makes it a favorite weekend escape for many Athenians seeking a break from the city.
If you’re visiting Nafplio by rental car, you’ll be happy to know that parking is generally hassle-free. There’s a large parking area along the waterfront (just search for “tour bus parking” in your navigation), as well as another spacious option on the opposite side of town called Arvanitia Parking. For those traveling by campervan, the large lot by the sea is especially convenient. Thanks to its generous size, even large campers can easily park at the far end without causing any inconvenience.
Where to stay in Nafplio
If you’re planning to stay in Nafplio, the best choice is to find accommodation in or near the historic center. That’s where the town’s true charm lies. While the rest of Nafplio is mostly residential and doesn’t have much to offer visitors, the old town is full of character, atmosphere, and interesting sights.
Take a look at a map, and you’ll see that Nafplio’s historic center is set on a small peninsula that stretches out into the sea. The town’s iconic fortresses sit on the hills just southeast of this area, offering breathtaking views over the coast and rooftops. To the east of the old town, you’ll find city parks, scenic walking paths, and a number of cozy restaurants—making it a lovely and convenient area to stay in. We highly recommend booking a hotel in or around this part of town to make the most of your visit.
Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u + ‘?v=’ + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js’);The Best Hotels in Nafplio:
- Omorfi Poli is a charming, family-run hotel nestled in the heart of Nafplio. The rooms feature high ceilings and each one is uniquely decorated, giving the hotel a warm and personal feel. In the morning, guests are treated to a generous breakfast with freshly baked rolls and other delicious homemade options.
- Aetoma Hotel is set in an elegant 18th-century mansion, still showcasing its beautiful neoclassical details. The interior has been thoughtfully styled to reflect the building’s historic charm, creating an authentic and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel consistently receives glowing reviews for its excellent location, delicious breakfasts, and friendly, attentive staff.
- 3 Sixty Hotel & Suites is a perfect choice for those seeking a more modern and luxurious stay. Ideally located in the town center, it offers sleek, stylish rooms and suites with a contemporary design. Guests can enjoy a rich breakfast, dine at the on-site restaurant, and take advantage of spacious family rooms—ideal for those traveling with children.
- Castellano Hotel & Suites offers elegant, upscale accommodation right in the heart of Nafplio. Known for its tasteful décor in soft, neutral tones, the hotel features large, comfortable rooms and top-notch service. Guests frequently praise the high-quality breakfast, which adds to the overall luxurious experience.
- Ilion Hotel provides a truly unique and memorable stay. Housed in the former residence of a 19th-century mayor, it overlooks the lively Syntagma Square. The hotel blends historic architecture with richly decorated rooms filled with antiques, creating a regal and one-of-a-kind atmosphere that feels like stepping into the past.
- Amalia Hotel Nafplio is located just north of the town center, in a quiet area surrounded by beautiful scenery. The comfortable rooms come with balconies offering views of Palamidi Castle, the sea, or the hotel’s lush gardens. Guests can unwind with a swim in the outdoor pool and enjoy Mediterranean dishes at the on-site restaurant.
The Best Places to Visit in Nafplio
#1 The Old Center
The heart of Nafplio’s charm lies in its historic center. This atmospheric old town sits on a small peninsula that stretches into the sea, creating a unique and picturesque setting. From the scenic seaside promenade, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Bourtzi fortress floating just offshore, you can step straight into a maze of narrow, winding streets that form the town’s vibrant core.
Towering above the old town are Nafplio’s iconic hilltop fortresses, while just east of the center, peaceful city parks and inviting restaurants offer a welcome spot to relax and take in the surroundings.
The old town is car-free, making it a joy to explore on foot. Its streets are full of life and character, lined with elegant neoclassical buildings, cozy cafés, and small shops. Among the many local treasures, you’ll find traditional Greek worry beads, known as komboloi, sold in numerous souvenir stores. Nafplio even has a dedicated Komboloi Museum, where you can discover the history and cultural significance of these unique keepsakes.
One of the best ways to experience Nafplio is simply by wandering. The town is compact and easy to navigate, so you can explore at your own pace without worrying about getting lost. As you stroll through its charming streets, you’ll naturally come across many of Nafplio’s most notable sights.
Don’t miss a visit to Syntagma Square, the historic Vouleftiko Tzami Mosque, the Archaeological Museum, the Clock Tower, and the iconic Church of Panagia. Together, these landmarks offer a beautiful window into the rich heritage and timeless allure of Nafplio.
#2 The Palamidi Castle
Nafplio is famous for its many fortresses, and none is more iconic or impressive than Palamidi Castle. Perched high on a hill overlooking the town, this striking fortress was built in the 18th century during the period of Venetian rule. Its design consists of several interconnected bastions, each fortified with thick defensive walls. The layout was cleverly planned so that if one bastion was captured, the others could still be defended independently.
A visit to Palamidi offers the chance to explore two of the remaining bastions that are open to the public. But before you get there, you’ll need to conquer the steep climb to the top. Locals like to say there are exactly 999 steps, although the true number is slightly less. Either way, it’s a bit of a workout—but one that’s well worth the effort. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Nafplio, the shimmering sea, and the surrounding hills and countryside.
If the idea of climbing hundreds of steps feels a little too ambitious, don’t worry—there’s an easier way. A road on the eastern side of the hill winds its way up to the castle, offering a more relaxed and accessible route to this remarkable historic site.
#3 Acronafplia Castle
The oldest part of Nafplio is Acronauplia (also spelled Acronafplio), a historic hill that rises just beside the old town. In ancient times, the entire city was contained within the fortified walls on this hill. For centuries, Nafplio consisted solely of this area, and it wasn’t until much later that the city began to grow into what we now know as the historic center.
Atop Acronauplia Hill, you can explore the remains of the old castles that once guarded the city. In fact, not just one but three different fortresses were built here over the course of history. Although none of them have been fully preserved, the surviving stone walls and scattered ruins still tell a captivating story. They offer a vivid glimpse into the past and give you a sense of what life might have been like in this ancient stronghold.
#4 Arvanitia Promenade
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Nafplio is to take a scenic walk along the Arvanitia Promenade, a picturesque coastal path that winds along the shoreline. The promenade begins as an extension of the main boulevard, where palm trees line the street and bustling restaurants create a lively atmosphere, before curving around the base of Acronafplia Hill and leading to Arvanitia Beach and the nearby parking area.
As you stroll along the path, you’ll find the steep, rocky hillside rising on one side, dotted with spiky cacti and the occasional small chapel—while the shimmering sea stretches out on the other. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and coastal serenity.
During our visit, the Arvanitia Promenade was officially closed due to the risk of falling rocks. In practice, however, the path was still accessible, and we saw plenty of people enjoying a peaceful walk along the route, soaking in the stunning views and tranquil atmosphere despite the posted warnings.
#5 Bourtzi Castle
Just off the coast of Nafplio sits the iconic Bourtzi Castle, a striking fortress rising from the sea. Built in the 15th century, the castle is remarkably well preserved despite its long and varied history. Originally constructed to defend the city from maritime attacks, Bourtzi has taken on many roles over the centuries—including a prison, a government office, and even a luxury hotel.
Today, visitors can reach the castle by boat. At the harbor, small boats regularly offer short trips to the fortress for a modest fee. During the summer months, Bourtzi also becomes a vibrant cultural venue, hosting concerts and special events. It’s not only a fascinating piece of history, but also a living symbol of Nafplio’s unique character and charm.
#6 The Theater of Epidaurus
A fantastic day trip from Nafplio is a visit to the Theater of Epidaurus, located just a half-hour drive away. Widely regarded as one of the best-preserved theaters from ancient Greece, it’s also considered one of the most stunning historical sites in the country. Built in the 4th century BC, the theater has impressively withstood the passage of time. Its circular stage, measuring 20 meters in diameter, is surrounded by 55 tiers of stone seating that once accommodated up to 12,000 spectators. Even today, performances are held here during the summer, offering a chance to experience the theater’s legendary acoustics in action.
Recommended Read: our complete guide to exploring the Theater of Epidaurus.
The theater is part of the Sanctuary of Asklepios, dedicated to the Greek demigod of medicine, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. While the theater is undoubtedly the main highlight for most visitors, the surrounding sanctuary is also well worth exploring. The Epidaurus Museum offers fascinating insights into the site’s history, which once served as one of the earliest organized health centers in the ancient world. Pilgrims from across the Greek world traveled here in search of healing from Asklepios. Among the most interesting exhibits are the ancient medical tools uncovered during archaeological excavations.
Just behind the museum, you’ll find the remains of the Sanctuary of Asklepios. Although often overshadowed by the theater, this temple complex deserves your time. While the ruins may require a bit of imagination to fully visualize, well-placed information panels help bring the site to life, explaining how each structure once functioned. Aerial photographs—similar to satellite views on Google Earth—reveal how the scattered remnants actually trace the outlines of buildings that once stood here. It’s a striking reminder of how advanced, meaningful, and influential this place was in its time.
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