Nafplio

Nafplio at a glance

Nafplio, Greece: Plan Your Stay & Explore Argolis

Venetian fortresses, neoclassical streets, seaside walks and some of the most important chapters of modern Greek history come together in Nafplio. Set on the Argolic Gulf in the northeastern Peloponnese, Nafplio is a destination worth exploring in its own right — but it is also an excellent base for discovering Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nemea, Corinth and the wider Argolis region. Its historic centre is compact enough to explore on foot, while Palamidi rises dramatically above the city and Bourtzi appears to float just offshore. Nafplio also played a central role in the formation of the modern Greek state: the city served as the capital of Greece from 1827 until 1834. Whether you are staying for a weekend or using Nafplio as your base for a longer Peloponnese itinerary, this guide will help you decide what to see, how much time you need and what you can explore beyond the city.

Nafplio at a glance

Ideal stay2–3 nights or longer Best exploredMainly on foot within the historic centre Don't missPalamidi, Bourtzi, Old Town, Syntagma Square, Akronafplia For history loversArchaeological Museum, Agios Spyridon, Vouleftiko For walkingWaterfront, Old Town and Arvanitia promenade Nearby beachArvanitia Excellent base forMycenae, Epidaurus, Nemea, Corinth and Argolis Good to knowNafplio was the capital of the newly formed Greek state from 1827 to 1834

Why visit Nafplio?

Nafplio is one of the places where several periods of Greek history remain visible within a surprisingly small area. Its fortifications preserve traces of Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian and Ottoman rule. Its streets and public buildings tell the story of the Greek Revolution and the first years of the modern Greek state. At the same time, the waterfront, cafés, pedestrian streets and nearby beaches make it a destination that does not feel like an open-air museum. The historical centre has been officially protected since 1962, when the old city of Nafplio was designated an archaeological site and a historic preserved monument. According to the Municipality of Nafplio, this protection played an important role in preserving the city's historic urban character. That combination of history, walkability and location is also what makes Nafplio such a useful base for exploring the northeastern Peloponnese.

What should you see in Nafplio?

Palamidi Fortress

Rising 216 metres above Nafplio, Palamidi is the city's dominant landmark and one of the most significant surviving Venetian fortification complexes in Greece. The fortress was developed during the second period of Venetian rule in the early 18th century. Its defensive system consisted of a series of autonomous bastions designed so that each could continue operating even if another were captured. Palamidi also became closely connected with the Greek War of Independence. In November 1822, Greek forces led by Staikos Staikopoulos captured the fortress, marking a decisive moment in the liberation of Nafplio. You can reach the fortress by road or climb the famous staircase from the city. Although local tradition speaks of 999 steps, the official Visit Greece information records 857. From the top, the views extend across Nafplio, Bourtzi and the Argolic Gulf.

Bourtzi

Few images are more closely associated with Nafplio than Bourtzi, the small fortress standing on an islet in the harbour. The Venetians fortified the islet during the 15th century as part of the wider defensive system protecting Nafplio and its harbour. Together with the fortifications of Akronafplia and the lower city, Bourtzi controlled access from the sea. Over the centuries it served several purposes, from fortress to refuge and later even accommodation. Today, Bourtzi can be visited by boat from Nafplio's waterfront. Even if you do not go across to the island, walking along the harbour at different times of day gives you constantly changing views of the fortress.

Akronafplia

Before the lower Old Town developed into the city visitors know today, Akronafplia formed the fortified settlement of Nafplio. Its long history can still be read in its walls. Archaeological evidence includes sections dating from antiquity, while the fortifications were subsequently shaped during Byzantine, Frankish and Venetian periods. Today, walking around Akronafplia offers both historical interest and some of the best elevated views over the Old Town and Argolic Gulf.

Nafplio Old Town

The Old Town is best experienced without a strict route. Walk through the narrow streets below Akronafplia, pass neoclassical façades, small squares, churches and buildings shaped by centuries of Venetian and Ottoman presence, and allow time simply to explore. The Municipality of Nafplio's own historical walking routes lead visitors through the central squares, the Old Town, Psaromachalas, Akronafplia and the city's major monuments. For a quieter atmosphere, explore the upper streets around Psaromachalas, one of the city's most picturesque historic neighbourhoods, beneath the walls of Akronafplia.

Syntagma Square

At the heart of the Old Town lies Syntagma Square, the historic and social centre of Nafplio. The buildings surrounding it reflect several different periods in the city's history. Among them are the Venetian building that now houses the Archaeological Museum, the former mosque associated with the Vouleftiko and the building known as Trianon. The square has changed names several times over the centuries and has witnessed political events connected with both the Greek Revolution and the development of the modern state. Today, it remains one of the easiest places to slow down, sit for a coffee and experience the rhythm of the Old Town.

The Archaeological Museum of Nafplio

The Archaeological Museum of Nafplio occupies a substantial Venetian building dating from 1713 on Syntagma Square. Its permanent exhibition traces the cultural history of Argolis from the Palaeolithic period through Roman times. Particularly important sections are devoted to the Mycenaean civilisation and the archaeological centres of the surrounding region. Among its best-known exhibits is the bronze armour from Dendra, dating to the 15th century BC. The museum is especially worthwhile if you plan to visit Mycenae or other archaeological sites in Argolis, as it provides wider context for the region's ancient history. Agios Spyridon and Ioannis Kapodistrias A small church in the Old Town marks one of the most important events in modern Greek history. On 27 September 1831, Greece's first Governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was assassinated outside the Church of Agios Spyridon. Kapodistrias had arrived in Nafplio in 1828, after the city became capital of the newly formed Greek state. During his administration, Nafplio became one of the main centres from which the institutions of modern Greece began to take shape. The church is only a short walk from Syntagma Square and can easily be included while exploring the Old Town.

Vouleftiko and the first years of modern Greece

Another important building in the historic centre is the Vouleftiko. Originally constructed as an Ottoman mosque, the building later became closely connected with the political life of the emerging Greek state and served as a meeting place of the Greek parliament. Today it has been restored and is used for cultural events and conferences. Together with nearby buildings and monuments, it makes Nafplio particularly rewarding for visitors interested in the period immediately following the Greek War of Independence.

Can you swim in Nafplio?

Yes and Nafplio has two beautiful beaches for every taste.

Arvanitia Beach (pebbled)

Karathona Beach (sandy)

How much time do you need in Nafplio?

DFor a first visit, two nights is a good minimum. One full day allows you to explore the Old Town, Syntagma Square, Palamidi, the waterfront and some of the city's historical landmarks. With three nights, you can experience Nafplio at a more relaxed pace and still dedicate one day to a nearby destination such as Mycenae or Epidaurus. For travellers who want to explore Argolis and the northeastern Peloponnese properly, Nafplio also works very well as a base for four nights or longer.

Can you explore Nafplio on foot?

Yes. Much of what visitors want to see within the historic centre can be explored on foot. Palamidi is the major exception. You can climb the staircase from the city or reach the fortress entrance by road. Official tourism information places the road journey from Syntagma Square at approximately 4 km.

Nafplio: an ideal base for exploring Argolis

One of Nafplio's greatest advantages is what lies around it. Some of the Peloponnese's most important archaeological sites, landscapes and wine regions can be reached on day trips while you continue staying in the same hotel.

Nafplio + Mycenae

Visit the legendary Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae, its Lion Gate, royal burial circles and Treasury of Atreus. [Explore Mycenae from Nafplio]

Nafplio + Epidaurus

Discover the Ancient Theatre and the Sanctuary of Asklepios, one of the most important healing centres of the ancient world. [Explore Epidaurus from Nafplio]

Nafplio + Nemea

Combine archaeology, the ancient Nemean Games and the vineyards of one of Greece's most important red-wine regions. [Explore Nemea from Nafplio]

Nafplio + Corinth

Visit the Corinth Canal and continue to Ancient Corinth or Acrocorinth for a full day combining engineering, archaeology and panoramic views. [Explore Corinth from Nafplio]

Is Nafplio a good base without a car?

Yes, particularly if you want to stay within the city. The historic centre is walkable, and many restaurants, cafés, museums and major landmarks are close together. For destinations outside Nafplio, however, transportation becomes an important part of planning. Private tours and transfers make it easier to combine sites, control how long you spend at each stop and avoid building your day around public-transport timetables. [Explore Private Tours from Nafplio] [Request a Private Transfer]

When is the best time to visit Nafplio?

Nafplio is a year-round destination. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for walking through the city and visiting nearby archaeological sites. Summer combines sightseeing with the beaches of Argolis, although Palamidi and outdoor archaeological sites are more comfortable earlier in the morning or later in the day during periods of high temperatures. Winter offers a quieter version of the city, with the Old Town, museums, restaurants and historical monuments remaining the main focus. Because many attractions operate on seasonal timetables, always confirm current opening hours through the official monument or Ministry of Culture pages before your visit. Last practical-information review: September 2026

Our local recommendation

Do not treat Nafplio only as somewhere to sleep between archaeological excursions. Give the city at least one day of its own. Start early at Palamidi, return to the Old Town and explore Syntagma Square, the Archaeological Museum and the streets around Agios Spyridon. Later, follow the waterfront towards Bourtzi and finish the day with an evening walk through the Old Town. Then use your remaining days to explore Argolis. One of the great advantages of staying in Nafplio is that you can visit major archaeological sites without changing hotels every night. Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nemea each offer a different experience, while you return to the same waterfront and Old Town in the evening. As a local tour and transfer company based in Argolis, KapaTours can help you build your itinerary around the amount of time you actually have, rather than trying to fit every destination into one rushed day.

Discover Nafplio and Argolis with KapaTours

Use Nafplio as your starting point for discovering one of the most historically rich regions of Greece. Explore the city with a private experience, visit the archaeological sites of Argolis, discover Nemea's wine country or arrange private transportation between Nafplio, Athens and other destinations in the Peloponnese. Your itinerary can be adapted around your interests, available time, group size and pickup location. Licensed guides can also be arranged for selected cultural and archaeological experiences on request, subject to availability.

Explore Nafplio tours

Frequently Asked Questions about visiting Nafplio