Location

Bourtzi

The Throne Castle

A landmark of the city (along with Palamidi), Bourzi was built in 1473 on the islet of Agios Theodoros, and was originally called Castello dello Soglio – the Castle of the Throne. Over the centuries, it was the first prison of Theodoros Kolokotronis, hosted the Greek government, functioned as the center of the Tourism Organization, but also as a luxury hotel and restaurant. Don’t miss the opportunity to take one of the boats on the waterfront and visit Bourtzi – you will be dazzled by its unique view of the Old Town and Akronafplia.

Palamidi

The fortress with 999 steps

One of the most important and well-preserved castles in Greece and an excellent example of Venetian fortification architecture, the 18th century Palamidi gives the city its special glamour. On the bastion of Agios Andreas, you will see the church of the same name and also the prison of Theodoros Kolokotronis, while the high view towards the old town and the port on one side, and towards the beach of Arvanitia on the other, will blow your mind the breath. You can reach it by road, but the step-by-step climb to Palamidi is an experience worth living.

The Old Town of Nafplion

Like a living postcard

One of the most historic and picturesque cities not only in Greece but also in Europe, the old town of Nafplio is suitable for endless walks. Start from the historical building of the Town Hall and, crossing the large pedestrian street with the shops, you will be led to the beautiful Syntagma Square. Wander through the surrounding picturesque lanes of fuchsia bougainvillea and listed buildings, historic churches, monuments, museums and attractions. Sit down for a coffee with a view of Bourtzi, try local flavors in one of the tavernas, browse the tourist shops. With an ice cream in hand, lazily cross the palm-lined coastal street of Bouboulinas to the Lighthouse, while if you are in the mood for more discoveries, climb the Dromoscales, reaching the top, in the picturesque alleys of Psaromahala.

Churches

A precious piece of history

Large and impressive or conspicuous and almost hidden, the churches of Nafplion are a valuable part of the religious and cultural heritage of the place that is worth discovering. At the highest point of the district of Pronoia, Evangelistria dominates, in Filellini square you will easily spot Agios Nikolaos, while in Agios Georgios square the homonymous church is connected to great historical moments. On Kapodistriou Street you will find Agios Spyridon where the first governor of Greece, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was assassinated, and in the heart of the old city, a few steps from Syntagma Square, you will discover one of the oldest and most beautiful churches, the Holy Church of Genesis of the Virgin 15th century.

The Tour of Arvanitia

Enchanting path

The alleys of the old town may exude picturesqueness and romance, but the Round of Arvanitia will reveal to you a landscape that takes your breath away. Starting from the end of the coastal road and reaching the square of Arvanitia, the route under the walls of Akronaflia, between the sky and the sea, will be unforgettable. It is worth continuing the walk by doing the Arvanitia – Karathona route, which will bring you in front of daring climbers on vertical rocks, in large caves and in hidden creeks. And if you make it to Karathona and your endurance holds, walk a little further to visit the chapel of Agios Nikolaos, from where the view of the endless blue is simply unique.

The beaches

Arvanitia and Karathona

It is no coincidence that in Nafplio there are countless winter swimmers, as the city has two beautiful beaches: Arvanitia and Karathona. Arvanitia can be reached by starting the Tour of Arvanitia from the end of the coastal road, or through the city by going uphill to Kapodistria square. Leave your towel on the rocks or sit at the beach bar, and enjoy unique dives in the crystal clear waters of the beach. A few kilometers outside of Nafplio, is the sandy beach of Karathona, with eucalyptus trees, shallow waters and many beach bars making it a favorite of the locals. An ideal landscape that you will love as the castle of Palamidi rises to the left, the beaches of Kynouria can be seen opposite, while in the middle and west the tiny Pontikonissi makes the landscape even more unique.

Cycling

Time for orthopetalia

Favorite means of transportation for most residents of Nafplion, winter and summer, the bicycle is suitable for your most beautiful routes in the city. Bikes are available for rent in many central parts of the city, while for more fun with friends or with your family, you can rent a four-seater bike with a canopy from the port, under Filellinon Square, and discover the picturesque pedestrian streets by bike. The more athletic types can try crossing the Arvanitia-Karathona route which involves a degree of difficulty, but the scenery will compensate you.

Extreme water sports

Adrenaline at its peak

If leisurely walking around the city or leisurely swimming at the beaches do not suit your intense temperament, in Nafplion you can test your limits through extreme sports activities that will make your adrenaline go red. Sports groups, associations and experienced trainers will help you in your first steps and provide you with the necessary equipment. You can climb the vertical rocks of Akronaflia, tame the waves by surfing and try kite surfing on the beach of Nea Kios. Lovers of the sea and the bottom will indulge in diving and scuba diving, you will enjoy kayaking, canoeing and SUP, while sailing in the Argolic Gulf is a unique experience that will remain unforgettable.

Argolic Flavors

Contact with delivery

With the Argolic land full of citrus orchards, olive groves and vineyards, tasting and wine tasting in Nafplio is one of a kind. With the orange holding the flavor reins, you must try the freshly squeezed orange juice, as well as the local orange pie, marmalade and spoon dessert, made from this blessed citrus fruit. Try handmade pasta such as trachanas, noodles, lasagna and also the delicious local gogges. A short excursion to the vineyards of Nemea will bring you closer to the world of wine producers and give you the opportunity for unforgettable wine tastings, while it is also worth tasting olive oil at local olive producers. And of course, speaking of flavors in Nafplio, we cannot skip the tradition of “tasting at least one ice cream a day”, whatever time of year you are here. Local Greek or gelato Italian, you will find endless ice cream options to choose your own favorite texture and taste.