Nafplio: A Perfect Blend of Romance, History, and Nature

Pelican Press · May 24, 2024

Nafplio: A Perfect Blend of Romance, History, and Nature

Nafplio, located only an hour and a half from Athens, is an ideal weekend getaway destination. The city of 15,000 residents has elegant guesthouses that can serve as a base for a romantic weekend getaway, and the surrounding area allows you to get closer to nature and the sea. Furthermore, numerous attractions can turn your trip into an experiential and educational safari. Whatever you choose, you will undoubtedly enjoy it.

The view from Palamidi to Acronafplia, the oldest part of the city.

From Palamidi to Acronafplia

Palamidi, one of Nafplio’s most prominent landmarks, towers above the city. The Venetians built the fortress in the late 17th century, and it was the site of a significant battle during the Greek Revolution. An Ottoman stronghold, it was captured by the Greeks in November 1822. Its stone prison cells are particularly noteworthy, as Theodoros Kolokotronis was imprisoned there for several months in 1833. The peak can be reached by car or by climbing approximately 860 stairs.

The city’s second fortress is located on the rocky islet of Acronafplia, an ancient acropolis that was fortified by the Venetians before falling into the hands of Greek revolutionaries three days after Palamidi in 1822. Until the 1960s, it was used as a prison for ********** and political prisoners.

Nafplio’s old town is a maze of cobbled streets and staircases, where you’ll find historic churches and beautiful neoclassical houses.

Walking in Arvanitia

The coastal route around the hill of Acronafplia is one of the most beautiful walks. Begin your walk at the Nafplio Nautical Club and continue to Arvanitia Beach. The best time for this walk is at sunset, as you will be walking west. The distance is only one kilometer, but if you feel like walking a bit longer, you can head to Karathona Beach, which is about another kilometer away.

Proudly standing 216 m above sea level, the Venetian fortress of Palamidi is one of Nafplio’s most iconic landmarks. To reach the top, visitors can climb the 860 steps carved into the rock.

The most romantic guesthouses

Nafplio offers a wide range of accommodation options. Most guesthouses are located in the narrow streets of the Old Town, either near the waterfront or in the area surrounding the main square.

This is the hidden content, please

Sign In

or

Sign Up

(18 Othonos, Tel. (+30) 27520.220.73) offers modern suites and rooms, and serves Greek breakfast prepared using local ingredients. The attic with a view of the castle is particularly special.

The