Built on the slope of a small peninsula jutting into the Argolic Gulf, under the imposing fortifications of Acronafplia—the city’s oldest fortress—Nafplio is a city with character. It is not only blessed with a magnificent setting, but it also wears its history on its sleeve. Lively and popular, it’s no wonder it’s a city for all seasons.
The most authentic way to experience the city is to slow down and take in the details and small moments that surround you. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your travel experience in Nafplio.
- Open the time capsule and explore the historic Old Town.
Wander through the cobblestone streets of Nafplio’s Old Town. Typical local stone buildings with sloping red barrel-tile roofs, shuttered windows, and balconies form a picturesque backdrop. Take your time to discover hidden squares, quaint shops, and local cafés. Don’t miss Syntagma Square, where you can sit and enjoy a Greek coffee while watching the world go by. Syntagma Square, which has existed under various names since the Middle Ages, is home to several notable buildings, including an early Ottoman mosque that is now a theater, a late Ottoman mosque that is now the parliament building, the Venetian Naval Arsenal that is now the Archaeological Museum, and the National Bank, a quirky interwar Mycenaean pastiche.
2. Taste the local cuisine!
When eating like a local, you have the option of enjoying meat dishes as well as fresh seafood. Look for traditional tavernas tucked away from the city center. Try local specialties such as gkiosa or mpogana, a local recipe for suckling lamb with potatoes. Note that this dish takes a long time to prepare and is not served everywhere, so it’s best to ask in advance at a restaurant. Pasta fans will delight in the gkokes dish. Be sure to accompany your meal with a glass of local wine, ouzo, or a refreshing beer. For dessert, try baklava or ice cream from a family-run bakery.
3. Visit the markets!
Immerse yourself in the local culture at Nafplio’s markets. Every Saturday and Wednesday from early morning until midday, the city hosts a vibrant farmers’ market where you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisanal products. Talk to the local vendors, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations on what to try. It’s a great way to connect with the community and learn about seasonal ingredients!
4. Take part in local festivals and outdoor activities of all kinds!
The Fougaro Art Centre is a year-round cultural hub and a popular cross-generational meeting place for Nafplio residents, passersby, and Athenians. The fully renovated building, once a cannery, now houses a library, an art workshop, and exhibition and concert halls. It also has a café-bar that stays open late with music and cocktails at the outdoor bar and serves delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, juices, and drinks in the garden. Indoors and on the semi-outdoor deck, art, photography, and craft exhibitions are frequently held, while live music and DJ sets enliven weekend evenings throughout the year. Summer concerts and the annual Fougaro Jazz Festival are also held here.
If your visit coincides with a local festival, don’t miss the opportunity to join the festivities. Events such as the Nafplio Festival and the newly established Acronafplia Festival feature concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. Attending these events is a great way to meet locals and experience the city’s spirit.
If you’re a film buff visiting Nafplio in the summer, you can enjoy a unique cinema experience under the stars at the open-air Cine Nafplio, which offers a wide range of films.
5. Enjoy the beaches!
Nafplio has beautiful beaches that are perfect for soaking up the sun. Head to Karathonas or Arvanitia Beach, where you can relax, swim, or enjoy a meal at a beachside taverna. Or, just bring a picnic for a lazy day by the sea.
6. Aim high and head to the Palamidi Fortress!
Locals call it the Arvanitia promenade, and it is one of the most popular walks in Nafplio. Starting at the harbor, it follows a romantic stone path around the fortified promontory of Acronafplia and ends at Arvanitia Square, covering a total distance of about one kilometer. A little further on is the route to the Palamidi Fortress, one of the largest and most beautiful Venetian fortresses in Greece. It was built to follow the shape of Palamidi Hill. As you climb the 857 steps, take in the scenery and appreciate the historical significance of this Venetian castle (don’t be discouraged by the popular miscalculation that there are 999 steps). Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a magnificent, panoramic view of the old town, the Argolic Gulf, and the coastline.
7. Connect with the local residents!
One of the best ways to experience a place is to interact with its people. Take a cooking class, enroll in a Greek language or culture course, or strike up a conversation at a café. Many residents are eager to share their stories and traditions, offering a deeper insight into their way of life.
8. Embrace the siesta culture!
In Nafplio, the siesta is a cherished tradition. Take a cue from the locals and enjoy a leisurely afternoon break. Many shops close for a few hours in the afternoon to allow time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Use this time to explore a bookstore, take a nap, or enjoy a long lunch with friends.
Experience a new way of life with one of our villas near Nafplio: Villa Starlett, Villa Levanda, Villa Thymari, Villa Daiquiri… They are an ideal home base for exploring the area and a wonderful retreat after a busy day.
