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Things to do in
Nafplio

Our most recommended things to do in Nafplio

From Athens: Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

1. From Athens: Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

Depart Athens with your friendly guide (archaeologist) by bus from the Halandri Metro station and reach the ancient city of Mycenae. Let the Cyclopean walls take your breath, and learn about the mysterious origins of this fantastic structure. Mycenae is considered the greatest and richest kingdom of the later Bronze Age around 1350 B.C. Walk around the archaeological park, pass through the great Lionesses Gate, explore the Ancient Treasure of Atreus also known as King’s Agamemnon Tomb as well as the Tomb of Clytemnestra. Admire the Palace and the Gold Mask of Agamemnon. After Mycenae enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in the beautiful seaside city of Nafplio. Naflpio used to be the capital of Greece before Athens and its architecture has Venetian, Byzantine, Ottoman and, Modern Greek influences. Admire the main attractions like the Castle of Bourtzi, the Acronauplia and the Castle of Palamidi built on the top of the hill as well as the various picturesque squares in the city center. Finish your day with a visit to the ancient theater of Epidaurus. This site is well known as the theater with the greatest acoustics and still hosts the Festival of Epidaurus every summer.

Athens: Peloponnese Highlights Day Trip and V.R. Audio Guide

2. Athens: Peloponnese Highlights Day Trip and V.R. Audio Guide

Embrark in our aircondironed modern bus from 4 central meeting points and travel for 1-hour to the area of Peloponnese. On the way to Mycenae, see the famous Corinth Canal and make a quick stop to admire this engineering marvel that connects the Aegean and Ionian seas. Continue towards Mycenae, one of the most important cities of ancient Greece. Visit the Mycenaean Acropolis, the tomb of Agamemnon, and the ruins of the Cyclopean walls that protected this mighty city. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae. Enjoy an audio-guided tour of the archaeological sites in 8 languages, explore the ancient world with our Virtual Reality Device.. Continue on to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, a 4th-century theater which is one of the best-preserved Classical Greek structures in existence. It is renowned for its amazing acoustics; a coin dropped in the theater's center can be heard from the highest seat. The theater seats up to 14,000 people and its entrance is flanked by restored Corinthian pilasters. It's now used for performances of Ancient Greek drama during the annual Hellenic Festival. Last but no least , make a stop in the picturesque city of Nafplion, which was the first capital of Greece after Independence and has been a major port since the Bronze Age. Its position was so strategic that the city has 3 fortresses: the massive fortress of Palamidi, the smaller Akronafplia, and the water castle Bourtzi on an islet west of the old town. Stroll through the attractive narrow streets, and admire the elegant Venetian houses, neoclassical mansions, and quayside cafes. Take the opportunity to go shopping, eat in a traditional restaurant, chill out at the cafes in the picturesque port, or when in summer take a swim in the crystal waters at Arvanitia beach. After a full day of exploring the area of Argolis-Peloponnese, filled with unforgetable memories of history and culture return to your preferred drop off point.

From Athens: Mycenae and Epidaurus Full-Day Tour

3. From Athens: Mycenae and Epidaurus Full-Day Tour

Embark on a full-day guided tour of the ancient ruins of Mycenae from Athens, with a minimized environmental footprint. Walk in what was once a thriving center of ancient Greece and visit sites, including Epidaurus and the seaport of Nauplion. During the late Bronze Age, the city of Mycenae played an important role in ancient Greece. This full-day trip from Athens provides the opportunity for you to explore this treasure of the ancient world. Traveling by air-conditioned bus, you’ll make a brief stop at the Corinth Canal, a 3.9-mile engineering wonder connecting the Gulf of Corinth with the Aegean Sea. Mycenae is the historical setting for much of ancient Greek literature, including the works of the poet Homer. Tour the archeological site, home to the Lionesses Gate and the tomb of King Agamemnon. You’ll continue on the drive, making a stop in Nauplia, the first capital of modern Greece and home to the fortress of Palamidi. After a relaxing lunch, the final stop of the tour is the city of Epidaurus, home to the World Heritage-listed ancient theater and believed by ancient Greeks to be the birthplace of Apollo’s son Asklepios. The theater at Epidaurus is perhaps the best-preserved theater of ancient Greece and is still used today because of its amazing acoustics.

Athens: Full-Day Trip to Nafplio and Epidaurus

4. Athens: Full-Day Trip to Nafplio and Epidaurus

Meet your archaeologist/historian trip attendant at Halandri metro station and discover the southeastern part of Greece’s mainland. During the trip, you will be able to see and learn things about Greece’s history from the ancient times to today. We make a stop to the canal of Corinth, one of the few man-made canals of the world, constructed in 1894 where you can take photos and see the impressive view. We, then, continue our trip to ancient Epidaurus, the site of Asklepius, god of healing. The site offers the visitor an unexplainable calmness, and it is said that this is the reason it was used as a healing center in the ancient years. In addition, the theatre of Epidaurus is also located in the site, and it is considered the most important of Greece. Make sure you check the acoustics! We, next arrive at Nafplio, a beautiful town and the first capital of Greece. Explore the Venetian castle of Palamidi and admire the astonishing view. Visit the acropolis of Nafplio and discover the town of Nafplio with your archaeologist/historian trip attendant. Of course, during the summer Greece is very hot and luckily the area of Argolis where Nafplio is located, has one of the most famous beaches of Greece, Arvanitia. During the summer months you can swim in the Aegean Sea and taste the local cuisine and seafood. If you're looking to explore more of what our destination has to offer beyond the beach, we've got you covered. Experience the local culture and indulge in a wine tasting tour, sampling the unique flavors of the region. Or, take a relaxing boat cruise around Burgi fort for a scenic and peaceful journey. For a more active adventure, explore the charming medieval alleys of Nafplio and hike up to the Acropolis for spectacular views. And, of course, make sure to take a break and refuel with a delicious lunch, coffee, or drink at one of the many cozy cafes or restaurants. With a variety of activities available, there's something for everyone in our town. Return to Halandri after a full day of history, charming view sites, swimming and hundreds of photos!

Argolis: Full-Day Tour in Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

5. Argolis: Full-Day Tour in Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

Explore Argolis and its archaeological sites on a guided tour by van or bus from Athens. See Mycenae, the Lion's Gate, Nafplio, and more as you learn about their history. Tuck into a local lunch (if you select the option) in Mycenae and taste local flavors. Leave by the coastal road along the Saronic Gulf to the Corinth Canal, which connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. Drive to Mycenae, the Homeric city of Atreides, the city "rich in gold" of the ancient poets.  Visit the Lion's Gate, the Cyclopean walls, the royal tombs, and so forth. Depart for Nafplio through the fertile plain of Argolis, the picturesque town nestling at the foot of a cliff crowned by the mighty ramparts of the Palamidi Fortress.  Find numerous interesting spots of attractions all over Argolis. Leave for Epidauros to visit the 4th-century BC theatre famous for its astonishing acoustics. Return to Athens by the National road connecting Epidauros with Corinth. Enjoy lunch in Mycenae.

Mycenae Epidaurus and Nafplio Small Group Tour from Athens

6. Mycenae Epidaurus and Nafplio Small Group Tour from Athens

Begin your day trip with a pick-up at your Athens hotel or apartment early in the morning. In just an hour from the city of Athens, you will pass through the famous Corinth Canal ( short stop ) which connects the Saronic to the Corinthian Gulf and literally divides mainland Greece from the Peloponnese. Leavie behind Corinth canal and after a 1 hour drive you will enter the region of Argolis, land of Homer’s Golden Mycenae, a Unesco World Heritage site, and go uphill to visit the archaeological site, home of the mythical king Agamemnon. Enjoy a walking tour and hear all myths and history as you pass from the Cyclopean Walls, the Lion’s Gate, the Royal Tombs of Agamemnon and his wife Clytemnestra and the Treasury of Atreus. The next stop is picturesque Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece, with its Venetian Palamidi fortress and the fortified islet of Bourtzi  located in the middle of the harbor. There, you will have a fun break and have an optional lunch in a traditional restaurant with Greek cuisine. Enjoy some free time and walk in the narrow streets of this beautifull town with classical buildings dating back to the 16th -17th century. Continue on to Epidaurus and visit the breathtalking ancient theatre. Have a unique opportunity to hear all about the history of the 4th century UNESCO world heritage highlight and one of the best preserved classical Greek theaters still used today due to its amazing acoustics. Leaving back the Peloponnese you will take the road back to Athens. This tour will end late in the afternoon with a drop off at your hotel or apartment.

From Athens: Ancient Corinth & Nafplio Guided Day Trip

7. From Athens: Ancient Corinth & Nafplio Guided Day Trip

Begin by meeting your local guide in Athens and hopping on your coach. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Greek countryside, passing by picturesque landscapes and olive groves. Make a stop at the Corinth Canal, which united the Aegean Sea with the Corinth Gulf. Take photos of this engineering marvel. Be driven to the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth. Take a look at the iconic Temple of Apollo, a Doric-style temple that once stood as the city's focal point. Wander through the Roman Agora, a marketplace surrounded by columns and ancient shops that showcase the city's commercial life. Discover the Bema of Apostle Paul, a platform where the Apostle Paul is said to have addressed the Corinthians. Visit the Peirene Fountain, an ancient water source with mythological significance. Enter the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth to see a collection of excavated treasures. Continue on to Nafplion, a picturesque coastal town known for its historical significance and charming atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, discovering its Venetian and Ottoman influences. Enjoy some free time, exploring the cafes and shops, then head back to Athens.

4-Day Tour of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora

8. 4-Day Tour of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora

Day 1: Corinth Canal (short stop). Drive to Epidaurus, and pay a visit to the archaeological site and to the theatre, famous for its remarkable acoustics. Continue on to Nauplia for a short stop. Next, drive to Mycenae where you will visit the fascinating archaeological site. Depart for Olympia, passing through the central Peloponnese area and passing the cities of Megalopolis and Tripolis. Finally, arrive in Olympia for dinner and overnight stay. There is also a possibility of staying in Nauplia instead. (Dinner included). Day 2: In the morning visit the archaeological site and the museum of Olympia. Drive via Patras to Rion, cross the channel to Antirion on the state of the art suspension bridge, known as the longest and most modern in Europe. Arrive in Nafpaktos, then continue to Delphi. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Delphi. (Breakfast and dinner included). Day 3: First, visit the archaeological site and the museum of Delphi. Depart for Kalambaka, passing through Amphissa, Lamia and Trikala. Arrive in Kalambaka, and savor a dinner before your overnight stay. (Breakfast and dinner included). Day 4: In the morning, visit the breathtaking Meteora. In the early afternoon, start the drive back to Athens passing via Thermopylae and Kammena Vourla. (Breakfast included). This tour offers the opportunity to visit the most impressive historical Greek sites, giving you an insight into the glorious past of Greece.

Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

9. Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

On this tour you have the chance to admire landscapes and monuments such as the Old City. See a variety of historical and traditional buildings, such as the 1st High School of Greece, the Courthouse, the Armansperg Residence, the Land gate, the Castle of Palamidi, the Lion of Bavaria, the Akronauplia, the Cathedral Church of Euaggelistria and many other striking monuments.  You will be provided with a free map of the city at the start of the tour along with free earphones which you may use to listen to the recorded tour, available in 8 languages. Enjoy the use of your daily ticket and hop on and off as often as you want. The open top buses operate during summer months from 11:00 AM until 5:00 PM allowing you to enjoy the sun along with the sites. 

From Athens: Full-Day Guided Trip to Mycenae and Epidaurus

10. From Athens: Full-Day Guided Trip to Mycenae and Epidaurus

Discover the ruins of the city of Mycenae on a day trip from Athens. Explore the archeological site, home to the Lionesses Gate, and the tomb of King Agamemnon. Afterwards, make a short stop in the village of Epidaurus and see its Hellenic theatre. Drive along the scenic coastal road of the Saronic Gulf, and arrive at the archeological site of Mycenae. Explore the historical setting for much of ancient Greek literature, including the works of the poet Homer. Continue with a brief stop in Nauplia, the first capital of modern Greece and home to the fortress of Palamidi. After enjoying a relaxing lunch, head to the nearby village of Epidaurus, home to the World Heritage, is listed as an ancient theatre and is believed by ancient Greeks to be the birthplace of Apollo’s son Asklepios. The theatre at Epidaurus is perhaps the best-preserved theatre of ancient Greece.

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Archaeological Site of Mycenae

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What people are saying about Nafplio

Overall rating

4.6
(1,472 reviews)

We had the pleasure of joining the Corinth and Nafplion tour, and I must say it exceeded all expectations. However, what truly made the experience exceptional was the outstanding service provided by our guide, Sofia, and our driver, Alex. Sofia's depth of knowledge about the historical sites we visited was truly impressive. Her passion for Greek mythology was evident in every word she spoke, and her engaging storytelling made the ancient greek come to life before our eyes. If we were living in the ancient greek, Sofia would be the goddess of guides :) Alex's driving skills were impeccable, navigating through the winding roads with ease and ensuring our safety at all times. To talk a little bit about ancient Korint, Nafplion and Greece, Nafplion is indeed the best city in Greece, especially the surprise of seeing so many Ottoman artifacts in Greece’s first capital was remarkable. I recommend this tour to anyone visiting Greece.

We were so pleased we did this day trip . Although a long day we saw so much we couldn’t have done on our own . We seemed to miss the larger groups of tourists and had just the right amount of time at each place . The coach was clean and comfortable and the driver excellent. It was great to leave at 8 am and everyone was always punctual . The guide was delightful and did her best in providing us with the necessary information.

We saw a lot and learned a lot in a short amount of time. Wish we would have had more time in Nafplio, but happy to get a small taste.. we will be back there for sure! Our guide, Kosta, was great! He was funny and very knowledgeable. He took very good care of the group.

Wonderful. Theodore was an excellent guide and driver. He was very knowledgeable about Greek history and the sights he took us to see. In short, very professional. The trip started on time and finished on time. Theodore also recommended a good restaurant.

Our guide was fantastic - knowledgeable and witty and with a good sense of the group's needs and timing. The itinerary was great, but we would have liked more time in the port town.