Nafplio

View from the fortress

Nafplio is a seaside town in north Peloponnese, known for its preserved fortresses and beautiful old town with Venetian architecture. Bourtzi, the small fortress-island in the middle of Nafplio port is the recognized symbol of the town.

In the past Nafplio was conquered by the Venetians and Franks who built the main three fortresses of the town - Acronafplia, the oldest castle above the old town, Bourtzi and Palamidi - the highest and largest castle on the top of Palamidi hill. The conquerors`s presence can be felt not only in the strongholds, but in the old town as well - the buildings remind of Corfu, Syros and other towns where the Venetian style architecture is still dominating. The old part of the town is around the port and has a central square called Plateia Syntagmatos and many small narrow streets full of flowers, shops and tavernas. The cafes are positioned along the promenade, with view of Bourtzi. In Nafplio one can find very nice hand-made souvenirs.

Next to the port there is a large municipal parking at the bus station and two smaller ones. The center of the old town is closed for cars. From the port a road train departs on a regular basis, touring around Nafplio and going up to Palamidi castle. There are also organized boat trips to the Saronic islands and Monemvasia.

The town itself has no beach except for a tiny pebbled beach below Palamidi but there are a couple of beaches not more than 10 km away from the town - Karathona and Tolo to the south, and Nea Kios and Mili to the west.

Hotels in Nafplio

Photos

highlights: old town with preserved fortresses and Venetian architecture, town in Argolis Region, Peloponnese, Greece

More about Nafplio

Nafplio photo galleryx