Nafplio is a charming coastal town located just a few hours south of Athens. With its picturesque Old Town, scenic waterfront, and rich history, Nafplio is the perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to get to Nafplio from Athens, as well as things to do and see once you arrive.
Day trip to Nafplio from Athens
One of the easiest ways to visit Nafplio from Athens is by doing a day trip. Several tour operators offer guided excursions to Nafplio, departing from central Athens. These tours usually include transportation, a visit to the town’s top attractions, and free time to explore on your own.
If you prefer to plan your own itinerary, you can also take public transportation to Nafplio. There are several options for getting to Nafplio from Athens, including bus, taxi, and car rental.
1. From Athens to Nafplio by bus
One of the most affordable ways to travel from Athens to Nafplio is by bus. KTEL is the main bus company that operates routes between Athens and Nafplio. Buses depart from Athens’ Kifissos Bus Station and arrive at Nafplio’s central bus station.
The journey takes approximately two and a half hours, and tickets cost around 15 euros per person. Buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, and some even have free Wi-Fi on board.
2. From Athens to Nafplio by taxi
If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient option, you can take a taxi from Athens to Nafplio. Taxis in Athens are plentiful, and most drivers speak English. The journey takes about two hours and can cost anywhere from 120 to 150 euros, depending on the time of day and the taxi company.
3. From Athens airport to Nafplio by taxi
If you’re arriving in Athens by plane, you can also take a taxi directly from Athens airport to Nafplio. This is a convenient option if you’re short on time and want to get to Nafplio quickly. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the journey takes about two hours.
Day trips from Nafplio
Once you arrive in Nafplio, there are plenty of things to see and do. The town’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, lined with colorful buildings and quaint shops. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Nafplio:
1. Visit the Palamidi Fortress
The Palamidi Fortress is one of Nafplio’s top attractions. This impressive fortress was built in the 18th century and offers stunning views of the town and the sea. You can climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views, or explore the many rooms and tunnels inside.
2. Stroll through the old town
The Old Town of Nafplio is a charming place to explore on foot. The narrow streets and alleys are lined with colorful buildings, and there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to discover. Don’t miss the Syntagma Square, the town’s main square, which is surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes.
3. Visit the Bourtzi Fortress
The Bourtzi Fortress is a small fortress located on a small island just off the coast of Nafplio. You can take a boat from the town’s waterfront to the fortress, which offers great views of Nafplio and the surrounding.