Argolida: Nafplio, Mycenae and Epidaurus – A Travel Guide

Argolida is the most visited corner of the Peloponnese, and for good reason: in a small area, less than two hours from Athens, you find the elegant old town of Nafplio, the Mycenaean citadels of Mycenae and Tiryns, the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and easy beaches from Tolo to Porto Heli.

Nafplio

Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece and is one of the prettiest towns in the country: Venetian and neoclassical houses, marble-paved lanes, squares full of cafés and a seafront promenade. Above the town rises the Palamidi fortress, reached by hundreds of steps or by car, and in the bay sits the little castle of Bourtzi.

Mycenae and Tiryns

About 25 km north of Nafplio, Mycenae was the kingdom of Agamemnon in the Bronze Age. Walk through the Lion Gate, see the royal graves and the huge tholos tomb known as the Treasury of Atreus, and visit the museum. Tiryns, just outside Nafplio, has some of the most impressive Cyclopean walls in Greece. Together they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Epidaurus

The sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus was the most famous healing centre of the ancient world. Its theatre from the 4th century BC is one of the best preserved in Greece, with perfect acoustics – a coin dropped on the stage can be heard in the top rows. In summer it hosts performances of ancient drama: see our Epidaurus festival guide.

Tolo and the beaches

Tolo, about 10 km from Nafplio, is a relaxed seaside village with a long sandy beach, fish tavernas and small islands in front – a good base for families. The coast towards Kranidi has many quiet coves.

Porto Heli, Ermioni and the islands

At the southern tip of Argolida, Porto Heli and Ermioni are calm resorts on sheltered bays, with villas and boutique hotels. From Kosta a short boat ride takes you to Spetses, and from Ermioni you can reach Hydra – both islands without private cars.

Argos

Argos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Europe, with a large ancient theatre, the castle of Larissa on the hill above and a lively market. It is an easy stop between Nafplio, Mycenae and Arcadia.

When to go

Nafplio is lovely all year, including Christmas and the long weekends of spring. April to June and September to October are ideal for the ancient sites. In July and August visit Mycenae and Epidaurus early in the morning and enjoy the beaches in the afternoon.

Where to stay

Where to stay in Nafplio & Tolo · Where to stay in Porto Heli & Ermioni

Getting there

Nafplio is about 140 km from Athens, around 1 hour 45 minutes by motorway, and Porto Heli about 2 hours 45 minutes. A private driver lets you stop at the Corinth Canal and Mycenae on the way and move freely between the sites.

See: Athens – Nafplio · how to get from Athens airport to Nafplio · Athens – Mycenae · Athens – Epidaurus · Athens – Porto Heli · Athens – Kosta (for Spetses) · Athens – Ermioni (for Hydra) · Lagkadia – Nafplio