Where to Stay in Nafplio: Old Town, Sea View or Olive Groves

Nafplio is one of the most beautiful towns in Greece: the first capital of the modern Greek state, with a Venetian old town of marble lanes and neoclassical mansions, the Bourtzi fortress in the middle of the harbour and the great Palamidi fortress above it all. It is also the best base in the Peloponnese for Mycenae, Epidaurus and the beaches of the Argolic Gulf. Here is how to choose where to stay – and the hand-picked partner hotels we book for our guests.

Old town or just outside? Choosing your area

• The old town – around Syntagma Square and the harbour. You walk everywhere: tavernas, the seafront promenade, the steps up to Palamidi and the path to Arvanitia beach. The lanes are narrow and parking is limited, so it is perfect if you arrive with a private transfer and explore on foot.
• Just outside town – on the hills towards Palamidi and Karathona beach. More space, gardens and views, ideal for families and longer stays. The old town is a few minutes away by car or taxi.

Our partner hotels in Nafplio

We work directly with these four properties and know them well. All prices on request – we send you a personal offer.

How to get to Nafplio

Nafplio is about 140 km from Athens – roughly 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours by car. There is no train, and buses from Athens airport need a change in the city, so the easiest way is a private transfer from Athens to Nafplio: your driver meets you at the airport arrivals or your Athens hotel and takes you to the door of your hotel, with a stop at the Corinth Canal if you like. Compare all options in our guide from Athens airport to Nafplio. Already in Arcadia? See our transfer from Lagkadia to Nafplio.

What to do from Nafplio

• Climb to the Palamidi fortress early in the morning and swim at Arvanitia or Karathona beach.
• Visit Mycenae and the ancient theatre of Epidaurus – see our Corinth, Nafplio, Mycenae & Epidaurus day tour.
• Short on time? Our Nafplio day trip from Athens or, for cruise guests, the Nafplio shore excursion.
• Make Nafplio part of a longer trip: Archaeological Peloponnese in 5 days or Beaches of the Peloponnese.

Frequently asked questions

Is it better to stay in the old town or outside Nafplio?

Stay in the old town if you want to walk everywhere – to the harbour, the cafés and the steps up to Palamidi – and do not need a car. Choose a place just outside town, such as Klymeni on the road to Karathona, if you prefer space, gardens and quiet evenings; the old town is a few minutes away.

How many nights do I need in Nafplio?

Two or three nights is ideal: one day for the old town, Palamidi and the beaches, and one day for Mycenae and Epidaurus. With more time you can add Ancient Corinth or a day on the Arcadian coast.

Can you book the hotel together with my transfer?

Yes. Tell us your dates and the hotel you like – we check availability with our partner and send you one offer with your private transfer from Athens or the airport, tours and activities if you wish. We reply within 24 hours and nothing is booked until you accept.