Nafplio in 2 days
The first day keeps the fortress on the hill, a museum and Acronafplia, the second leaves Bourtzi in the harbour and half a day for Epidaurus or Mycenae.
- How long
- 1–2 days
- Getting there
- direct KTEL Argolidas bus from Athens
- City transport
- none, all on foot
Two days in Nafplio run in this order: the first is the town with the fortress on the hill, the second the water and one excursion. Palamidi comes first and early, because in summer the climb is best made before 10 am or after 4 pm. Everything else follows downhill, to the harbour and out on the excursion.
Palamidi, the Archaeological Museum, Acronafplia
Palamidi, the fortress on the hill above the town: entry €8, the visit takes 2–3 h; opening hours: Apr–Oct 8 to about 19; Nov–Mar 8.30–15.30.
Down into the Old Town and the Archaeological Museum: entry €6, open 8.30–15.30, closed on Monday.
Lunch around Syntagma Square.
Acronafplia, the last stop of the day: free, no closing day, with viewpoints over the bay at the top.
Bourtzi and an excursion
Bourtzi, the fortress on an islet in the harbour: boat and entry together €14, the crossing takes about 5 min crossing; timetable: boats until end of October 9–20 (every 30 min), winter 9.15–16.
Set off on the excursion — Epidaurus or Mycenae, 30 min each by road, half a day.
Back in Nafplio and dinner in the Old Town.
What spoils the plan
- Palamidi at midday. In summer the climb is best made before 10 am or after 4 pm; midday is the worst hour for the climb.
- The museum after half past three. The Archaeological Museum is open 8.30–15.30 and closed on Monday, so arrive well before it shuts.
- Bourtzi after the last boat. In winter the timetable is shorter (boats until end of October 9–20 (every 30 min), winter 9.15–16), so the islet is best kept for the morning.
Before you go
Short answers to what people ask most before setting out.
How many days does Nafplio need?
1–2 days. One day covers Palamidi, the Old Town and Acronafplia, the second Bourtzi and an excursion.
How much is entry to Palamidi?
€8, and the visit takes 2–3 h.
Is transport needed around town?
No: none, all on foot. The Old Town, Acronafplia, Palamidi and the harbour are all on foot.
Ready for Nafplio?
Where to next
Front row for the next trip
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