Nafplion

“You said there is no Paradise. Yet, I live in Nauplio.” – Christos Katsigiannis

Considered by many to be one of Greece’s most enchanting towns, Nafplion combines romance, history and sophistication in equal measure. The first capital of modern Greece, this cosmopolitan seaport is a tapestry of neoclassical mansions, Venetian fortresses, Ottoman fountains and shaded squares.

For a panoramic view of the Argolis Gulf, climb the famed 999 steps to the imposing Venetian fortress of Palamidi.  Back in town, lose yourself in the maze of cobbled alleyways lined with boutiques, cafés and elegant tavernas. Down by the waterfront, watch the sun set behind the islet fortress of Bourtzi, once a Venetian stronghold and later a prison.

Nafplion is also a perfect base for exploring the wider Argolis region, where olive groves, citrus orchards and mountain villages frame a landscape of natural beauty and ancient legend. The area’s pristine beaches invite a leisurely afternoon swim, while its archaeological treasures tell stories that shaped the Greek world.

Just a short drive away lies Epidavros, home to the magnificent 4th-century BC amphitheatre celebrated for its flawless acoustics. In summer, the Epidavros Festival brings this ancient stage to life with performances of classical Greek drama under the stars.

Nearby, the legendary citadel of Mycenae reveals the heart of the Mycenaean civilisation. Walk through the Lions Gate, explore the royal tombs – including the fabled Tomb of Agamemnon – and imagine the world that inspired the great Greek tragedians.

For those seeking to go beyond the well-trodden path, the region offers further gems: the UNESCO-listed site of Tiryns, birthplace of Hercules; ancient Argos, Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city; and a constellation of smaller archaeological sites such as Lerna, Midea, Kazarma, and the Pyramid of Ellinikon.

Whether you arrive for a few days or a leisurely stop on a fly-drive holiday through the Peloponnese, Nafplion promises a blend of culture, beauty and refinement that few places can match.