The Heart of Nafplio Old Town
Cobbled streets, stunning views, enduring historyLayers of the past in every step
Wake up in the heart of Nafplio, where the rhythm of daily life unfolds just beyond your doorstep. From your centrally located apartment, everything is within easy reach—lively squares, bustling cafés, waterfront tavernas, and the winding lanes of the old town, each corner steeped in history. Stroll cobbled streets draped with bougainvillaea, explore imposing fortresses, and savor leisurely meals in sun-dappled squares. Neoclassical buildings line the waterfront, home to bustling cafés and inviting tavernas, while quiet alleyways reveal local shops, markets, and traces of the town’s layered past. The imposing Palamidi fortress stands watch from above, offering panoramic views of the red-tiled rooftops and the shimmering Argolic Gulf. Just offshore, the small Bourtzi fortress rises from the water on its own islet, a former Venetian stronghold that once guarded the harbor and now adds to the town’s striking seascape.
With the help of your UnGuide, you’ll create a well-planned Nafplio itinerary that balances relaxed wandering with day trips further afield. Visit nearby archaeological sites like Epidaurus, Mycenae, Corinth, and Mystra, with the option to venture further to Hydra Island or even Athens. A week in Nafplio offers the perfect mix of discovery and downtime, inviting you to slow your pace and savor the details.
What's included
- One week (or more) in a personally selected, private apartment in the historic town of Nafplio.
- Suggestions for booking your international flight from the U.S. to Athens, or we can purchase tickets on your behalf (See UnTours' air policies)
- Transfer assistance on arrival from Athens airport to Nafplio.
- Car rental, with unlimited mileage and basic insurance, for the duration of your UnTour.
- An orientation session with your UnGuide who has current information on local events, concerts, and festivals to help you create your dream Nafplio travel itinerary.
- Exclusive local information on our UnTours travel app for your mobile phone to have all of our recommendations at your fingertips before and throughout your trip — researched and written by our UnGuide on the ground in Nafplio and full of the best restaurants, sightseeing, and other suggestions
- A local cultural event, like a sumptuous Greek dinner with our local staff person.
- A stash of groceries upon your arrival, so you don’t need to shop right away.
- Pre-trip planning advice from our staff, available by phone or email right up until you leave.
- Ongoing support with our local representative. Help available when you need it.
Arrival Day: Welcome to Nafplio
Arrive in Athens and pick up your rental car, then set off on a scenic drive toward Nafplio. The route takes you through rolling hills and coastal vistas, setting the tone for your laid-back, explorative getaway. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll meet your UnGuide either today or the following morning. With their local insight, you’ll be introduced to the town and get tailored recommendations for an itinerary that will help you make the most of your week (or more!) in Nafplio. Once you’re settled, take your first stroll through the picturesque streets, perhaps enjoying a coffee at a local café or a relaxed dinner at a waterfront taverna. Here are a few things to do in Nafplio…
A taste of Nafplio
Nafplio’s culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its rich heritage and coastal location. Your UnGuide will introduce you to the town’s vibrant food culture, offering suggestions for the best local spots to sample fresh seafood, regional specialties, and classic Greek flavors. Enjoy a leisurely lunch under the shade of olive trees, or take time to savor an evening meal as the sun sets over the bay. With everything from humble souvlaki stalls to elegant seafood restaurants, Nafplio’s food scene offers a feast for both the palate and the soul. Don’t forget that you’ll have the opportunity to pick up fresh delicacies at the market and cook your own meals in your apartment as well.
Local finds and market days
Nafplio’s charming streets are home to a mix of bustling markets, cozy boutiques, and artisan shops. Spend a morning wandering the town, picking up handcrafted goods and local delicacies. Visit the central market for fresh produce, local cheeses, and Mediterranean herbs, or discover unique souvenirs in the quaint shops lining the pedestrian streets. Take your time to browse, chat with the friendly shopkeepers, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re seeking something special to bring home or just enjoying the lively atmosphere, Nafplio offers plenty of opportunities for discovery.
Explore further afield
Nafplio is the perfect base for exploring the historic and scenic treasures of the Peloponnese. Set off on day trips to nearby archaeological wonders like Mycenae, with its ancient ruins, or Epidaurus, famous for its well-preserved theatre. Corinth and Mystra offer fascinating glimpses into the region’s past, while a boat trip to the island of Hydra provides a charming retreat with its car-free streets and traditional architecture. Whether you’re interested in ancient history or picturesque towns, the surrounding area is packed with places to explore. Each day presents a new adventure, with endless opportunities to uncover Greece’s rich cultural tapestry.
History at Your Doorstep
Nafplio itself is a history lover’s paradise. Spend a day exploring the iconic Palamidi fortress, perched high above the town and offering panoramic views of the bay and surrounding hills. For those feeling energetic, climb the 999 steps that lead to the top, where the views are well worth the effort. Wander through Nafplio’s narrow streets to discover other historical landmarks and museums or venture out to the Bourtzi fortress, which sits on a small island in the harbor. Built by the Venetians, these fortifications tell the story of the town’s strategic importance over centuries. Stroll the town’s elegant streets and uncover the traces of its Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek past at every turn. From ancient ruins to medieval fortresses, Nafplio’s history is woven into its very fabric.
Departure Day
As your time in Nafplio draws to a close, enjoy a final morning soaking in the town’s beauty and charm. Whether you choose to take one last stroll through the old town or relax by the water, you’ll have a few moments to reflect on your time in this beautiful corner of Greece. Your UnGuide will ensure a smooth checkout, and you’ll drive back to Athens for your onward journey. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nafplio in the future!
Available Accommodations
The comfortable, well-appointed apartments located inside Nafplio’s Old town are the perfect place to unpack and unwind as you get ready to uncover Nafplio and the people who call it home.
-
Courtyard
Charming and comfortable 'Courtyard' apartment
-
Andreas
Modern 2-bedroom apartment in a historic house in old Nafplio
-
Fotis
Stylish and spacious 3-bedroom waterfront apartment
-
Sotira
Beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom in Old City Napflio
Location
+ 4 more
Nafplio, Greece
Nafplio, set on a quiet bay just two hours south of Athens, is often called Greece’s most beautiful town—and it’s easy to see why. Its waterfront is lined with cafés and tavernas, while neoclassical streets lead to local shops, markets, and museums, including a standout collection of Peloponnesian folk art. Overhead, the impressive Palamidi fortress watches from its hilltop perch, with sweeping views of the town and sea. Just offshore, a small island fortress hints at the area’s layered history.
Nafplio is the perfect base for exploring ancient sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Corinth, with longer trips to Olympia, Mystras, Hydra, and even Athens. Each day brings the same delightful choice: soak up the town’s charm at a beach or café, or head out to uncover Greece’s rich past.
Reviews
Here's what our guests have to say
Phyllis Browning
Experiencing the Greek Orthodox Easter celebration from the balcony of our apartment was amazing... The new beds in the apartment were great.
A. Castillo (06/2019)
Apartment was in a good location, though the church square below could get quite noisy. We were warned about the church bells but they were CRAZY loud! Fortunately, they only rang randomly 3 or 4 times during our 2-week stay. The apartment itself was well equipped and spacious. Our only real complaint is that the beds were very hard and low to the ground which might be hard for some people. Otherwise, we loved the location and people-watching from the balcony. [Note from UnTours: The apartment has a new bed and also a new couch in the living room. ]
Jerry and Grace Larke
Great location. Always something interesting going on in the square below our apartment.
Karen and William Hopkins
Loved the apartment, location was awesome. The only issue was a strong smell like kerosene whenever you left the apartment or entered the building. The apartment did not have this smell and was very comfortable.
Sara McCain
Spacious apartment, excellent location, nice balcony overlooking square.
Joyce Lambert
We were very happy with the Poppy apartment. Amenities were great - everything we needed. Very roomy, and with the included A/C, cool and comfortable when it was hot and humid outside. We especially enjoyed the balcony access; for drinks with the table and chairs in the evenings, and access for photos including some of the Fortress from the bedroom balcony.
Sandra Hughes
The Poppy is a perfect apartment in terms of its comfort and amenities and its location. Observed the world from the balcony, especially important during Greek Orthodox Easter week.
Barbara Martin
This was my second stay in the Poppy apartment and I enjoyed it as much as the first. I even love the church bells waking you at seven (quite a reasonable hour), although they didn't seem to ring as often this time. Sundays though, they did make up for this lack.
Patricia Spanner
We loved the apartment; saw lots of activity at Hagios Georgios, people meeting in the square, view of the Palamidi, sunlight flooding the balconies early every morning--even liked the bells of the church.
Lee and Gail Forstie
Great apartment. The view from the front balconies over the cathedral and up to the Palamidi was special all the time.
Pamela Nesbit
Settling into Napflio and just living there for awhile was glorious.
Nancy Cohn
This was the perfect vacation for our multi-generational family. There was something for everyone and the convenience of having the cars and being able to walk around town was great.
Helen Cleveland
We really like the service of UnTours, being met even though you are late is a real plus. This was our third UnTours and probably won't be our last.
Great location in midst of shops, restaurants, close to bus terminal, market nearby as well as Nafplio Syntagma Square for events. 29 steps to 2nd floor not too bad as we only brought carry on luggage. St. George church across our courtyard was difficult due to frequent long and loud bell ringing for 5 special days when relic of St. Lucas
Also in Nafplio
See these nearby UnTours
The money we pay for your accommodation will benefit the local economy where you will be staying.
Stay longer and save! Ask us about discounts for stays of 4 weeks or longer.
Program Director
I greatly enjoy the diversity of my responsibilities at Untours, the company's values, and the opportunity to connect with people from other cultures.
