Nafplio
Once the first capital of the newly born Greek state between 1821 and 1834, Nafplio is one of the most beautiful towns in the area of Argolis (in eastern Peloponnese) as well as one of the most romantic cities all over Greece. According to mythology, the town was founded by Nafplios, the son of God Poseidon and the daughter of Danaus (Danaida) Anymone. The town’s history traces back to the prehistoric era when soldiers from here participated in the Argonautic expedition and the Trojan War alike. The town declined during the Roman times and flourished again during the Byzantine times. Frankish, Venetian and Turkish conquerors left their mark in the town and strongly influenced its culture, architecture and traditions during the centuries. Ancient walls, medieval castles, monuments and statues, Ottoman fountains and Venetian or neoclassical buildings mesmerize the visitor with their unique architecture and beauty.
Walk around the narrow cobblestone alleys of the medieval Old Town, the neoclassical well preserved mansions with the Bougainvillea trees adorning their yards and balconies and the Turkish fountains. Taste the famous Italian ice cream “gelato” at Gelateria di Piazza, Gelateria Da Roberto, Gelarto Nafplio and make a stop at the Italianate Syntagma Square where you can admire important historic buildings and monuments: The Archaeological Museum with important artifacts from the Prehistoric and Mycenaean Era, the National Gallery and two Turkish mosques, are among the buildings that stand out. Visit Palamidi the castle that dominates the city at 216 m over Nafplio, Akronafplia Nafplio’s oldest castle and Bourtzi fortress, built by the Venetians on a tiny isle to prevent enemy ships from docking.
Favorite places to eat & drink:
3Sixty restaurant bar in the old town for meet & great wines , Arapakos taverna for seafood, Wild Duck Italian restaurant bar, Valaora resto for Greek cuisine and seafood. Within a short drive outside of Nafplio, at Kiveri beach, go for seafood at Kanaris taverna and at Vivari village a must is Kalosini taverna.
Do not miss to rent a bike and get around, include a day excursion to Mycenae and Epidaurus and a wine tasting experience in Nemea.