After leaving Monemvasia our next stop was Nafplion and Palamidi Fortress in there, which is located on the top of the mountain overseeing Nafplion city.
We stayed a little bit further from Nafplio center in a very nice hotel Amalia. We stayed in the same chaing hotel in Olympia and it really impressed us. This hotel was the same level of impressive with a nice pool, great food and great service. All what you would expect from 4 star hotel. Highly recommended.



Even though, the view from the balcony was not great, but the green palms looked nice. The only thing missing in the balcony was a chair! The hall windows are facing the pool which was much better view and the sunset view was amazing!

Nafplion city center and marina
Nafplion originally was an important seaport in the Bronze Age, Nafplion has evolved through various periods of Greek, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. Dominated by the imposing Palamidi Fortress, the town offers sweeping views of the Argolic Gulf. The charming old town features narrow, winding streets, neoclassical mansions, and vibrant bougainvillea. Nafplio also served as the first capital of modern Greece after the War of Independence in 1821. Visitors can explore numerous historical sites, such as the Bourtzi Fortress and Akronafplia Castle. The picturesque Arvanitia Promenade offers breathtaking views of the sea and the town.
Nafplion, also spelled as Nafplio (Greek: Ναύπλιον or Ναύπλιο), has a rich history reflected in its various names throughout the ages. This ancient city, situated in the Argolic Gulf in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese, has been known by several names due to its long history and the different cultures that have dominated the region.
In antiquity, the city was known as Nafplia. The name is believed to have originated from Nauplius, a mythological figure who supposedly founded the town. Then, during the Byzantine period, the name evolved to Nauplion. Alos, this Greek variation persisted through several centuries. In the Medieval period under Frankish rule, Nafplion was known as Anabolin, likely derived from its Greek origins but adapted by the Frankish conquerors. Furthermore, during the Venetian occupation in the 15th and 16th centuries, the city was referred to as Napoli di Romania, distinguishing it from Naples in Italy. “Romania” signifies the eastern Roman Empire, reflecting the Venetian view of the region. Later, after the Ottoman conquest, the name morphed into Nefplion as per Ottoman Turkish records. Finally, in modern Greece, the name reverted close to its ancient form, currently recognized as Nafplion or Nafplio (Greek: Ναύπλιον or Ναύπλιο).

The Monument of French Philhellenes (Μνημείο Γάλλων Φιλελλήνων) in Nafplion honors the French volunteers who supported the Greek War of Independence (1821-1832). The term “Philhellenes” refers to non-Greeks who supported the Greek cause for independence from the Ottoman Empire.
After Greece declared its independence in 1821, many Europeans, inspired by Philhellenism—a romanticized admiration for ancient Greek culture—came to Greece to offer their support. The French contingent was particularly notable for its contributions. These volunteers included soldiers, doctors, and intellectuals who believed in the cause of Greek independence and contributed with both their resources and their lives.



In general, we’ve seen few weddings happening in the town. I guess it is a hotspot for wedding pictures.







Funny enough, this pier had a lot of cats and I just saw, somone added a marker in the Google maps called Bingus The Sweet Kitty.

If you will stroll Bompoulinas alley, yo uwill see a pedestrian street with a lot of restaurants. We chose to eat herea at Elatos Tavern. We’ve pre-ordered a lobster when passing by as they said they run out of lobster pretty soon. Was it worth it? It was delicious, but not much of the lobster and a lot of pasta, which stuffed our stomachs very quickly. Even a little kitten loved the pasta taste. I would never guessed it would eat that kind of food.




Fortress of Palamidi (Φρούριο Παλαμηδίου)

The Fortress of Palamidi is a significant historical landmark located near the city of Nafplio. Built during the Venetian occupation in the early 18th century, it served as a formidable defense structure against various invaders.
Construction of the fortress began in 1711 under the supervision of General Antonio Sanfelice, an Italian military engineer. It was named after the mythical hero Palamedes, who according to legend, was the founder of ancient Nafplio.
The fortress is situated atop a hill overlooking Nafplio and its surrounding area, providing a strategic vantage point. Its primary purpose was to protect the city and its port from potential attacks. The design includes eight bastions, all linked by massive walls and ramparts.

Despite its impressive defenses, Palamidi Fortress saw limited military action due to its completion coinciding with the decline of Venetian rule in the region. The fortress was eventually captured by the Ottomans in 1715 during their efforts to expand their empire in Greece.
During the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century, Palamidi Fortress played a critical role. In 1822, it was taken over by revolutionary forces led by Theodore Kolokotronis, a prominent Greek general. The fortress became a symbol of resistance against the Ottoman occupation and witnessed several battles during this period.

Following Greece’s independence from the Ottomans in 1830, Palamidi Fortress gradually lost its military significance. It briefly served as a prison for political dissidents before being converted into a tourist attraction in the late 20th century.
Plan your visit, as we arrived too late and the fortress when it was about to close, so we didn’t go inside. I think we still had 30min prior close and given the size of it it seemed not worth it. However, even when we went down to the old town we saw people still walking in there, so proabably the time is more for entrance not for leaving the fortress, but anyway plan at least an hour before clsoure. Also there was plenty of parking at that time, but not sure hot it is during busy time during the day as the parking lot wasn’t very big and might be an issue to park.


However, the trips was worth the views as the city looked really beautiful in a golden sunset light.

Bourtzi Fortress, Nafplion

The Bourtzi Fortress is an iconic maritime stronghold situated on a small islet in the harbor of Nafplion. Its history dates back to the Venetian period, specifically to 1473, when the Venetians decided to strengthen the city’s defenses against piracy and Ottoman invasions.
Constructed under the supervision of the Venetian architect Antonio Gambello, Bourtzi was initially designed as a classic Venetian fortress, featuring robust walls and artillery positions. The word “Bourtzi” is derived from the Turkish term “burc,” meaning tower, reflecting the fortress’s strategic importance during Ottoman rule.
During the Ottoman occupation, Bourtzi continued to play a critical defensive role. It was even used as the residence of the executioner for Palamidi Fortress’s prisoners and later as a prison. In the 19th and 20th centuries, following Greek independence, the fortress transitioned into various civilian uses, including a hotel and a tourist attraction.

Nafplion Lighthouse (Φάρος Ναυπλίου)
The Nafplio Lighthouse, also known as the Akronafplia Lighthouse, is located in the town of Nafplio, Greece. It has a rich and interesting history dating back to the 18th century.
The lighthouse was first constructed in 1707 by the Venetians, who were in control of the area at the time. It was built on the rocky peninsula of Akronafplia, overlooking the Gulf of Argolis. The original lighthouse was a simple tower structure with a lantern room on top.
In 1822, during the Greek War of Independence, Nafplio became the first capital of Greece. The lighthouse played an important role during this time, as it provided navigation for ships entering and leaving the busy port.
Over the years, the Nafplio Lighthouse underwent several renovations and upgrades. In 1897, it was replaced with a new lighthouse tower made of cast iron. This new tower was equipped with a Fresnel lens, which significantly increased its visibility and efficiency.
During World War II, Nafplio was occupied by the Axis powers. The lighthouse was used by German forces as a lookout point and observation post. It sustained severe damage during this time but was repaired and restored after the war.


Nafplion Akronafplia’s Castle (Κάστρο Ακροναυπλίας)
Akronafplia’s Castle, also known as the Acronafplia Fortress, is a historic castle located in the town of Nafplio, Greece. The castle sits atop a hill overlooking the town and the Argolic Gulf, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.
The history of Akronafplia’s Castle dates back to ancient times. The hill it is situated on was originally fortified by the ancient Greeks, who built defensive walls and used it as a strategic outpost. It served as a stronghold during various conflicts and was controlled by different empires throughout history, including the Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans.
During the Middle Ages, the Venetians significantly expanded and renovated the fortress. They reinforced its walls and added additional structures, turning it into a formidable stronghold. The castle played a crucial role in defending the town of Nafplio against enemy attacks for centuries.
In the early 19th century, during the Greek War of Independence, Akronafplia’s Castle was a key objective for both sides. The Greeks sought to capture it from the Ottomans, who had control over the fortress at the time. After a prolonged siege, the castle was finally liberated by Greek forces in 1822.
Following Greece’s independence, Akronafplia’s Castle served as a military outpost and prison. It remained an important strategic location until World War II when it was largely abandoned.
It is a pity we had no time to visit it as we stayed too short in Nafplion (just two nights!).

Nafplion Arvanitia Walking Area (Περιπατητική Διαδρομή Αρβανιτιάς)
Arvanitia Walking Area is a popular promenade located in the town of Nafplio, Greece. The area takes its name from the nearby Arvanitia Beach and has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Arvanitia Walking Area offers a scenic path that winds along the coastline, providing breathtaking views of the sea and the town’s iconic landmarks, such as the Palamidi Fortress and Bourtzi Castle. The promenade is lined with palm trees and benches, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.

Unfortunately on our visit the path was closed for visitors. I guess due to the falling stones. However, I saw some people sneak through the side of the fence and go there. Do it at your own risk.


Watch the video bellow for more info from locals.
Paralia Arvanitias (Παραλία Αρβανιτιάς), Nafplion
Paralia Arvanitias in Nafplio is famous for its beautiful sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. It is one of the most popular beaches in Nafplio, attracting both locals and tourists. The beach offers stunning views of the city’s old town and the imposing Palamidi fortress. Unfortunately we had not time to visit it.
Nemea – wine tasting
Nemea, located in the northeastern Peloponnese, is widely renowned for its significant contribution to Greek winemaking. The region is best known for its flagship grape variety, Agiorgitiko, which produces robust, full-bodied red wines. Nemea’s unique terroir, characterized by diverse microclimates and soil types, offers ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality grapes. The area’s elevation ranges from 200 to 800 meters above sea level, creating a variety of vineyard sites that contribute to the complexity of the wines. It is the largest wine meaking region in Greece.
Ancient records suggest that winemaking in Nemea dates back thousands of years, linking the region to ancient Greek mythology and the god Dionysus, the deity of wine. Modern viticulture in Nemea leverages both traditional practices and innovative techniques, ensuring the preservation of heritage while enhancing wine quality. Nemea hosts the annual Nemea Wine Roads event, which draws wine enthusiasts from around the world to explore local vineyards and taste the finest wines.
The region’s wineries are often family-owned and offer personalized wine-tasting experiences, showcasing the passion and craftsmanship that go into each bottle. Make sure to book your winte tasting if you love wine!
Useful tips
- Plan at least 3-4 nights in Nafplion
- Visit both castles
- Nafplion is very convenient strategically to visit Mycean ruins and Epidaurus.
- If you like cats, then this is the town for you!
- Parking is very difficult, so always park at the end of the marina. We always found a spot there.