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Nafplion Cruise Port Guide

Greece

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Nafplion, also known as Navplion or Nauplia, is a charming and elegant port town located on the eastern shores of the Peloponnese. Your cruise ship will anchor offshore, and you will be tendered to the pier of the busy harbor. Upon disembarking, turn right, and within just a few meters, you'll find yourself in the heart of the walkable Old Town. This area is rich with cafes, restaurants, and upscale tourist shops.

Nafplion holds historical significance, once known by its Venetian name, Napoli di Romania, which derived from the Greek "nea poli" meaning "new town." While fishing and transport continue, tourism is now the primary industry. The town boasts a stunning setting with marble pavements, homogeneous architecture, and three notable fortresses: Akronafplía and Palamídi defending the south, and the miniature Bourtzi castle on an island in the harbor. There are also two beaches located on the other side of the peninsula.

Getting Around from the Port

Nafplion's Old Town is exceptionally walkable and located just a few meters from the tender pier. You can easily explore its streets on foot.

For a broader overview and access to the hilltop fortress, consider these options:

Hop-on/off Bus: These buses depart directly from the tender dock every half hour when a cruise ship is in port. The fare is €8 and includes a short city tour before taking you up to the impressive Palamídi fortress.
Little Tourist Train: For €4, this train, operated by the same company as the hop-on/off bus, follows a similar route through town but does not go up to Palamídi fortress.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the port and can be hired for tours of the city or nearby attractions.
Walking to Palamídi Fortress: For the more adventurous, you can climb the 857 steps to reach the Palamídi fortress from town.
Free Bicycles: The municipality offers free bicycles for a day. You can pick them up in front of the Town Hall, near the KTEL bus station.

Attractions and Activities

With 8-10 hours in port, Nafplion and its surroundings offer a rich array of activities:

Within Nafplion:

Explore the Old Town: Wander through the marble-paved streets, enjoy cafes, and browse the upscale shops.
Climb Palamídi Fortress: Ascend the 857 steps to this imposing hilltop fortress for panoramic views. Entrance costs €8 for adults and €4 for children or those aged 65+.
Visit Akronafplía Fortress: Explore the older fortress that sits closer to town.
See Bourtzi Castle: This miniature castle is located on an island in the harbor, offering picturesque views.
Komboloi Museum: Discover the history and artistry of Greek worry beads.

Nearby Day Trips (requires taxi or pre-arranged tour, travel times not specified in reference):

Epidaurus: One of Greece's most famous ancient sites, recognized as the birthplace of Asclepius, the god of healing. It features a sanctuary known for unique spa medical facilities and healing treatments. The highlight is the exceptionally well-preserved 3rd-century theater, renowned for its incredible acoustics where a coin dropped in the center of its 14,000 seats can be heard from the highest row. Special performances are held here in the summer.
Mycenae: Step back in time to the Bronze Age at Mycenae, famous for its connections to Homer's tales. Explore the citadel (Acropolis) through the iconic Lion Gate, believed to have borne the insignia of the Royal House of Atreus. Other significant ruins include the Cyclopean Walls, the Circle of Tombs, and the well-preserved Beehive Tomb.

Dining & Shopping

The Old Town, just a few meters from the tender pier, is brimming with cafes and restaurants. Be sure to try local specialties.

Nafplion is particularly famous for its kombolois, or worry beads, crafted from amber and various other materials. You'll find numerous shops selling these unique souvenirs, as well as a dedicated Komboloi Museum. The Old Town also hosts many rather upscale tourist shops.

General shop opening hours to note:

Retail Stores & Specialty Shops: Typically open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 1:30 pm, then again from 5 pm to 9 pm. On Saturdays, they operate from 9 am to 2 pm.
Tourist Shops and Convenience Stores: These often have extended hours, usually opening from dawn and staying open well after midnight during the summer months.

Safety

Nafplion is generally a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. As with any travel, always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your personal belongings.

Currency and Language

Euro.

Top Attractions

Palamidi Castle

Ascend the 999 steps (or drive) to this impressive Venetian fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of Nafplion, the Argolic Gulf, and the surrounding landscape. Explore its well-preserved bastions, walls, and internal structures, delving into centuries of history.

Bourtzi Castle

This picturesque Venetian fortress, situated on a small islet in the harbor, is a defining symbol of Nafplion. Take a short boat trip to explore its unique architecture and enjoy stunning views back towards the city and the sea.

Acronafplia Fortress

Explore the ancient citadel of Nafplion, the oldest part of the city's fortifications, dating back to antiquity. Wander through its various sections, including Frankish, Byzantine, and Venetian additions, and enjoy elevated views over the Old Town.

Archaeological Museum of Nafplion

Housed in a magnificent Venetian building in Syntagma Square, this museum displays artifacts from the prehistoric to the Roman periods found in the Argolid region. Highlights include Mycenaean pottery, figurines, and a rare Bronze Age Dendra panoply.

Syntagma Square

The vibrant heart of Nafplion's Old Town, Syntagma Square is surrounded by historic buildings like the Old Parliament and the Archaeological Museum. It's a perfect spot to relax at a cafe, people-watch, and soak in the city's atmosphere.

Arvanitia Beach

A popular and easily accessible city beach located just below the Acronafplia fortress. Enjoy swimming in its clear waters, sunbathing, and the convenience of being a short walk from the town center.

Komboloi Museum

Discover the fascinating history and cultural significance of the Greek worry bead (komboloi) at this unique museum. Explore a vast collection of komboloi made from various materials, learning about their craftsmanship and role in Greek society.

Church of Agios Spyridonas

This historic church is famous as the site where Greece's first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was assassinated in 1831. Admire its traditional architecture and reflect on its pivotal role in modern Greek history.

Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation Museum

An award-winning museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Greek folk art, costumes, and cultural traditions. Explore its rich collections of textiles, jewelry, and everyday objects that illustrate the life and customs of the Peloponnese.

War Museum of Nafplion

Housed in the former Hellenic Army Academy building, this museum chronicles Greece's military history from the Greek Revolution to World War II. Exhibits include uniforms, weapons, flags, and historical documents.

Nafplion Harbor Promenade

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Nafplion's picturesque harbor promenade, offering stunning views of Bourtzi Castle and the Argolic Gulf. It's a perfect spot for an evening walk, enjoying the sea breeze and watching the boats.

Karathona Beach

Located a short drive from Nafplion, Karathona is a long, sandy beach with shallow, clear waters, ideal for families. It offers amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside tavernas, making it a popular choice for a relaxing day by the sea.

Lion of Bavaria

A unique and poignant sculpture carved into a rock face, commemorating Bavarian soldiers who died of typhoid fever in Nafplion in 1833-1834. It's a quiet, reflective spot offering a glimpse into the city's past.

Statue of Theodoros Kolokotronis

An imposing equestrian statue honoring Theodoros Kolokotronis, a revered general and hero of the Greek War of Independence. Located in a prominent square, it serves as a tribute to his legacy and a point of historical interest.

National Gallery - Nafplion Annex

This annex of the National Gallery of Greece showcases a collection of 19th and 20th-century Greek paintings, with a focus on artists inspired by the Greek War of Independence. It offers insight into modern Greek art and history.

Pili tis Xiras (Land Gate)

The historic Land Gate, once the only entrance to the fortified city of Nafplion from the mainland. Admire its impressive architecture and imagine the bustling activity that once passed through this vital gateway.

Catholic Church of the Transfiguration

A beautiful and historically significant Catholic church in the Old Town, reflecting Nafplion's Venetian and Frankish past. Its elegant architecture and tranquil atmosphere provide a unique spiritual experience.