Nafplio Car Hire

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Nafplio might not be on the radar of many international tourists, but Greeks have been coming here for decades. Billed as one of the most romantic cities in the whole of the country, Nafplio curls majestically around the Argolic Gulf and offers picture-perfect views at every corner. It’s an ideal base for those looking to explore the wider Peloponnese region, but between its historical sights, sandy beaches and tasty tavernas, there’s plenty to keep holidaymakers happy.

To help you make the most of your trip to Nafplio, you can book your car in advance at the most competitive rates with Enjoy Travel!

Guide of Nafplio

Geography

Nafplio is a coastal city that sits on a peninsula jutting into the Argolic Gulf, on the northeast Peloponnese coast. It encompasses a large port and a steep hill, with a terrain characterised by rocky outcrops and islets. Inland, you’ll find the Argos Valley and mountains carpeted with olive groves and fruit orchards. The city is protected by two natural bays which boast beautiful beaches and calm waters.

Climate in Nafplio

Nafplio has a typically Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summers kick off in June and last until September, with average temperatures of 28.3°C. July is the driest month to visit, with just 8mm of precipitation throughout the month.

The coldest time of year to visit Nafplio is January, when temperatures average 8°C. The rainiest month in Nafplio is December.

Culture

According to Greek mythology, Nafplios (the son of Poseidon and Danaus) founded the city of Nafplio. The town dates back to antiquity, which is evidenced by its crumbling relics and fascinating monuments. The town flourished under the Byzantine empire, though Frankish Venetian and Turkish rulers have all left their stamp on the city’s culture, architecture and traditions.

Interestingly, Nafplio was among the first towns liberated during the Greek War of 1821 and became Greece’s first modern capital between 1823 and 1834. Today, the town is beloved for its neo-classical buildings, many of which were built during this period.

Things To Do in Nafplio

Meander around the medieval Old Town

The Old Town is a maze of winding cobblestone streets and elegant squares hugging the waterfront. At its heart is Syntagma Square – Constitution Square – a grand piazza lined with marble tiles and storied statues that tell the history of the city’s past. The mosque and old Parliament building are well worth a mosey around. There are several interesting monuments and grand mansions worth visiting here too.

Brush up on local history at the Archaeological Museum of Nafplio

The Archaeological Museum of Nafplio boasts an impressive collection of artefacts ranging from Neolithic tools to ancient Mycenaean pottery. The bronze body armour, known as “Dendra Panoply” is one of its crowning jewels. You can find the museum in a renovated Venetian mansion on Constitution Square.

Sunbathe at the beach

Thanks to its sheltered bays, Nafplio isn’t short on beautiful beaches. There are four official beaches dotted around the town, but Arvanitia is one of the most popular. A short walk from the old town via a romantic stone path, the beach features crystalline waters and soft pebbles. If you prefer sandy beaches, head to Tolo Psili Ammos Beach, a short drive from the city centre.

Hop on a boat to Bourtzi castle

Bourtzi is one of the town’s most unique sights. The imposing castle is set on a tiny islet, a short boat ride from the Old Town. The Venetians built the castle in 1473 and the executioners of Palamidi once lived here. It later became the home of two governments, and then transformed into a luxury hotel. Today, the islet hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Take a romantic stroll along the promenade

The Arvanitia promenade is a one km paved path connecting the tiny port to Arvanitia beach. The alley is partially carved into the rocks and meanders past fields filled with prickly pears, secluded swimming spots and a tiny chapel dedicated to the Holy Mary. The views over the gulf and the town’s many fortresses are nothing short of mesmerizing.

Clamber up to the top of Palamidi Castle

It’s a sweaty climb up 999 steps to reach the top of this former prison, but the views from the summit are worth the effort. The Venetians built the castle in just three years between 1711 and 1714, using it as a fortress. Theodore Kolokotronis, a hero of the Greek Revolution, was famously imprisoned here.

Eating Out in Nafplio

Nafplio is a popular weekend destination for holidaying Greeks, so there are plenty of excellent restaurants, tavernas, cafes and bars to choose from. Some of the best food can be found in the Old Town and along the port promenade.

Located steps from Constitution Square I Gonia Tou Kavalari is one of the most popular eateries in town, for good reason. Tuck into traditional small sharing plates like fried marida fish and shrimp saganaki to the lively sounds of the bouzouki playing traditional rebetiko music. Aiolos is a true farm-to-table experience, with dishes made with produce collected daily from the owner’s fields. Or, for a more upmarket experience, try 3Sixty. Housed in an elegant neoclassical building in the historic heart of town, the restaurant offers Mediterranean and Japanese fusion dishes, inspired by the local landscape.

If you’ve had your fill of local wines, make a stop at Karonis Distillery. The 5th-generation business specialises in ouzo, tsipouro and mastika, and runs tours and tastings throughout the year.

Transport

Airport

There is no airport in Nafplio. The closest airport is Athens International Airport (ATH), located around 138 km from Nafplio. Most domestic and international airlines serve the airport, including British Airways, EasyJet and Aegean Air. From here, you can either take the bus or hire a car to make the 1.5-2 hour drive.

Getting Around Nafplio

Like most of Greece, the bus is the standard overland public transport system. KTEl buses connect Nafplio to most neighbouring towns like Epidaurus, Argos and Porto Heli, as well as bigger cities like Athens and Patras. However, buses can be irregular and may operate on a seasonal timetable. For maximum flexibility and easier access to the town’s famous sights and surrounding attractions, we recommend hiring a car.

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FAQs about car hire in Nafplio

Most frequently asked questions about hiring a car in Nafplio

Car hiring prices in Nafplio start at €34.00 per day.
Budget and Europcar are the most popular car hire companies in Nafplio.
The driving distance between Nafplio and Athens is around 85 kilometers.
The average price of a litre of fuel in Nafplio can vary between €1.76 and €1.60.
The budget friendly choices between small cars in Nafplio start at €221.23 for a week, which is about €31.07 per day.
The most affordable car hire options in Nafplio for an entire month go for €904.67, or €30.72 per day.
The best time to travel to Nafplio is from late April to mid June and from early September to mid October (according to average temperatures).
Bourtzi Castle is the best place to start exploring Nafplio.

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