Romantic Nafplio

Maybe you have seen it already. Away from the shore lies Bourtzi Castle. You can get there by taking one of the boats in the harbour. The boats go there fairly often so no need to wait long.

This Venetian castle was built in the 1400s as part of Nafplio’s fortifications. It was used as protection against pirates, it also served as an executioner’s residence, hotel and restaurant, and now it is one of the main attractions. The castle is open daily.

Although the castle maybe isn't that spectacular, I bet you loved the boat trip, right? Hope you didn't get seasick! With both feet on the steady ground, it is time to walk towards your next stop.

Next up is a visit to the Komboloi Museum. The what? Maybe you have seen a man playing with them already: beads on a rope, also known as komboloi. Despite what you might think, the komboloi doesn't have any religious meaning but is tradition. There is always an uneven number of beads on the komboloi. The quality of the komboloi is important, and the style of the cord needs to suit you. The sound has to be good, it has to be easy to held and.... well, in the museum you can learn all about it. Don't know what to do with a komboloi? Here is a tutorial.
Beware the museum is closed on Tuesdays.

This statue shows Koloktronis, a very important figure in Greek history that played an important role in the battle with the Turks. It is not only the statue why you are here, the park where it stands is a lovely place where you can relax for a little while or take a stroll in the shade.

After a ten-minute walk, you will find Xenon Café where you have to taste the handmade doughnuts for lunch. You can also order things like 'Arabian pie'. It's the perfect place when you are a bit fed up with the heavy food you always seem to get in other Greek restaurants.

When I am travelling myself, I always want to see a square. It's the best place to check out the vibe of a place. This is one of the most important squares of the city, in old days and now. Just sit for a while and watch the world unfold before your eyes. There is always something to see.

In the historical museum of Nafplio, you will find objects from all kinds of historical periods. The majority of the items are very, very old, with the oldest dating from 32,000-21,000 BC. Wooooooow. The museum itself is to be found in the Venetian Naval Depository, which was built in 1713. So, to sum it up, the building is pretty cool, the exhibitions are very interesting and as an additional plus - in very sunny Greece it is always nice to enter a building at this hour.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 08:30 - 15:00 Monday: closed

The fun thing about Nafplion is the fact that many important historical places are just a few minutes apart. So, your next stop is just a five-minute walk. You will see the first parliament of modern Greece: Vouleftikon. Originally, this building was a Turkish mosque.

Up up up you go. Don't get mad, I know going up in hot weather isn't fun for everyone, but you will thank me later. The view from up here is incredible! Take your time to take some pictures and don't trip over the cannons!

While the sun is getting lower, take some time to take a last stroll alongside the coast of Nafplio. If you take the path next to the lighthouse, you will have a wonderful walk to let all the historical info sink in before you head for your car again.

Pick up your car.

Sightseeing can be tiring, so take a rest at this beach bar and, you know what? Order your dinner! Time to relax while enjoying some good food and watching the sunset.

You have arrived in another part of Nafplio. Tomorrow you will do a little more exploring before you drive back to Athens. Enjoy your night!