Short trip to Nafplion with kids

This romantic town seems to be ideal for couples, but there are many things to do in Nafplion with kids: walking along the streets with flowers, visiting castles, playing at the main square, going to the city beach, tour the old town on “Funbike” or ride on the city tour train. Or you can make them choose between the playground and the archaeological museum.

Once upon a time, Nafplion was the capital city of Greece, and today it is a favorite one-day destination for tourists coming from nearby Athens. This town looks a bit different from other seaside Greek towns because of its significant Venetian influence. Here, the Greek tradition is spiced with Venetian charm.

Flower Streets

Nafplion is on the world’s list of towns with the most magical streets shaded by flowers. Bougainvillea is a beautiful flower which decorates the alleyways of the old town. Walking through walls of flowers was really mesmerizing.

Flowers in Nafplion

The blooming bougainvillea in every alley

Promenade

The promenade is located just outside the old town area. If you want to have lunch or dinner, you can choose to eat at many of the restaurants along the promenade with an open sea view. It’s worth the short walk. The wide promenade is very popular with families who can let their children run around.

Having balance is the most important thing in life

Two Castles

There are two castles in Napflio. The biggest is Palamidi Castle on the top of the hill. This Venetian fortress is largely in ruins so there is not much to see. If you are not into ruins, you can still enjoy the view over the rooftops of the old city, a bell tower, and an ancient amphitheater.

Climb the 999 steps to Palamidi Castle

Climb the 999 steps to Palamidi Castle

Another castle is called Bourtzi and it is situated on a small island across the old town. This castle is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Peloponnese. If you don’t want only to gaze at the castle from afar, you can get into the boat and you will find yourself in a few minutes there.

Boutrizi Castle

Bourtzi Castle

Syntagma Square

Syntagma square is located in the heart of the old town. It is known for its giant plane trees that give shade all day long. It is a no-traffic zone so you can have coffee in peace while the children jump around. Many historic buildings are also located around the square, including the archaeological museum with an interesting collection of Greek pottery and other artifacts.

After playing at Syntagma Square you can visit the Archeological Museum

Best beaches in Nafplion

The beach of Arvanitia is just a stone throw away from the city. There’s a very nice sidewalk going there passing through a small tunnel in the cliffs. The beach has sun-beds with free umbrellas only if you order drinks at the beach bar. BUT … it is a very small beach so you need to get there early to get a lounger. If you have a car, there are more attractive swimming spots nearby. You can find them on this website.

Ancient massage

I have heard about many types of massages, but I didn’t know that there was an ancient Greek massage until I found one at the main square in Napflio. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to try it, but I guess it is valuable information for massage lovers.

If you travel to Greece, you might find some inspiration in our travel stories, because we aim to look at things from a unique point of view.