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Holidays in Tolo

Visit the town of Nafplio from Tolo

THE BEAUTY OF NAFPLIO

Walk in the Old Town of Nafplio

NAFPLIO VIEW FROM PALAMIDIz

Explore the First Capital of Greece

THE STORY OF NAFPLIO

About Nafplio's History

Nafplio is one of Greece’s most beautiful and historically rich towns. Located in the Peloponnese, just two hours from Athens, it was the first capital of modern Greece and a place of cultural significance. With its elegant neoclassical buildings, cobbled streets, and sea views, Nafplio's charm captivates visitors from all over the world. The town’s history stretches back thousands of years when it served as a port for the city of Argos in the 7th century BC. It has seen many rulers Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans all of whom left a visible mark on the town's architecture. The Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the early 18th century, it still towers gracefully above the town. Below it, the fort of Bourtzi sits on a small islet in the harbor, once protecting the town from pirates and invaders. The landmarks are part of what create a unique scenery in Nafplio, but also connect it to the centuries of history in the area. Today, Nafplio is known for its relaxed pace, friendly atmosphere, and rich cultural life. The Old Town is a pleasure to explore lined with shops, cafés, souvenir shops, bard and restaurants hidden in narrow alleys. The central square, Plateia Syntagmatos, is a meeting point and a centre of local life, surrounded by historic, neoclassical buildings and lively cafés.

Tolo Taverna on the Beach

Best Summer Holidays in the Peloponnese

The Old Town of Nafplio

Dive into Nafplio's history and explore important sites & monuments

Beyond sightseeing, Nafplio offers access to some of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Tiryns are all nearby, making it a perfect base for travelers interested in ancient history. The town is also close to beaches like Karathona and Arvanitia, and the wider region of Argolida is full of coastal villages, orange groves and vineyards.

Nafplio's Palamidi Castle at Night

Palamidi
Castle/

Built atop a 216 meter high hill, overlooking the city of Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf, Venetian fortress, constructed in the early 18th century, is a masterpiece of military architecture. Explore its eight bastions, named after ancient Greek heroes (e.g., Achilles, Themistocles) and the central bastion of Aghios Andreas. Accesible via the famous 999 steps for breathtaking views, or take the easier route by car to the Palamidi entrance.

Sea Fortress of Bourtzi in Nafplio Port

Bourtzi
Fort/

An iconic Venetian fortress situated on a small islet in the middle of Nafplio's harbor, offering a great view from the waterfront promenade. Built in 1473 by the Venetians to protect the city from sea invasions and pirate raids. Its Turkish name "Bourtzi" means "tower". Take a short boat ride from Nafplio's port to reach this island fortress, only a 10 minute ride. Explore the castle and see Nafplio, the Palamidi, and the surrounding sea from a different perspective.

Akronafplia's Walls over the beach of Arvanitia

Akronafplia
Castle/

The ancient acropolis of Nafplio, Acronafplia, was built on the rocky peninsula that the Old Town expands under. This is the oldest part of Nafplio, with fortifications dating back to ancient times, continuously inhabited through Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman periods. Wander through the ruins of its ancient walls, gates, and towers and get a sense of Nafplio's history. You can access it via paths from the Old Town or by car from the way to Arvanitia beach.

Central Square of Nafplio in the Morning

Syntagma
Square /

The heart and central square of Nafplio's Old Town. A hub steeped in history, Syntagma Square has witnessed countless significant events. It was renamed "Syntagma" (Constitution) after the demand for a constitution in 1843. This charming square is surrounded beautiful, neoclassical buildings, including the impressive Venetian-era Archaeological Museum of Nafplio, and the Vouleftikon which served as the first Hellenic Parliament. Enjoy coffee at one of the many cafes, observe local life.

Land Gate in Nafplio and the Grimani Bastion

Land
Gate /

On the side of the Old Town, under Akronafplia, one can find the historic entrance to the town of Nafplio. Built in 1708 during the second Venetian occupation, this was the sole land entrance into Nafplio. It closed at sunset, with a drawbridge over a seawater moat, isolating the city. Partially demolished in the late 19th century, one can see parts of its original stone structure, including a weathered stone lion, the symbol of Venice, and the family crest of the commander Grimani.

Church of the Assasination of Kapodistrias

Church of
Saint Spyridon /

A small, unassuming church found in a quiet street within Nafplio's Old Town. This church holds great historical importance as the site of the assassination of Ioannis Kapodistrias, Greece's first governor, on September 27, 1831. While seemingly modest from the outside, the church's interior features beautiful frescoes. A noticeable bullet hole encased in glass at the entrance commemorates the tragic event, serving as a reminder of an important moment in modern Greek history.

Walk of Arvanitia to Karathona    under Akronafplio

Arvanitia
Promenade /

A paved path that wraps around the base of the Akronafplia headland, starting from the harbor and leading to Arvanitia Beach. While not a monument this promenade is a beloved and iconic feature of Nafplio, offering stunning views and a popular place for walks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Argolic Gulf, Bourtzi Castle, and the dramatic cliffs. It's especially popular for sunset walks, providing exquisite opportuinities for photographs.

EXPLORE THE PELOPONNESE FROM TOLO

Sites to see Around Tolo

Its location makes Tolo an excellent base for exploring the wider Argolida region. Ancient sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Tiryns are all within reach, while Nafplio offers shopping, culture, and nightlife just a short drive away. Yet many choose to stay in Tolo, enjoying the beach, taking a boat trip to nearby islets like Romvi and Koronisi, or simply relaxing at a café with a view of the sea!

Ancient Mycenae

The legendary city of Mycenae was once the heart of a powerful civilization that dominated all over the eastern Mediterranean.

Ancient Epidaurus

One of the most iconic archaeological sites in Greece, the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is world-famous for its perfect acoustics and harmonious design.

Activities in Tolo

Have a refreshing swim, explore the ocean scuba diving, or extend your adventure to the iconic islands of Hydra, Spetses, and Poros for a captivating full-day island-hopping experience.

Ancient Tiryns

Ancient Tiryns is known for its enormous Cyclopean walls that got their name because ancient legend said only giants could have moved the stones.

Nafplio Old Town

The Old Town of Nafplio is a charming blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and neoclassical influences. Cobbled streets wind past pastel-colored buildings, shaded squares, and elegant balconies.

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