Port Guide | Greece | Dive Deep
Nauplia
August C. W. | Editor
Published on 2025-05-02
Welcome to Nauplia (or Nafplio, because nothing in Greece has fewer than three pronunciations and twice as many spellings), the picturesque port city determined to charm you silly and leave you ever-so-slightly sunburned. As Greece's first capital-back when Athens was still figuring out democracy and street parking-Nauplia boasts an absurdly photogenic old town chock-full of Venetian balconies, Ottoman fountains, and enough bougainvillea to make your Instagram followers thoroughly irritated. Looming above it all stands the mighty Palamidi Fortress, accessible by exactly 999 stone steps (or maybe it's 857-locals debate this vigorously after their second ouzo). First practical tip: skip the counting, hire a taxi uphill, and save your step-counter for winding cobblestoned alleys and seaside strolls. Once you've conquered historical sightseeing, surrender to the siren call of fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna; grilled octopus and cold retsina pair perfectly with Mediterranean sunsets and philosophical debates on Greek traffic etiquette. Enjoy your stay, adventurers-Nauplia awaits your curiosity (and your taste buds).
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Notes from the Editor
Nauplia is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history as Greece's first capital. Visitors should explore the Palamidi Fortress and enjoy local seafood at waterfront tavernas.
Where do cruise ships dock in Nauplia?
Port Name Nauplia
Country Greece
Region Southeast Europe
Ship Terminal Nauplion Port
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The port is approximately 1 km from the city center, easily accessible by foot, taxi, or public transport.
What's the weather like in Nauplia?
Best Season to Visit Spring and Summer (April to September)
Climate Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Weather Notes Summer can be very hot, with temperatures reaching peaks; it's best to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Temperature Range 70F to 90F (21C to 32C)
High Temp 95F
Low Temp 39F
Average Temp 65F
What do I need to know about Nauplia?
Language Greek
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 12,000
Timezone Eastern European Time (EET)
How do I get around Nauplia?
Taxi services and local buses are available; rental cars and scooters are common. Walking is also a feasible option due to the short distance to the town.
What are The Best Things to do in Nauplia?
Discover what you should do while you're in Nauplia.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Palamidi Fortress
Palamidi Hill, Nauplia
A Venetian fortress offering panoramic views over Nauplia.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Lion of Bavaria Statue
Michael Iatrou Street, Nauplia
A memorial monument symbolizing Bavarian influence in Nauplia.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation
Vasilissis Alexandras Street, Nauplia
A museum celebrating Southeastern Greek tradition through textiles and artifacts.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Tiryns Archaeological Site
Archaeological Site of Tiryns
Visit the remnants of this ancient Mycenaean city and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Arvanitia Promenade
Arvanitia Beach, Nauplia
A coastal walkway providing spectacular views of the Gulf of Argolis.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Karathona Beach Watersports
Karathona Beach, Nauplia
Enjoy kayaking and jet skiing at one of Nauplia's loved beaches.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Climbing at Vivari
Vivari, Argolis
Explore challenging climbing routes overlooking the Argolic Gulf.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Cycling tour to Argolis villages
Multiple locations, Argolis Region
Cycle through diverse landscapes and quaint Southeast European villages.
Distance from Terminal: 0 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Bourtzi Castle Tour
Island of Bourtzi, Nauplia
Explore the fortress island that protects the port of Nauplia.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Traditional shadow puppet show
N/A
Experience a lively traditional Greek Karagiozis performance.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Fishing tour with local fisherman
Nauplia Harbor
Partake in a traditional fishing experience alongside local fishermen.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Olive Oil Making Workshop
N/A
Participate in crafting traditional Greek olive oil.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Overnight Trips
Visit Nemea Vineyards
Nemea, Greece
Discover local Greek wines at one of Southeastern Europe's renowned wine regions.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Ancient Theater of Epidaurus
Epidaurus, Argolis
Attend performances at the stunning ancient theater renowned for its acoustics.
Distance from Terminal: 18.6 miles
Ancient Mycenae exploration
Mycenae, Argolis
Discover the historically significant Mycenaean palace and famous 'Lion Gate'.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
A Little Extra
Street-food market evening
Plateia Syntagmatos, Nauplia
Immerse yourself in Greek culinary delights at Nauplia's vibrant street-food market.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Greece Regional Tip
Tipping Practices A tip of around 5-10% is sufficient at restaurants, reflecting satisfaction with the service. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory at smaller establishments or cafes.