WHAT TO DO IN NAFPLIO
Visit to Archaeological Sites
The Argolid region is rich in history and important archaeological sites. The city of Nafplio has three castles that can be visited: Palamidi, Akronafplia, and Bourtzi. It also has a very interesting archaeological museum located in the historic center of the city, housed in a imposing stone palace dating back to the Venetian rule. Very close to Nafplio, there are archaeological sites of enormous importance such as Tiryns, Mycenae, and Epidaurus, and other smaller but equally very interesting ones like Lerna, the Heraion of Argos, the archaeological site of Asini, etc.. Outside the Argolid region but still easily reachable are the archaeological sites of Nemea and the Heraion of Perachora, among many others.
The city of Argos, located just 11 km from Nafplio, is one of the few cities that has been continuously habited since antiquity. Unfortunately, during the 1970s, the city of Argos was aesthetically seriously damaged by its own inhabitants, who demolished the neoclassical houses that characterized the city in favor of ugly buildings with horrible aesthetics. However, significant traces of antiquity remain, with numerous excavations, archaeological sites, ancient theatres, and castles.
Here are some of the archaeological sites we recommend and some useful information for you:
Remember that at archaeological sites requiring an entrance ticket, there are certain days with free admission. These are:
* March 6th (in memory of Melina Mercouri)
* April 18th (International Day for Monuments and Sites)
* May 18th (International Museum Day)
* The last weekend of September each year (European Heritage Days)
* Every first and third Sunday from November 1st to March 31st
* October 28th
Tiryns
Just outside Nafplio, the first archaeological site you will encounter is that of Tiryns, with its Cyclopean walls visible from the road. It dates back to the third millennium BC and was first brought to light with an initial excavation campaign that began in 1831. The entrance ticket costs 10 euros, which also includes access to the museum.
Archeological site of Tiryns on Google
Mycenae
Approximately a 20-minute drive from Nafplio in the direction of Athens, you will find the archaeological site of Mycenae. Famous for the "Lion Gate," the symbol of the Argolid, and for the discovery of a golden death mask attributed to Agamemnon, the site of Mycenae is one of the most well-known and visited in the area. An entrance ticket of 20 euros is required, which grants access to the ruins, the museum, and the "Tomb of Agamemnon," located a few hundred meters from the main site entrance.
Mycenae Archaeological Site on Google
Near Mycenae archeological site.
Visit the Mycenaean Tombs path! You'll feel like Indiana Jones!
Completely off the tourist trail and virtually unknown even to many locals is the Path of the Mycenaean Tombs. It is located in the countryside adjacent to the main site of Mycenae. This path encompasses about ten Mycenaean tombs, some of which are excellently preserved.
There is no entrance fee, and you can visit freely. The trail takes about an hour and a half to walk, has a few slight uphill sections, winds through a natural setting among olive trees, and offers a stunning view of the entire valley. If you want to visit in the summer, I recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon. Be sure to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Epidaurus
The archaeological site of Epidaurus is very extensive and includes the Ancient Theatre, the Temple of Asclepius, the Ancient Stadium, the Sanctuary of Asclepius, and the Museum. The full-price ticket costs 20 euros and grants access to the entire archaeological site. If you happen to be on vacation in this area during the summer theatre season, I highly recommend going to see a theatrical performance. It will be impressive to see an ancient theatre that is still operational and hosts thousands of spectators.
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus on Google
Heraion of Argos
Between Tiryns and Mycenae, there are minor archaeological sites, but only in terms of size, not importance. Among these is the Heraion of Argos. At this lesser-known but very interesting archaeological site, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view, as it is situated on a hill.
Heraion of Argos Archaeological Site on Google
Ancient Nemea
Just outside the Argolid, in the Corinthia region, about 30 minutes from Nafplio, you can visit the archaeological site of Ancient Nemea, where Hercules performed one of his mythological labors. The modern town of Nemea is also highly regarded for its wine production. For tasting enthusiasts, it will be very pleasant to visit the numerous wineries located on the hills of Nemea.
Ancient Nemea Archaeological Site on Google
Lerna
From Nafplio, heading south and skirting the coast of the Argolic Gulf, you reach Lerna, another mythological location where Hercules performed another of his labors. In this small village, now called Myli, you can swim in the sea and also in a fresh, clear freshwater spring that flows into the sea. On the small harbor in front of the village, there are some tavernas where you can find fresh fish and a bit of relief from the hot Argolid summer.
Lerna Archaeological Site on Google
The Sanctuary of Hera at Perachora
The Sanctuary of Hera at Perachora is located 88 km from Nafplio and can be reached by car in about 1 hour and 25 minutes. It is situated on the Gulf of Corinth and is very impressive because it's located just steps from the sea. I recommend going to see it; you will be amazed!
Sanctuary of Hera at Perachora