Where to stay in Nafplio: Old Town, Akronafplia and Tolo

Nafplio is perhaps the easiest getaway in the country: an hour and a half from Athens, an old town that can be walked end-to-end in twenty minutes, and three castles looking down from above. Precisely because it is small, where you stay in Nafplio largely dictates the experience — the difference between a neoclassical building within the cobbled streets and a hotel in the new town is greater than the 800 metres that separate them might suggest.

Below you will find what each area offers, eleven accommodations we have verified are open and operating, and the practical details no one tells you: where to park, how many stairs you will climb with your suitcase, and when the town gets busy.

Nafplio at a glance: what to know before booking

Built on the Argolic Gulf, in the eastern Peloponnese, Nafplio has around 15,000 inhabitants and a past disproportionately grand for its size: it was the first capital of the newly established Greek state from 1829 to 1834, where Ioannis Kapodistrias was assassinated, and where Otto disembarked. Before that, it passed through the hands of the Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans — and each left their mark on the stone.

What makes the city so photogenic is the combination of three fortifications. Palamidi, an 18th-century Venetian fortress, dominates from 216 metres and is connected to the town by the famous staircase of — according to legend — 999 steps (in reality, there are about 857). Akronafplia, the oldest castle, stands directly above the old town. And Bourtzi, the small island-fortress at the harbour entrance, is Nafplio's hallmark, accessible by small boats in summer.

The old town is a Venetian ensemble of cobbled streets, balconies with iron railings and bougainvillea. Vassileos Konstantinou Street and Syntagma Square with its Venetian Armory form the centre of life, while the coastal promenade of Akti Miaouli fills up from early afternoon. The Arvanitia path, a trail that circles the peninsula below Akronafplia, is one of the most beautiful walks in the Peloponnese and ends at the eponymous beach.

Nafplio also serves as an ideal base for exploring Argolida. Mycenae is 25 minutes away, the ancient theatre of Epidavros 30 minutes, Tiryns just 10, while the beaches of Karathona, Tolo, and Drepano are within a 5 to 15 km radius. During July-August, the Epidavros Festival fills accommodations every Friday and Saturday — if you are planning a performance, book very early.

Two practical points that directly affect accommodation choice: firstly, a large part of the old town is pedestrianised, so cars are left in public car parks outside it. Secondly, many neoclassical buildings are listed and do not have lifts; if you are travelling with small children, heavy luggage, or have mobility issues, explicitly ask about floors and stairs before booking.

Which area to choose

• Old Town: the heart of the experience — cobbled streets, neoclassical buildings, everything within walking distance. Less convenient for cars.
• Akronafplia: views of the Argolic Gulf and peace, with a slight uphill walk as a trade-off.
• New Town: lower prices, easy parking, 10 minutes' walk from the centre.
• Tolo / Karathona: for summer holidays with swimming and family.

Where to stay in Nafplio: 11 outstanding accommodations

Old Town — neoclassical and boutique

1. Grand Sarai Nafplio
A restored mansion in the old town, one of the most luxurious options in the area. Large rooms, carefully selected materials, and service reminiscent of a small resort within a historic building.

• Average cost: 260€ per night

2. Hotel Ippoliti
A classic neoclassical building in the old town, with a romantic style, rich fabrics, and rooms looking out over the rooftops. One of the most consistent choices for couples for years.

• Average cost: 150€ per night

3. Hotel Nafsimedon
An 1890s mansion near Kolokotronis Square, with high-ceilinged rooms and an internal courtyard for breakfast. Suits those who want an authentic historic building rather than a modern renovation.

• Average cost: 130€ per night

4. Hotel Aetoma
A small, family-run accommodation in one of the most beautiful squares in the city, next to Agios Spyridonas. Few rooms, warm hospitality, and an excellent location for an evening stroll.

• Average cost: 110€ per night

5. Byron Traditional Hotel
A traditional hotel below Akronafplia, known for its excellent value for money and rooms with period furniture. A good choice for a two-day trip without major expenses.

• Average cost: 95€ per night

6. Kyveli Suites
Suites in a restored building in the old town, with attention to detail and larger than average spaces. Ideal for anniversaries and for stays of three to four days.

• Average cost: 165€ per night

7. Leto Nuevo Hotel
A freshly renovated, modern hotel in a convenient location near the centre, with good breakfast and helpful staff. A good solution if you prefer a contemporary room over a classic neoclassical style.

• Average cost: 120€ per night

Akronafplia and views of the Argolic Gulf

8. Amfitriti Palazzo
High up in Akronafplia, with panoramic views of Bourtzi and the bay. The climb is worth it for the view from breakfast; if you have a car, it becomes very convenient too.

• Average cost: 145€ per night

New Town — affordable and convenient

9. Xenon Inn
A clean, friendly accommodation with excellent value for money, within walking distance of the old town and with easier car access.

• Average cost: 85€ per night

10. Hotel Rex
A simple, economical option in the new town, suitable for an overnight stay or for travellers who want to keep accommodation costs low and spend their money in the old town's restaurants.

• Average cost: 70€ per night

Tolo — for seaside holidays

11. Hotel Tolo
In Tolo, 12 kilometres from the town, right on the sandy beach that is the most popular in Argolida for families. Combines swimming with easy day trips to Nafplio and Mycenae.

• Average cost: 90€ per night

How much does accommodation in Nafplio cost?

A simple double room in the new town starts from 60-80 euros per night. Traditional hotels in the old town range from 100-160 euros, and boutique hotels or mansions with suites from 180-280 euros. Prices rise significantly on weekends throughout the year — Nafplio is primarily a weekend destination — as well as during Easter, the Dormition of the Mother of God (mid-August), and on performance days in Epidavros. If you can, travel on a weekday: the same accommodation often costs 30-40% less.

Practical tips before you book

• Ask about stairs and lifts. Most neoclassical buildings in the old town do not have a lift.
• Confirm parking. Very few accommodations within the cobbled streets have their own space; the rest will direct you to public parking 5-10 minutes away.
• Climb to Palamidi early in the morning or late in the afternoon — the unshaded stairs are difficult in the summer midday heat.
• If you want to swim, Karathona is the closest organised beach, while Tolo and Drepano offer more options.
• Book early for Epidavros. On festival weekends, the town fills up weeks in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Nafplio?

The Old Town. You are right in the cobbled streets, next to Syntagma Square and Akti Miaouli, and you do not need a car for anything. If you have a vehicle and want a lower price, the new town is a very reasonable alternative.

How many days do I need for Nafplio?

Two days are enough for the town, Palamidi, and a beach. With three days, you can comfortably add Mycenae, Epidavros, and a trip to inland Nafplio, such as Argos or Ancient Tiryns.

Can I get around without a car?

Absolutely within the city — everything is walkable. For Mycenae, Epidavros, and the beaches, a car makes things much easier, although there are local buses to Tolo and Epidavros.

Where do I park in Nafplio?

In the organised parking areas outside the old town, mainly in the harbour area and towards Arvanitia. The old town is largely pedestrianised, and illegal parking is monitored.

What is the best time of year to visit?

April, May, September, and October. You get good weather for walking and climbing to Palamidi, without the heat and crowds of August.

Is Nafplio suitable for families with children?

Yes, especially if you combine the town with a stay in Tolo or near Karathona. The town is safe and pedestrianised, but the cobbled streets and stairs require caution with a pushchair.

The conclusion

Nafplio doesn't need much planning — it just needs the right base. Stay in the old town if you want to experience its character, in Akronafplia if you're chasing views, in the new town if cost and parking are your priorities, and in Tolo if your trip also involves the sea. Whatever you choose, save an afternoon for the Arvanitia path at sunset.

See also our guides on where to stay in Athens and accommodation in Thessaloniki.