Getting from Athens to Nafplio

If you are heading to Nafplio from Athens you are making one of the finest moves in Greek travel. Nafplio sits on a promontory on the Argolic Gulf in the Peloponnese, a neoclassical town of narrow lanes, elegant mansions and waterfront cafes that served as the first capital of modern Greece. The Venetian fortress of Palamidi rises above the town on a rocky hill, the small castle of Bourtzi sits on an islet in the bay and the old town below is one of the most beautiful in the country. The Argolis region around it is one of the richest archaeological landscapes in the world, with Mycenae, Epidaurus and Tiryns all within easy reach.

Getting there by air

Nafplio has no airport. The nearest airport is Athens, around 140 kilometres to the north. Flying is not a practical option for this route.

Take the train, bus or drive

The drive from Athens to Nafplio takes around 2 to 2.5 hours via the E94 through Corinth and the Peloponnese and is a good road. The KTEL bus from Athens Kifissos terminal runs several times daily to Nafplio taking around 2.5 to 3 hours. There is no direct train service to Nafplio.

Take the ferry

There is no ferry from Athens to Nafplio. The town sits on the Argolic Gulf and is accessible only by road.

Your best option

Drive or take the KTEL bus from Athens. Both are comfortable and the journey is under 3 hours. If you want flexibility for exploring Mycenae, Epidaurus and the wider Argolis region, drive or rent a car in Nafplio on arrival. The sites are spread out enough that a car makes a significant difference.