Nafplion

Believe it or not Athens wasn't always the capital of Greece. 

Show On welcomes you to Nafplio, the first capital of Greece, after the establishment of the New Greek State from 1827 to 1834. Located in eastern Peloponnese, Nafplio is one of the best destinations for a one day excursion, since it’s less than a two hour drive from the center of Athens. 

It’s not surprising that its residents consider it one of the most beautiful and romantic getaway destinations in all of Greece. 

The first gem of the city is none other than Palamidi, a fortress constructed in 1687 by the Venetians. Palamidi is located on a hill 216 metres high and to access it there are two ways. The easy way: by car, or the more daring way: by the legendary stairway of the 999 steps. If truth be told the steps are 857, however till this day, it is known as the fortress of the 999 steps. Count them and see for yourself! 

Inside the fortress you'll have the chance to discover a charming quaint little village and the famous prison of Theodoros Kolokotronis, one the most famous Greek generals of the Revolution of 1821.  What you can't miss is the panoramic view of the sea and the town below including the second gem of the area, Bourtzi. 

Bourtzi is a medieval castle on a small island situated in the port of Nafplio. This castle was built by the Venetians in 1473 and its main usage for centuries was for warfare. During the 1930's it was renovated and became a hotel with only twelve rooms, receiving an honorary mention in some of the best international travel guides at the time. Both Palamidi and Bourtzi make Nafplio rightly special, however the soul of the city is none other than the Old Town itself, which extends north of the Castle of Akronafplia, from the Old Railway Station to the bastion of the Five Brothers.

Paved picturesque alleys, well-preserved neoclassical buildings, a historic center and traditional taverns that entice you with their distinct aromas. The ambience of the sights and sounds of the Old Town won’t disappoint you. 

History, culture, architecture, whatever you are most keen on, Nafplio has it all.