Nafplio stands out as one of Greece’s most charming and romantic cities, packed with Venetian architecture, lush alleyways, and panoramic views. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, and the variety of tours available offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely stroll through historic streets or a deep dive into ancient sites, Nafplio’s tours provide a rich taste of Greek culture. We particularly like the Nafplion – City Walking Tour for its personal touch and expert guides, which offers a relaxed way to see the highlights.
Beyond just sightseeing, Nafplio’s tours allow you to experience the city’s layered history, from the Venetian fortress of Palamidi to the archaeological wonders of Mycenae. If you want a quick overview, the City Walking Tour of Nafplio is perfect — it’s short, lively, and filled with insider stories. For those craving a more comprehensive experience, the Nafplio: City Walking Tour offers a deeper exploration over three hours, including local dining. And if ancient ruins and snorkeling are your thing, the Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city combines history with ocean adventures. Below, we’ll review each tour in detail to help you find the best fit.
1. Nafplion – City Walking Tour
Starting with our top pick, the Nafplion – City Walking Tour is cherished for its small group size and personalized approach. It’s priced at $118.49 per person for roughly 2 to 3 hours. This tour is a wonderful choice if you want to experience Nafplio’s highlights at a relaxed pace, with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories that bring history to life.
The tour kicks off from your hotel and includes walking through the Land Gate, the only entrance to the Venetian city, and visiting the Cathedral of St. Spyridon, where Ioannis Kapodistrias was assassinated. The guide then leads you to Syntagma Square, lined with Venetian and neoclassical buildings, including the First Parliament of Greece and the War Museum. The highlight is climbing up to Akronafplia Fortress for breathtaking city views. The tour covers approximately 2 to 3 hours, with round-trip hotel transfers included, making it an easy, seamless experience.
Guests praise the guide’s enthusiasm, detailed knowledge, and the opportunity to see hidden corners of Nafplio. One reviewer shared, “Gina was very knowledgeable about Nafplio’s ancient history and made the experience very engaging.” This tour suits travelers wanting a rundown while enjoying a small-group atmosphere, perfect for conversation and questions.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive introduction to Nafplio with expert storytelling, ideal for history fans and first-timers who want to see the city at a relaxed pace.
2. City Walking Tour of Nafplio
For a quick yet thorough taste of Nafplio, the City Walking Tour of Nafplio is a great option. Priced at $94.95 per person, it lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes and is perfect if you’re short on time but want to get a good sense of the city’s main sights.
This tour begins from your hotel or the port, moving through key locations like the Land Gate, Syntagma Square, and the Old Mosque. The guide highlights traces of Venetian, Ottoman, and Frankish influences, making it a compact history lesson in architecture and culture. The walk also touches on Nafplio’s role as Greece’s first capital, providing context for its significance.
One of the best parts is visiting Mpourtzi, the Venetian fortress on the harbor, which is often photographed and beloved. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable the guides are, with one commenting, “Our guide was very informative and made the city’s history come alive in just 2 hours.” It’s suited for first-time visitors who want an overview without much walking or time commitment.
Bottom Line: An efficient, engaging way to see Nafplio’s highlights, especially suited for travelers with limited time or a preference for shorter tours.
3. Nafplio: City Walking Tour
The Nafplio: City Walking Tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $113 per person. It’s slightly longer and more in-depth than the previous options, making it an excellent choice for those eager to learn more about the city’s stories and visit a local restaurant.
Throughout the tour, you’ll explore the charming alleys and see the city from Akronafplia Fortress, which offers stunning panoramic views. The guide discusses Nafplio’s architecture, history, and cultural evolution, with special attention to how the city reflects a blend of Italian, Greek, and Ottoman influences. The itinerary includes stops at key landmarks with explanations about their historical importance.
Guests appreciate the enthusiasm and local knowledge of the guide Gina, who is praised for her friendliness and storytelling. One reviewer wrote, “We learned so many new things about Nafplio and enjoyed visiting lesser-known spots along the way.” This tour is best suited for travelers interested in a deeper dive, including a visit to a local restaurant to sample regional produce.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, engaging experience for those wanting a detailed look at Nafplio’s past and present, with enough time for questions and local tastings.
4. Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & Snorkelling in Sunken City
If combining ancient sites with a splash of the sea appeals most, the Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city tour stands out. At $144 per person, this 11-hour tour offers a full-day adventure packed with history and outdoor fun.
It starts with a pickup from Athens, then visits the archaeological sites of Corinth and Mycenae, where you’ll see iconic ruins and learn about Greece’s earliest civilizations. The highlight is exploring the underwater remnants of a sunken city in the Aegean, where you can snorkel and marvel at the crystal-clear waters filled with fish and ancient stones. The tour also includes a visit to the health center of Asclepius, giving you insight into ancient medicine.
This tour is ideal for active travelers interested in history, archaeology, and ocean adventures. Reviews mention the memorable experience of swimming in ancient waters and the well-organized itinerary. It’s quite a long day, so it suits those comfortable with a full schedule and travel.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history and adventure enthusiasts wanting a full-day, multi-sensory experience that combines ruins with swimming.
How to Choose the Best Nafplio Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, pace, and budget. For a relaxed, detailed exploration with plenty of local stories, the Nafplion – City Walking Tour is hard to beat. If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of the city, the City Walking Tour of Nafplio offers a quick intro. For those wanting a deeper dive into history, the Nafplio: City Walking Tour combines sightseeing with cultural context.
And if your adventure spirit extends beyond Nafplio, the Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city provides a full-day experience blending archaeology with ocean fun. Budget-wise, the short tours focus on core sights, while longer tours like the full-day option offer more immersive experiences.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure spots and get the times that best fit your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Nafplio offers a variety of tours, from quick overview walks to in-depth explorations of ancient sites. For a balance of comfort and insight, the Nafplion – City Walking Tour is a standout. For those with limited time, the City Walking Tour of Nafplio provides a quick but memorable introduction. And if you’re eager for a full-day adventure that mixes history and outdoor activity, the Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city is worth considering.
No matter your choice, Nafplio’s welcoming streets and historic charm make each tour a worthwhile investment. Be sure to book in advance during the busy seasons to enjoy these experiences at their best.
