There are places in Greece that feel discovered, and then there is Nafplio—a city that feels remembered. Romantic, sun-washed, and deeply atmospheric, this elegant town on the Peloponnesian coast was the first capital of modern Greece, a role it held briefly from 1828 to 1834. Yet centuries later, it still carries itself with the quiet grandeur of a place that shaped a nation.
Just an hour and a half from Athens, Nafplio is the ideal escape: far enough to breathe differently, yet close enough for a spontaneous weekend getaway. Its cobblestone alleys, pastel neoclassical façades, gently swaying bougainvillea, and sparkling Argolic Gulf create a cinematic backdrop for slow days and lingering nights. For travelers craving a touch of history, culture, gastronomy, and seaside charm—all without the crowds—Nafplio is a revelation.
A Living Museum of Greece’s Past
Nafplio’s beauty is layered. Venetian fortresses cling to cliffs above the sea, Ottoman fountains hide in quiet squares, and neoclassical mansions line the old town like a row of polished pearls. The storied Palamidi Fortress, perched on a rocky hill with its legendary 999 steps, rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Argolic Gulf. Across the water, the island-fortress Bourtzi stands like a stone guardian floating in the harbor—an unmistakable emblem of the city.
History is not something you simply observe here; it envelops you. And yet Nafplio never feels static. It moves at an effortless Mediterranean rhythm.
A Sea Lover’s Haven—and a Yacht Dream
Every May, Nafplio hosts a luxury yacht show, attracting boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and connoisseurs of maritime elegance. Against the city’s neoclassical backdrop, the marina fills with gleaming vessels and international guests, turning Nafplio into one of the Peloponnese’s most sophisticated gathering spots. For anyone dreaming of a seaside celebration, it is also one of the most enchanting wedding destinations in Greece.
Neoklasiki Group: Where Local Heritage Meets Boutique Luxury
No introduction to Nafplio is complete without highlighting the Neoklasiki Group—a collection of boutique hotels and gastronomic spaces that embody the soul of the city. What makes the group truly unique is its ownership: all founders are Nafplio locals, deeply rooted in the region’s culture and history. Their properties are not simply hotels; they are carefully restored neoclassical mansions, each one honoring the architectural heritage of the city while offering refined contemporary comfort. Here is a closer look at the group’s standout gems.
Ilva Suites
Ilva Suites is the most luxurious stay you can find in Nafplio — a collection of refined suites with sweeping views and a serene, contemporary aesthetic. Several accommodations offer private pools or heated hydromassage tubs, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity that feels more like a private villa than a hotel. It’s an exceptional choice for travellers seeking privacy, indulgence, and some of the best views in town.
3 Sixty Hotel & Restaurant
Often described as a masterpiece—and even recognized by Greece’s Minister of Culture as a work of art—3 Sixty occupies a grand neoclassical maison in the heart of the old town. Every room is individually styled, blending modern luxury with aristocratic charm: high ceilings, ornate mirrors, rich fabrics, and hand-selected designer furnishings.
Downstairs, the celebrated 3Sixty Grill Dining • Wine Bar sets the tone for Nafplio’s elevated dining scene. With creative Greek cuisine, premium meat dishes, elegant cocktails, and a wine list showcasing both local and international labels, it is a destination in its own right.
Castellano Hotel
A refined boutique hotel nestled in the very center of the old town, Castellano combines neoclassical elegance with intimate comfort. Many rooms open to postcard-perfect views over Nafplio’s rooftops and promenades. The hotel features two expansive luxury apartments boasting multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and generous living areas. It can comfortably accommodate large family groups or gatherings of up to 20 people, making it ideal for celebrations or extended stays.
Ippoliti Hotel
A neoclassical jewel with 19 boutique rooms, Ippoliti is known for combining traditional aesthetics with warm sophistication. Its most remarkable feature is the only swimming pool in the historic center—a rare luxury that transforms a summer stay into a truly indulgent experience.
Nafsimedon Hotel
The first property of the Neoklasiki Group, Nafsimedon Hotel, occupies an elegant 1880 mansion and holds a special place in the city’s history: it became Nafplio’s first traditional hotel in 1998, setting the foundation for boutique hospitality in the region.
Xenon Café & Xenon Inn
Located on the main square, Xenon Café is a beloved morning ritual for both travelers and locals. Its breakfast—fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, and hearty Mediterranean specialties—is best enjoyed outdoors, amid the cheerful hum of the city.
Upstairs, Xenon Inn offers charming rooms, each adorned with a unique custom painting, giving every guest a sense of staying inside a small gallery of Nafplio’s artistic spirit.
Amalie Suites
Amalie Suites is a small, beautifully restored neoclassical boutique property in the very heart of Nafplio’s old town. With just a handful of elegant suites, it combines warm, modern design with an intimate, home-like feel. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the city on foot while enjoying a calm, stylish retreat.
Nafplio: A Place That Stays With You
Whether you come for a quiet weekend, a coastal adventure, a wedding celebration, or a stay immersed in neoclassical elegance, Nafplio has a way of staying with you. It is a city that captures the essence of Greece—not the Greece of postcards, but the Greece of lived moments: sunlit mornings, marble squares, ancient stones warmed by the day, and evenings filled with soft music and sea-scented air. And with the Neoklasiki Group curating some of its most exceptional stays, Nafplio becomes not just a destination, but a beautiful memory waiting to be made.
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