How to Plan Your Full Day Trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus from Athens

If you are looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Athens and are interested in exploring ancient Greek history, the full-day trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus is just for you. In this guide, we provide you with all the essential information to plan your tour and make the most out of your experience.

Tour Overview

On this tour, you will travel to the ancient Greek capital of Nafplio and explore its significant landmarks with a qualified archaeologist as your guide. The tour allows you to customize your Nafplio experience, whether that’s climbing the 999 steps to the Castle of Palamidi or tasting some ouzo at a local distillery. After exploring Nafplio, you will head to the Great Theater of Epidaurus. There, you will learn about the ancient festivals held millennia ago and have a guided tour inside the site. With this full-day tour, you don’t have to rush around landmarks, instead, you can take your time and enjoy your day at your pace.

Tour Details

The tour includes a round-trip transportation from Athens in new luxurious air-conditioned buses, with a trip attendant archaeologist-historian who speaks both English and Greek. The tour package includes discounted tickets for children under 12 years old, making it a family-friendly adventure. Additionally, you will have access to free Wi-Fi on board your vehicle, so you can share your travel snaps with friends immediately. The tour’s entrance fee to the sites is included in the package, so you don’t have to worry about additional costs.

Tour Itinerary

The full-day tour starts with a pickup from Chalandri in Athens in the early morning. Once the group is assembled, you will head south towards the Peloponnese region. First, you will explore the ancient Greek capital of Nafplio. The qualified archaeologist will guide you to Nafplio’s significant landmarks, including Palamidi Castle and Bourtzi fortress in the middle of the sea. You can also take some personal time to explore the charming town or stop by a local distillery to try some ouzo. After exploring Nafplio, the tour continues to the Great Theater of Epidaurus. There, you will learn about the ancient Greek festivals and have a guided tour inside the site. You will get a chance to explore the immense theater and appreciate its acoustics, ambiance and see how it has remained relatively intact throughout the years. After the tour, you will head back to Athens with fond memories of your full-day tour.

Tour Tips

To make your full-day tour more enjoyable and comfortable, here are some tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses if you plan on exploring in the sun
• Carry a bottle of water to keep hydrated throughout the journey.
• Bring your camera or smartphone to capture memories of your tour.
• Book your tour at least a day or two in advance and arrive at pickup points on time.

Booking Your Tour

Are you ready to embark on a full-day tour of Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus? Visit the following link to book the tour: book the tour here. In conclusion, the full-day trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus is an excellent way to explore Greece’s ancient history and take a break from the frenzy of Athens. Customizing your time in Nafplio with the guidance of a qualified archaeologist and learning about the ancient Greek festivals in Epidaurus makes for a memorable and exciting day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Athens

1. What is Athens?

Athens is the capital city of Greece and is known for its rich history, ancient architecture, cultural heritage, and bustling urban vibe. It is also the largest city in Greece and a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year.

2. What are some of the top attractions in Athens?

Athens is home to several iconic landmarks and historical sites that attract visitors from all over the world. Some of the top attractions in Athens include the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Plaka District.

3. When is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is between March and June or September and November. During these months, the weather is milder, and the crowds are generally thinner than during the hot and busy summer months. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and the heat, the summer months (July-August) are also a popular time to visit Athens.

4. What is the weather like in Athens?

Athens has a Mediterranean climate, which means the summers are hot and dry, while the winters are mild and wet. The average temperature in Athens during the summer months (June-August) is around 30°C (86°F), while in the winter months (December-February), it hovers around 10-15°C (50-59°F).

5. What are some good areas to stay in Athens?

Athens offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Athens include the Plaka District, the Monastiraki District, and the Kolonaki District. These areas offer easy access to the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and shopping districts.

6. What is the best way to get around Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trams, that are affordable and convenient. Visitors can also opt for taxis, which are readily available and relatively inexpensive compared to other European cities. Alternatively, visitors can also rent a car or a bike to explore the city on their own.

7. Is Athens a safe city for tourists?

Athens is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any big city, it’s important to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid theft and scams. Visitors are advised to keep an eye on their belongings, especially in crowded areas, and to avoid flashing expensive jewelry or cash.

8. What are some traditional Greek dishes to try in Athens?

Athens is known for its delicious and healthy Mediterranean cuisine, which includes dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves. Visitors should also try some of the city’s famous street food, like gyros and koulouri (a circular bread with sesame seeds).

9. What is the nightlife like in Athens?

Athens has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and cafes that stay open until the early hours of the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife in Athens include Psiri, Gazi, and Kolonaki, which offer a mix of trendy bars, rooftop lounges, and traditional tavernas.

10. How can I learn more about the history of Athens?

Athens is steeped in rich history, and there are several ways to learn more about its ancient past. Visitors can explore the Acropolis Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits from the ancient world, or visit some of the city’s famous ancient sites, like the Parthenon or the Temple of Olympian Zeus. There are also several tours, like the Athens walking tour, or the Athens bike tour, that offer an in-depth look at the city’s history and culture.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

If you are planning to visit Athens, Greece, there are plenty of things to see and do that will keep you busy for days. Located in the heart of Greece, Athens is famous for its rich history, beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. In this guide, we will take you through the top things you can do as a tourist in Athens.

1. Visit the Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous landmarks in Greece and is a must-visit for all tourists. Located on a rocky hill, the Acropolis is a collection of ancient ruins that date back to the 5th century BC. It is home to several iconic buildings, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. When visiting the Acropolis, it is recommended that you go early in the day to avoid the crowds and the heat. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the climb up the hill can be challenging. You should also bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is not much shade up there.

2. Explore the National Archaeological Museum

If you’re interested in Greek history and culture, then the National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts that date back to ancient Greece and explore the origins of Western civilization. Some of the highlights of the museum include the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism, and a collection of Cycladic statues. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is €10 for adults and free for children under the age of 18.

3. Take a stroll at the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora is another popular attraction in Athens, and it’s located right next to the Acropolis. The agora was the marketplace and political center of ancient Athens, and it’s home to several well-preserved ruins, including the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the agora and explore the ruins before stopping for a coffee or lunch at one of the nearby cafes. There are also guided tours available if you want to learn more about the history of the Ancient Agora.

4. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is located in the heart of Athens and is one of the largest temples ever built in ancient Greece. The temple was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods, and construction began in the 6th century BC. However, it wasn’t completed until over 600 years later in the 2nd century AD. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the temple, which include 15 towering columns that remain standing. There is also a small museum on-site that showcases artifacts from the temple’s construction.

5. Wander through the Plaka District

The Plaka District is a charming and colorful neighborhood located in the heart of Athens. Known for its stunning neoclassical architecture, narrow alleyways, and vibrant cafes and shops, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around. The Plaka District is home to several famous sights, including the Tower of the Winds, the Roman Agora, and the Athens Cathedral.

6. Take a day trip to the Temple of Poseidon

If you’re looking for a day trip outside of Athens, then the Temple of Poseidon is a great choice. Located on the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, the temple is perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Aegean Sea. The temple was built in the 5th century BC and was dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea. Visitors can explore the ruins of the temple before taking in the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.

7. Enjoy the Athenian Nightlife

Athens is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. If you’re looking for a quiet drink, then head to one of the many rooftop bars located around the city, where you can enjoy a drink and take in the stunning views. For a more lively night out, head to the Gazi district, where you’ll find some of the city’s best clubs and bars. There are also plenty of restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine, so you won’t go hungry. In conclusion, Athens is a city rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of things to see and do for tourists. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, museums, or vibrant nightlife, Athens has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city!