Private Day Trip to Corinth & Nafplio, Athens

Explore Venetian castles, Ottoman-era fortresses, and perfectly preserved Old Town on this private day trip to Nafplio. Gaze out over the Aegean and Ionian seas as you follow the Corinth Canal, then climb 999 steps to reach the hilltop fortress of Palamidi. Take a boat ride over to the "floating" castle of Bourtzi to discover its Venetian architecture and colorful history, then head to the city's historic center, where you can wander atmospheric alleys and duck into local cafés and artisan shops. Your driver will give you plenty of time to explore independently at each site, or you can hire a licensed guide for a deeper dive.

Start your day early with a pick-up from your Athens hotel and the two-hour drive to Nafplio, a historic city offering a blend of beautiful architecture and fascinating heritage. Accompanying you will be a knowledgeable local driver, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey. Your first stop is the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Ionian to the Aegean. Here, you can take your time to snap some photos and enjoy the walk across the historic bridge that links the two sides of the mainland.

Your adventure continues to the towering Palamidi Fortress, a remarkable testament to Venetian architecture perched on a 790-foot (240 m) hill. If you're feeling adventurous, you can ascend the 999 steps to reach the fortress, which takes about 30 minutes and rewards you with spectacular views. Prefer a more relaxed approach? Your driver can take you to the top, allowing you to save your energy for the descent, where you'll be treated to panoramic vistas. After soaking in the history and scenery of Palamidi, you'll embark on a short but delightful boat ride to the floating Bourtzi Castle, an island fortress in Nafplio's harbor.

After exploring the castles, your driver will guide you to the heart of Nafplio's picturesque center. Here, you have the opportunity to wander through the charming streets at your own pace. Take in the vibrant atmosphere, explore quaint cafés, and perhaps indulge in a delicious local meal. Your driver, equipped with local expertise, can recommend some top-notch dining spots to satisfy your taste buds before you get back on the road for Athens later in the afternoon.