Hi we have 6 nights to spend. I’m thinking of 3 in Nafplion (any hotel recommendations are appreciated), exploring around that area (we will have a car), and then one other spot for 3 nights to do the same. I was thinking of Monemvasia as the 2nd spot, I read in another post that someone was disappointed there (of course knowing travel is all subjective). I’ve learned over our past two trips we don’t want to move around too much, (we did that in Italy, and while we covered a lot, it was also a lot). Goal is to really be able to settle in, soak up the culture and really enjoy our time without being rushed. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1388 posts
A good option is Mystra. About two hours from Nafplio and just under that down to Monemvasia or across to Pylos.
The site at Mystra, the last Byzantine capital, is spectacular and the village at the base is pretty and surprisingly undeveloped for somewhere so close to a major site. We’ve stayed several times at the Byzantion Hotel which is nothing special - a standard C class - but comfortable enough and with a small pool.
https://byzantionhotel.gr/gallery/
You can eat in the village, we like the Tavern Hellen just round the corner, or a few minutes drive is the Taverna Orres near a small spring.
The scenery around Mystra is spectacular and it’s worth mentioning the Cave Temple of Lagadiotissa
Have a great trip.
Alan
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1376 posts
Nafplion is a delightful place to base yourselves for 3 nights. There are several antiquities nearby. Be sure to find a hotel in the old town area. We have always stayed at hotel Agamemnon. Its the only hotel in the city right on the water .
I cannot imagine why anyone would be disappointment in Monemvasai unless they stayed in the town. We have always stayed in the walled village on the rock. The hotels are in restored period rooms around the village. Its a real treat sleeping in an authentic 14th century walled village.
One thing you might want to do either coming or going to Athens is a stop at Ancient Corinth. Its a site from Biblical times. The bonus is right beside that site you can visit the mighty fortress at Acrocorinth. It has 360 degree views over the countryside.
Some images
I also suggest you visit Mystras it was the last Byzantine city and is well worth a visit.
Corinth Area. https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157711755443483
Peloponnese, Mani and Monemvassia. https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157711323535897
Nafplio https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157632094108982
Posted by
4424 posts
You can choose one pretty spot to just chill and enjoy, or you can select a "base" form which you will visit several other locations as day trips. Nafplio is great for both. For your second spot, I would peruse the Bradt Guide to see what other places you wish to see, as driving distance was the determining factor for me. Many of hte other attractions often listed here are fairly scattered--Mystras in the center, Messene and Olympia in the west.
Posted by
34 posts
Hi Mary,
Napflion is lovely and the perfect base for part of your trip. We have stayed at the Aetoma on three separate occasions and loved it.
For your second base I can highly recommend either Pylos or Limeni. In Pylos, the Karalis Beach Hotel is amazing. In Limeni, Limeni Village Hotel offers the most amazing views! Also, Pirgos Mavromichali is a beautiful inn with access to swimming if that is important to you.