My current trip plans include Athens, Hydra, and Napflio, with sidetrips to the nearby ancient sites. I had planned to go to Monemvassia, but I now see that it is 3.5 hours from Napflio, and the return trip to Athens would be even that much longer. This place sounds and looks so unique. Give it a miss, or go through with the trip.
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
It was enjoyable for me as it is quite unique. The setting is very interesting. However I am not sure it warrants a big detour and long drive. It is a place to walk around and discover nooks and crannies and hike to the top. I see it as a gd place to stay for a few days to simply reflect and be at peace especially in eve. Check pics of the island to get the idea of what it is like.
Posted by
Edmonds, WA 🌨 ☂
11179 posts
Are you considering traveling from Nafplio to Monemvasia to Athens in one day?
If so, even though it is a unique destination, all you will do is travel all day for the opportunity of a drive by photo.
You probably would do well to spend your limited time at one of your other destinations
Posted by
Last Frontier aka Alaska 🏔️
3227 posts
We leave in 2 weeks for the RS Athens & Greece tour. Monemvasia is one of the places I look forward to the most, it seems unique and I want to take photos.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7299 posts
It’s a splendid visit, but I question whether it is worth 7 hours travel as a daytrip. We saw it as a substitute small-ship cruise port, when a storm made Mykonos too hard to reach.
Perhaps it’s like a waterfront blend of Pérouges and Evora? It also figures in a Patrick O’Brien novel.
Edit: Have you made plans for Delphi? That's very suitable for a day out from Napflion.
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1388 posts
I’ve spent a few days there on a couple of occasions and it is really spectacular and atmospheric. But I’m with those who say it’s just too far for a short stay.
If you’re looking for an alternative side trip from Nafplio but one that leaves you closer to Athens, you might consider the Diakofto-Kalavryta rail trip.
http://www.greece-is.com/news/diakofto-kalavryta-railway-120-years-beauty-history-2/
Full disclosure we did it yesterday so I may be biased :-)
Alan
Posted by
12 posts
We absolutely loved Monemvassia. However, we did it as a one night stop over after Nafplion and on the way to Kardamyli. Agree that while it is unique you might have to save it for the next trip :-)