We will be driving a rental car from Delphi to Nafplio in mid-May. There seem to be several routes with comparable times on Google Maps. Any suggestions on which route to choose and perhaps where we might stop for lunch (or other sightseeing)? Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1373 posts
The route we took was along the National highway after crossing the gulf at Patras on the amazing Rio-Antirrio Bridge. Its about 4 hours by car. Longer if you choose to visit Ancient Nemia along the way. It had sister games with Olympia and the stadium is still there. There is also a gated sight a couple of kilometres from the stadium. Well worth an hour or so of your time.
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1388 posts
I’d second stanbr’s suggestion of going via the Rio-Antirio bridge. Depending on your timings one possibility for lunch is Nafpaktos, a nice little harbour and an impressive fort. If you want to eat there the best bet is to go to the beach on the eastern side of the harbour ( so turn off left before the centre if you’re coming from Delphi). There are several nice tavernas which have tables by the sea.
https://www.greeka.com/sterea/nafpaktos/
An alternative, if you set off early, is to stop at Diakofto and take the trip on the spectacular rack and pinion train up to Kalavryta. It’s an hour or so each way and goes through amazing scenery.
https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en/rack-railway-diakopto-kalavrita-amazing-journey
Even if you don’t have time for the railway there’s a nice taverna by the sea at Diakofto.
Alan
Posted by
Chico, CA USA
207 posts
I would go west towards Patras, cross the bridge and go that way. The only problem is that you will be passing literally dozens of absolutely out-of-sight locations in the process.
I mean, off the top of my head from Nafplio to Delphi you'll pass Mycenae, Epidaurus, Argos, Nemea, Tyrins, Kalavryta, Corinth (acro-, ancient, canal), Patras, Olympia (though I recommend not doubling up with Delphi if time is of the essence - they are similar and Delphi is much prettier), Nafpaktos (!), Galaxidi.
But, if you are going to blast off and drive directly to Delphi I would stop at Nafpaktos for lunch. Visit the castle if you have time.
Posted by
OP
California
17 posts
Thank you - our plan is to do Delphi first and then see those sites from our next base in Napfilo.
Posted by
Jasper, GA, USA
85 posts
Another vote for the Rio bridge! Heads up, it does have a significant toll.