Set on a scenic bay in the eastern part of the Peloponnese, Nauplia is a captivating, must-see town. During the 1800s, it was the first capital of liberated Greece. The town is filled with Venetian and neoclassical buildings and has a relaxing atmosphere made to soak up time. Nauplia can be seen on a long day trip from Athens or combined with the attractions of Argolis or Bourdzie (a tiny offshore island that has a 15th-century fortress that looks absolutely stunning at sunrise or sunset). We prefer, however, to spend the night in Nauplia, where there's a fine selection of hotels and some splendid restaurants—a perfect romantic getaway for couples. Use the town as a base to see Corinth, Epidaurus and Mycenae. 50 mi/80 km southwest of Athens.
