Athens Nafplio Private Tour Includes Boat Ferry for Bourtzi

Explore Greece Beyond Athens with a Private Nafplio Day Trip

This private tour to Nafplio, priced at $168.13 per person, offers a full-day adventure lasting approximately 7 to 8 hours. Departing from Athens, the tour combines scenic drives, historical sites, and charming town exploration. It features hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a boat ferry to visit Bourtzi Castle, making it ideal for those seeking a personalized experience.

The tour is designed for flexibility and comfort, with group discounts available and WiFi onboard. One of the key highlights is the inclusion of admission tickets at major stops like Palamidi Castle and Akronafplia Fortress. While the driver is not a licensed guide, they possess deep local knowledge, enhancing the experience with informative commentary. This tour suits travelers interested in history, scenic views, and authentic Greek towns, with a pace that allows plenty of time for wandering and photos.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with exclusive vehicle use
• Includes visit to Nafplio’s waterfront and old town for relaxed exploration
• Stops at Corinth Canal, Palamidi Castle, and Akronafplia Fortress with included admission tickets
• Boat ferry ride to Bourtzi Castle offers a unique view of Nafplio’s fortifications
• Duration of 7 to 8 hours ensures a comprehensive yet manageable itinerary
• Hotel pickup and drop-off provide added convenience

Starting from Athens: Scenic Drive and Logistics

The tour departs from McDonald’s Ermou 2 in Athens and involves a drive of at least 1 hour and 45 minutes to Nafplio. During this time, travelers enjoy WiFi and comfortable seating in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a professional driver at the wheel. The private transport ensures a smooth, relaxed start to the day, avoiding crowded group settings.

This setup is perfect for those who prefer tailored travel experiences, and the private nature means your group can set the pace and stop for photos or breaks as desired. The tour ends back at the same meeting point in Athens, providing seamless logistics.

Visiting Corinth Canal: A Spectacular Waterway

The first stop is the Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering connecting the Aegean Sea with the Adriatic. The 15-minute stop offers plenty of time to admire the narrow waterway, which stretches about 6 km and features steep cliffs on either side.

This site provides an excellent photo opportunity, with views that showcase Greece’s impressive infrastructure. The admission is free, making it a quick but impactful introduction to the journey. While brief, this stop highlights Greece’s historical commitment to connecting its waterways for trade and movement.

Palamidi Castle: Panoramic Views and Greek Independence

The tour next visits the 17th-century Palamidi Castle, perched high above Nafplio. The admission ticket is included, allowing visitors to explore the fortress freely. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Nafplio’s old town and the Argolic Gulf.

As you wander through the fortress walls, the atmosphere teems with stories of Greek independence and military history. The 1-hour stop provides ample time for photos and soaking in the scenery from this strategic vantage point. It’s a highlight for history buffs and those who appreciate scenic overlooks.

Exploring Nafplio’s Old Town and Waterfront

The heart of this tour is the 2-hour exploration of Nafplio, Greece’s first capital of the modern state. The town’s narrow streets, lined with colorful restaurants, cafes, and local shops, invite leisurely wandering.

You can stroll in Syntagma Square and browse local products, soaking in the town’s vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors find this part of the tour perfect for discovering authentic eateries, buying souvenirs, or simply enjoying the charming streetscape. The free exploration time allows for personal discovery and photos of Nafplio’s picturesque old buildings.

Bourtzi Castle: A Boat Ride to a Historic Fortress

One of the tour’s unique features is the boat ferry ride to Bourtzi Castle. Built in 1471 by architect Antonio Gambello and completed by engineer Brancaleone, this fortress sits on an island in Nafplio’s harbor.

While the castle itself is not entered, the ferry trip provides stunning views of Nafplio’s coastline and the fortification. The boat ride is an engaging way to see the castle up close without the need for a separate ticket, adding a maritime element to the tour. The pass-by allows for memorable photos and an understanding of Nafplio’s defensive architecture.

Akronafplia Fortress: Outside Views and Breathtaking Vistas

From outside, the Akronafplia Fortress offers a Venetian-style defensive structure that crowns the city. The 15-minute stop is perfect for snapping photos of Argolic Gulf and the city’s skyline.

Although visitors don’t go inside, the external views are enough to appreciate the fortress’s strategic placement and historical significance. The free admission makes this a quick but rewarding stop to capture Nafplio from above.

Included Amenities and Extra Comforts

This tour comes with several thoughtful inclusions to enhance the experience:

• Bottled water for hydration during the day
• WiFi onboard for sharing moments or staying connected
• Air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort
• Private transportation offers exclusivity and flexibility
• Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, airport, or port
• Liability insurance for peace of mind
• The boat ferry to Bourtzi is part of the package, adding a special touch

What Is Not Included and Considerations

While the driver is knowledgeable about the sites, they are not licensed to serve as a guide inside museums or historic sites. This means detailed guided commentary on site-specific histories is limited. Travelers seeking in-depth historical narratives may want to consider this when planning.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. Since the drive is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, those sensitive to long car rides should prepare accordingly.

Flexibility and Cancellation Terms

Booking this private tour offers the advantage of free cancellation, up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility allows for adjustments if weather or other circumstances change. The experience depends on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is available.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This Nafplio day trip appeals most to visitors who want a personalized, relaxed exploration of Greece’s coastal town, with highlights like Palamidi Castle and Bourtzi Castle. It suits families, history enthusiasts, and those seeking scenic views without the hassle of planning multiple transfers.

The private nature makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible schedule, and the included boat ferry adds a charming maritime element to the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Nafplio Private Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, combining scenic drives, historic sites, and free time in Nafplio’s vibrant old town. The inclusion of the boat ferry to Bourtzi provides a special perspective on Nafplio’s coastal defenses, and the admission tickets at key sites ensure seamless access.

While the driver is not a licensed guide, their deep local knowledge enriches the journey with helpful commentary. The comfort and privacy of this tour make it a strong choice for travelers seeking an intimate experience outside Athens.

Overall, this tour provides excellent value for its price, especially for those who want to explore Nafplio at a relaxed pace with personalized service. It’s perfect for history lovers, scenic fans, and anyone wanting a hassle-free day trip from Athens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, airport, port, or Airbnb in Athens.

How long is the drive from Athens to Nafplio?
The drive takes at least 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Corinth Canal, Palamidi Castle, Nafplio Old Town, Akronafplia Fortress, and a boat ferry ride to Bourtzi Castle.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, tickets for Palamidi Castle and Akronafplia Fortress are included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, with comfort provided by private transport.

What is not included?
The driver is not licensed as a guide, so additional site guidance is not provided.

How much time do I get to explore Nafplio?
You have about 2 hours for self-guided wandering in Nafplio’s old town and waterfront.

Is there a walking component?
Yes, stops at castles and exploring Nafplio involve walking, but the pace is flexible.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of private transport, scenic stops, and ferry ride makes this a personalized and engaging way to experience Nafplio.