Exploring the Historical Charms of Nafplio, Greece

Bridging the Past and Present: A Day of Exploration in Nafplio

Today was a fascinating blend of ancient engineering marvels and modern-day pleasures. Isabella and I set out to explore the Isthmus of Corinth and immerse ourselves in the local culture of Nafplio. It's incredible how much history is packed into this small corner of the world, and I'm excited to share our experiences with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Noa Verde Nafplio. The January air was crisp, with temperatures hovering around 13°C (55°F), so we layered up before heading out. The restaurant offered a delightful view of the water, and the Bourtzi Castle looked majestic in the morning light. I opted for a traditional Greek coffee to kickstart my day, while Isabella enjoyed a light pastry. Noa Verde had a few vegan options and a friendly staff.

Fueled and ready, we embarked on our journey to the Isthmus of Corinth. The drive itself was scenic, with glimpses of the Gulf of Corinth sparkling in the distance. As we approached the Isthmus, the sheer scale of the Corinth Canal became apparent.

The Corinth Canal is a narrow waterway that connects the Saronic and Corinthian Gulfs. The canal is about 6 km long. It's an amazing feat of engineering that has been in the works for centuries. The idea of creating a canal dates back to 602 BC, but it wasn't until 1893 that the vision became a reality.

Standing at the edge of the canal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The steep walls of the canal dropped dramatically to the water below, and I imagined the countless ships that have passed through this narrow passage over the years. The canal effectively makes the Peloponnese an island. Although the canal is currently open for navigation, I learned that extensive restoration works are expected to be completed by January 2026. It's reassuring to know that efforts are being made to preserve this vital maritime passage for future generations.

The Isthmus of Corinth is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance, a bridge between the past and the present.

After spending a good amount of time at the Isthmus of Corinth, we made our way back to Nafplio. We decided to visit Parko kykloforiakis agogis, hoping to enjoy a leisurely stroll. While the park itself was a pleasant green space, it was relatively quiet, and we didn't linger for too long. Perhaps it's more popular during the warmer months.


Discover the serene beauty of Nafplio's park, a perfect retreat for relaxation and scenic views in the heart of Greece's historic town.

With appetites building, we headed to Kellari Nafplion Restaurant for lunch. This restaurant is known for its authentic Greek dishes and fresh seafood. We started with some classic mezes, including tzatziki and dolmades, before indulging in a hearty serving of grilled octopus with fava. The portions were generous, and the service was friendly. I even had a nice chat with our server, George, who shared some local insights and recommendations. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere. From our table, we had unobstructed views of the sea and harbor.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Kellari Nafplion Restaurant – where every dish tells a story.

As the afternoon sun began to dip, we decided to explore Nafplio's vibrant nightlife. We ventured to CuCuRuCu Nafplio, a wine bar known for its Italian-inspired ambiance. The decor was a mix of rustic charm and modern elegance. Isabella and I sampled a few local wines, savoring the flavors of the Peloponnese region. We shared a mortadella pizza. The staff was friendly and attentive. CuCuRuCu is ranked highly within the Google grading system.


Experience the authentic flavors of Greece at CuCuRuCu in Nafplio, a grill restaurant renowned for its exquisite dishes and warm hospitality.

For dinner, we chose Cavo, a restaurant that had been recommended to us by several locals. Cavo offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. I decided to try the Bon fillet, calf fillet with velvety parsnip puree. Isabella opted for the seafood risotto. We enjoyed a bottle of local wine with dinner. The staff were amazing and very attentive.


Discover Cavo in Nafplio: A delightful blend of authentic Greek cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service awaits you.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate the blend of history and modern life that Nafplio offers. The Isthmus of Corinth was a powerful reminder of the ingenuity of past civilizations, while the local restaurants and bars provided a taste of contemporary Greek culture. As I prepare for tomorrow's adventure to the Theatre at the Ancient City of Epidaurus and the Arvanitia Walking Area, I'm filled with anticipation for more discoveries and unforgettable moments.

Tomorrow, we plan to have breakfast at Wild Duck. The weather forecast predicts similar conditions to today, with moderate temperatures and a chance of rain. I'm glad I packed my jacket! Perhaps we'll do some shopping at Greek Aether.

Even though I forgot my travel adapter and sunglasses back in Edmonton, this trip has been wonderful so far. I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country with Isabella. It's moments like these that make life truly special.