3 Days in Argolida: Nafplio, Mycenae, Epidaurus
Three days is the ideal amount of time to see not just Nafplio, but all of Argolida's Mycenaean heritage, without rushing from monument to monument.
Day 1: Nafplio Itself
Dedicate the first day entirely to the town — Palamidi in the morning, Old Town and Psaromachalas in the afternoon, Bourtzi at sunset. For a full hour-by-hour breakdown, see the 2-day itinerary, Day 1.
Day 2: The Mycenaean Heart of Argolida
Morning: Start with Mycenae — the Lion Gate, the Treasury of Atreus. Budget 2-3 hours.
Midday: On the way back, stop at Tiryns — only 45 minutes to 1 hour needed.
Afternoon: Head to Argos — a 20,000-seat ancient theatre, Roman agora, Hadrian's aqueduct, all in Greece's oldest continuously inhabited city.
Evening: Return to Nafplio for dinner — a quiet evening after a full day of archaeology.
Day 3: Epidaurus and Wine
Morning:Epidaurus deserves its own quiet day — the most perfect theatre of antiquity, a UNESCO monument.
Afternoon: Head to Nemea for Agiorgitiko wine tasting, the Temple of Zeus, and the ancient stadium — a relaxed close to the trip.
Alternative for Nature Lovers
If you'd prefer something more active than Nemea on day 3, consider hiking Arachnaio — the mountain that, according to myth, relayed news of Troy's fall to Mycenae.
Practical Tips
- A car is essential for Days 2-3 — not well served by public transport
- Start early each day in summer — Mycenae and Epidaurus have no shade at all
- Bring water and a hat on all outings
See Also
Do I need a car for 3 days in Argolida?
Yes, essential for Days 2 and 3, since the archaeological sites aren't well served by public transport.
What's the best order for the 3 days?
Nafplio first (settling in, no driving), then the more demanding archaeology day, and finally the more relaxed wine day.
Can I add a 4th day?
Yes, a good addition would be a beach day (Tolo or Karathona) or hiking Arachnaio.
