Guide to Nauplion

Beaches

Nauplion isn't known for its beaches. But that's probably because its Palidi fortress and pretty streets steal the limelight. But beach-lovers aren't entirely left out of the picture. In the town itself, you'll find two pretty beaches of smooth pebbles. Basking in the hot sun under the shadow of the Palidi walls and blessed by some of the clearest waters you'll ever clap eyes on, one even has its own old-fashioned changing cubicles in case you're feeling shy. It's a popular place to hang out for the afternoon after meandering around the town. And the clarity of its waters makes it a big hit with snorkellers and swimmers. If you're hankering after a full day lounging on the beach however, grab a bus or cab to Karathonas. Four kilometres south of town, this long sandy-pebble swathe sweeps around a sublime bay near the main entrance to the Palidi. Grab your swimsuit and towel because the sea here is out of this world. Better still, there's a taverna and beach bars on hand for refreshments. And that's not all. Between Karathonas and the town, you'll stumble across a couple of rocky bays backed by steep orange-red cliffs. Follow the rough tracks around the capes and you'll find plenty of places to swim from the rocks – manna from heaven for snorkellers. Or if you like your beaches with a fun atmosphere and plentiful facilities, take the bus to the buzzing holiday resort of Tolo and its delicious beach.

Shopping

In spite of its history, Nauplion is far from being preserved in aspic. It's a town full of life and it's awash with shops. So get ready for some great retail therapy Greek style. The main shopping areas are Constitution Square and Staikopoulo street, where you'll find a myriad of stores selling mementoes, fashions and especially high quality gold jewellery. You can also branch out into the quaint, steep streets of the old town. Clinging to the Palidi rock, they abound with enchanting gift shops, curio stores and art galleries that'll keep you reaching for your wallet. It's also worth digging around for the stock favourite of the Peloponnese – strikingly coloured village weavings and 'tagaria', shepherd's shoulder bags. Rather than just buy the bright new ones, rummage around the antique shops for the older ones – they're pricier but genuine finds. Rag rugs known as 'kourouloudes', dark wood carvings and Greece's famously chunky silver rings and pendants are other favourites. And if you're feeling flush or a serious Greek music aficionado, look out for the craft shops where making and selling bouzoukis and other instruments like 'aouds', 'baglamas' and wooden flutes. Don't forget to poke around the food stores and grocery shops to stock up with jams, honey and olive oil either. And give your feet and wallet a break with an invigorating dose of strong 'metrios' coffee – it's what the locals drink - at a sunny kafenion or cafe terrace to set yourself up for another spree.