16/10/2019
Embarking on a journey from Athens International Airport (ATH) to the captivating coastal city of Nafplio promises an unforgettable Greek experience. Known for its Venetian architecture, charming old town, and historical significance, Nafplio is a true gem in the Peloponnese. While Athens Airport serves as a major international hub, reaching this picturesque destination requires a bit of planning. This comprehensive guide will illuminate your best transport options, ensuring your transition from arrival gate to the heart of Nafplio is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Whether you prioritise economy, speed, or sheer convenience, there's a travel method tailored to your needs. We'll delve into the specifics of buses, taxis, train-and-taxi combinations, and even car rental, providing you with all the essential details to make an informed decision for your Greek adventure.
By Bus: The Economical and Authentic Choice
Travelling by bus from Athens to Nafplio is often the most budget-friendly option, offering a glimpse into local life. While there isn't a direct bus service from Athens Airport itself to Nafplio, the journey is straightforward and involves a simple transfer at Athens' main intercity bus terminal, known as KTEL Kifissos (Stathmos Kiffisos).
Getting to KTEL Kifissos from Athens Airport
Upon arrival at Athens Airport, you'll need to take the X93 express bus service. This dedicated airport bus departs directly from outside the arrival hall, making it incredibly convenient. Tickets can be purchased at the airport before you board. The journey to KTEL Kifissos typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions, and costs approximately €5. The X93 operates regularly, ensuring minimal waiting time.
If you find yourself already in central Athens, you can reach KTEL Kifissos by taking bus No. 051 from the intersection of Zinonos and Menandrou Streets, just south of Omonia Square. Alternatively, a taxi from the city centre to the bus terminal usually costs between €5 and €15, depending on your exact pick-up location and traffic.
From KTEL Kifissos to Nafplio
Once at KTEL Kifissos, which is a large and well-organised bus terminal, you'll need to locate the ticket office for buses heading to Nafplio / Argolida. Buses to Nafplio depart frequently, generally every two hours, and operate daily from morning until evening, with some minor exceptions. The direct bus service from Athens to Nafplio arrives at Andrea Siggrou - Plateia Niketara in Nafplion.
The bus journey itself is quite comfortable, traversing through the scenic Greek countryside, including passing by Corinth and Argos. The trip typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to 2 hours and 20 minutes. A single ticket costs approximately €13. It's often advisable to inquire about a discount if purchasing a return ticket, as this can offer further savings.
Returning from Nafplio to Athens
When travelling back from Nafplio to Athens, please note that the bus usually makes a stop at the Eleonas metro station (on the blue line) before continuing to KTEL Kifissos. For those heading to central Athens or the airport, taking the metro from Eleonas can often be a faster and more efficient solution than staying on the bus all the way to Kifissos. Just ensure you board the correct metro train, as not all services extend to the airport. The metro journey to the airport takes approximately 45 minutes and departs twice every hour. Tickets can be purchased at the station machines, ideally with coins (around €10 as of 2016 prices for the airport line). For the city centre, the metro runs much more frequently and costs under €2.
By Taxi: Directness and Comfort
For those prioritising convenience and a direct route, a taxi from Athens Airport to Nafplio is an excellent, albeit more expensive, choice. This option eliminates the need for transfers and allows you to relax from the moment you land.
A private taxi trip from Athens Airport directly to Nafplio typically costs approximately €150. The journey usually takes a bit over one and a half hours, depending on traffic conditions and the exact destination within Nafplio. While you can find taxis readily available at the airport, it is highly recommended to pre-book your taxi, especially if you are travelling late at night or with a lot of luggage. The simplest and often most reliable way to arrange this is by asking the hotel you will be staying at in Nafplio to pre-book a taxi for you. This ensures a fixed price and a driver waiting for you, providing a seamless transition from the airport to your accommodation.
This option is particularly appealing for families, groups, or individuals with significant luggage, offering a private and hassle-free journey straight to your doorstep in Nafplio.
By Train and Taxi: A Combined Approach
While a direct train service from Athens Airport to Nafplio is not currently available, a combination of train and taxi offers an interesting and potentially cost-effective alternative to a full taxi journey. This method leverages Greece's modern suburban railway network.
From Athens Airport, you can take the 'Proastiakos' suburban train service. This train will take you to Corinth. A simple change at Kato Archane is sometimes required, but the train connections are generally well-coordinated. The journey to Corinth by train is efficient and comfortable.
It is crucial to note, however, that the train service from Corinth directly to Nafplio has been suspended for some time, and there is no clear indication of when or if it will resume. Therefore, upon arriving at Corinth by train, you will need to arrange for a taxi to complete your journey to Nafplio. Despite this additional step, taking the train to Corinth and then a taxi from there can still be a more economical choice than taking a taxi all the way from Athens Airport.
Similar to the direct taxi option, it is advisable to ask your hotel in Nafplio to pre-book a taxi for you to meet you at Corinth train station. This ensures a smooth onward journey and avoids any potential waiting times or difficulties in finding a taxi upon arrival in Corinth. The estimated cost for this combined journey (train to Corinth + taxi to Nafplio) typically ranges from €65 to €90, making it a viable mid-range option.
By Car Rental: Freedom to Explore
For travellers who desire ultimate flexibility and the freedom to explore the wider Argolis region at their own pace, renting a car directly from Athens Airport is an excellent choice. Numerous international and local car rental agencies operate at the airport, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit every need.
The drive from Athens Airport to Nafplio is relatively straightforward and scenic. From the airport, you can easily access the motorway network. Simply follow the signs initially for Elefsina, then continue towards Corinth, and finally, follow the clear signs directing you to Nafplio. The road quality is generally very good for most of the journey, making for a pleasant drive. There is a short section between Corinth and Nafplio that can be a bit narrower and winding, but it is easily manageable.
Calculating your journey time, you can expect to reach Nafplio in approximately two hours if you adhere to the speed limits. Renting a car not only facilitates your journey to Nafplio but also provides the independence to visit some of the more remote sights and beautiful beaches in the Argolis region, such as Mycenae, Epidavros, or the stunning beaches of Tolo and Porto Heli, which might otherwise be difficult to access by public transport.
Other Considerations: Ferries and Local Transport
Ferry Connections (Indirect)
While not a direct route from Athens Airport, it's worth noting that ferry services operate from Piraeus (Athens' main port) to coastal towns in the Argolis region, such as Ermioni and Porto Heli. High-speed ferries can reach these destinations in about 2 hours, while conventional ferries take around 3.5 hours. From Ermioni or Porto Heli, you would then need to catch a local bus to Nafplio. This option is generally more complex and time-consuming if your primary origin is Athens Airport, but it might appeal to those combining their trip with island hopping in the Saronic Gulf.
Local Transport in Argolis
Once you are in Nafplio, there are local bus services connecting to various places within the Argolis region. However, for exploring some of the more remote archaeological sites, charming villages, or secluded beaches, renting a car or a moped for a day or two is often more or less necessary to truly experience the depth of what the region has to offer.
Comparative Overview of Transport Options
To help you visualise the best option for your trip, here's a comparative table summarising the key aspects of each transport method:
| Method | Journey Time (approx.) | Estimated Cost (approx.) | Convenience Level | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (2 legs) | 2h 45m - 3h 30m | €18 - €20 | Medium | Most economical, involves transfer at KTEL Kifissos. |
| Taxi (Direct) | 1h 30m - 2h | €150 | High | Most direct, ideal for groups, pre-booking recommended. |
| Train & Taxi | 2h 30m - 3h | €65 - €90 | Medium | Train to Corinth, then taxi. Train to Nafplio is suspended. |
| Car Rental | 2h | Varies (rental + fuel) | High | Ultimate flexibility, easy navigation, ideal for exploring region. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get from Athens Airport (ATH) to Nafplio?
The journey duration varies significantly depending on your chosen mode of transport. A direct taxi or car rental typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. The bus journey, including the transfer at KTEL Kifissos, can take approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes. The train and taxi combination usually falls within the 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours range.
Is there a direct bus from Athens to Nafplio?
Yes, there is a direct intercity bus service from Athens (KTEL Kifissos bus terminal) to Nafplio. However, there is no direct bus from Athens Airport to Nafplio; you will need to take an airport express bus (X93) to the KTEL Kifissos terminal first.
What is the cheapest way to get from Athens Airport to Nafplio?
The most economical way to travel from Athens Airport to Nafplio is by taking the X93 airport bus to KTEL Kifissos, and then boarding an intercity bus from Kifissos to Nafplio. The total cost for this two-leg bus journey is approximately €18-€20.
What is the distance between Athens and Nafplio?
The distance between Athens and Nafplio is approximately 137 kilometres (about 85 miles) by road. The actual road distance is very similar, at 136 kilometres.
Is it better to take a taxi or bus from Athens Airport to Nafplio?
The 'better' option depends on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern, the bus is significantly cheaper. If you prioritise speed, directness, and convenience, especially if travelling with luggage or in a group, a taxi is the better choice. The taxi is more expensive but offers a seamless, door-to-door service.
Choosing the right transport from Athens Airport to Nafplio is key to starting your Greek adventure on the right foot. Whether you opt for the cost-effective public transport, the comfort of a private transfer, or the freedom of your own vehicle, each option offers a unique way to reach this magnificent destination. Plan ahead, consider your budget and preferences, and prepare to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Nafplio!
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