Nafplion

Where: 145 km (90 miles) southwest of Athens

Why: The first capital of modern Greece, Nafplion, has one of the most pleasant ports and marble paved promenades in Greece. The Venetian fortress above and the mini-castle on the tiny island in the harbor are elements that have made Nafplion one of the most charming cities in the Peloponnese. It is also your ideal home base for day trips to the ancient sites at Argos, Nemea, Mycenae, Tiryns, Epidavros, and Ancient Corinth.

How to get there: By car, bus or train

By car: From Athens, head south towards the Corinth Canal

By train: There are several trains a day from Athens to Corinth and Argos, from where you can catch a bus to Nafplion. For train schedules to the Peloponnese: +302105131601.

By bus: For bus schedules to the Peloponnese: +302105134110

Approximate travel time from Athens: 3 hours

Don't miss: the Venetian Fortress of Palamidi; Bourtzi, the mini castle on a mini island in the harbor (a boat will take you there in the summer).

Beaches: Arvanitia, Karathonas

Must try: An ice-cream sundae at one of the many cafes on the promenade