6-Day Athenian Riviera and Greek Island Adventure: Athens to Nafplio, Hydra, and Back

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer

Athens to Nafplio, Greece on June 16, 2025

9:00am

Arrival at Athens International Airport

Arrive at Athens International Airport and collect your luggage to begin your Greek adventure.
EUR0, 1h0m

10:00am

Drive from Athens to Nafplio

Take a scenic 2-hour drive (~140 km) south to Nafplio, a picturesque seaport town with Venetian architecture.
EUR50 (car rental or taxi approx.), 2h0m

12:15pm

Check into hotel in Nafplio

Settle into your accommodation and freshen up before exploring the town.
EUR0, 45m

1:00pm

Lunch at Aiolos Taverna

Enjoy traditional Greek dishes featuring fresh seafood in this popular local tavern. Open daily 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:15pm

Explore Palamidi Fortress

Climb the 999 steps or drive up to this Venetian fortress from the early 18th century with spectacular views over Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf. Open 8:00am-8:00pm.
EUR8, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Arvanitia Promenade

Stroll along this scenic coastal path offering stunning views of the sea and the old town, ideal for sunset.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pidalio Mezedopoleio

Savor traditional Greek mezedes with a modern flair in a cozy setting near the old town square. Open daily 7:00pm-11:30pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Nafplio Culture

Nafplio, Greece on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Piano Café

Enjoy a fresh Greek breakfast with coffee and pastries in this charming café located in Nafplio’s old town. Open 7:30am-2:00pm.
EUR8, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Bourtzi Castle

Take a short boat trip from the harbor to visit Bourtzi Castle, a small fortress on an islet guarding Nafplio’s bay. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR6, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore the Archaeological Museum of Nafplio

Discover exhibits covering the region’s rich history from prehistoric times through the Mycenaean and Classical periods. Open 8:00am-8:00pm.
EUR4, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Karima Restaurant

Enjoy high-quality Greek cuisine featuring local ingredients in a stylish setting near the waterfront. Open 12:00pm-4:00pm.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Arvanitia Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon swimming or sunbathing at this pebble beach located just a 10-minute walk from the old town center.
EUR0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Evening walk in Platia Syntagmatos

Visit the lively main square with cafés and bars where locals and visitors mingle at sunset.
EUR0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at To Omorfo Tavernaki

Dine on authentic Greek dishes in a friendly atmosphere, a favorite among locals. Open 7:00pm-11:00pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 3: Travel to Hydra

Nafplio to Hydra Island, Greece on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Creativa Café

Start the day with a great coffee and light breakfast in this well-reviewed local spot. Open 7:30am-2:00pm.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive from Nafplio to Piraeus Port

Return drive (~150 km, approx. 2.5 hours) to Athens’ main port for ferry to Hydra.
EUR50 (car rental or taxi approx.), 2h30m

12:15pm

Lunch near Piraeus Port

Grab a quick bite at Karapiperos, known for fresh fish and Greek tavern fare. Open 12:00pm-4:00pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Ferry to Hydra Island

Board the ferry to Hydra, approx. 2 hours journey with beautiful sea views. Ferries run regularly but confirm exact times in advance.
EUR25, 2h0m

3:30pm

Check into hotel on Hydra

Settle into your hotel and explore Hydra’s picturesque harbor on foot as no cars are allowed on the island.
EUR0, 30m

4:00pm

Visit Hydra’s Historical Archives Museum

Explore exhibits about the island's maritime history and local culture. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

6:00pm

Sunset walk to the Monastery of Prophet Elias

Enjoy a scenic one-hour walk uphill to this peaceful monastery overlooking Hydra and the sea.
EUR0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Sunset Hydra

Savor seafood with panoramic views of the harbor in this highly rated restaurant. Open 7:30pm-11:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Hydra Exploration

Hydra Island, Greece on June 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Omilos Café

Enjoy fresh Greek yogurt and fruits while overlooking the harbor. Open 7:30am-2:00pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Boat tour around Hydra Island

Join a 3-hour boat excursion exploring hidden coves, beaches, and the crystal-clear waters surrounding Hydra. Book in advance. Tours typically run 9:30am-12:30pm.
EUR40, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Techne Restaurant & Social

Dine on modern Greek cuisine in a vibrant art gallery setting. Open 12:00pm-4:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit the Kountouriotis Mansion

Tour this historic museum offering insight into Hydra’s shipping dynasty. Open 9:00am-3:00pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Vlychos Beach

Take a water taxi or hike to this quieter pebble beach located about 2 km from the town center.
EUR5 (water taxi approx.), 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mako’s Taverna

Enjoy authentic Greek dishes in a friendly local spot near the harbor. Open 7:00pm-10:30pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 5: Return to Athens

Hydra to Athens, Greece on June 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hydra Bay Café

Light breakfast with a view of the harbor to start your day. Open 7:30am-2:00pm.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:00am

Ferry from Hydra to Piraeus Port

Take the ferry back to Athens, journey duration approximately 2 hours. Confirm ferry schedules in advance.
EUR25, 2h0m

12:30pm

Transfer from Piraeus Port to Athens city hotel

Travel by taxi or public transport to downtown Athens to check-in and freshen up.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Sample a variety of Greek charcuterie and traditional dishes at this acclaimed deli restaurant. Open 12:00pm-11:00pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon

Explore the ancient citadel with iconic temples including the Parthenon. Open 8:00am-8:00pm. Prebook tickets recommended to avoid lines.
EUR20, 2h0m

6:00pm

Walk through Plaka neighborhood

Wander the charming old district featuring shops, cafes, and neoclassical architecture.
EUR0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Strofi

Dine with an Acropolis view offering authentic Greek cuisine. Open 7:30pm-11:30pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Cruise Departure Day

Athens, Greece on June 21, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick hotel breakfast before heading to the cruise dock.
EUR0 (included in hotel stay), 0h30m

8:15am

Transfer to Athens Cruise Port

Take a taxi or shuttle arranged by the cruise company to the port, approximately 30-45 minutes depending on location.
EUR20, 0h45m

9:15am

Arrive and check in at Athens Cruise Dock

Prepare and board your cruise ship for departure. Enjoy onboard amenities and Mediterranean sailing excitement.
EUR0 (ticket included in cruise package), Varies
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