🚗 Driving From Athens to the Peloponnese: Road Trip to Nafplio & Beyond

Remo Bernardini
Aug 3
4 min read

Hitting the Greek Roads Like a Local

So, you're in Athens, you've rented a car, and you're itching to explore the Peloponnese—home to ancient ruins, charming seaside towns, and some of the most underrated beaches in Greece. Good call!

This post gives you the full lowdown on how to drive from Athens to Nafplio, including every toll booth, highway turn, and roadside tip along the way. We’ll guide you from morning coffee to an afternoon swim in three gorgeous beaches: Arvanitia, Psili Ammos, and Karathona.

Let’s buckle up and dive in.

🛣️ The Route: From Athens to Nafplio

Total Driving Time:

About 2 hours (150–160 km)

Recommended Route:

Athens → Corinth Canal → Argos → Nafplio

Main Highways:

A8 (E94): Athens to Corinth
A7 (E65): Corinth to Tripoli (take exit for Argos/Nafplio)

💸 Toll Booths and Costs (as of 2025)

Driving in Greece means tolls—lots of them. Keep cash or a contactless card ready. Toll rates are subject to change, but here’s what you can expect:

Toll Station	Approximate Cost	Notes
Elefsina Toll Booth	€2.10	Right after leaving Athens
Isthmia Toll Booth	€1.80	After Corinth Canal
Spathovouni Toll	€2.30	Before turning toward Nafplio

➡️ Total toll cost: Around €6.20 one way

🚧 Note: Rental cars do NOT usually include an e-pass, so stop and pay at each station manually.

🚗 Greek Driving Etiquette & Tips

Driving in Greece isn’t wild, but it does have its quirks. Here's what to know:

✔️ Stay Right (Literally)

On highways, slower cars drive on the right.
The left lane is strictly for passing—don’t cruise there.

✔️ Flashing Headlights

If someone behind you flashes their lights, they’re asking to pass. Move right, let them go.

✔️ Roundabouts

Unlike other parts of Europe, the car entering the roundabout often has priority (yes, it’s weird).

✔️ Speed Limits

Highways: 120 km/h
Urban areas: 50 km/h
Rural roads: 80–90 km/h

✔️ No Cell Phones While Driving

Unless you’re using hands-free, it’s illegal—and strictly enforced.

🏛️ First Stop: Explore Nafplio

Welcome to Nafplio, a dreamy little town with Venetian charm and neoclassical vibes. Park your car at the port parking lot (free or low cost) and explore the old town on foot.

Top Things to See in Nafplio:

Palamidi Fortress: If you're up for 999 steps (or want to drive up), the view is worth it.
Syntagma Square: Cafés, history, people-watching—vibes are immaculate.
Bourtzi Castle: That little fortress in the bay? You can take a quick boat ride around it.

🍴 Lunchtime in Nafplio

Food time! Nafplio doesn’t play around when it comes to flavors.

Best Lunch Spots:

Koustenis Taverna: Family-run, with classic Greek fare. Get the lamb or moussaka.
3Sixty Grill: A bit upscale but worth it—killer steaks and seafood.
Taverna O Vasilis: Simple, authentic, and cheap—perfect for a light local lunch.

✨ Order tip: Ask for the “catch of the day” and a local white wine from Nemea. You won’t regret it.

🏖️ Afternoon Beach Bliss: Arvanitia, Psili Ammos & Karathona

🟡 1. Arvanitia Beach – 5-min Drive

Vibe: Small, pebbled, very scenic with cliffs around you.
Good For: A quick swim or tanning after exploring the old town.
Facilities: A small beach bar and showers.

Walkable from the old town if you're up for a 15-minute scenic stroll along the Arvanitia promenade. It’s a fave among locals.

🟢 2. Psili Ammos (Tolo) – 20-min Drive

Vibe: Soft sand (hence "psili ammos" = fine sand), calm waters, very swimmable.
Good For: Families or couples who want a lazy afternoon in the sun.
Facilities: Beach loungers, umbrellas, cafés and tavernas steps away.

💡 Local tip: Park near the central strip of Tolo and walk toward the quieter southern edge of the beach for more privacy.

🔵 3. Karathona Beach – 15-min Drive

Vibe: Long and sandy, surrounded by olive trees. Great for sunset vibes.
Good For: A long nap under an umbrella or an early evening swim.
Facilities: Beach bars, parking, changing huts, and even paddleboard rentals.

Perfect spot to end the day. It’s rarely crowded during weekdays.

🧭 Optional Detours If You’ve Got Time

Corinth Canal: Pull over on the outbound leg for a photo op. It’s impressive!
Ancient Mycenae: 30 minutes from Nafplio and packed with Bronze Age ruins.
Wine tasting in Nemea: Greece’s version of Napa Valley—especially great in fall.

🔚 Wrap-Up: Drive, Discover, Dip, Dine

From smooth highways and scenic coastlines to mouthwatering tavernas and relaxing beach swims, a road trip from Athens to Nafplio packs everything you could want in one perfect day. It’s the kind of trip where the drive is just as memorable as the destination.

🚘 Whether you go for the day or spend the night, this stretch of the Peloponnese is pure road trip gold.

🔍 FAQs – Driving to the Peloponnese

Q: Do I need an international driver’s license in Greece?

A: If you're from the EU, no. If you're from the US, UK, or elsewhere, bring one just in case—some rental agencies require it.

Q: Is driving in Greece safe for tourists?

A: Yes! The roads are good, signage is in English, and with a GPS (or Google Maps), you’re set.

Q: Are there gas stations along the way?

A: Plenty—especially near Corinth and Argos. Many still have attendants who’ll pump for you.

Q: Can I park easily in Nafplio?

A: Yes—head to the port parking lot or near the harbor. Avoid driving inside the Old Town’s narrow streets.