Crossing the Corinth Canal & Admiring the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

Start your 2-day road trip from Athens, the capital of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world. Athens is the city where democracy was born and the foundations of Western Civilization were set. Visit the Acropolis and enjoy the local life by wandering around the narrow streets of Plaka, the most beautiful neighborhood in Athens.

Constructed in 1893 after a lot of unsuccessful attempts during ancient times, the Corinth Canal separates the Peloponnese from the mainland of Greece and connects the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea. Although the Corinth Canal played a significant role in the country's economy in the past, as ships of the time saved 700 km by not sailing around the Peloponnese, nowadays, it's of no use to modern - hence larger - ships due to its narrow width which is only 24.6 meters.
Make a quick stop at the Old Bridge, one of the few bridges of the Corinth Canal, and wait for small boats to cross its 6.4 km length.

Epidaurus is mostly famous as the city where Asclepius, the healing god, was born. In ancient times, sick people visited Epidaurus for its Sanctuary, the Asclepeion, hoping to be healed. Along with the prosperity that the healing centre of Asclepius had brought, a stadium was built to host the games in honor of the god and the renowned Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus was constructed to hold theatrical performances during the religious festivities.
The Ancient Theatre has a seating capacity of 14,000 people. Since the '50s, classical theatrical plays are performed there every summer, as part of the Epidaurus Festival. Climb up to the last seating rows and test the excellent acoustics of the theater by listening to other visitors speaking in the centre of the scene.
There is a large free parking space outside the archaeological site.
Opening Hours (winter): Monday – Sunday: 8 am – 5 pm
For more information about other seasons opening times, visit the official website.

Make a stop for lunch in Lygourio at Taverna Leonidas, a few minutes' drive from the archaeological site of Epidaurus. Taste traditional Greek dishes in a beautiful setting that features photos from theatrical performances in Epidaurus.
Opening Hours: Sunday – Monday, Wednesday – Thursday: 10 am – 12 am Tuesday: 10 am – 11:30 pm Friday – Saturday: 10 am – 12:30 am

After a short drive to Nafplio, check in to Impero Luxury Suites Nafplio, an elegant hotel housed in a historic neoclassical building in the heart of the Old Town of Nafplio.
There are a few parking lots near the hotel to park your car and explore the city on foot.

After checking in to your hotel, enjoy a relaxing seaside stroll along the path that leads to Arvanitia Beach. It's an easy 20-minute walk with fantastic views of the sea. From Arvanitia Beach, you can enjoy the view of Palamidi Castle and Akronafplia Castle.
In the summer, there's an all-day bar and restaurant open on the beach.

From Arvanitia Beach, follow the uphill road that starts from the Arvanitia Parking Area and leads to Akronafplia Castle. Akronafplia Castle is older than Palamidi Castle, and it was abandoned when the latter was constructed.
You can see only ruins of Akronafplia Castle, but it's the ideal place to enjoy the sunset with spectacular views of Nafplio Town, Bourtzi Fortress and Palamidi Castle.
There is no entry fee, and you can visit it 24/7.

On your way back to Nafplio Town for dinner, make a quick stop at the Land Gate. It was constructed by the Venetians in 1687. At that time, passing this gate was the only way to enter the city, as there was a wide sea canal in front of the gate.

Stop for dinner at Pidalio Tavern for exquisite Greek food. You can taste traditional Greek dishes, like moussaka, but also fish and seafood there.
It's recommended to make a reservation via their website.
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Monday: 1:30 pm – 11 pm Tuesday: closed

Head back to your hotel by walking the quaint streets of the Old Town and have a good night's sleep. Tomorrow you will complete your exploration of Nafplio and you will visit the archaeological site of Mycenae before visiting a winery in Nemea, on your way back to Athens.