Bourtzi Castle
Μπούρτζι
A 15th-century Venetian water castle on a small island outside the harbour, and Nafplio's most famous postcard view.
Bourtzi Castle was built in 1473 to guard the entrance to Nafplio harbour. It was once used as the executioner's residence and later as a hotel, and today it is the city's most representative landmark. A small boat from the harbour quay takes about 5 to 10 minutes to reach the island. It operates in summer, and the fare is about 5 euros. On the island you can walk the walls and look back at the old town and Palamidi. Even without landing, you can admire it from the harbour promenade and the foot of Akronafplia. The castle silhouette is most striking at sunset.
Opening hours
Exterior open all day; island ferry in summer approx. 09:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Archaeological Museum of Nafplio
- Syntagma Square
- Akronafplia
- Nafplio Old Town
- Komboloi Museum
- Church of Agios Spyridon
- Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation Museum
- Arvanitia Beach & Promenade