A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nafplio vs. Antalya for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nafplio or Antalya?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Nafplio or Antalya? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a picturesque, romantic, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Antalya

Antalya is a high energy, relaxing, and luxurious vacation spot. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nafplio and Antalya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Antalya?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya. Although Nafplio and Antalya are popular destinations, Antalya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antalya is more touristy than Nafplio and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also well known for Hadrian's Gate. Nafplio is famous for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles.

How is Nafplio different from Antalya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antalya and Nafplio. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nafplio or Antalya?

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Antalya and Nafplio.

Nafplio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Is the Food Better in Nafplio or Antalya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nafplio and Antalya offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Nafplio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Nightlife?

Both Nafplio and Antalya have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Nafplio has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

The people in Antalya know how to have a good time. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Music?

Antalya is a popular place for its music scene. However, Nafplio is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Nafplio is not a live music destination.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Resorts?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nafplio is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Nafplio is not a resort destination.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Beaches?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Nafplio and Antalya.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Hiking?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Nafplio is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Nafplio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Antalya?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Nafplio is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Families?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nafplio. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Nafplio and Antalya make for a high quality place to visit.

Nafplio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Nafplio is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Is Nafplio or Antalya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Nafplio, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

Is Nafplio or Antalya a more walkable city?

Nafplio is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nafplio. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Antalya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antalya or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Antalya?

In either Nafplio or Antalya, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than Nafplio because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 2-5 days is enough time in Antalya.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Nafplio. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Nafplio. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Nafplio if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.

One day in Nafplio or Antalya?

In Nafplio, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Antalya, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Nafplio or Antalya?

In Nafplio, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nafplio has to offer.

In Antalya, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer.

Five days in Nafplio or Antalya?

Nafplio is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Nafplio or Antalya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nafplio. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antalya. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nafplio and Antalya, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. And not only is Nafplio much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nafplio would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nafplio and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya than you might in Nafplio.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nafplio Expensive? and Is Antalya Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Antalya?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Antalya, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Nafplio or Antalya?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nafplio or Antalya in the Summer?

Both Antalya and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antalya this time of year.

Nafplio is cooler than Antalya in the summer. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Antalya fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya during summer. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 376 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Antalya. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nafplio or Antalya in the Autumn?

Both Antalya and Nafplio during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nafplio is cooler than Antalya. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nafplio in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Antalya averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the autumn, Nafplio often gets less sunshine than Antalya. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 251 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets more rain in October than Antalya. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Antalya in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Antalya. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Antalya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Antalya. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 10°C (51°F), and Antalya fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Nafplio usually receives less sunshine than Antalya during winter. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 161 hours of full sun in the winter.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Antalya. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nafplio or Antalya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Antalya. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Nafplio is cooler than Antalya in the spring. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Antalya fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the spring, Nafplio often gets less sunshine than Antalya. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 243 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Antalya. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Antalya and Nafplio