A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Nafplio vs. Chania for Food, Beaches, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nafplio or Chania?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Chania? 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. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chania

Chania is a idyllic, charming, and picturesque city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Nafplio and Chania: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Nafplio or Chania?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chania. Although Nafplio and Chania are popular destinations, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is very popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Nafplio attracts visitors for its nightlife and impressive beauty. Nafplio is famous for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Chania is famous for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also well known for The Venetian Harbor.

How is Nafplio different from Chania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chania 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 Chania?

Nafplio
Chania

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Chania 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 Chania specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.


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

Nafplio
Chania

Chania is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nafplio makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Nafplio or Chania Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio
Chania

Nafplio is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Nafplio is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Chania has a few options to choose from. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Is Nafplio or Chania Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nafplio
Chania

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

Chania has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Nafplio or Chania Better for Beaches?

Nafplio
Chania

Chania 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 Chania. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

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 Chania Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio
Chania

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Nafplio and Chania.

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 Chania. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Is Nafplio or Chania Better for Hiking?

Nafplio
Chania

Chania 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 Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Nafplio is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Chania?

Nafplio
Chania

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Nafplio and Chania.

Nafplio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Chania is a great destination for shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Is Nafplio or Chania Better for Families?

Nafplio
Chania

Chania 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 Chania. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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 Chania Better for Couples?

Nafplio
Chania

With fun activities for couples, both Nafplio and Chania make for a very good 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 Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.


Is Nafplio or Chania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio
Chania

Chania 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 Chania. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

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 Chania Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nafplio
Chania

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Nafplio and Chania.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Is Nafplio or Chania a more walkable city?

Nafplio
Chania

Nafplio is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Nafplio on foot is easy. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

Chania is very walkable. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.


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

Should I spend more time in Chania or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Chania?

It's fun to spend time in either Nafplio or Chania. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chania due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 3-4 days is enough time in Chania.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania 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 Chania.


  • How many days in Nafplio or Chania? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nafplio 2-3 
    Chania 3-4

One day in Nafplio or Chania?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nafplio. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Chania, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city 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 Chania?

Nafplio is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Chania, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Nafplio or Chania?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Chania is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.


A week in Nafplio or Chania?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Nafplio. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Chania. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Tours for Seniors to Greece, and The Best Contiki Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Chania or Nafplio?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nafplio is €112, while the average daily cost in Chania is €93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nafplio and Chania in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nafplio 50
    Chania 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nafplio 100
    Chania 92
Compare Hotels in Nafplio and Chania

Looking for a hotel in Nafplio or Chania? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nafplio


Hotels in Chania


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nafplio Hotel Prices and Chania Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nafplio 46
    Chania 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

Also for Nafplio, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Athens: Bus Transfer to/from Nafplio: $16
  • To Hydra Island from Athens: A Sightseeing Tour & Transfer: $391

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chania

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chania:

  • Transfer from Chania airport to Stalos up to 3 or vise versa: $68
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Paleochora up to 3 or vise versa: $202
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Elafonisi up to 3 or vise versa: $226
  • Samaria Gorge: Private Transfer Tour: $174
  • Private Transfer from Chania Hotels to Chania Souda Cruise Port: $23
  • Private Transfer from Chania Airport (CHQ) to Chania Souda Port: $23
  • Private Transfer - Chania Airport (CHQ) to Heraklion Cruise Port: $77
  • Private Taxi & Transfer from Chania to Hersonissos in Crete: $236
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer from Chania to Samaria Gorge Park: $77
  • Private Airport Transfers from Chania Airport to Marathi: $105
  • Private Airport Transfers from Chania Airport to Maleme: $106
  • Private Airport Transfers from Chania Airport to Heraklio town: $193

Is it cheaper to fly into Nafplio or Chania?

Prices for flights to both Chania and Nafplio change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nafplio 34
    Chania 32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chania

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chania.

  • The Delicious Chania PRIVATE Street Food Tour : $88
  • Authentic and Traditional Cooking Class in Chania Crete: $101
  • Chania Cooking Class in Crete with rustic, delicious and homely Cretan food!: $101
  • CHANIA WALKING FOOD TOURS – 3 HOUR WALKING TOUR: $109
  • CHANIA CRETE COOKING CLASSES – 3 HOURS: $109
  • Chania Cooking Class-The Authentic: $119
  • Guided Walking Food Tour with Tasting: $125
  • From The Ultimate Food Tour Of Chania Villages: $125
  • Wine, Food, and Sunset Tour with 3-Course Dinner: $129
  • Catamaran Dinner Cruise departing from Kolymvari: $129
  • Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour - Chania: $133
  • Private Sunset Tour and Dinner at Falassarna Beach: $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nafplio 22
    Chania 21

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

For Nafplio, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $60
  • City Walking Tour: $87
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $92
  • Ancient Corinth Canal - Nafplio Private Tour From Athens 6H: $155
  • Visit Ancient Corinth Mycenae Nafplio Canal Private Tour 8H: $182
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $185
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $192
  • Private tour of Peloponnese with a Pickup: $239
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $391
  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $433

Tours and Activities in Chania

Here are a few actual costs in Chania for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Seitan Limania - Marathi tour with SUP & lunch: $166
  • All Inclusive Full-day Private Tour of Crete Villages from Chania: $282
  • Amazing Crete - Elafonisi, Day Tour: $608
  • Authentic Wine & Food Tastings - PRIVATE Walking Tour with Lunch: $160
  • Balos & Falassarna Beach - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch: $166
  • Balos Private Tour with Lunch: $155
  • Chania Alternative Sunset Bike Tour: $48
  • Chania Battle of Crete Private Tour: WW2 Military History: $147
  • Chania City Evening Tour From Rethymno: $31
  • Chania Culinary Tour: Bougatsa Breakfast & Old Town Exploration: $133
  • Chania E-Bike City Highlights Tour: $65
  • Chania E-Bike Sunset Tour: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nafplio 6.86
    Chania 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Nafplio

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nafplio:

  • Nafplion: Nemea Vineyards Wine Tour: $174

Sample the Local Flavors in Chania

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chania:

  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour From Chania: $42
  • Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings: $147
  • Wines, Olives, and History: A Private Wine Tour from Chania: $804


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nafplio and Chania, we can see that Nafplio is more expensive. And not only is Chania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chania 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 Nafplio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nafplio than you might in Chania.

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


Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Chania?

Chania has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Chania, 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 Chania?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nafplio or Chania in the Summer?

Both Chania and Nafplio during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nafplio is around the same temperature as Chania in the summer. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Chania fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the summer, Nafplio often gets less sunshine than Chania. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chania receives 380 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets more rain in July than Chania. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Chania receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nafplio 25°C (76°F) 
    Chania 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Chania in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Chania. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Nafplio is around the same temperature as Chania. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nafplio in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Chania averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chania during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Chania receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Chania. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Chania receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nafplio 19°C (66°F) 
    Chania 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Chania in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Chania. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Chania because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Nafplio is generally cooler than Chania. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 10°C (51°F), and Chania fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Chania. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chania receives 118 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chania. Nafplio receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nafplio usually gets less rain in January than Chania. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Chania receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nafplio 10°C (51°F) 
    Chania 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Chania in the Spring?

Both Chania and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year.

Nafplio is cooler than Chania in the spring. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Chania fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Chania. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives less sunshine than Chania during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Chania receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Chania. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chania receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nafplio 15°C (58°F) 
    Chania 17°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Chania and Nafplio

Nafplio Chania
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 102 mm (4 in) 12°C (54°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (76°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)


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