A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nafplio vs. Girona for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nafplio or Girona?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Girona? 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 beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a charming, beautiful, and colorful city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Nafplio and Girona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Girona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nafplio. Although Nafplio and Girona are both popular with visitors, Nafplio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nafplio is more popular for its nightlife and beaches, while Girona is known for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Nafplio is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. It is also home to Palamidi Castle. Girona is popular for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Nafplio different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Girona 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 Girona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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

Both Nafplio and Girona offer a number of superb 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, Girona makes for a great culinary experience. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Nafplio or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Nafplio offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Nafplio or Girona Better for Beaches?

Nafplio is a good destination for the beache. However, Girona is not a beach destination.

Nafplio offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Girona is not a beach destination.

Is Nafplio or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Girona is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

The rich history of Girona can be explored in its historical center. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Girona?

Girona is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

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 Girona Better for Families?

Nafplio is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Nafplio is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Nafplio or Girona Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Nafplio and Girona make for a superb 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 Girona frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Nafplio or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio and Girona are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Girona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Nafplio or Girona Better for Students?

Girona is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nafplio is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Nafplio is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Nafplio and Girona.

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 Girona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Nafplio or Girona a more walkable city?

Nafplio and Girona are amazing when it comes to 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.

Getting around Girona on foot is easy. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

Should I spend more time in Girona or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nafplio or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nafplio than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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

One day in Nafplio or Girona?

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 Girona, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Nafplio or Girona?

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 Girona, 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 Girona has to offer.

Five days in Nafplio or Girona?

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.

Girona 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.

A week in Nafplio or Girona?

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 Girona. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Girona. 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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nafplio and Girona, we can see that Girona 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 Girona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Girona 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 Girona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Girona?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Girona. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Girona because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Girona. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 25°C (76°F), and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Girona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the summer, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Girona. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets less rain in July than Girona. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Girona in the Autumn?

Both Girona and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

Nafplio is a little warmer than Girona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Girona fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Girona during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nafplio. In October, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Girona. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nafplio or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Nafplio during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Girona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nafplio is a little warmer than Girona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nafplio in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Girona averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets less sunshine than Girona. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets more rain in January than Girona. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Girona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Girona. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Girona in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Nafplio is generally a little warmer than Girona. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 15°C (58°F), and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Girona during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Girona. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Girona and Nafplio