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

Should you visit Volos or Nafplio?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Volos and Nafplio can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a youthful, authentic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Volos and Nafplio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Volos or Nafplio?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Volos. Although Volos and Nafplio are both popular with visitors, Volos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Volos is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Nafplio is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nafplio is more touristy than Volos and is known for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Volos is popular for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty. It is also home to The Archaeological Museum of Volos.

How is Volos different from Nafplio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volos
Nafplio

Nafplio is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Nafplio specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.


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

Volos
Nafplio

Foodies will find both Volos and Nafplio both to be great destinations.

Volos has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Dining out in Nafplio is an experience not to be missed. 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 Volos or Nafplio Better for Nightlife?

Volos
Nafplio

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Volos and Nafplio.

Volos has a large number of nightlife venues. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

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.

Is Volos or Nafplio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos
Nafplio

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

Volos has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Volos or Nafplio Better for Beaches?

Volos
Nafplio

Volos is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Volos is considered a top beach destination. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

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 Volos or Nafplio Better for its Old Town?

Volos
Nafplio

Nafplio is a very popular place for its old town. However, Volos does not have a historic old town.

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.

Volos does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Nafplio?

Volos
Nafplio

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Volos and Nafplio.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Volos. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Many visitors go to Nafplio to go 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 Volos or Nafplio Better for Families?

Volos
Nafplio

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Volos or Nafplio.

Volos is a family-friendly city. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

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 Volos or Nafplio Better for Couples?

Volos
Nafplio

Nafplio is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.

Is Volos or Nafplio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volos
Nafplio

Nafplio is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options 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.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.


Is Volos or Nafplio Better for Students?

Volos
Nafplio

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

Plenty of students visit Volos. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

Nafplio is not popular with students.

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

Volos
Nafplio

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

Volos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that travels 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 Volos or Nafplio a more walkable city?

Volos
Nafplio

Nafplio is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Volos is a very walkable destination. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Nafplio or Volos?

How long in Volos or Nafplio?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Volos and Nafplio. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nafplio than in Volos. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nafplio.

Families should spend more time in Nafplio than Volos. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nafplio than Volos 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 Nafplio.


  • How many days in Volos or Nafplio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volos 1-2 
    Nafplio 2-3

One day in Volos or Nafplio?

In Volos, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

In Nafplio, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this picturesque destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Volos or Nafplio?

In Volos, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Volos has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Volos or Nafplio?

Volos 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.

Nafplio is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nafplio. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Volos or Nafplio?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volos. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Volos. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Nafplio. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Nafplio or Volos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volos is €95, while the average daily cost in Nafplio is €112. 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 Volos and Nafplio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volos 43
    Nafplio 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volos 86
    Nafplio 100
Compare Hotels in Volos and Nafplio

Looking for a hotel in Volos or Nafplio? 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 Volos


Hotels in Nafplio


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: Volos Hotel Prices and Nafplio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volos 37
    Nafplio 46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

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

  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $260
  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $532
  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $283

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Volos or Nafplio?

Prices for flights to both Nafplio and Volos 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
    Volos 30
    Nafplio 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

For Volos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $72
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volos 17
    Nafplio 22

Tours and Activities in Volos

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

  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $213
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $39
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $217
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $199
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $50
  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $188
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $747

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

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

  • Ancient Corinth Canal - Nafplio Private Tour From Athens 6H: $155
  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $433
  • Athens: Corinth, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio Day Tour: $532
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $391
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $185
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $192
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $92
  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • City Walking Tour: $87
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $60
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Private tour of Peloponnese with a Pickup: $239

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volos 7.86
    Nafplio 6.86

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Volos and Nafplio, we can see that Nafplio is more expensive. And not only is Volos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Volos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Volos 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 Volos.

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


Which is Bigger, Volos or Nafplio?

Volos has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Volos and Nafplio, 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 Volos or Nafplio?

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 Volos or Nafplio in the Summer?

Both Nafplio and Volos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Volos for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Volos is around the same temperature as Nafplio. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volos in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Nafplio averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Nafplio. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volos. Volos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nafplio during summer. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Nafplio receives 352 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volos usually receives more rain than Nafplio. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Nafplio receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volos 26°C (78°F) 
    Nafplio 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Volos or Nafplio in the Autumn?

Both Nafplio and Volos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Volos because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year.

In October, Volos is generally cooler than Nafplio. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 17°C (62°F), and Nafplio fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Volos often gets less sunshine than Nafplio. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nafplio receives 202 hours of full sun.

Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Volos usually gets less rain in October than Nafplio. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Nafplio receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volos 17°C (62°F) 
    Nafplio 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Volos or Nafplio in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Volos and Nafplio. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Volos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nafplio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Volos is much colder than Nafplio in the winter. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Nafplio fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Volos usually receives less sunshine than Nafplio during winter. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Nafplio receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nafplio receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Volos usually receives less rain than Nafplio. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Nafplio receives 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volos 6°C (42°F) 
    Nafplio 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Volos or Nafplio in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Volos as well as Nafplio. Many travelers come to Volos for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Nafplio in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Volos is around the same temperature as Nafplio. Typically, the spring temperatures in Volos in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Nafplio averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volos this time of the year. In the spring, Volos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nafplio. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nafplio receives 217 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in April than Nafplio. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Nafplio receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volos 14°C (56°F) 
    Nafplio 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Nafplio and Volos

Volos Nafplio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 25°C (76°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)