Welcome to Nafpaktos, Greece! This entrancing and enchanting coastal town bridges the ancient past, medieval empires, and the modern Greek nation.
In the Western Region of mainland Greece, Nafpaktos (Ναύπακτος) commands a spectacular and strategic position on the Gulf of Corinth.
Together, let’s discover this vibrant Venetian jewel Nafpaktos – also known as ancient Naupactus, medieval Lepanto, and modern Naupaktos.
Surprisingly, Nafpaktos and its storybook sights remain hidden gems for many international visitors. While they aren’t the most famous landmarks in Greece, that doesn’t reflect their importance and excellence. And that, in fact, makes Nafpaktos well worth a wander off the beaten path.
We’ll explore Nafpaktos’ top attractions, beautiful beaches, and stunning sea. Learn how its uniquely rich history blends seamlessly with modern reality.
As always, we’ll cover some essential travel tips and also share a fascinating fact or two in this travel guide.
Ready? Let’s go!
Table of contents
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Nafpaktos Greece: A Quick History
The remarkable and rich history of Nafpaktos spans millennia:
- From antiquity, when Thucydides recorded Naupactus as the bulwark between Athens, Sparta, and the Persian Empire in the Peloponnesian War.
- Through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Ottoman centuries, when the city was called Lepanto.
- To the Greek Revolution, which liberated Nafpaktos to join independent Greece in 1829.
Of all these different epochs, the Lepanto era echoes the strongest. In fact, the city played a starring role in Medieval European history.
Crusaders and the 1571 Battle of Lepanto
In the 16th century, Pope Pius V formed the Sacra Liga, better known as the Holy League.
The Holy League alliance unified the Knights Hospitallers, Spanish, Italian, and other European powers against the Ottoman Empire.
On October 7, 1571, the Holy League Crusade, under the command of Don John of Austria, won a huge naval victory.
The 1571 Battle of Lepanto goes down in history as the largest naval battle since antiquity, entailing hundreds of warships. This last mighty sea battle of rowed ships involved tens of thousands of men on both sides – commanders, officers, fighters, and rowers.
For over 450 years, historians, artists, authors, and re-enactors continue to commemorate the epic 1571 Battle of Lepanto.
Fascinating Fact: Battle of Lepanto
In the Venetian Port of Nafpaktos stands a statue of Cervantes. Yes, that’s correct: Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, the great Spanish writer of Don Quixote.
Hmm, you may wonder, why is a statue of Cervantes in Nafpaktos, Greece?
Well, before he became a Renaissance literary lion, Cervantes, as a young man, served in the Spanish Navy, part of the Holy League.
Cervantes thus fought in the Battle of Lepanto, where he lost his left hand.
In 1927, British poet G. K. Chesterton penned Lepanto, a stirring poem with a closing shout-out to both Don John and Cervantes:
“Cervantes on his galley sets the sword back in the sheath
(Don John of Austria rides homeward with a wreath.)
And he sees across a weary land a straggling road in Spain,
Up which a lean and foolish knight forever rides in vain,
And he smiles, but not as Sultans smile, and settles back the blade….
(But Don John of Austria rides home from the Crusade.)”
Things to Do in Nafpaktos, Greece
Unique historic attractions, authentic cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, beautiful beaches, and pristine seas abound in Nafpaktos town.
If you’d like additional insight, then you may wish to consider taking a Nafpaktos walking tour with a local. This guided tour launched in 2024.
Venetian Port, Nafpaktos
The romantic Venetian Port is the historic heart of Nafpaktos and of the surrounding area, Nafpaktia.
Stout stone walls encircle the postcard-perfect harbor in a secure embrace. Watchtowers and a lone tree on the sea walls stand constant sentinel over the Corinthian Gulf.
Fishing boats and sailboats contentedly bob at anchor. Boutiques, shops, cafes, and restaurants charmingly line the lively area.
A view of Nafpaktos Port inspires and enchants at any time – especially during golden hour and twilight. When sunset turns the sky to an indigo color and amber illuminates the antique walls, it’s absolute magic!
When you stroll through the fortified harbor, stop and say hello to Miguel de Cervantes. With a sword at his side, Cervantes thrust one hand skyward. The bronze statue of Cervantes commemorates the 1571 Battle of Lepanto, as described above.
Address: Nafpaktos Port | Papacharalampous | 30300 Nafpaktos, Greece
Venetian Castle, Nafpaktos
Crowning the steep hill above medieval Lepanto Nafpaktos and the Corinthian Gulf, the Venetian Castle of Nafpaktos endures age after age.
Classical Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Crusaders, and Ottomans coveted the hilltop’s powerful strategic position and unobstructed view.
As the fortress expanded in size and strength during different eras and empires, its fame was formidable. Because of careful preservation and restoration, the citadel still remains formidable today.
Robust fortress walls cascade downhill from the kastro, enclosing the town all the way to the Venetian Port. Bastions, battlements, towers, and portals fortify the five tiers, each separately and specifically defensible.
Generations after generations have built their homes and businesses within the protective embrace of the Venetian fortress. Present-day Nafpaktos still remains a true kastropolis, a castle city.
Once inside the monumental Main Gate, you’ll pause at first to read the curatorial placard and map at the guardhouse. The guard also offers a quick introduction to the archaeological site.
Next, you’ll choose to walk either a stone stairway or a cobblestone pathway. This writer and this photographer recommend ascending the stone stairs – steeper, yes, but more direct and thus faster – and later descending the curving path.
The little Profitis Elias church with its white cross highlights the second tier. Look down outside the front wall of the 19th-century chapel: Fragments of original Byzantine marble mosaics, perhaps 12th or 13th century, lead to the front door.
Lastly, you’ll arrive on the top level, the first tier, the innermost citadel. In this open space, you’ll find the cistern that supplied the castle with fresh water, and also original stones from the archaic fortress.
Meanwhile, the great views from panoramic vistapoints atop this medieval landmark will take your breath away.
Address: Venetian Castle of Nafpaktos | 30300 Nafpaktos, Greece
Tips to Visit the Venetian Castle, Nafpaktos
The Venetian Castle of Nafpaktos counts among the finest medieval sites in Greece.
There are different ways to reach the acropolis: You can hike the stairs approximately one mile (1.5 km) uphill from the Old Port. Alternatively, you may bike or drive up Falisiou Road to the stalwart Kastro.
The upper citadel usually opens daily during the year, except on Tuesdays and national holidays. Unless, of course, the weather does not permit.
In the warm months, the best times to visit are typically early morning and late afternoon. The weather can reach high temperatures in the summer season.
So the best things to bring are bottled water, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Fortunately, some trees and benches provide shade within the fortress.
Finally, wear comfortable and sturdy shoes to visit the citadel. The stone stairs and pebbled paths are steep, uneven, and at times slippery.
Tower of Botsaris, Nafpaktos
White-washed crenellations delineate the distinctive Botsaris Tower and mansion near the Old Port.
In the 15th century, construction began on this imposing administrative building. Over the centuries, a succession of imperial governors lived in the mansion.
Following liberation in 1829, Botsaris Tower then became the property of General Notis Botsaris, a hero of the Greek War of Independence.
Today, the Boutsaraion hosts the Botsaris family foundation and a small museum. Exhibits on the 1571 Battle of Lepanto include replica paintings, armor, and artifacts. A garden affords city and sea views.
Address: Tower of Botsaris | Boutsaraion | 30300 Nafpaktos Greece
Fethiye Mosque, Nafpaktos
Influences of the Ottoman Empire remain throughout historic Naupaktos, such as the first mosque.
Fethiye Mosque was the first mosque built in the Ottoman era after 1499. Today, following restoration and renovation, the building opens occasionally for special exhibitions and cultural events.
You’ll see its elegant dome rising above the eastern wall of Nafpaktos Port.
Address: Fethiye Mosque | Formionis 8 | 30300 Nafpaktos, Greece
Nafpaktos Beaches
Long stretches of stone beaches extend along both sides of the Venetian Port: the beach of Psani on the harbor’s western side and the beach of Gribovo on the eastern side.
Cafes and restaurants line the promenades along Psani Beach and Gribovo Beach.
These public Nafpaktos beaches are local favorites for their easy access, family-friendly amenities, great views, and crystal-clear water.
Day Trips from Nafpaktos
Besides the Venetian gems of Nafpaktos, more hidden gems await in the surrounding area of Nafpaktia.
The romantic coastline, rustic villages, and rugged mountains – and, oh yes, another Venetian fortress! – await your discovery on delightful day trips from Nafpaktos.
Nafpaktos additionally makes a home base for day trips beyond Nafpaktia; for example: Ancient Olympia, Western Greece’s world-renowned archaeological site, the origin of the Olympic Games, and one of the most famous landmarks in Greece.
Travel Tips to Visit Nafpaktos, Greece
When to Visit Nafpaktos Greece
Alongside its historical origins as ancient Naupactus and medieval Lepanto, modern Nafpaktos is a bustling real-life town.
With full-time residents, four-season accommodations, and many services available all year round, any time can be a great time to visit Nafpaktos, Greece.
Peak tourism season runs from mid-June through the end of August. Peak season means high season, which is certainly the most popular and, thus, busiest time to visit. It’s also the hottest time for this Mediterranean climate.
In our lifelong travel experience, this writer and this photographer opine the best weather in Greece generally occurs from May to mid-June and September to mid-October.
So if your travel schedule allows it, then spring or autumn is the best time to visit Greece.
How to Get to Nafpaktos Greece
There are two primary options for airport transfers from Athens International Airport, “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH), to Nafpaktos: Private transfers, long-distance taxis, or a rental car are the first option.
Book your rental car on Booking or Expedia:
Athens Airport to Nafpaktos
The driving distance from Athens Airport to Nafpaktos is roughly 152 miles (245 km), chiefly on the Greek national superhighway, Olympia Odos / A8.
Olympia Odos / A8 offers a smooth drive on a major toll motorway with full-service rest stops along the route.
The one-way transfer from Athens Airport to Nafpaktos takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on prevailing traffic, weather conditions, and rest breaks.
There’s another option for transfers from Athens to Nafpaktos: Public transportation on a KTEL bus.
Buses depart regularly from KTEL bus stations in metropolitan Athens to Nafpaktos. Of course, other mainland cities also run KTEL bus service to Nafpaktos.
Patras to Nafpaktos
If you’re traveling from Patras to Nafpaktos, then the same options for private transfers and public transportation apply as mentioned above.
The driving distance from Patras Araxos Airport (GPA) and Napfkatos is about 42 miles (68 km) over the Rio-Antirrio Bridge and the E55 tollway.
The one-way transfer from Patras Airport to Nafpaktos takes approximately 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, weather, and tolls.
If you’re arriving in Patras on a cruise ship or ferry, the driving distance from Patras Port Authority to Nafpaktos is 19 miles (30 km) on the Rio-Antirrio Bridge and E55.
Once again, depending on traffic, weather, and tolls, the one-way transfer is about 35 to 45 minutes.
Return from Nafpaktos to Athens Airport
On the return trip from Nafpaktos to Athens or from Nafpaktos to Patras, you and the driver will need ample time for airport transfers – such as traffic, weather, and other considerations – and/or rental car return before your departure check-in.
At this time of publication, the recommended check-in time at Athens Airport ATH is a minimum of 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight.
Additionally, your airline should advise the best time to check in for your specific departure flight.
Nafpaktos Accommodations
Nafpaktos hotels are primarily small independent boutique hotels – locally owned and locally operated, often by family.
Many Nafpaktos accommodations feature traditional decor. While others take a contemporary approach to design.
Regardless of the style, the local staff customarily offers philoxenia, the Greek tradition of hospitality.
Located in the Venetian city center, Apollon Library Suites opened in 2016. The central location is about 787 feet (240 m) from the Port of Nafpaktos.
This luxury aparthotel in a renovated 19th-century building does indeed have an elevator. However, because of the building’s historic nature, a short flight of stairs is necessary.
Apollon’s luxury suites present different literary themes in each apartment. A full kitchenette, seating area, updated bathroom, and ample closets make the suite feel like home.
Address: Apollon Library Suites | 18 G. Athanasiadi Nova and Thermou Streets | 30300 Nafpaktos Greece
Check the available dates and best rates for your stay.
Opened in 2022, Asklipios Luxury Rooms is an upscale boutique hotel located in a residential neighborhood.
The quiet location is a short stroll to Gribovo Beach and an easy walk to the historic center of town, Nafpaktos Venetian Port.
Designed and built from the ground up with step-free elevator access, Asklipios Luxury Rooms is chic, sleek, and streamlined.
Address: Asklipios Luxury Rooms | Asklipiou 10 | 30300 Nafpaktos Greece
Check the availability and best rates for your stay.
Find further information on where to stay in Nafpaktos, including our in-depth honest hotel reviews of these recommendations.
Map of Nafpaktos Greece
In Conclusion: Nafpaktos, a Venetian Gem
Few places combine equally all these irresistible and alluring elements in the same way as Nafpaktos, Greece:
A medieval castle and port straight from a fairytale. With a legendary role in Middle Ages and Renaissance history. Which is also a thriving modern town. Surrounded by awe-inspiring nature.
To complete this rare combination, the hospitable community of Nafpaktos is proud to share their local traditions and culture, as well as their everyday life.
Nafpaktos is, in short, a beautiful blend of past and present.
When you plan to visit Greece, consider the pleasures of wandering off the beaten path to the Gulf of Corinth.
So come discover and uncover the hidden treasures in Western Greece.
Come explore, experience, and be inspired by Nafpaktos, a Venetian gem.
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Nafpaktos Greece: Sources and Recommended Reading
Brooks, Allan, Castles of Northwest Greece: From the Early Byzantine Period to the Eve of the First World War. Aetos Press, 2013.
Katsouli, Eleni, The Castle of Naupaktos: Partial Reconstruction, Structural Reinforcement, and Enhancement of the Archaeological Site. Ministry of Culture, Education, and Religious Affairs; General Directorate of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage; Ephorate of Antiquities of Aitoloakamania and Leukas, 2015.
Konstam, Angus, Lepanto 1571: The Greatest Naval Battle of the Renaissance. Osprey Publishing, 2003.
Strabo, Strabo’s Geography: A Translation for the Modern World. Translated by Sarah Pothecary, Princeton University Press, 2024.
Thucydides, The Landmark Thucydides: A Comprehensive Guide to the Peloponnesian War. Edited by Robert B. Strassler, translated by Richard Crawley, Free Press, 1998.
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FAQs
Where is Nafpaktos located?
Nafpaktos is located in the municipality of Nafpaktia, on the Gulf of Corinth, in Western Greece. Nafpaktos is about 152 miles (245 km) from Athens, the Greek capital.
Is Nafpaktos a Greek island?
Nafpaktos is not a Greek island. It’s a mainland town on the Corinthian Gulf coast, in the Western Region of Greece.
What is Nafpaktos, Greece known for?
Known for its Venetian Port and Castle, Nafpaktos Greece, is famous for the 1571 Battle of Lepanto, the largest naval battle and the last major battle of rowed ships in history.
Why is Nafpaktos, Greece called Lepanto?
When Nafpaktos Greece, was part of the Venetian Empire in the 15th and 17th centuries, the Venetians named the city Lepanto.
Why visit Nafpaktos, Greece?
With its Venetian Port and Castle, Nafpaktos Greece holds a fascinating place in Medieval history. Nafpaktos offers enchanting charms, vibrant culture, great dining, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
All opinions expressed are Spotlight Sojourns’ own.
All content and images are original, created with care by yours truly, Marilee Kostadimas and Paul Kostadimas, not AI. We’re the Hidden Gemologists of Spotlight Sojourns: Award-winning travel experts, storytellers, and advocates of meaningful travel. Because meaningful travel is part of a meaningful life. And stories enrich the meaning.