Nafpaktos Venetian Port — Attraction in Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian

The "problem" with Nafpaktos is that everyone fixates on the Venetian Port (Limani, in Greek). And, as beautiful and picturesque as it is, it's only one small part of what makes this gem on the Gulf of Corinth so special.

This place is far away from the raucous party islands that so many come to Greece for in the summer. And sure, if that's your vibe then by all means stay away. But if you're looking for a more relaxed vacation in a place that's not overrun by the party crowd, spend a few days here.

There are several hotels that cater to visitors, and no matter which one you choose, you'll be delighted by the value. In fact, all of your activities, from lounging at the beach, to dining, or sightseeing, will be surprisingly inexpensive. Not because you're compromising on anything, simply because you're vacationing among the locals.

Hike up to the Venetian castle for the views and the exercise. Walk along the two beaches separated by the port and see the swans and ducks paddling in the river. Have dinner al fresco and enjoy the fresh Sea Bream caught by the fishermen who set out only hours earlier.

And if you have a car, drive 30 minutes to Messolonghi to visit the Salt Museum, or visit the many villages surrounding Lake Trichonida 45 minutes to the north. Or head to the ancient grounds of Delphi and make a day of it with stops at Delphi Beach or Monastiraki. Nafpaktos is...

A first of multiple layers of fortifications from the port all the way to the citadel. Wonderful to enjoy by strolling along the base of the walls or by enjoying a meal or a refreshment at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants. The port has been fortified since antiquity, but what we see today are overstructures of the Venetian era. Some ancient stones can be seen encased within the stonework, but these are in second use, unlike similar stones seen in other parts, mainly around the citadel, where some secrets of the ancient stonework survives in its original place and form. Available day and night and easy to visit, it is a must. Rarely can such a monument be accessed so easily, be enjoyed for free, offer interesting historical and architectural background, be wonderful for pictures night and day, and be so near to places...

The port of Nafpaktos is fortified, as this is where the two arms of the castle of the city end. To the left and right of the entrance of the port, which has an opening of about 35 meters, there are two towers that in the past years protected it with their cannons. On the eastern breakwater stands out the lighthouse built in 1909 to lead boats to the port. The western breakwater is dominated by the statue of the hero of the revolution, Georgios Anemogiannis, who tried to set fire to the Turkish flagship and was martyred by the Turks at the entrance...