Nafplio, a gem in the northeastern Peloponnese, is not just a visual delight but also a paradise for food lovers. If you’re wondering what to do in Nafplio when it comes to gastronomy, here are some must-try experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and give you a true taste of Greek culinary heritage.
1. Dine at Traditional Taverns
One of the top things to do in Nafplio for a gastronomic experience is to dine at traditional taverns. These establishments serve up hearty, authentic Greek dishes made from local ingredients. Favorites include moussaka, souvlaki, and gemista - stuffed vegetables.
2.Fresh Seafood
Given its coastal location, another essential activity to do in Nafplio is fresh seafood. Enjoy dishes like grilled octopus, fried calamari, and fish straight from the Argolic Gulf. A number of restaurants are renowned for their seafood delicacies, offering dishes prepared with traditional recipes and fresh catches of the day.
3. Indulge in Local Sweets
For those with a sweet tooth, exploring local pastries and desserts is a delightful thing to do in Nafplio. Taste Greek sweets like baklava, galaktoboureko - custard pie and loukoumades - honey-soaked doughnuts. These treats are perfect for an afternoon snack or a delightful end to your meal.
4. Visit the Local Market
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in local food culture is to visit Nafplio’s local market. This should definitely be on your list of what to do in Nafplio. The market offers fresh produce, spices, cheeses, and olives. It’s an excellent place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or simply to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and interact with local vendors.
5. Wine Tasting at Local Wineries
Exploring the local wine scene is a sophisticated activity to do in Nafplio. The region around Nafplio is known for its excellent wines, particularly the Nemea appellation. Visit nearby wineries for wine tastings. These visits often include tours of the vineyards and cellars, providing insight into the winemaking process.
6. Enjoy a Coffee at a Traditional Kafeneio
Relaxing with a coffee at a traditional kafeneio - coffee house is a must to do in Nafplio. These coffee houses serve traditional Greek coffee brewed in a briki - small pot, as well as frappé - iced coffee.
7. Participate in a Cooking Class
For a hands-on culinary experience, consider taking a cooking class. Learning to prepare traditional Greek dishes is a unique and enjoyable activity to do in Nafplio. Visit Savor Nafplio and our chef will guide you through the process of making classic dishes with a twist, an experience to remember.
8. Taste Local Olive Oil
Tasting local olive oil is another fantastic thing to do in Nafplio. The Peloponnese region is famous for its high-quality olive oil. Visit a local olive mill, learn about the production process and sample different varieties of olive oil. You can often purchase bottles to take home as a delicious souvenir.
9. Explore Artisan Bakeries
Nafplio's artisan bakeries are a haven for bread and pastry lovers. Visiting these bakeries is a delightful thing to do in Nafplio. Most of them offer a range of freshly baked goods, from traditional Greek bread to sweet and savory pies. Don’t miss out on trying koulouri - a sesame-seed bread ring for breakfast.
10. Attend Food Festivals and Events
Finally, checking out local food festivals and events is a great way to do in Nafplio. These events celebrate local produce and culinary traditions.
Nafplio's rich culinary scene offers a myriad of experiences for food enthusiasts. Whether you're indulging in traditional dishes, sampling fresh seafood, or learning to cook Greek specialties, the gastronomic delights of Nafplio will make your visit unforgettable. So, when planning what to do in Nafplio, be sure to include these gastronomic experiences for a truly immersive taste of Greece.