Náfplio was the capital of Greece from 1829 to 1834 and is one of the most attractive towns on the mainland.

Leave Athens following the signs for Kórinthos (Corinth), which takes you out of the city past Daphni and Eleusis and on to the National Highway, the E94.

This is a beautiful coastal run once the industrial outskirts have been left behind. The island of Salamis can be seen just off the coast.

Continue on the E94 all the way to the Corinth Canal, but watch out for the bridge going over the canal as you can be across it before you're aware of what you're crossing.

Pull up at the cafés and shops on the near side of the bridge, and walk out across it to get the best look at this marvel of engineering.

About 8km beyond the canal look for the left turn off the main highway marked Argos.

This road passes the archaeological site of Mycenae, and if you only have one diversion on your drive to Náfplio, make it this one. Look for the turning off to the left, which is signposted. The site is only a short way off the main road.

Continue towards Argos, and when there follow the signs for Náfplio.

The road passes another archaeological site, off the road to the left at Tíryntha (Tiryns), much quieter than Mycenae but a dramatic setting.

Continue on into Náfplio.