Aetoma Hotel

This small, quiet hotel is a delightful and friendly base for exploring the charming town of Nafplion. Guests rave that hospitable owners reportedly take care of every need and make them feel at home. The building and design fit in beautifully with the historic atmosphere of the area. From the narrow city streets, guests enter through a pair of colored doors with wrought-iron embellishment and head up a narrow flight of stairs. The small lobby is lovely and inviting, with antiques, artwork, and curios adding to the romantic atmosphere. The traditional look and intimate feel throughout the hotel appeals mostly to couples, though families with older children are welcome as well. The hotel is relaxed, as most guests spend their days exploring the region, and soundproofing helps to maintain the peaceful atmosphere at night. 

Aetoma hotel is near the harbor in Nafplion, a town on the Peloponnese peninsula just southwest of Athens, Greece. It is possible to reach the hotel by car, though wider vehicles will not make it past cafe tables and wares that spill out onto the streets. The area is full of shops and cafes for tourists to explore, all within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. The harbor and a free public parking lot are a seven-minute walk away. A seven-minute walk, plus a short boat ride, will bring guests to the ancient island fortress of Bourtzi -- a beautiful and historic spot. It is a nine-minute walk to a small but gorgeous beach with a couple of restaurants. More popular is Karathona Beach, an 11-minute drive from the hotel. Ancient Mycenae, a 30-minute drive away, is a huge archaeological site to explore. Palamidi Fortress is a 45-minute drive away and offers a stunning panoramic view to those up for the 857-step climb. Kalamata International Airport -- open only in summer -- is an hour-and-a-half drive from the hotel. Athens International Airport is the nearest major hub, close to a two-hour drive away.  

Each of the just five rooms has its own design, though all have an elegant charm with elements from the 18th-century origins of the building. Features like works of art, antique furnishings, and heirloom fixtures add to the romantic, historic atmosphere. All rooms have a small balcony overlooking narrow city streets or the plaza out front, and the top-floor room, Akrokeramo, offers a wrap-around terrace with a lovely view of the nearby city. Double beds sleep two guests comfortably, and some rooms have sofa beds for an additional one or two guests. All rooms are air-conditioned and have mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and small safes, but no kettles. Bathrooms are tight on space, and come with modern amenities, including either hydromassage showers or jetted bathtubs. Hairdryers, robes, and slippers are provided, as well as free toiletries. 

This tiny hotel has little in the way of on-site amenities -- there are no pool, bar, spa, or fitness facilities -- but warm, personalized service makes it a quality pick. While there's no full restaurant, all rates include a delicious breakfast that's served up until noon and consist of homemade breads, jams, and cakes, plus a spread of typical breakfast items. Guests may have their meal brought to their rooms. There is a tiny parking area in front of the hotel, convenient for luggage drop-off, but it is often full. The free Wi-Fi is reliable and fast.