The Acronauplia is the oldest part of Nafplio, a fortified spur of rock running west of the old town between the Palamidi and the sea. It carries Cyclopean foundations, Byzantine walls, Frankish gates and Venetian bastions in roughly that vertical order. For most of the town's existence this was where everyone lived; the lower streets only filled in once the Venetians felt safe enough to come down.
The site is freely accessible and reached by a long staircase from Potamianou Street or by lift from Polyzoidou Street. The views over the Argolic Gulf are wonderful at any time of day but especially at sunset, when the Bourtzi islet and the Palamidi turn pink together. Bring water; there is no shade.