Isioni

Amidst the picturesque charm of Nafplio 's old town, in an ancient alley that is both central and yet so peaceful, Isioni guesthouse has been welcoming visitors since 2005, inviting them on a journey of classical aesthetics, romance, and nostalgia.

It has been years since I last passed through Isioni’s door, and one Sunday afternoon, I decide to refresh my memory by arranging a meeting with Smaragda, the owner of the guesthouse. On my way, crossing the beautiful square of the Metropolis of Saint George, I reflect that, as in recent years many accommodations have sprung up in the old town—places which keep up with the present but do not connect with the area’s glorious past—I appreciate even more the existence of special lodgings like Isioni.

The charm of authentic architecture
Arriving at the guesthouse and staying true to my favorite habit, I pause outside, take a few steps back, and admire its façade. How well the deep burgundy of the doors and shutters fits the city’s aesthetic, combined with the subtle cream tones, creates an oasis for the eyes! The little balcony on the first floor is so charming that, for a fleeting moment, I can hardly believe it’s real. Flowerpots frame the entrance, and a mailbox gives a touch of another, more romantic era.

The most elegant welcome
The unique aura of Isioni continues to overwhelm me as I enter its reception, one of the most beautifully decorated and carefully tended in the city. Features such as the stone wall, the wooden ceiling, the fireplace, the mirrors and decorative wreaths, the sofa framed by welcoming armchairs, and the gray and brown color tones create an environment reminiscent of an elegant urban living room. Smaragda greets me with a smile, and our all-encompassing conversation is often interrupted by guests passing through reception to ask for information about food or their strolls. Smaragda answers sincerely, as she would to a friend, and each time she kindly asks everyone -couples, families, and large groups- “Is everything alright in your room? Do you need anything else?” It is no coincidence, after all, that those who choose Isioni for their stay -Greeks and foreigners alike- describe it in their reviews as “unforgettable,” “unique,” and “welcoming.”

Rooms to live and dream in
As Smaragda guides me through the rooms of her guesthouse, I notice the charm of the classic manor style and the attention to decorative details. Wood on the ceilings or floors and furniture elements like wardrobes and nightstands imparts its natural warmth to the spaces. Artfully balancing the old, which enchants without feeling heavy, and the necessary modern touch (such as contemporary bathrooms), Isioni offers a stay in a dreamlike environment.
The guesthouse's 25 sq m double rooms feature a queen-size double bed (note: some have two single beds) and a comfortable sitting area with large windows that let abundant light flood the space. I particularly appreciate the rooms with a view, like the spacious Superior Double Room with its large terrace, where the lovely sitting area opens up to the Castle of Palamidi and Akronafplia.

Delicious breakfast in a noble setting
Excited by Smaragda’s suggestion, we descend the wooden staircase and reach the breakfast area. Here, too, I notice the presence of stone, and the owner explains that “wherever there was stone, it has been highlighted,” once again demonstrating her respect for tradition. In this wonderful breakfast lounge, the classic décor is complemented by white chandeliers, a small library, decorative wreaths, and a splash of color on the wall. In this unique environment, you can sit comfortably and enjoy your served breakfast while sipping your coffee, tea, or freshly squeezed orange juice, delighting your palate with delicious pies, eggs cooked in various ways, homemade cakes, orange pie, apple pie, and the special semolina halva you absolutely must try.
I take my coffee mug in hand and step out onto Papanikolaou Street to enjoy the life-giving sun that slips into the old town, letting myself linger on one last thought: the guesthouse with the mythical name has, through hard work, patience, and respect for authentic architecture and high-level aesthetics, managed to create its modern legend in the pages of Greek hospitality...

Did you know that?
Isioni was one of the 50 Danaid Nymphs, while the name also refers to one of the 3,000 sea nymphs, the Oceanids, as well as to the wife of the sea god Nauplius and daughter of Laomedon, king of Troy.
Breakfast can be served in the lounge area or in your room, so you can enjoy delicious treats and a wonderful view at the same time.
If you are traveling to Nafplio for work, I suggest the small but charming Budget Double Room of 8 sq m, ideal for resting before and after work and business meetings.
Staying at Isioni means you won’t need a car to discover the city’s sights, as it is just a few minutes away from Akronafplia and Palamidi, the port with boats to Bourtzi, and the iconic Syntagma Square. Also, the Arvanitia beach is within walking distance.
The prices are value for money. 


Available Rooms
Single, Double, Triple, Suite

Parking
Municipal parking at 400m (free in the Nafplio port area)

Operating Period
12 months


License No: 1245K133Κ0422001