My husband and I and another couple are planning a trip to Greece in June, 2005. We'll start in Athens and want to see Delphi, Mycenae and Epidaurus. Should we do separate day trips out of Athens or base locally (e.g., Nafplion)?

Thanks.

I would spend a night in Nafplion for Mycenae (don't miss the Treasury of Atreus, a beehive tomb a few hundred meters away from the main entrance to Mycenae and on the other side of the road) and Epidaurus.

Delphi can be seen on a day trip, but I would advise an overnight stay. On the way back, you can stop at the Byzantine monastery of Hosios Loukas.

Thanks Eloise. This is very helpful.

I would recommend turning your day trips into overnight trips. When my husband and I visited Greece (June, 2002), we had a similar itinerary, and spend a couple of nights in Nafplion for Mycenae and Epidaurus, and a couple in a little ski village on Mt. Parnassos for Delphi. I recommend this not only because it gives you more time at your destinations, but also because those other areas are so different from Athens, and each other. You will get a much better feel for the diversity of the country. (Plus, the driving routes are gorgeous).

At the very least I second Eloise's rec. regarding Nafplion for Mycenae (& the beehive tomb!). Nafplion in itself is a great destination. Also, there is a great municipal beach there if you are interested in swimming.

Thanks very much. This is also very helpful. We've definitely decided to stay overnight in Nafplion.