mainland greece tours

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Mainland Greece Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Mainland Greece. We've got 149 adventures going to Mainland Greece, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go to a Greece vacation is September, which has the most number of tour departures.

250+ Mainland Greece tour packages with 4,604 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Greece Classic Tour

From our first dealings with TourRadar, our experiences have exceeded expectations. In short, nothing could have been improved. All arrangements including airport transfers for us were made and communicated promptly by email including backup arrangements for these transfers if required. (They weren’t) The tour was wonderful- superbly planned, flexible, excellent guide, efficient and well-chosen lunch stops as well as thoughtful additional bathroom breaks. Our driver was amazingly skilful and patient and the choice of overnight hotels could not be faulted. This was the most amazing way to start our overseas holiday - thank you for the most excellent tour!

Classical Tour of Greece and Nauplion - 5 Days

Everything went as promised. The guide was excellent. Very knowledgeable and took care of our needs. Transportation was very nice and comfortable. We upgraded our hotels to 4 star which gave us more room. We are not dinner buffet lovers. The evening buffets were tired! The dinners would be the only change I would make.

Classic Greece

We had a great experience and enjoyed all the activities and site we went to. Thanks for a great time!

Mainland Greece Discovery

The area covered was perfect. The guide was fantastic. Her knowledge thorough and well delivered with great personality. She had the patience of a saint!

Grand Classical Tour Of Greece plus Mani and Monemvasia (Small group - In depth culture/Historical/Nature/Culinary guided tour)

My husband and I did the 10-day Grand Classical Tour of Greece as a private tour and loved it. With George as our guide, and Christos as our driver, it was one of our most memorable trips. George is incredibly knowledgeable and Christos a great driver. We learned so much about Greek history, mythology and culture. Greece is an amazing country - so the tour was really engrossing. We tried all sorts of Greek food- food is a big part of the experience. George knew all the best places to eat! Because my husband and I are physically active, George made sure that each day included a nice amount of walking - around archaeological sites, up to ancient castles, etc. (I think this level of activity may have been somewhat customized to us). Epos was very easy to book with- they were responsive, accommodating, and very knowledgeable- we really appreciated the personalized attention from Dionysis during the booking process. By the end of the tour, saying goodbye to George and Christos felt like saying farewell to family. Thank you George, Christos and Dionysis for a wonderful tour!

• Coach / Bus

Best of Greece (Base, Summer, 8 Days)

Jeff was not very helpful. He walked very fast and didn’t wait for me to catch up. Some people in the group walked with me, otherwise I would have been lost. Also, no one picked me up at the airport. I had to take a taxi to the hotel. It cost me 38 Euros!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Greece Discovery Tour

Pros: guide (Andronicus) was first rate; hotels all good; all pickups on time; very small group (4). Cons: guided touring was only 2.5 days - we were totally on our own in Santorini; some expenses (e.g., entrance fees) not included; a lot of the tour was spent in transit (essentially 2 full days to and from Santorini, half day each in transit for Olympia and Delphi)

Greece Escape: Corfu, Athens & Sky-High Monasteries

Die Tour war sehr gut organisiert und in der kurzen Zeit (Abendessen, 3 volle Tage und Frühstück am letzten Tag) hat man die Möglichkeit einige sehr schöne Sehenswürdigkeiten zu erkunden. Die Größe der Tourgruppe war mit 22 Personen noch angemessen. Für Leute mit wenig Zeit und Lust diese Trips selbst zu organisieren, kann ich die Tour auf jeden Fall weiterempfehlen!

Classic Greece & Santorini

Classical Greece (9 destinations)

It was a great way to see a lot of Greece's history in a short time. Hotels were good as was the bus. Tour guide was brilliant, very knowledgable caring and attentive. Very happy with our trip

• Sightseeing

Best of Greece (Santorini Extension, 11 Days)

The Best of Greece

I had an amazing time! Absolutely loved it! The tour itself I thought was great! I am planning on doing the tour again and adding all the optional extras I missed this time.

Best of Greece

Bus service, tour guides were excellent. Time management was good but some breaks could have been avoided. Itinerary showed that arrival to ATH airport was 12 pm. Based on this we booked returning flight later in the evening. Instead we reached ATH at 9.15 AM thus ended up a very long return journey.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Health, Spa & Wellness

1 week of Sailing & Yoga Practice + SUP usage in the SARONIC ISLANDS

Wonderful and relaxing experience

Taste of Greece

The small group size (24), excellent tour guide (Matt) & very skillful driver (Tasos) were the most important factors in allowing us to truly enjoy Greece - its people, its history, its language, its food & drink, its amazing sights such as the monasteries of Meteora & so many more. YASSAS to all our new friends on the tour and ευχαριστώ Matt and Tasos for keeping us safe !!!!

What people love about Mainland Greece Tours

Travel to/from Athens + link taxi were great. The tour itself was good but demanding - about 12 hours each day, either visiting a venue of travelling (not a little of which had to be in evening darkness at this time of year). Tour guide had truly encyclopaedic knowledge of each of the sites visited.

Our guide Thomas (from day 2) was excellent - so knowledgeable about Greek history and he was very good at organising the group. He was exceptional.

Our experience with the Tour has been pleasant for the most part. The itinerary covers the important destination Greece mainlands. The Tour arrangement for transport to and from the airport as well as luxury Bus to travel was neat and Clean. The driver(Socrates) and tour guide (Agatha and Matthew) were courteous, friendly, and fluent in English. The qualities of Hotels where we stayed were 4+ or greater. We have little delay or disruption and each went as planned. The only problem that we faced was with finding vegetarian food even when we made arrangements with the tour company about the food restriction well ahead of time. Everyone in my family had to survive on greek salad and Spaghetti with tomato sauce for the most part.

Mainland Greece Tours starting in:

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Mainland Greece tour

11 days from $7,950pp

• The Peloponnese
• Day-to-day Itinerary
• Greece trip ideas

Tour highlights

Eat your way around Athens on a private food walking tour sampling different snacks from local eateries.

Explore the stunning Meteora monasteries with your private guide.

Learn about the life of bees on an afternoon with a local beekeeper, including honey tasting.

Kayak and snorkel around underwater ruins and visit a deserted beach.

Price includes:

• In-destination transfers
• Activities and excursions as detailed
• All accommodations
• 24-hour support while you travel

Itinerary idea in detail

Private customized tour. Ask us about booking your international flights at our preferred rates.

Arriving in Athens, you’ll be met by your driver and taken to your hotel. Later in the day, you’ll visit a local gastronomy house to learn about Greek olive oil and wine variants.

Today, you’ll meet with your private guide and embark on a walking tour of the Acropolis, followed by a visit to the fascinating Acropolis Museum. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city further.

This morning, you’ll meet your guide and begin a walking tour of Athens, focusing on food tasting. You’ll visit Athens Central Market and visit some local food producers to sample their goods.

This morning, you’ll meet your driver, bid farewell to Athens and journey north to Kastraki. On the way, you’ll stop in Trikala, where you’ll have free time to explore. You can also visit a local distillery to taste ouzo, tsipouro, and some of the wines produced there.

Today meet your guide and explore Meteora, famous for its giant rock formations and the monasteries which are perched atop them. You will visit three of the monasteries that are still used today, before having the rest of the day free to explore the village of Kastraki or relax in your hotel.

This morning meet with your driver and drive south to Galaxidi, a quaint seaside town located on the edge of the Peloponnese not far from Delphi. The rest of the day is yours to explore the town or nearby beaches.

Today you will journey to Delphi, where you’ll meet your guide and explore the ancient site and the adjacent Archaeological Museum of Delphi. Your guide will bring the site to life and explain its lure for pilgrims wishing to consult the oracle.

Meet your driver and transfer to Nafplio, located in the heart of the Peloponnese. On the way, you will stop at Mycenae for a guided tour of the archaeological site and afterwards visit a nearby winery for a tour and light lunch accompanied by some wine tasting.

Today you’ll meet with your driver for a day exploring small local businesses around Nafplio. Your trip will include a visit to an ouzo distillery for a tour and tasting, a cheesemaker located in the heart of Nafplio, and a beekeeper for a tour of his hives and a taste of his award-winning honey.

Meet with your driver and journey to Epidavros where you’ll begin a guided kayaking tour along the coastline to some underwater ruins. Here you’ll stop and have the opportunity to snorkel.

Meet with your driver for your return transfer to Athens Airport.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodations, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

NJV Athens Plaza

Herodion Hotel

Hotel Grande Bretagne

View more accommodations in athens.

Doupiani House Hotel

Hotel Ganimede

Hotel Ippoliti

Nafplia Palace Villas

The specialist who designs your trip to Greece will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

Watch our tailor-made process

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Greek Mainland Tours

Embark on an epic journey on the Greek Mainland, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes converge for an unrivalled travel experience. From the rugged peaks of the Pindus Mountains to the sun-drenched shores of the Peloponnese, the Greek Mainland offers a variety of natural wonders and cultural treasures to discover. Plan a trip to the Greek Mainland and get ready to delve into the heart of Greece's rich heritage and untamed wilderness!

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

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Displaying 15 of 16 tours

Greek Mainland

Summit Mount Olympus Trekking Tour

This tour is your chance to trek one of the most mystical mountains on earth: Mount Olympus. This self-guided journey starts in Litochoro, an enchanting town at the foot of Greece’s highest peak. Then you’ll spend two days on the mountain, sleeping in a mountain hut on the second night. You should be comfortable hiking up some serious elevation on this tour to reach the summit, a worthy reward for your effort.

Walking and Dining in Athens Tour

Athens is the oldest city in Europe and the city with the longest history! Strolling through Athens, you will be thrilled to discover this rich history as Ancient, Roman, Byzantine and modern monuments abound. Pedestrian walkways lead you through green parks connecting major sites like the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the Pnyx Theater, which is considered the birthplace of democracy. Dine on multiple courses at fine restaurants and sample the fare at local taverns in each spot. A unique food-on-foot tour!

2-Day Mt Olympus Hike

Join an exhilarating 2-day hiking tour through the legendary Mount Olympus, revered as the abode of ancient Greek Gods!

Mount Olympus & Northern Greece Hiking

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and the fabled home of Zeus and the Greek Gods. This self-guided trekking tour takes you on the legendary path up the mountain and into the clouds, where you can look out over the expansive landscape of Mount Olympus National Park with the Aegean Sea to the east.

Zagori Trekking Tour

The Zagori area is one of the best walking regions in Greece. Discover this remote wonderland for yourself on the 6-day self-guided Zagori Trekking Tour.

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Mt. Olympus Classic

Mt. Olympus, the name conjures up visions of beauty and history. Mount Olympus is a place of divine beauty, blessed by the ancient Greek gods and chosen by Zeus to host their home. It is also the highest mountain in Greece.

Vikos Gorge Hiking Tour

Spend 7 days exploring the Zagori region in northwest Greece on this self-guided walking holiday. This tour features hikes between the mountain villages of the impressive Vikos Gorge, one of the most impressive spots to explore by foot in all of Greece.

Pelion Peninsula Hiking Tour

The 8-Day Self-Guided Pelion Peninsula Hiking Tour invites you to discover the lush green mountainous peninsula of Pelion on mainland Greece. Walk from village to village via old, cobbled paths, through forests and along coastal paths, flanked by mountains and sea. Enjoy the picturesque, turquoise bays that invite you to swim and this land of the mythical Centaurs, half human, half horse.

Tour group discount

Travelling with a group of 8 or more?

Contact us to get a group discount and pick your next adventure at a lower price.

Greek Islands

Walking Athens and Kea Island Tour

Discover the cradle of western civilization on this self-guided walking holiday in Greece. You’ll have two days to explore the incredible sights of Athens before leaving for the tranquil shores of the island of Kea.

North Macedonia and Greece Cycling Tour

This 13-day North Macedonia and Greece Cycling tour leads you through North Macedonia and the region of Macedonia in northern Greece, combining two incredible countries in one trip! The tour is challenging but all the more rewarding as you cycle through undiscovered areas, rich in nature and cultural and historical highlights.

Hiking the Ancient Paths of Zagori & Meteora

Discover the incredible Pindus Mountains of Greece on this once-in-a-lifetime guided walking adventure. The Hiking the Ancient Paths of Zagori & Meteora tour whisks you away from Athens and shows you the unbelievable natural beauty of the Greek mountains.

Greek Mountains Adventure

Discover the ancient secrets and incredible beauty of mainland Greece on this active holiday. The Greek Mountains Adventure takes you away from the coast to show off the stunning sights of the mountainous interior.

The Menalon Trail Hiking Tour

Cover 75 kilometres of pristine Greek wilderness on the Menalon Trail, one of the finest multi-day hikes in the country. The Menalon Trail is a long mountain trail in Arcadia that unfolds through the Lousios River gorge, the western slopes of Mt. Menalon, and the Northeast Gortynia Mountains. It is recognized as a Greek Path of Nature and culture and is recognized for its pristine natural beauty and historical importance.

North Greece Hiking Tour

Greece is more than blue seas and white islands! On the North Greece Hiking Tour, you’ll discover the mountainous side of this country with more than 300 peaks. Hit the summit of Mount Olympus, the home of the 12 ancient Greek Gods, with a breathtaking view. Explore other peaks and walk within dense forests, some of which rank among the oldest natural wooded lands in Europe. Peaks and gorges, rivers and untouched forests make northern Greece a paradise for adventure seekers! Discover the mountainous paradise of Zagori, with its authentic villages and spectacular views. 44 traditional villages are scattered in this magnificent wild natural environment.

Customize your trip

Your trip. Your way.

All private tours can be customized, so you can get the tour you've been dreaming about.

North Macedonia, Greece and Bulgaria Hiking Tour

This 11-day hiking tour leads you across the centre of the Balkans through North Macedonia, into northern Greece, and finishes in Bulgaria. This region has an extensive history and has been recorded in mythological and historical books alike. Walk among the gods on this adventure!

1-15 of 16 tours

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No bots here. A real human is always a click or a call away to ensure you get the adventure of your dreams.

Travel authentically.

Immerse yourself in the destination with highly-vetted, local tour operators who love to showcase where they live.

Greek Mainland General Information

Where to go in the greek mainland.

When considering where to go on the Greek Mainland, explore stunning mountain ranges, ancient ruins, and charming villages. Start your adventure in cities like Athens , Thessaloniki, or Ioannina, and venture into the hinterland to discover hidden gems like Meteora , Zagori , and Pelion , offering unparalleled exploration opportunities.

What to do in the Greek Mainland

From hiking expeditions in the Greek Mainland to cycling tours and historical excursions, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in this extraordinary region. Delve into the rugged landscapes of the Pindus Mountains, explore the archaeological wonders of Delphi, or embark on a thrilling hiking adventure in the Vikos Gorge . Winter offers opportunities for skiing in destinations like Mount Parnassus and Mount Pelion.

When to go to the Greek Mainland

Choosing when to visit the Greek Mainland depends on your preferences and desired activities. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for outdoor adventures. Summer is perfect for exploring coastal areas and enjoying water sports, while winter invites skiers to hit the slopes in mountain resorts.

Top 7 Adventures in the Greek Mainland

• Hiking the Zagori Trails : Explore the stunning landscapes of the Zagori region, where picturesque villages, ancient stone bridges, and dramatic gorges await along well-marked hiking trails.
• Hiking up Mount Olympus : Ascend to the mythical summit of Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Greece, and experience breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and Aegean Sea, while immersing yourself in the legends of ancient gods and heroes.
• Walking around Pelion Peninsula : Hike through the lush forests and charming villages of the Pelion Peninsula, where stunning coastal views, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage await around every bend.
• Trekking through the Vikos Gorge : Descend into the spectacular Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, and hike along its rugged trails, surrounded by towering cliffs, pristine rivers, and diverse flora and fauna.
• Exploring the Meteora Monasteries : Discover the awe-inspiring Meteora monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations in central Greece, and hike along ancient paths to explore these remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites and their breathtaking natural surroundings.
• Exploring the Peloponnese with the Menalon Trail : Embark on a multi-day trek along the Menalon Trail, winding through pristine forests, quaint villages, and ancient sites in the heart of the Peloponnese peninsula.
• Discovering the mythological wonders of Mount Athos: Visit the monastic enclave of Mount Athos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its ancient monasteries, hidden trails, and stunning coastal vistas, steeped in centuries of history and tradition.

Travel tips for Greek Mainland tours

How widely is english spoken in the greek mainland.

English is generally spoken in tourist areas and larger cities in the Greek Mainland, but proficiency may vary in more rural or remote areas.

How long should I go to the Greek Mainland?

The duration of your trip to the Greek Mainland depends on your interests and the places you want to explore. A week to ten days is often sufficient to visit major attractions, but longer stays allow for deeper exploration.

Should I bring euros to the Greek Mainland or use a credit card?

Euros are widely accepted in the Greek Mainland, but credit cards are also commonly used, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in more remote areas.

Is the Greek Mainland family-friendly?

Yes, the Greek Mainland is family-friendly, offering a range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying coastal beaches and outdoor adventures.

What's the best way to get around the Greek Mainland?

The best way to get around the Greek Mainland is by a combination of rental car, public transportation, and organized tours. Rental cars offer flexibility for exploring remote areas, while buses and trains connect major cities and towns.

What are the accommodation types in the Greek Mainland?

Accommodation options in the Greek Mainland range from hotels and guesthouses to villas, apartments, and traditional guesthouses called "pensions." Camping and agritourism options are also available in some areas.

What is the time zone in the Greek Mainland?

The time zone in the Greek Mainland is Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC+2 during standard time and UTC+3 during daylight saving time (from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Can I do a self-guided tour in the Greek Mainland?

Yes, self-guided tours are possible in the Greek Mainland, particularly for activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring archaeological sites. Detailed maps, guidebooks, and online resources can help you plan your itinerary.

Can I do guided tours in the Greek Mainland?

Yes, guided tours are available in the Greek Mainland, offering expert-led experiences in areas such as historical sites, outdoor adventures, and cultural excursions. These tours provide insights into local history, culture, and natural beauty.

How to get to the Greek Mainland?

You can reach the Greek Mainland by air, with international airports in cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion. Ferries also connect the Greek islands to the mainland, while trains and buses provide transportation within the country.

What are the major towns in the Greek Mainland?

Major towns in the Greek Mainland include Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, Larissa, Volos, Ioannina, and Kalamata, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences for visitors to explore.

Tours in Greek Mainland by Activity

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Greece Tours & Vacations

Astounding archaeological sites, fresh flavors and idyllic islands – Greece has it all.

This charismatic nation continues to grace us with all the good things in life, from its rugged coastlines and postcard-worthy vistas to its  beloved culinary traditions  and fantastical myths that bring life to ancient monuments. Whether you're island hopping on a  sailing trip through the Med , searching for answers at the Oracle at Delphi or enjoying the slower pace of smaller islands like Syros or Crete, a meal in a seaside taverna is non-negotiable. Befriend a few locals, tuck into a plate of baked feta and wash it down with a cloudy glass of ouzo. We promise you'll be saying 'opa!' in no time.

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Greece at a glance, capital city.

Athens (population 3.1 million)

10.6 million

(GMT+02:00) Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Greece

Best time to visit.

Greece generally has a mild, Mediterranean climate, with July and August being the busiest months for tourism. With warm weather and plentiful sunshine, this is a great time for visiting the islands, swimming in the sea and lazing on the beach. Summers are generally hot and dry, with daytime temperatures rising to 85°-100°F ( 30°-38°C ).

By mid-September, temperatures begin to fall and crowds thin, but it can still be hot. The weather remains generally calm and balmy well into October. If you can't get to Greece in the spring, and beaches are not your primary goal, this is a fine time to visit. By late October, ferry service and flights are cutting back and most facilities on the islands begin to close for the winter. But the cooler atmosphere makes   Athens   and the mainland all the more pleasant.

Read more about the best time to visit Greece

Culture and customs

Greece’s culture is very much influenced by its ancient past. The hallmarks of Western medicine, philosophy, drama, and government can all be attributed to the mighty ancient Greek civilization – which is an incredible source of national pride. Traditional music and dance are still valued and used to commemorate celebrations throughout the year. The circle dance, for instance, dates to the Byzantine period. Even contemporary cuisine has its roots in ancient tradition.

Greeks place a high amount of value on ‘kefi’, which loosely translates to joy or passion. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest. For this reason, meals are leisurely and social gatherings are frequent, typically involving drinking, dancing and lively discussion. Common Greek customs, like smashing plates and dancing with a glass of water on your head, are considered expressions of kefi.

With more than 90% of the population being Greek Orthodox, religion plays an important part in everyday life. Religious festivals and ceremonies are commonplace, both in the mainland cities and small rural villages. Christmas and Easter are particularly important dates on the calendar, although religious celebrations are not limited to these times as there are daily, weekly and annual rites and rituals performed all throughout Greece’s mainland and islands. 

Food and drink

Greek cuisine favors simplicity and relies primarily on fresh local produce. Think vegetables, beans, nuts, and grains; grilled meats and fresh fish; parsley, garlic, dill, and mint; and punchy cheeses such as feta, kefalotyri, and halloumi. Drinks-wise, locals will savor a Greek coffee at a kafeneio (coffeehouse) or glass of anise-flavored ouzo (diluted with water) at an ouzeri – along with a couple of mezedhes (appetizers) – for hours. There’s also tsipouru (fermented distilled grape skins), raki (a tsipouru from Crete), and retsina (white wine flavored with pine resin).

Read about what to eat in Greece

Read about what to drink in Greece

Geography and environment

Sharing land borders with Albania , Bulgaria , Turkey, and Macedonia , Greece is located in Southern Europe and is surrounded by the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas. Consisting of the mainland peninsula and an archipelago of more than 3000 islands, Greece is typically mountainous, containing peaks, karsts, and canyons all over. Despite the mountainous topography, there is much arable land in Greece with small-scale farms successfully producing olives, peaches, melons, grapes, tomatoes, and grain for export and local use. 

Greece’s highest peak, Mount Olympus, is famed for being the dwelling place of the 12 ancient gods in Greek mythology. The islands are mostly uninhabited and are formed in small chains (called archipelagos) within the Aegean Sea. Santorini , Mykonos, and Corfu are among the more popular islands with tourists, though Crete and Evia are the largest islands. 

History and government

Early history.

The early history of Greece is among the world’s most fascinating, and like the other ancient civilizations of Egypt and Rome, Greece has many monuments still standing after centuries. The Greeks have been both the conquerors and the conquered, withstood the Plague and other natural disasters, and birthed some of the greatest literature, scientific developments, mathematical formulas, and thought movements.

Recent history

In 1821, the Greeks fought against Ottoman rule during the Greek War of Independence, which resulted in Greece being recognized as an autonomous region in 1828. This was a time of great upheaval for the Greek people, with political assassinations, battles, and plundering. After autonomy was granted, many years of change followed, with continued war and confrontation alongside intermittent periods of relative peace. The two World Wars had a profound effect on Greece, with many battles fought in Greece during the early 1940s (during the Axis occupation). Athens was liberated from this occupation in 1944 and the Greek government was restored. Greece joined the United Nations (as a founding member) in 1945 and NATO in 1952. During this time, many Greeks started moving to other parts of the world in a mass wave of widespread migration. The USA , Australia, and Europe were popular destinations in this move, which saw hundreds of thousands of Greeks immigrate to other lands. In 2004, Athens successfully hosted the Summer Olympics once again. Yet more recently, Greece has come under the shadow of the European debt crisis which has crippled the economy. Despite this, the spirit of the Greek people endures as it has for eons.

Top 10 experiences in Greece

1. hike in syros.

Cruise around the Greek Islands and stretch your legs with a hike on the island of Syros. Discover golden beaches and sparkling blue water as you traverse the spectacular landscapes of one of Greece's most underrated islands. And, after all that exploring, treat yourself to some truly authentic Greek food at restaurants serving up tasty and fresh local produce.

Uncover one of Greece's best kept secrets on our  15 day Best of Greece Tour.

2. Swim in the Aegean Sea

Cross off another thing on your Greek bucket list by swimming and snorkeling in the azure Ionian Sea. Share the water with slow-moving sea turtles and catch a glimpse of playful dolphins as you effortlessly glide over colorful coral on a marine adventure you'll remember forever. While there are perfect locations to snorkel all over Greece, the best places include Corfu, Paxos and Lefkada.

Cruise the Ionian Coast on our  8 day Greece Sailing Adventure: Kefalonia to Corfu.

3. Discover Santorini

Greek islands don't get more picturesque than Santorini. From the epic sunsets that bathe the whitewashed buildings and volcanic-sand beaches in a golden glow each night to the clifftop villages full of ancient churches, quaint cafes, and neo-classical architecture sitting on cobbled streets, this island is like something straight out of your wildest dreams.

See Santorini from land and sea on our  8 day Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos trip.

4. Explore Mykonos

Claiming the title of 'most famous Greek island',  Mykonos  is a party-goers dream with bars and clubs scattered throughout the island. To make your trip to this magnificent island as memorable as possible, dine on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, lay out on beaches that look as if they've been created by the Gods themselves, and dance the night away with a cocktail in hand at a club by the water.

Enjoy the island's electrifying party scene on our  8 day Athens to Santorini trip.

5. Uncover Greek history in Athens

Athens can sometimes be overlooked in favor of islands boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear water but this ancient city is well worth a visit in its own right - especially if you're a history buff. Wander the glorious marble citadel, home to the renowned Parthenon, and take in its impressive structure and significant history as one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world.

History buffs, this one's for you: explore Athens and beyond on our  8 day Classic Greece tour .

6. Marvel at Meteora

While there are thousands of impressive rock formations scattered throughout the world, none of them quite compare to the majesty of the Meteora. Suspended more than 1,000 feet in the sky and perched atop soaring karst pinnacles, these 14th-century masterpieces are a must-visit. Home to monks for hundreds of years, this unique attraction has been recognized as a UNESCO World-Heritage listed site and remains important to the historical significance of the area today.

See these sky-high monasteries on our    8 day Mainland Greece Discovery tour.

7. Visit the ruins of Delphi

Turn your Greek adventure from a good one into a great one by visiting the sacred sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena among the mountaintop ruins of Delphi. Once considered the center of the Greek world, this UNESCO-listed site is not only incredibly beautiful with breathtaking views of the surrounding region but also offers an understanding of ancient rituals and worship undertaken by the people of Greece as early as 4,000 BC.

Step back in time on our  16 day Premium Greece in Depth tour.

8. Taste your way through Thessaloniki

This lively port city is the perfect combination of a thriving cultural scene, pulsing nightlife, delicious traditional cuisine, and storied historic sites, including the White Tower (which is a former prison and torture chamber) and the Arch of Galerius (part of Emperor Galerius's complex palace during his rule in 297-311 AD).

Explore the gastronomic capital of Greece on our  8 day Mainland Greece Discovery trip.

9. Get a classic Greek experience on Crete

Between Europe's oldest city, Heraklion, the rugged shores, forests and gorges, and the quaint and sleepy fishing villages, a visit to Crete will give you the quintessential Greek experience. As one of the sunniest places in Greece (and possibly Europe), Crete is perfect for hiking, swimming and enjoying an outdoor meal at a local taverna.

Explore this sun-kissed island on our  7 day Highlights of Crete tour.

10. Sail around Greece

You know those moments in life when you wonder, is this even real? On a sailing trip in Greece’s Cyclades Islands, that happens a lot. Learn more about our sailing tour in Greece .

From public markets and designer boutiques to European chain stores, Greece has every aspect of retail cornered.

If you are in the market for traditional Greek handicrafts, consider supporting the local economy by purchasing goods in the region that produces them. This includes silver from Ioannina; ceramics from Sifnos and Skopelos; and embroidery and lace from Crete, the Ionian Islands, Rhodes, and Skiros.

Shopping hours vary throughout Greece. Stores in large cities and tourist areas are typically open from 9 am to 9 pm, while shops in other areas close around 2 or 3 pm and reopen between 6 and 9 pm three days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday). Most stores are closed on Sundays.

Things to buy in Greece

1. Komboloi (Worry Beads)

These stress-relieving resin beads are meant to be turned through your fingers as you muse over life. With roots deep in ancient Greek cultural tradition, they make a great souvenir for friends wanting a slice of authentic Greece.

2. Botanical Skincare

Greece is home to many brands of premium, organic skincare. Stock up on luxurious olive oil soap or enriching yogurt-based moisturizers before you head home.

Travel safely and ward off evil by attaching a Mati (an ‘Evil Eye’) to your backpack. They’re cheap, available almost everywhere in Greece, and are a great reminder of your travels in the Aegean.

Whether you prefer gold, silver, amber resin or colorful beads, Greece has a huge variety of jewelry on offer. Prices are typically lower than in many other parts of the world, so it’s likely you’ll be able to snap up a few bargains.

Festivals and events in Greece

The Greeks have been partying since the dawn of Western civilization. Take Epicurus – he dedicated his life to seeking out pleasure, creating a philosophy now known as Epicureanism. As you travel through Greece you’ll encounter religious celebrations – Greek Orthodox is the main player here – that span the nation, as well as smaller celebrations that are regional affairs or isolated to particular islands. Expect food, drink, dancing and music, and plenty of throwbacks to the ancient Greeks. The only Greek tragedy is that you can’t fit every festival in.

Read more about festivals in Greece

Further reading

Greece travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

Greece is best experienced outside of winter for most travelers. The best time of year depends on what kind of holiday you’re after – whether you’re more interested in soaking up the island sun or ancient history.

Is it safe to visit Greece?

Greece has historically been a very safe place to visit though petty crime, like pickpocketing, can be an issue in well-touristed areas. Travelers should remain alert when visiting crowded places and keep an eye on their belongings.

Do you need a visa for Greece?

Greece is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Greece, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Greece.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Greece?

There is not a strong tradition of tipping in Greece, particularly among the locals, but it’s become expected that tourists leave small tips while traveling through the country.

What is the internet access like in Greece?

You’ll be able to find wi-fi at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants throughout the well-touristed areas of Greece. Alternatively, you can pick up a local SIM card with a data package for continued access.

Can I use my cell phone in Greece?

If you wish to use your cell phone while in Greece and you are not from an EU country, you’ll need to pick up a local SIM card or activate global roaming before you leave home.

What are the toilets like in Greece?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the norm in Greece. You may need to pay a small fee to use public toilets in some areas. Keep in mind that the Greek plumbing system isn’t the greatest and you may be asked to put toilet paper in the trash rather than flushing it.

What will it cost for a...?

Greece’s unit of currency is the euro:

• A takeaway souvlaki or gyros = EUR € 3-6
• Bottle of wine from the supermarket = EUR € 5–8
• Meal in a local cafe = EUR € 15
• Meal in a nice restaurant = EUR € 20­+
• Ticket for the Acropolis (including other ancient sites) = EUR € 10-20
• Domestic beer (Mythos or similar) at local bar = EUR €3-4.50
• Espresso coffee = EUR €1.50

Can I drink the water in Greece?

Drinking the water in Athens and Thessaloniki is safe unless otherwise marked. On the islands, however, the water may not be suitable to drink.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?

Credit cards are widely accepted in  Greece , particularly in the tourist areas. It’s actually a legal requirement, as a response to the financial crisis, that working Greek citizens aged below 65 have a credit card so most hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants should offer the option of paying by credit card.

It’s still worth having some euros on hand, if only to tip the bartender at your favorite island bar and guarantee quick service all evening.

What is ATM access like in Greece?

ATMs can be easily found in cities and towns across Greece, including on the Greek Islands.

What is the weather like in Greece?

Greece’s coast and islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and windy, rainy winters, while the inland regions have a more continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. In the northern mountains, close to the Bulgarian border, the winters are cold with heavy snowfall , while the summers are relatively mild.

What public holidays are celebrated in Greece?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• Feb/Mar: Clean Monday
• 25 Mar: 25th of March
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday/Easter Monday
• 1 May: Labor Day
• June: Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday
• 15 Aug: Dormition of the Holy Virgin
• 28 Oct: The Oxi Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Synaxis of the Mother of God

Please note that Greece public holidays may vary. 

Is Greece safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Greece is one of the most popular LGBTQIA+ holiday destinations in the world, with a long history of same-sex relationships dating back to Sappho, the Greek poet, whose home island of Lesvos has become a pilgrimage site for lesbians. Though same-sex marriage is not legal, marriages performed in the EU have been recognized since 2018 and discrimination against sexual orientation or gender identity is banned by law.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Greece accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Though access to sights and hotels has improved in Athens over recent years, Greece is a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities. It’s a hilly, rocky place covered in cobblestones, particularly on the islands, and the economic situation has meant that there are minimal public funds to improve the situation.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Greece?

What to pack for Greece will depend on where you're going and what time of year you decide to visit. Comfortable walking shoes are essential all year round, as is a jumper in case a cool wind blows.

If you visit in summer, you’ll need light, breathable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear and sandals.

If you’re heading to the mountains on the mainland, it’s best to be prepared for everything as the weather can change quickly.

What are some common phrases to learn before traveling to Greece?

Greek is a very difficult language to learn. However, it's easy enough to master a couple of common words such as 'hello' (yah-soo) and 'please' (para-kah-LOE). Not only will this help you communicate with the locals, but it'll allow you to form a deeper connection to the places you're visiting and the people you meet along the way. 

How many islands are there in Greece?

There are roughly 6,000 islands and islets in Greece, of which only about 200 are populated. Each island offers spectacular views of the surrounding seas, golden beaches to lie out on, and ancient old towns full of fascinating sites.

How will I travel around Greece?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Greece, you may find yourself traveling by:

Live like a local resident by hopping on a local bus. Cheap, efficient and fast, it’s a great way to get around Greece’s busy cities.

Some of Greece’s most postcard-worthy scenery is best viewed from the water. Take in awesome views of quaint fishing villages, gorgeous   beaches  and the turquoise Aegean Sea as you hop between Greece’s famed islands aboard a ferry.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Greece support The Intrepid Foundation? 

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Greece directly support our foundation partner, Amurtel . 

Amurtel provides a safe space for refugee and migrant women and children in Greece. Donations from our trips help Amurtel provide displaced women and children with crucial education, emotional support and antenatal and postnatal care programs run by qualified midwives and expert consultants.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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GREEK MAINLAND TOURS

• You can call us toll-free at 1-800-715-2425 if you're calling from US and Canada. We'll be delighted to answer any questions you have.
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27 Day Grand Circle Tour of Mainland Greece & Corfu, Mykonos, Santorini

27 Day Grand Circle Tour Greece & Greek Islands

Everyone knows Greece is best known for the antiquities of Athens, postcard-worthy scenes from Santorini & Mykonos, but there is so much more to the country than its immediate associations. That's why we created tour of 27 day tour to explore all Greece and also the Greek Islands.

This private tour is unique as you will see all the UNESCO’s archaeological sites, with such rich history, beautiful sunsets scenery, pretty villages that are perfect for year-round getaways, also majestic ancient historical sites. With this vacation package all over Greece, will feel the great Greek hospitality and food that one can experience in most of the boutique hotels and restaurants with local products. 

If it your first visit in Greece, you will feel it felt like being to an unexplored place, a hidden treasure in mainland Greece. Finally, you will have a wonderful tour package in Corfu, Mykonos, Delos & Santorini to feel the architecture culture of the Islands with many local cruises and other activities. 

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

• Meet and assist at airport. Transfer to hotel. Free time for yourself. Overnight at Athens

Day 2: Private Guided Tour to Ancient Agora - Stoa of Attalos - Tower of Winds - Panoramic Tourin Athens

4 Hours guided tour / Our driver pick you up from your hotel to start the private Athens Private City Tour. Ancient Agora: including Temple of Hephaestus & Stoa of Attalos, Museum of Ancient Agora, The Roman Agora of Athens & Tower of Winds, Hadrian's Library. Panoramic city tour:The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieio), Arch of Hadrian, Syntagma Square, pedestrian walkway of Dionysiou Areopagitou, Panathenaic Stadium, Greek Parliament, Tomb  of the Unknown Soldier, ‘Changing of the Guards’,  Zappeion Hall, The Academy, The University and The National Library buildings, Monument of Philopappos Hill, Mount Lycabettus. Overnight Athens.  Overnight at Athens.

Day 3: Private Guided Tour to Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum  

• 4 Hours guided tour / Meet your private driver at your hotel to start the tour Acropolis & Museum: Visit Acropolis which built during the Golden Age of Pericles to admire the Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Parthenon, Erechtheion with its Porch of Maidens).  Continue the pleasant short walk passing by Herodion and Dionysus Theater, to visit the new Museum of Acropolis. There we will admire the artifacts and sculptures originating from the numerous Acropolis buildings such as the Erechtheum, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea as well as from the Roman and early Christian Athens. As the museum is built over an extensive archaeological site, we will be able to see the excavations beneath through a transparent glass floor. Overnight Athens. Overnight at Athens.

Day 4: Private Tour to National Archeological Museum and Cape Sounio

7 Hours private tour  /Meet your private driver at your hotel  National Archaeological Museum with guide One of the most important museum in Greece.  Cape Sounio with driver: Following the Mediterranean coastline known as "Athenian Riviera" with a short stop for photos, and then we will reach at the second most popular site of the Greek capital, "Cape Sounio"(especially during the afternoon hours when you can take the chance of the breathtaking sunset over the Aegean Sea!) in order to visit Cape Sounio and the Temple of God Poseidon! Overnight in Athens.

Day 5: Ancient Corinth - Cog Railway - Kalavryta - Cave of Lakes 

•  Start from Athens and we will have stop at Canal of Corinth, Ancient Corinth, Archaeological Site. Walk at the Biblical path of Apostle Paul. See ruins of Temple of Apollo etc. & Corinth Museum. You will get the Cog Railway to enjoy the natural environment over the through Vourakis Canyon to reach Kalavryta and Cave of Lakes. After that drive to Nafplio. Overnight Nafplio

Day 6: Tiryns - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Nemea - Nafplio

• After your breakfast our driver pick you up from the hotel to visit Mycenae. See Grave Circle A. Lions Gate, Royal Tombs. Cyclopean Walls, Treasury of Atreus, the Tomb of Clytemnestra. See Mycenae Archaeological Museum. Visist Tiryns (UNESCO Site). See Tiryns Archaeological site.Then drive to Epidaurus (UNESCO Site). Sanctuary of Asclepios, Great Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, Epidaurus Museum, Little Theatre of Epidaurus. Drive to Nemea. See Nemea Archaeological site and Museum. We will visit cooperative Winery of Nemea and sample Nemea's famous wines. Return to Nafplio. Overnight in Nafplio.

Day 7: Explore Nafplio - Ancient Sparta

• Today we will explore Nafplio. Drive to Palamadi Castle. En- route stop at Karoni's Distillery Museum and sample Ouzo produced there. See Akronafplia Castle, Bourtzi. Walk at the old Nafplio town: Syntagma Square, "Megalos Dromos", Three Admiral’s Square, Archaeological Museum. After Nafplio drive to Sparta. Overnight at Sparta.

Day 8: Ancient Sparta & Mystras

• Our driver meets you at the hotel to start the tour in Sparta archaeological sites. Acropolis, Temple of Athena and Ancient Theatre. See Statue of Leonidas, Museum of Olive oil. Then drive to Mystras (UNESCO Site). See Archaeological site, Chapel of St. Demetrios, Peribleptos Monastery, Pantanassa Monastery and Despot's Palace. Return to Sparta. Overnight at Sparta.

Day 9: Diros Cave - City of Kalamata

• Leave Sparta and drive to Aeropolis to visit Diros Caves, a secret underground world. About 5,000 meters have been exposed and accessible by small boats and through narrow passageways and one is surrounded by formations of stalagmites and stalactites. Then drive to Kalamata, see Museum of Traditional Costumes. Overnight at Kalamata.

Day 10: Nestor Palace - Chora - Messene

• Today we will visit Nestor's Palace, Griffin Warrior Tomb. See Chora Archaeological Museum. See Methroni and Pylos Castle and town.Tour of Navarino fortress, old and new. Return to Kalamata. Overnight at Kalamata.

Day 11: Messene - Vassae - Ancient Olympia

• The ancient Messene is a spectacular archaeological site, a UNESCO monument founded on the 4th century B.C. by Epaminondas. We leave from ancient Messene to reach at Vassae (ancient Figaleia). At an elevation of 1.130 meters, stands the eternally proud temple of Apollo Epikurios. Then drive to Olympia. Overnight at Olympia.

Day 12: Ancient Olympia - Honey, Olive Oil and Food Tasting  - City of Patra

• Our driver meet you at your hotel to pick you up to visit the Archaeological site (UNESCO Site). Museum in Olympia, See Coubertin Monument and Museum of Olympic Games. Then drive to Patras. See Archaeological Museum at Patras and pass St. Andrews Cathedral. We will visit the flea market to taste delightful experience of free wine and olive oil tasting, savoring the distinct blends of olive oil and the iconic Greek olives.  We will visit a local honey farm, where under the shade of the trees we will have a coffee / juice and enjoy hand-made local desserts all made with honey produced in this farm for generations. . Overnight at Patras.

Day 13: Patra - Nafpaktos -  Dodoni - Perama Caves - Ioannina:

• Leaving Patra, we will cross over the amazing bridge of Rion – Antirion, one of the biggest bridges in Europe. Then we will head to Naupactus, a beautiful seaside small town, where you can visit the Venetian Castle, the Venetian Port, here you will have a delicious lunch. Continue to Archaeological site at Dodoni, a worship center of Zeus and Dionysus that was also known as the oracle of the ancient Greek world. Afterwards, we will visit the Perama caves. The cave is part of an underground riverbed, which was built during the pre-Ottoman period that is about 1,500,000 years old. We will then return back to Ioannina. Walk around the Lake of Ioannina . Overnight at Ioannina.

Day 14: PPrivate Tour at Ioannina - Corfu: 

• We will visit the beautiful fortified old town, and the castle. This is the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece! Wonderful buildings like the house Matei Hussein, the Ottoman Mosque of Ali Pasha. Lake Pamvotida and its Small Island of “Ali Pasha" accessible only by boat. That is the only inhabited island on a lake in Europe!  You must not forget to sample the traditional spices and herbs harvested from the mountains of Epirus, frog's legs, a special delicacy or the famous desserts of 'sker bourek' or 'sugar pie', and the exceptionally delicious baklava or other syrup pastries. Drive to ferry port of Igoumenitsa and catch late car ferry to Corfu. Check in at Corfu hotel. Overnight at Corfu.

Day 15: Private Tour in Corfu: Achilion Palace - Mon Repo - Old Town  

• Our driver pick you up from your hotel to visit at Achilleion Palace. This stately palace was built by the Empress Elisabeth of Austria and purchased by Kaiser William II of Germany upon her untimely death. We will continue to Mon Repos Palace. It is a small but very beautiful palace with colonial architectural elements. Next stop will be at the Old Fortress remains one of the most interesting tourist attractions of Corfu Island. We will visit the old town of Corfu (UNESCO) is built under the Venetian style that’s why one of the most beautiful is and elegant towns in Greece. Also we will visit the Palace of St. Michael and St. George,Sterna, Music Pavilion, Monument of the Union of the Ionian Islands, Ionian Academy, Schulenburg statue. The tour cannot completed without a visit at the historical and traditional local Church of Saint Spyridon is built 1456! Overnight in Corfu.

Day 16: Private Tour in Palaiokastritsa - Lakones - Mouse Island - Old Town 

• Today our knowledgeable driver will meet you at your hotel to start a wonderful tour to explore the hidden beauty of Corfu, we have our first stop at the beautiful and famous Paleokastritsa bay, well known as the Capri of Greece, the traditional village of Lakones, we will reach at Kanoni, the church of Panagia Vlacherna and the Mouse Island. We will also visit the 14th century Venetian fortress and Espianade square – once used as drilling grounds for Napoleon Bonaparte’s soldiers. Finally we will reach in Corfu Town (UNESCO) to see the ancient ruins of the Palaipolis, to walk at the old city, the old Port,  Town Hall, San Rocco square, the commercial center of town to have a coffee break at the famous "Liston's square"  Overnight in Corfu.

Day 17:  Corfu - Veroia - Vergina - Thessaloniki

• Leave Corfu and get the ferry to igoumenitsa. We have our first visit to Vergina (ancient Aigai), to live the experience of a visit to the unique Museum, created in the Great Tumulus covering the royal tombs of Macedonia. See the tomb of King Phillip II, Alexander's father, and feel the thrill of the greatest discovery of the 20th century. In only a few miles away is Veria (Biblical Beroea), where we will visit the Saint Paul's Bema, and then stroll through the old Jewish neighborhood and the colorful market area. Walk in a city where past is present and around! Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 18: Private city Tour in Thessaloniki

• After your breakfast, we will explore Thessaloniki. See the ramparts of the city: the triumphal Arch of Galerius, built in 303 AD, at the Via Egnatia, Monument of Alexander the Great, Rotunda, one of the most imposing monuments of Thessaloniki. Visit St. Demetrius Basilica, in which is located the underground ancient “Crypt", the most important part of the temple, the Acheiropoietos Church - a gem of devotion: The Acheiropoietos Church owes its name to an icon of the Virgin Mary, one of the first churches of Christianity, founded sometime between 450 and 475 AD, Church of Agia Sofia, Museum and Museum of Byzantine culture, White Tower for photos. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 19: Thessaloniki - Dion Park - Meteora - Sunset tour around the Rocks

• After your breakfast, leave from Thessaloniki to have our first stop at the Archaeological Park of Dion, the sacred city of the Macedonians, at the foot of mountain Olympus. Then we will reach Meteora. Enjoy the sunset tour at the rocks of meteora. Check in & free time for yourself. Overnight Meteora

Day 20: Sightseeing Meteora - Delphi

• Our driver will pick you up from your hotel at 09.00 in order to visit the BYZANTINE MONASTERIES of Meteora, included on the UNESCO world heritage monument list. We are having our first stop at The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro, the biggest and oldest one of all. It was called the monastery that was "suspended in the air" (meteoro), because of the formation of the gigantic rock on top of which it was built. Our second visit is at the great monastery of St. Stephan. The Monastery of St. Stephan is a small church built in the 16th century and decorated in 1545. On the way to Delphi, we will have a short stop at Leonidas statue at ThermopilesThen continue our drive to Delphi for Overnight

Day 21: Delphi - Osios Loukas - Thermipilae - Athens

• After your breakfast, our driver will drive you at the Ancient Oracle, the Stadium, the Ancient Theatre, with a capacity that exceeds 5,000 spectators and of course the Museum of Delphi. Delphi is perhaps best known for the oracle at the sanctuary that was dedicated to Apollo during the classical period. Afterwards, we can visit the traditional winter village of Arachova and have a coffee or lunch break.Then drive to Monastery of Osios Loukos (UNESCO).  Overnight in Athens .

Day 22: Athens - Mykonos

• We will pick you up from your hotel to Piraeus port and take the ferry to Mykonos Island. Mykonos is the most famous island in the world for its beaches, its fun, its exciting nightlife, its picturesque Cycladic houses, the luxury hotels, also known as the island of winds. The stroll in ‘’Little Venice’’ of the island, or the walk through the narrow streets of "matogiania" will be memorable for your vacations, where you can shop clothes and other local items. We propose you to relax at your hotel and enjoy the amazing night life of Mykonos. Overnight at Mykonos.

DAY 23: Guided Group Cruise in Milos

• Guided cruise tour to Delos to admire one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece wit all-inclusive tour package. If you are an avid fan of mythology and the ancient Greek civilization, it is worthwhile to spend a morning or trip to Delos an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our driver pick you up from your hotel to transfer you to the old Mykonos port you embark to the boat to the sacred island of Delos, the birthplace of two of the most important ancient Greek gods, Apollo and Artemis and live a unique experience while uncovering the myths and legends of Ancient Greece with the information provided from your expert licensed tour guide. Overnight at Mykonos.

Day 24: Mykonos - Santorini

• Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Mykonos Port so you get the boat for the famous Santorini Island. The first thing you have to see that will amaze you is the magnificent sunset from Oia, the most famous sunset in the world. Crowds of people gather there, in order to see the sun set! Afterwards, you can enjoy your drink or dinner, in the picturesque capital of the island and walk among the narrow streets of the island where you can buy many souvenirs. Overnight at Santorini.

Day 25: Sunset Cruise to Volcano with Buffet on Board 

• Get a unique group sunset cruise tour to volcano in Santorini to enjoy the deep blue waters; white, red and black sand; vertical cliffs; red and black volcanic pebbles and spectacular rock formations. With this special group sunset cruise tour to volcano you will walk at the rim of Volcano, swim at the hot springs and finally enjoy your dinner on board admiring the most famous sunset of the world next to Oia. Overnight at Santorini.

Day 26: Santorini - Athens

• Our driver will meet you at the hotel and will transfer you to Santorini Port at 12.00 to take the boat for Piraeus Port, where you will arrive at 17.00 pm. Then, you will be transferred to your hotel in Athens. Overnight at Athens.

Day 27: Departure Day

• Breakfast. Athens checkout. Transfer to airport for connecting flights.

*** Click here for more Tours in Santorini

*** Click here for more Tours in Mykonos

***TRAVEL INSURANCE: We would also like to draw your attention to the importance of taking out an insurance policy in the event of an unexpected happening that may cancel or interrupt your trip. Here is the link to see what the travel insurance covers: Click Here for Travel Insurance

• Acropolis & Museum of Acropolis, Ancient Agora
• National Arhaeological Museum & Cape Sounio
• Canal of Corinth & Ancient Corinth,
• Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus & Ancient Mycenae
• Romantic city of Nauplio, Nemea, Tiryns
• Kalavryta, Cave of Lakes
• Mystras, Ancient Sparta, Diros Caves
• City of Kalamata & Patra
• City of Naupaktos & Ancient Olympia
• Delphi area and Museum
• Monastery of Osios Loukas, Thebes Musum
• Meteora Monasteries
• Ioannina, Island of "Ali Pasha" Lake Pamvotida
• Corfu Island (Mon Repo, Plaiokatsritsa, Acheilion Palace, Liston Square etc)
• City of Thessaloniki (Rotonda, White Tower, Churhes, etc) 
• Arhaeological park of Dion 
• Vergina- The tomb of King Philip II - Veroia
• Monument of Leonidas in Thermopiles
• Mykonos - Delos
• Santorini - Volcano, Sunste at Oia
• Meet & Greet at Athens airprot
• Private transfers from Airport/Port/Hotel at all areas
• Private & Guided Tours in Athens
• Honey farm and food tasting in Olympia
• Sunset tour in Meteora 
• Guided Cruise tour in Delos
• Cruise tour in Volcano in Santorini with buffet on board
• 26 Nights’ accommodation with breakfast
• All driver’s expenses (Accommodation, meals, Toll fees, fuel, etc.)
• Ferry tickets from Piraeus/Mykonos/Santorini/Piraeus
• Ferry tickets from Igoumenitsa port /Corfu & vice versa
• Welcome Bag with Gifts upon your arrival
• Entrance fees at archaeological sites 
• Tour Guide in Mainland & Sounio (available with extra cost) 
• Hotel City Tax
• Gratuities (optional)

Useful Info

• All Year. But for the winter period we suggest you visit Crete instead of Mykonos 

All our drivers are professional English-speaking drivers, have high experience and they have a good knowledge of the sites that you are going to visit. They can provide you general information for each one, but they are not official guides. They will lead you to paths past the tourist crowd and they will also suggest you local, traditional restaurants where you can taste the known Mediterranean cuisine.

• It is not needed to have tour guide during the tour in Mykonos & Santorini as it a self-guided trip.
• During the Mainland trip to Ancient Greece, we suggest you to have local guides in each place as you will receive deep information
• Alternative, you can book licensed tour guide accompany you throughout your tour
• We are owner of car Rental Company www.premiumrentacar.gr with wide fleet of Cars & Minivans that's why we can keep the cost low
• From 1 to 4 persons, we provide you Mercedes E class or MPV, Citroen Picasso or similar
• From 5 to 8 persons, we provide you Mini Van type Mercedes Vito/Viano or similar
• From 9 to 17 persons, we provide you Minibus Mercedes Sprinter 18 seats
• Upon your arrival at Athens airport or Piraeus, our representative will be waiting there holding a sign with your name written on it, helps you with your baggage, and accompany you at your car, provide you mineral water & Tissues. 
• If you are already in Athens, our driver meets you at your hotel in Athens or Airbnb (or from your specific address)
• Also, we will give you a folder with vouchers of the hotel, tickets and contact numbers in each area that you are going to visit.

Our local driver will be waiting at the port or airport in each island, holding a sign with your name written on it, in order to meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

• We provide you 4* star hotels or 3* stars hotels with high standard services in great locations. Please note that you can ask us for 5* star hotel with extra supplement.
• After your booking we will send you the detailed program with the names of the hotels.
• In Santorini, your hotel located at "Kamari area" on the famous “Black Beach” of course you can ask us to stay at Imerovilgi, Fira town or Oia maybe with extra supplement. 
• If you wish we can arrange your accommodation a day before and after your tour.
• Our vacation tour packages are PRIVATE only for you and not for other passengers.
• You can add or remove everything from our proposed program in order the tour to be modified to you, also note that we can accommodate from 1 person to 36 persons or more.

To take full advantage of your stay in Greece, we would also like to draw your attention to the importance of taking out an insurance policy in the event of an unexpected happening during your trip. To this effect, we have collaborated with INTERAMERICAN , the largest private insurance company in Greece.

• We will provide you FAST FERRY TICKETS to spend less time on the boat and more time in each Island.
• You have the chance to travel at the Greek Islands with domestic flights instead of ferry tickets with additional cost.  
• 1,5€ per room / per day for 3* star hotels,
• 3€ per room per / day for 4* star hotels.
• 10 euro / person for Acropolis Museum
• 20 euro / person for Acropolis
• 8 euro / person Ancient Corinth & Museum
• 12 euro / person for Ancient Epidaurus
• 12 euro / person for Mycenae & Treasury of Arteus
• 12 euro / person for Ancient Olympia & Museum
• 12 euro / person for Delphi & Museum
• 3 euro / person for each monasteries of Meteora
• 8 euro / person for Vergina
• 8 euro / person for Pella
• 8 euro / person for Dion

*** Children under 18 years of age are free of charge

Cancelation Policy

• In order to confirm any booking, 30% payment in advance is required, fully refundable in case of any written cancellation received 50 days prior the arrival date.
• For any cancellation OR change between 50 days to 30 days prior the first day of arrival, cancellation fees equal to 50% of the total cost of program applies.
• For any cancellation OR change within 29 days prior the first day of arrival and/or non shows, full cancellation fees applies – the total cost of the program.
• Air ticket & Ferry tickets are no refundable.
• A written notification of any cancellation or change is necessary to be sent to PRIVATE TOURS Greece.

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Greek Mainland

Athens Dinner & Show

Athens Food Adventure

Athens Delphi Tour

Sailing in the Saronic Gulf

Athens Day Cruise - Semi Private Sailing Tour

Athens Sunset Cruise - Semi Private Sailing Tour

Athens walking tour with Acropolis

Hidden Treasures of Greece

Gems of the Peloponnese

Athens Bike Tour (Morning)

Athens Bike Tour (Riviera)

Athens Bike Tour (Afternoon)

Athens Private Transfers

Grand Tour of Greece (7 days)

Northern Greece - Macedonia (5 days)

Classical Tour (3 days)

Classical Tour with Meteora (4 days)

Meteora (2 days)

Delphi & Meteora (3 days)

Delphi (2 days)

Mycenae & Epidaurus (2 days)

Delphi (full day)

Ancient Corinth (half day)

Mycenae & Epidaurus (full day)

Sounion (half day)

Athens By Night

Athens Sightseeing

Athens Cooking Lesson with Dinner

Acropolis, ancient agora & agora museum.

Just the Acropolis Tour

Athens City Tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

Athens City Tour with The Acropolis

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Mainland Greece: The Ultimate Guide To Exploring Athens and Beyond

Key Takeaways

• The Acropolis in Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, and Meteora are fascinating archaeological sites in mainland Greece that offer insights into Greece's rich heritage.
• From the majestic peaks of Mount Olympus to the dramatic gorges of Vikos and Samaria , outdoor enthusiasts can explore and appreciate the country's natural beauty.
• Mainland Greece offers an opportunity to connect with locals , experience Greek traditions, and immerse oneself in the country's rich cultural scene.
• From Athens, visitors can easily access popular island destinations like Santorini, Mykonos , Crete , and Rhodes via domestic flights, ferries, or catamarans.

Greece's natural beauty and millennia-old civilization give it a history as a tourist destination that dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

The number of tourist arrivals to Greece increased 87% in 2022 , presenting an upswing in tourism. 

The success of films like  Percy Jackson  has renewed interest in Greek mythology and history, but tourism remains below pre-COVID levels.

As in much of the world, the Greek tourist industry is in the midst of a gradual recovery process. This gives travelers a chance to see ancient sites on mainland Greece without having to brave the usual crowds. 

Perusing a map of Greece reveals that Greece contains many islands in addition to the peninsulae on mainland Greece that connect to mainland Europe. The northernmost part of Greece borders the Balkan nations of Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria.

If you are not in the mood for water travel or already have experience with the islands of Greece, try a tour of the mainland, which includes the historic capital city of Athens. 

Whether or not you visit Athens, mainland Greece has a lot to offer, from bustling seaside cities to mountain retreats .

Greece has  18 sites  on UNESCO's World Heritage List , including many on the mainland, such as the Acropolis, Mount Athos, Meteora , and Christian sites at Thessaloniki , the second largest city in Greece, known for its imposing White Tower , and old town. 

The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said that you can never step into the same river twice. Now is your chance to see mainland Greece at a unique time in its history.

This guide will show you when to go, how to get there, and what to do to make the best use of your vacation time.   

The Best Times To Visit Mainland Greece

Mainland Greece is a gorgeous place to visit any time of year.  Each season has its advantages. Before your plan your travel schedule, find time for some of these seasonal activities.

Greek Independence Day Observances

March 25th celebrates the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire in 1821 and is a time of festivities. The Feast of Annunciation is in the calendar of the Greek Orthodox Church, making the holiday doubly important to Greek history and culture.

Summer in Greece

As a country in the south of the Northern Hemisphere, Greece offers warm, sunny weather as early as April and as late as September. Summer is a fantastic time to sample the produce of mainland Greece, including many types of fruits and vegetables and the world-famous honey of the Halkidiki peninsula .

Winter Activities

Although the warmer seasons bring more tourist traffic, the winter months offer plenty to do on mainland Greece. Christmas festivities and religious ceremonies are a must-see, and the International Film Festival of Thessaloniki occurs in November.

Parts of Mainland Greece

Before you plan your itinerary, familiarize yourself with the main parts of mainland Greece and the unique attractions of each. 

Thrace in northeastern Greece (a small part of the classical Greek province and ancient Roman province) is a lesser-known tourist destination compared to other parts of Greece .

Historians believe that the famed Thracian gladiator Spartacus came from what is now Bulgaria, not modern Thrace. Thrace has breathtaking natural scenery, including picturesque seaside towns, forests, the Evros River, and historic buildings such as monasteries. 

Macedonia lies to the west of Thrace. There, you can visit Pella, the birthplace of Philip of Macedon and his illustrious son, Alexander the Great. Pella and other Macedonian sites feature the ruins of ancient temples, stores, bathhouses, and more. Winter travelers can enjoy skiing at Naousa, Katerini, and other popular destinations .

Travelers with an interest in the development of the early Christian church can see locations where Paul the Apostle and other members of the early church lived and spoke. Drink "Apostle Paul's Holy Water" at the Monastery at Vlatadon.

Epirus 

To the west of Macedonia, south of Albania, you can find Epirus (or Iperos). Nicopolis, the "city of victory," features prominently in ancient and recent history.

There, you can see Roman ruins, Byzantine monuments and architecture, and the site of battles that shaped the development of modern Greece.

Thessaly lies between Macedonia and Central Greece. Many people consider it the cultural center of Greece, but tourists often overlook it in favor of Central Greece and the Greek islands.

When you visit Thessaly, take in the natural scenery that inspired the ancient Greeks to come up with the tales of Greek mythology , enjoy local produce, and visit its many cultural and archaeological sites, including:

• Amphitheaters
• Byzantine Churches
• Orthodox Monasteries
• Stone-age ruins

The beautiful city of Volos stands out as a city in Thessaly with vibrant nightlife as well as deep historical roots.

The town also features a potent local brandy called Tsipouro. Other towns to consider are Trikala and Larissa.

Central Greece

Central Greece contains the mythic Mount Parnassus , nearby Delphi , with its famous ancient ruins, and towns such as Thebes and Lamia with roots going back to the Bronze Age . A visit to Central Greece offers a chance to reflect on Greece's ancient past, see museums, hike through ancient trails, and more. 

The region of Attica, which includes Athens, is the cornerstone of many trips to Greece and Eastern Europe in general.

In Athens, you will experience the grandeur of the Parthenon in the archaeological site of the Acropolis, the Temple of Hephaestus, the ancient Agora, or the Panathenaic Stadium .

If ancient science intrigues you, visit the Tower of the Winds, a recently restored weather station over two thousand years old.

The contemporary architecture of Athens draws upon its history and modern art trends to create a rich 21st-century landscape.

Visit the Onassis Stegi cultural center for performances and exhibitions or simply to take in the innovative use of marble.

The Benaki Museum is striking inside and out, and it houses exhibits from crucial periods in Greek history. Of course, the Acropolis Museum and the archaeological museum are also not to be missed, showcasing Greek history and heritage in style.

For more information about traveling to Athens, staying there, and seeing the sights, visit our  comprehensive guide to Athens .

Peloponnese

The Peloponnese peninsula is located in southern Greece to the southwest of Athens and has played an integral part in Greek history from its beginnings. 

The Mycenaeans belonged to a bronze-age civilization that lived in Greece over 3,000 years ago.

This civilization produced impressive cyclopean architecture, so named because the stones were so large that later Greeks believed that the mythical giants created the buildings. 

One of the highlights of the Peloponnesian peninsula is the sanctuary at ancient Olympia , the site of the original Olympic Games. 

While you won't be able to compete in the Olympic Games, it is easy to add events like sailing and wine tasting to your exploration of the Peloponnese .

These examples are only a taste of what mainland Greece has to offer. For more information about select cities on mainland Greece, you can also visit the Greek National Tourism Organization website. 

Traveling to Mainland Greece

Crossing borders can be more of a challenge than it used to be since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Check with the Greek  General Secretariat for Civil Protection  for the latest guidance on travel restrictions.

From the Balkan Countries

You can take toll roads south of Albania. To reach Greece from the country of Macedonia, you can take a train, a bus, or a combination of the two.

The main airports for international travel to mainland Greece are:

• Athens International Airport
• Thessaloniki International Airport
• Kalamata International Airport in Peloponnese 
• Alexandropouli Airport, serving East Macedonia and Thrace

High-speed ferries and conventional ferries run from Albania to Greece. Ports such as Alexandropoulis in Thrace offer ferry access to many Greek islands .

Plan Your Trip

Be sure to allow time to travel to and from different locations on your itinerary. Athens has a convenient rail system to help you get to important hotspots and cultural sites.

You can reach many cities by rail or car or join a bus tour to visit many sites on a single trip. Some cities, like Delphi, do not have train access, so check the rail lines and bus schedules in advance. If you are traveling by train, Hellenic Train has recently upgraded its food service and offers 100% Greek food products.

Places to Stay in Mainland Greece

Visitors to Greece have a wealth of lodging options, from stately traditional hotels to avant-garde boutique hotels and quaint bed and breakfasts.  The following are just a few of the unforgettable hotels in mainland Greece.

AthensWas  is 90 meters from the Parthenon and less than a kilometer away from many of Athens's most incredible sights. See the Acropolis through the window while dining on traditional Greek food.

The Hotel Grand Bretagne

Built in 1874, the Hotel Grand Bretagne is the oldest hotel in Athens. It has a complex history from its start under Ottoman rule through occupation during World War II to a luxurious haven for Hollywood's elite.

Agramada Treehouse

The Agramada Treehouse in Halkidiki lets you experience the height of luxury from the literal height of a treehouse.

Vaela Hotel Cultural Resort

A boutique hotel in Elatochori, Central Macedonia, the Vaela Hotel Cultural Resort is close to skiing and other outdoor activities. You can escape to Greek village life without having to leave luxury behind.

Where To Eat in Mainland Greece

Greece's warm climate and established position at a global crossroad make it a perfect place for exquisite fresh food , whether your tastes favor traditional Mediterranean cuisine, Middle Eastern delicacies, or something more adventurous.

The Old Tavern of the Psarras 

The oldest restaurant in existence in Athens stands mere kilometers from the Acropolis and offers a wide selection of outstanding salads, fish, and meat dishes.

For an unbeatable mountaintop view of Athens, dine on the top of Mount Lycabettus. From 900 feet above sea level, look out upon the cityscape of Athens and the surrounding hills.

Naoumidis is an exceptional restaurant near Lake Vegorritis in Macedonia, Greece. 

Sightseeing in Mainland Greece

A traveler could spend a year in mainland Greece and not exhaust the possibilities.  Greece has been at the forefront of world history since the days of the Mycenaeans.

Throughout central Greece, you will see traces of classical Greece, Greece under the Roman Empire, the development of the Greek Orthodox Church, the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and pivotal clashes in World War I and World War II. 

Ruins of Classical Greece

Despite millennia of warfare, religious changes, and political struggles, ancient structures survive, some in places you might not think to look.

While you visit the famous temples, don't forget less glamorous sites, such as quarries, walls, and remains of personal residences. 

Churches, Monasteries, and Ottoman Sites

Under the Christian Roman and Eastern Roman (Byzantine) empires, Greece's old religious practices gave way to Christianity, leaving the country with a wealth of historic buildings.

The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea in Athens, for example, is nearly one thousand years old and exists on the site of an older temple. 

Battlegrounds

One way to get a rich cultural experience and explore the more out-of-the-way parts of mainland Greece is to stay near the site of a historic battle. Consider a trip to:

• The Thessaly plains, where the gods and titans fought, according to legend.
• Visit the legendary battle site of Marathon, where you can enjoy resort accommodations close to the beach or make a day trip from Athens to the battle site. 
• Visit Thermopylae and see firsthand where the Spartans faced off against the Persians.

The battlefield might not look the same as it did thousands of years ago, but the scene still resonates.

Do I Need To Visit Athens During My Tour of Mainland Greece?

It is hard to imagine a trip to Greece without spending some time at the Greek capital. The city brings pollution, crowds, and other hassles that many travelers are trying to escape. As you can see from this post, mainland Greece has a lot to offer beyond Athens.  

Final Thoughts

Any trip to Greece has limitless potential and countless opportunities to escape the well-worn tourist paths. Going beyond Athens gives you a deeper insight into the life and culture of Greece.

Visiting the olive groves, orchards, waterways, and forests that sustained Greek civilization throughout the ages gives a complete travel experience. 

Start planning your trip to mainland Greece today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major cities in mainland greece.

The major cities in mainland Greece include Athens, Thessaloniki in northern Greece, Patras, Larissa, Volos, and Ioannina. These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities.

What are the must-visit historical sites in mainland Greece?

Mainland Greece is rich in historical sites from the ancient world. Some locations you must visit in mainland Greece include the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, the ancient city of Delphi, Meteora with its monasteries, Mycenae, Epidaurus with its ancient theater and beautiful modern city, and Olympia.

What is the best way to travel within mainland Greece?

Mainland Greece has a well-connected public transportation system. You can travel within the country using domestic flights, trains, long-distance buses, and rental cars.

Trains and buses are cost-effective options, while domestic flights are faster but more expensive.

What are the best natural attractions in mainland Greece?

Mainland Greece offers various natural attractions. Some popular ones include Mount Olympus, Vikos Gorge, Mount Parnassus, Mount Pelion, the Prespa Lakes, and the Vikos–Aoös National Park.

What is the best time to visit mainland Greece?

The best time to visit mainland Greece is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is generally pleasant.

However, the Greek mainland is a year-round destination and offers an excellent opportunity for experiencing Greece in winter in the most scenic way possible.

Return to Matt's Greece Tours Index

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The Perfect 7 to 10 Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 21, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The islands typically tend to be the star of the show when visiting the ancient country of Greece.  This comes with good reason, as the Greek islands are truly stunning locations for any kind of traveler. Albeit, the mainland of Greece is a knockout destination that’s typically off the beaten path for any mainstream traveler. In this 7 to 10-day Greece mainland itinerary, expect waterfalls, mighty mountain ranges, medieval towns, bustling and exciting cities, and the mystical home of the Greek Gods.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Mainland Greece

This route spans the majority of the mainland, from the southern Peloponnese to the northern city of Thessaloniki , so various modes of transport are possible as well as ideal. 

My recommendation is to hire a car and drive throughout your trip. The longest journey time is around 4 ½ hours making driving the easiest, most convenient, and most cost-efficient way to travel around the Greek mainland. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options for hiring a car.

A mainland Greece road trip is one of the best ways to experience this relatively undiscovered part of the country by tourists.

If you’re planning on flying into Greece, I recommend flying into the Athens International Airport. The itinerary begins in the capital and it’s the main airport, making flights the most frequent and affordable in comparison to other airports in Greece. 

Another option for getting around on this mainland Greece itinerary is by bus. The KTEL bus system is essentially the national bus transport, connecting cities and towns throughout the country.

You can typically find routes for major cities or towns and sometimes smaller places if they’re frequently visited by tourists and locals.

Costs differ, so you can expect to pay between €5 and €25 depending on the route and although tickets can be affordable, if you choose to use the bus as a main means of transport throughout the country it can add up quickly.

Train transport is also another option, but the routes in Greece aren’t as extensive as in other countries in Europe. This means that there may be gaps in transportation, but those can be filled by bus.

The downside to taking bus or train transport is that if you’re hoping to visit more remote destinations in mainland Greece, it can be hard to make your way there from the main transport routes. These tickets can also easily add up to double the cost of a rental car, so keep this in mind if you’re torn between the two.

If you don’t like the idea of public transport or renting a car, you can also find tour groups that go to the majority of destinations, making it a seamless way to travel without the stress of driving or planning.

7 to 10-Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

The mainland of Greece is full of countless treasures. From the rustic mountains and quaint villages of central Greece and the Peloponnese to the hectic and exciting cities of Athens and Thessaloniki; you’re bound to discover countless new jewels in the most undiscovered part of Greece; the mainland.

While the islands are outstanding locations to visit on any dream itinerary, the best way to get to know the heart of Greece and everyday life is through the mainland. 

Day 1 – Athens

This mainland Greece itinerary begins with 2 days in the same place where modern democracy began as well as the capital city, Athens . You’ll likely be flying into the Athens International Airport, making the Greek capital a great and convenient starting point.

Athens is a great way to begin as you’ll have the opportunity to get your bearings in a new country, discover Greek foods, and see some of the most important ruins in ancient history.

Although the city is quite small, there’s an abundance of things to do. Because of this, you can decide to mold your time in different ways, from exploration of the Ancient Greek world to the cultural side of what makes modern-day Athens what it is today.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, make sure to not miss a visit to the Acropolis , a wander around the classic Greek neighborhood of Plaka , and a long wholesome meal at a classic Greek tavern.

Other ways to explore further into Athens are plentiful and unique; venture into the southern suburbs of Athens to explore Poseidon’s Temple in Cape Sounio or take a dip in the sea around an hour away from Athens at Schinias beach.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – Located only 500 meters from Monastiraki Square, this hotel is an excellent central place to stay in the Greek capital. There are several rooms, a restaurant, a shared terrace, airport shuttle, breakfast and more to offer guests.

The Modernist Athens – A sleek and modern hotel in the Kolnaki neighborhood, this hotel has a range of cool rooms, private parking, a fitness centre and a superb buffet breakfast in the mornings.

101 Adrianou Apartments – These suites are excellent for those looking for a comfortable, central option. Situated within walking distance of Syntagma Square, there is daily housekeeping and incredible views of the city.

City Circus Athens – Boasting a terrace with an Acropolis view, this hostel is great for backpackers. There are great common areas for meeting other travellers and a range of dorms and privates to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

Day 2 – Athens

Spend your second day in Athens getting to know the city a bit deeper. If you spent day one checking off all of the well-known highlights like the Acropolis and exploring some cool, central neighborhoods, consider taking in a museum or two on your second day – such as the Archaeological Museum or the Benaki Museum.

You could also opt to get a bit off the beaten path and explore some cool neighborhoods like Psyri and Monastiraki or even opt to go on a food tour , where you can learn about all of the Athenian specialities.

Day 3 – Nafplio and Epidaurus (Peloponnese) 

After getting acquainted with Greece in Athens, you’ll head south to the neighboring Peloponnese region.

The Peloponnese region is an alluring peninsula south of central Greece offering one of the most exciting and unique experiences in Greece. Although this itinerary only offers a taster of one day in the Peloponnese, I highly suggest exploring the region on a deeper level if you have the time.

With just one day in the Peloponnese, you’ll make your way first to the picturesque town of Nafplio. Nafplio is a coastal city in the Peloponnese offering idyllic views and architecture, wonderful food, and a pleasant place to experience the Peloponnese.

After, head about half an hour away to the ancient town of Epidaurus to explore the stunningly peaceful nature of the Peloponnese and the ancient ruins and theatre of the town of Epidaurus.

Where to Stay in Nafplio

Amymone and Adiandi – This quaint hotel in Nafplio is an excellent base for your first couple of days in the Peloponnese. They have a range of bright, clean and comfortable rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the town and the region.

Carpe Diem Boutique Hotel – For those looking for a hip place to stay in Naflplio, this boutique hotel is sure not to disappoint. They have a number of chic rooms on offer, breakfast available in the mornings and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nafplio hotels!

Day 4 – Delphi

Day 4 of this road trip will bring you back through central Greece and to the legendary, and one of the most visited places on the mainland of Greece, the ancient site of Delphi.

Delphi is about 3 ½ hours away from Athens and on the way to Delphi, you’ll also pass through Ancient Corinth and the Corinth Canal connecting central Greece to the upper point of the Peloponnese. Alternatively, you could also visit the ancient site of Olympia, another incredible place in the Peloponnese.

If you have extra time and are particularly interested in ancient history, I recommend making a stop in Corinth to explore the ruins and the grand Corinth Canal and see the blue water of the Corinthian Gulf before heading to Delphi.

Delphi is the first stop in central Greece and once spending time there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s one of the most visited spots in Greece. Take time to explore the archaeological site and museum, witness the famous Temple of Apollo, and find yourself in awe of the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.

Delphi is also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so even just spending a few hours in the area is a great chance to connect to nature. Afterwards, head to the nearby town of Arachova to enjoy a local meal for lunch. You could also visit the lovely village of Nafpaktos.

Where to Stay in Delphi

Arion Hotel – Located only about 200 metres from the archaeological site, this three-star guesthouse is a great choice. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and an unbeatable location for exploring this area.

Amalia Hotel Delphi – This 4-star hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a bit more of a luxurious stay while visiting Delphi. They have several lovely, plush rooms on offer, a wonderful location and a great swimming pool to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Delphi hotels!

Day 5 – Meteora 

After leaving Arachova and Delphi, day 5 will take you about 3 ½ hours away to one of the best places to visit in all of Greece, Meteora. One of the highlights of taking the time to explore the Greek mainland is that you don’t have to make a choice between visiting Delphi or Meteora.

Meteora is easily one of the most outstanding places to visit in all of Greece, and with good reason. Located next to the small town of Kalambaka, the area is a striking formation of rocks sprawling from the earth with a collection of Byzantine Eastern Orthodox monasteries bravely sitting on top.

With the construction of these monasteries beginning in the 11th century, Meteora is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a gift for all who visit. During your stay, you can either hike to the monasteries or drive above to have easier access and saved time. 

Where to Stay near Meteora

Dellas Boutique Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this 3-star boutique hotel when visiting Meteora. Located in the town of Kalambaka within easy reach of the monasteries, they have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Hotel Doupiani House – This is an excellent hotel for those looking for a comfortable and cosy mid-range option in Kalambaka. Well-poised for exploring the splendours of Meteora, they have many rooms to choose from and a great buffet breakfast available each morning.

Meteora Central Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this cosy hostel in Kalambaka. Well-located for exploring Meteora, they have a range of dorm beds and private rooms to choose from and good shared spaces and common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Meteora hotels!

Day 6 – Zagori

Days 6 & 7 of this route will bring you closer to the northern Greek border and 3 hours from Meteora to the Pindus mountain range and region of Zagori.

The region of Zagori is a collection of around 40 villages cosily nestled in the Pindos mountains and full of tradition, rugged wilderness, and truly breathtaking scenery.

In Zagori, visit the striking Vikos Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world in the Vikos-Aoos National Park, enjoy one of the numerous hiking paths in the region and appreciate the unique Zagorian architecture spanning through the villages.

For accommodation, you’ll find all sorts of options from luxurious boutique hotels to affordable bed and breakfasts and mid-range hotel options.

Mainland Greece is truly a haven for nature lovers and Zagori is the prime destination for those looking for a stay off the beaten path.

Where to Stay in Zagori

Guesthouse Gouris – This cosy guesthouse is perfect for mid-range travellers visiting the beautiful Zagori region. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that feature local rugs and handicrafts and there is also a wonderful breakfast available each morning.

Aberratio Boutique Hotel – Located in the village of Aristi, this boutique hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a more upmarket place to stay in the Zagori region. They have a number of swanky rooms on offer and an incredibly beautiful location for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Zagori hotels!

Day 7 – Zagori

On your second day in the Zagori, take a bit more time to explore some of the places you didn’t make it to on the first day. Enjoy the laid-back nature and stunning scenery of the area and get active on a few of the many hiking trails you can find.

If you’re following the 7-day itinerary rather than 10, this day will conclude your trip. Either head onward in Greece to your following destination or head back to Athens to fly onward. 

Day 8 – Mount Olympus

After spending time in the pristine Zagori region, you’ll head northwest to one of the most famous areas in Greece and one of the most famous mountains in the world, Mount Olympus.

Mount Olympus is about a 3-hour drive away from Zagori and although the hike to the top in its entirety is only recommended for well-experienced travelers, you can still enjoy the famous scenery with a nice hike and time in the nearby villages.

Although its fame is due to being the home of the Greek Gods, it is the first national park in Greece and one with some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country.

The town of Litochoro is located at the foot of Mount Olympus and is a great spot to base yourself to explore the mountain and have a start on many of the trails.

The town itself dates back to the 14th century, has plenty of appetizing restaurants, and still has abundant Macedonian architecture throughout the town offering a unique glimpse into the region and its history.

Where to Stay near Mt Olympus

Kallisto Traditional Guesthouse – Located in the town of Litochoro, this rustic guesthouse is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and traditional place to stay near Mt Olympus. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the region.

To Palio Litochoro – This lovely guesthouse located in Litochoro is an excellent choice for those looking for a great place to stay in the foothills of Mt Olympus. They have a number of great rooms on offer, a beautiful setting and a perfect location in the centre of the village.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Mt Olympus hotels!

Day 9 – Thessaloniki

While the majority of this trip is amongst nature and smaller Greek villages and towns, the last stop for those spending the full 10 days on this Greece mainland itinerary is the second biggest city in Greece, Thessaloniki .

The city itself is about a 2 1⁄2 hour drive away from Mount Olympus and within the city, you’ll find the wonder of the proud Greek mountainous treasure keeping watch over Thessaloniki. The city itself is typically quite overlooked on any Greek itinerary but is worth the visit in its own right.

From the gritty Balkan architecture, to what’s known as the best food scene in Greece, Thessaloniki is easily one of the most underrated destinations on the Greece mainland.

During your visit, make sure to have a fresh bougatsa from a local bakery (a specialty pastry originating in Thessaloniki), wander the seafront and port, stop by the White Tower, and wander through Ladadika, Thessaloniki’s old town as well as Morichovou Square.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – A funky mid0rang hotel in the center of Thessaloniki, there are plenty of bright rooms to choose from, a great breakfast and private parking available to guests.

Teight Hotel – A luxe and modern hotel within easy reach of the top Thessaloniki attractions, this place boasts an on-site bar, room service, great breakfast and a range of spacious rooms on offer.

Zeus is Loose Hostel – A very highly-rated hostel perfect for backpackers and budget travellers, there are lots of dorms (and private rooms) here, great common areas, kitchen facilities and an excellent atmosphere for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Thessaloniki hotels!

Day 10 – Thessaloniki

Spend your final day in Thessaloniki (and the final day of this 10-day Mainland Greece itinerary) digging deeper and really getting to know Greece’s second city.

Take the time to explore some cool neighborhoods, take a lot of leisurely strolls along the waterfront or, perhaps, take a food tour to learn more about the gastronomic scene in this “foodie” city.

Thessaloniki also has one of the largest airports in Greece offering routes connecting to the rest of Europe, making it the perfect departure point at the end of this trip. You can also reach other Balkan destinations from the city, as it’s easy to get from Thessaloniki to Sofia, Bulgaria and other neighbouring countries.

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend, there are plenty of other points of interest worth visiting.

If you’re keen on exploring deeper into the Peloponnese, you can easily tack on another few days or week and head further south into the region, discovering Ancient Sparta, the crystalline Mani Peninsula, and the Medieval island town of Monemvasia with its beautiful Venetian castle.

After visiting the towns of Zagori, head to Ioannina, the capital city of the Zagori region, to enjoy one of the oldest lakes in the world, Lake Pamvotis.

For those interested in exploring a different region of mainland Greece, I suggest making your way to Volos, a port city in the region of Thessaly full of history, culture, delicious cuisine and the gateway to the neighboring Northern Sporades islands, Skiathos and Skopelos.

Whether or not the mainland of Greece has already been on your dream travel list, it’s undoubtedly a destination that you’ll discover is full of abundance. You’ll explore deep parts of Ancient history, get lost in Greece’s wilderness, and experience what life is like in the country’s biggest cities and smallest towns.

Spending 7 days or more in this part of Greece before hopping over to the islands is a great way to discover Greek culture and Greece without hoards of tourists. 

Are you planning to explore mainland Greece? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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Delphi vs Meteora: Choosing an Athens Day Trip

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Rhodes Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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Incredible Destinations

Greece is a popular destination not only because of its amazing islands but also because the mainland offers plenty of options for a memorable Mediterranean holiday! Explore unspoilt fishing villages full of tranquil charm, tower towns, traditional stone built villages or try the exciting city breaks on offer. Visit archaeological sites, learn more about the country's fascinating culture, travel along the spectacular coastline and enjoy its picture-perfect scenery!

Attica, the land that gave birth to ideas and arts, has created and shaped what we call today the western civilisation. Today, a visit to Attica offers visitors a unique experience. A “journey” in its 6,000-year history, including the chance to see renowned monuments and masterpieces of art of antiquity and the Middle Ages, and the architectural heritage of the 19th and 20th centuries. Here lies Athens, the capital of Greece, the busiest city of the country with the most prominent archaeological site and symbol of the country, the world famous sacred rock of the Acropolis. Attica is home to some of the world’s most important and fascinating museums and archaeological sites, testimony to its long and prominent role in world history. Festivals featuring ancient Greek drama, as well as performances, sports or culinary events are organised throughout the year, spellbinding the audience.

Central Greece

Central Greece, known as Roumeli, is part of the Greek mainland that has been inhabited since antiquity. There are forested mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, rich fauna and flora and remarkable archaeological sites. Visit the archaeological site of Delphi and the Oracle of Apollo , picturesque seaside towns of Galaxidi and Itea , as well as beautiful Nafpaktos of great historical importance. The lagoon of Messolonghi , the largest Greek wetland, is a natural paradise that includes islets, dunes, forested banks and a rich flora and fauna that provide salt and fish to the locals. But the most precious gift of nature here is bottarga (Greek avgotaracho), one of the few seafood products with a PDO award, a delicacy coming from the eggs of the female grey mullet. Do you seek the kind of thrill that will pump up your adrenalin? Karpenisi is the ideal destination as there is a multitude of activities for you throughout the year. So, don’t waste time, take a trip to the heart of Greek nature and see ravines with impressive waterfalls, dense forested areas and rapid river waters! If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, make a point of visiting Mt. Parnassos and nearby picturesque Arachova Village , the most cosmopolitan winter destination in Greece. Don’t miss the well-known archaeological sites at Orchomenos Village, Thebes, Plataiaes, and Chaeronea.

Epirus lies in NW Greece, between the Pindos mountain range and the Ionian Sea. Its untouched mountainous mass of Pindos with its great virgin forests, the Dragon Lakes (the mythical mountain lakes) and the untamed slopes provide a plethora of activities (mountaineering, climbing, ski, hiking, mountain biking etc.) in a scenery of singular beauty, as well as the rivers of Epirus which offer other activities such as kayak, rafting, canoeing etc. Arachtos especially, is considered as one of the most beautiful and challenging rivers for kayaking, while Voidomatis runs through the impressive gorge of Vikos. All of this co-exists in harmony with the archaeological sites , castles , monasteries , churches and traditional villages. Pay a visit to Zagorochoria, a group of 46 villages located all over the slopes of the mountains. In close proximity, you can find Vikos Canyon, the second deepest in the world, with an ecosystem of 1.700 plants and 182 animals. Cross the historic stone bridges of Epirus, where legends and local traditions leave their mark on these architectural masterpieces of superb craftsmanship. Explore Dodoni, the place where the famous oracle used to be in ancient times, pay a visit at the famous Theater of Dodoni , the largest in antiquity and finally taste some of the most delicious feta, the cheese par excellence of Greece.

Visit Macedonia where you will encounter unique images. Explore this magnificent place in Greece where east meets west. The imposing – and almost perennial snowy – massifs of unique beauty boast Mt Olympus, the country's most famous and highest mountain, which is followed by the equally beautiful Pangaio , Kaimaktsalan (Voras) and Falakro mountains, where you can enjoy hiking, skiing or snowboarding during winter. The water element is significantly present with some of the most important rivers and lakes in Greece flowing through Macedonia. Visit the metropolis of the North, Thessaloniki , with an intriguing multi-ethnic history and arty counter culture. It is a lively modern place, bustling with energy and verve. Built amphitheatrically around the sea, facing Mount Olympus on the distant horizon, it has always been a centre of different civilizations, cultures, nations and religions. Discover breathtaking Halkidiki with its clear waters and golden sand beaches, bays, little islands and green landscapes that will make your dream vacation come true! Don’t miss the unique beauty of Serres nature; the picturesque cities of Drama, Kavala on the East; and Kastoria and Naousa on the West.

Peloponnese

Escape to the Peloponnese, where Myth meets history. Monuments from every period of the eventful history, great archeological sites; ancient Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Tiryns, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Byzantine churches and Monasteries. Enjoy sightseeing and sports; explore unique villages and alluring castles amidst stunning natural beauty, mountains and forests, rivers and caves. Not to mention that the Peloponnese is surrounded by the Greek sea, with lovely beaches, sandy and smooth coasts on the western part – rocky and lacy on its easternmost side.  It is no coincidences that the tour of the Peloponnese is very popular among travellers. Go ahead and plan your next adventure here!

Enjoy Thessaly, a region of sheer beauty with mountains, rivers, beaches, the popular Plastira Lake , Tempi valley , and last but not least the unique Meteora , the most photogenic spiritual site in Greece. Archeological areas, Byzantine monasteries and churches, traditional settlements and ski resorts complete the fascinating natural beauty of Thessaly and make it a popular holiday destination. Soaring like a sleepless guardian above the city of Volos , Mt Pelion is gorgeous throughout the year. Set against an idyllic backdrop of olive groves that shimmer in the sunlight, dense forests and lush fruit orchards, these 24 stone-built villages are the true gems of Pelion . Take the legendary “Mountzouris”, the traditional train of Pelion that connects Milies with Ano Lechona. It’s the perfect way to see part of the mountain and some other traditional villages. Visit Volos, the city of the Argonauts, where you will definitely pass by a tsipouro taverna as they are dispersed in every nook and cranny: almost 600 (!) of them bear the gastronomic stamp of the city and provide people with a favourite meeting point; that is the unrivalled landmark of Volos. Just a few kilometers to the West, lie the archaeological sites of Sesklo (the most ancient settlement of Europe, dating back to 6.000 BC) and Dimini , the most important prehistoric settlement in Greece and one of the most important ones of the New Stone Age worldwide.

Thrace is an area of amazing natural beauty, a land where Greek legend has placed the mythical home of Orpheus. It is famous for its pristine, beautiful countryside that makes it a paradise for outdoor recreation, adventure and exploration. This part of Greece has it all: the Rodopi mountain range and Mt. Saos on Samothrace Island in the Thracian Sea; the rivers Evros, Nestos and Ardas; Lakes Vistonida and Ismarida; Dadia forest and the Evros River Delta where internationally acclaimed wetlands are located; fertile valleys, dense forests and endless stretches of white sandy beaches.

© P. Merakos

© G. Filippini

Mainland Greece Travel Guide

Greece › Mainland Greece Best Places Updated: April 17, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Athens
• Where to Stay in Nafplio
• Where to Stay in Monemvasia
• Where to Stay in Thessaloniki
• Where to Stay in Delphi
• Where to Stay near the Meteora
• Best Greek Islands
• Where to Go in Peloponnese
• Where to Go in Halkidiki

The Meteora monasteries near the village of Kalambaka in central Greece.

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece Athens Greece’s capital and perhaps the most important mainland destination; any trip to mainland Greece requires a stopover for at least a day or two. Delphi One of Greece’s best must-see archaeological sites; located in southern Greece, just across the Gulf of Corinth from the Peloponnese. Ioannina A bustling, picturesque lake town that’s the gateway to northwest Greece and the key to Epirus – the Zagoria villages, Metsovo, the Epirus Riviera (Parga, Preveza, Syvota). Gytheio A small but important port in the South Peloponnese that’s growing in popularity as a destination. Weekly ferry link to Kythira and Crete. Kalambaka The main outpost for visiting the incredible (and must-see) Meteora Monasteries, built on immense rocky pillars. Kalambaka also serves as an important transit link to the mid-north (Grevena, Kastoria, Kozani). Kastoria A beautiful lakeside town similar in style to Ioannina. Great for nature, skiing, and transit connections to Greece’s mid-north and northern border regions. Monemvasia Charming stone village on a small island off the east coast of the Peloponnese (but linked to the mainland by a short causeway). A magnet for painters, writers and readers. Nafpaktos A pretty, breezy, and historically important seaside town on on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. Nafplio Classy Peloponnese seaport retreat with neo-classical buildings and many excellent hotels. Olympia Along with Athens and Delphi, Olympia is one of of Greece’s three must-see archaeological sites. A small destination, but well situated for touring the west Peloponnese. Thessaloniki A strategic tourist travel position and airport hub in the central north, gateway to Greece for land arrivals from the Balkans and gateway to the Halkidiki peninsula. Veria A central and sizable northern town close to the Vergina and Pella archaeological sites, as well as the popular escarpment towns of Naousa and Serres.

Athens Athens is the nation’s capital and heartland, and an essential stop on any trip to the Greek mainland. Though it is a sprawling city of well over half a million, the city center is surprisingly small; all attractions listed here can be visited on foot. It’s also remarkably safe and welcoming, though it may appear chaotic and edgy at first. Athens is a great destination year-round, with the best times to visit being the spring and fall. It’s chilly (but relatively dry) in the winter months; midsummer sees the city emptying itself of locals, and can get unbearably hot. Allow for at least three nights in Athens, and stay as centrally as you can afford. Things to Do in Athens There are many great things to do in Athens , but if you have only 2-3 days, here are some of the highlights. Acropolis and Acropolis Museum : Athens is chock-a-block full of museums and ancient sites. If you must choose, then at least visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple and its accompanying Acropolis Museum. • Map Concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus : If you plan to attend a concert in Athens, do it here. The atmosphere is electric. Check the Why Athens website for details of events during your visit. • Map Dining in Plaka or Psyri : A night out dining on the street is a must in Athens. The Plaka is touristy but has the location – right under the Acropolis. Psyri offers a more authentic experience. • Map: Plaka , Psyri Mount Lycabettus : For the highest and most spectacular views of Athens and the surrounding area, ascend to the summit of Lycabettus (Lykavittos) Hill. Take the cable car from the Kolonaki district, have lunch or a drink at the top then walk down. • Map The Changing of the Guard : It’s touristy, it’s a show, and it’s a shame not to see it. The Parliament building on Syntagma Square has two permanent Evzone Guards keeping watch, every hour on the hour, they swap places with new guards. Go on Sunday at 11am for the full show with elaborate costumes and a marching band. • Map Monastiraki Flea Market : Anything and everything can be bought in this chaotic bric-a-brac market that runs from Monastiraki Square westwards. Swords, vinyl records, coffee pots, and a thousand other items can be found here. • Map Recommended Athens Hotels AthensWas Hotel – One of a growing number of small boutique hotels opening in Athens’ inner core. AthensWas combines style, finesse, and spacious comfort with the convenience of a central location. • +30 21 0924 9954 • Map New Hotel – A superbly renovated central downtown hotel two minutes’ walk from Syntagma Square. Great rooftop bar and restaurant. • +30 21 0327 3000 • Map Royal Olympic Hotel – Among the royalty of Athens’ classic luxury hotels, the ROH simply enjoys a stunning location. Panorama rooms are unparalleled for the views over the Temple of Olympian Zeus. • +30 21 0928 8400 • Map Getting To and From Athens As the capital of the country, Athens has the richest and widest choice of transport options in Greece. Offering air, rail, road, and sea links, travelers to Greece will almost inevitably pass through Athens at some stage of their itinerary. Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Athens, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes can affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day . Ferry : The Piraeus ferry port is about 10 km south of the city center and has direct ferries to most Greek islands (with the exception of the Ionian islands on the west coast of Greece). The most popular routes to Mykonos , Naxos , Paros , Santorini , and Crete have several sailings per day in high season. Air : Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is a modern well-run establishment, with connections to all continents. The airport’s 35 km distance from the city center makes for a potentially costly transfer; options to reach the city are the bus, the metro, or taxi. Bus to/from Airport : The cheapest way to get into city center is the dedicated bus service that links the airport with the Kifissos bus station, the port of Piraeus, and the center. A bus ticket from the airport to Athens city center costs €6. Metro to/from Airport : The Athens Metro runs services to city center, Piraeus, and to Kiato in the Peloponnese. A metro ticket from the airport to central Athens costs €10. Taxi to/from Airport : A taxi from the airport to Athens’ city center will cost between €40 and €50. Taxis can be found outside the arrivals area. A good alternative is the Welcome Athens chauffeur service, which can be scheduled in advance. Getting Around Athens Foot : Athens is not a large city to walk around if you stick to the city center. You can cover most of the major sites on foot – use your favorite maps app to guide you accordingly. Buses, Trolleys, Trams, and Metro : Athens’ urban transit service, while efficient, can be crowded and confusing to first-time users. Rechargeable, multi-use Athe.ena tickets can be purchased and recharged at all Athens transport ticket offices, as well as the automatic ticket issuing machines located at transit stops. They can be used to transfer from one mode of transport to another, and are chargeable for 90-minute, all-day, or 5-day increments. Specialized tourist tickets are available that include 1 round trip to/from the airport by Metro or Express Bus, and 3 days of unlimited travel on all other modes. Purchase these before boarding. As mentioned above, transportation strikes are commonly held on May 1 each year, so avoid booking major travel on that date. Taxi : Taxis are cheap here in comparison with the rest of Europe, but hailing one often involves stiff streetside competition with other ride seekers. Drivers will sometimes pick up multiple passengers who are heading in the same direction. A handy smartphone app called Beat is a neat way of getting the cab you want at a time you need one. Suburban train : A wider though still limited service that runs in parallel to some routes to the Metro. Its main difference is that it runs out as far as Corinth and Kiato on the north coast of the Peloponnese. Athe.ena tickets can be used for the urban section of this line. Train : Athens’ main rail hub, Larissa Station , is located 3 km from Syntagma Square, near the M2 line Metro station and reachable by the No 1 or No 790 bus. Another important station is the SKA ( Railways Center of Acharnes ), located near the Attiki Odos ring road and handy if you are taking the Airport Suburban Rail line to connect with a mainline train service. Car : while Athens may look undrivable, it is no worse than any other major city. With the use of a GPS device or Google Maps on your phone, navigating is not difficult. The easiest way to get out of Athens is to make for the toll road known as Attiki Odos and follow it: to the east for the airport, to the west for the Peloponnese and to the main north junction at Metamorfosi for the North. The freeway from Piraeus joins this same junction. Delphi Built next to a cleft in the mountains of Central Greece, with a stunning view to the sea far below, Delphi was thought by the ancients to be the center of the known world. Princes and paupers alike would journey to Delphi to seek counsel from the mystic Delphic Oracle; the ancient temples and adjacent (and enchanting) Greek village have drawn dreamers, philosophers, writers, and hopefuls ever since. Today’s Delphi consists of an extensive archaeological site and museum, along with a couple of smaller, though not unimportant, classical offerings. Delphi village is a busy thoroughfare of two parallel streets crammed with quality hotels , restaurants, cafés and tourist shops. The center is compact and can be easily traversed in an hour or so. Delphi is worth at least a two-night stay to allow for a slow exploration of the Oracle site, and to soak up the still-present mystical atmosphere while watching the sunset over a panoramic dinner. Things to Do in Delphi The Temple of Apollo : This sprawling hillside sanctuary is where the High Priestess (the Delphic Oracle) held court; visitors in antiquity came from far and wide to seek her prophesies. Today, it’s the prime reason visitors come to Delphi. Read up beforehand to understand what it was all about, and come early to avoid the heat and crowds. Entry is €12. • Map The Kastalian Spring and Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia : Of perhaps lesser interest, but interesting all the same, the former is the site of the spring where ritual purification took place. It is best enjoyed late at night or at sunrise. The latter is Delphi’s most famous landmark photo op site (the ruins with the columns in a circle); this would be the first stop by ancient visitors on their pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Apollo. Map: Kastalian Spring , Sanctuary of Athena Delphi Archaeological Museum : The museum complements the Sanctuary site with model reconstructions, helpful historical information, and important artifacts from the site. Visit the museum first to gain context (go early – or late afternoon – to avoid the crowds), and head to the Sanctuary afterward. Your €12 ticket covers both entry fees. • Map Recommended Delphi Hotels Kastalia Boutique Hotel – An airy and friendly establishment with exceptionally comfortable rooms and mind-blowing views. An in-house restaurant and panoramic terrace make for an all-inclusive package. • +30 22 6508 2205 • Map Amalia Hotel – A sprawling hotel set in the hillside just outside of town, with an on-site restaurant and large outdoor swimming pool. • +30 2265 082101 • Map Acropole Delphi Hotel – Cozy, folksy lodging just below the main street in a quieter part of the village. Unparalleled views out over the valley below. • +30 22 6508 2675 • Map Getting To and From Delphi The most common forms of visitor transport to and from Delphi are bus tours and private vehicles. The only other way in and out is by bus. Bus : The main bus route runs back and forth from Athens, leaving Athens from Bus Station B at Liosion. Buses are plentiful along this route, and details are easier to follow at the Fokida KTEL Bus Station website . Travelers wishing to travel from Delphi to Meteora or Olympia will have to make at least one transfer: For Olympia, take a Patra-bound bus (change in Itea on the same ticket). In Patra walk 550m northeast from the arrival bus terminal on the port (corner Gerokostopoulou and Othonos & Amalias) to the Pyrgos bus station. From Pyrgos take a local bus or train to Olympia (see Olympia entry). For Meteora, take a bus to Amfissa (via Itea) and swap for a bus to Lamia. From Lamia you can either train it (from Leianokladi) to Kalambaka, or bus it via Trikala. Taxis : Though the village center is easily traversed on foot, taxis can be helpful in getting to some Delphi’s more distant attraction. They congregate opposite the bus stop at the eastern edge of the village. • Tel: +32 22 6508 2752 Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Delphi, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any major bus, train, or ferry trips that day. Ioannina Ioannina is the bustling mountain capital of the northwest Greek region of Greece known as Epirus. Think of it as Greece’s Scotland – with soaring, stunning mountains, and a lake with its own inhabited island. Linger and relax with an ouzo on ice by the lakefront, or take a slow boat ride to the Island for a meal of eels, trout, or even frogs legs. Ioannina has had a checkered past, from its founding in the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century AD, through the Ottomans and a bloodthirsty dictator. Today it is an important university town with a lively student café scene. It features a Turkish-inspired Old Town and walled ‘Kastro’ and is the gateway to Epirus’ little known Zagorochoria villages that seem to be straight out of Grimm’s, with fairytale stone houses, stone bridges over rushing rivers, and the awe-inspiring Vikos Gorge (the deepest in the world). Things to Do in Ioannina The Island :The only lake-island in Greece where people live all year round. It consists of a compact village, a monastery, and a shaded walking path around the island. It is home to the Ali Pasha Museum , dedicated to Ioannina’s infamous Ottoman-Albanian despot who ruled with an iron and often vicious hand. A passenger ferry boat leaves from the waterfront by the Kastro every 20 minutes. • Map The Castle/Kastro : More a walled mini-city than a castle the ‘Kastro’ consists of a living community, some small hotels, a large Byzantine museum, and a former mosque. Cobbled streets meander at will, but you will never get lost. • Map The Lake : No tour boats explore the vast green expanse of Lake Pamvotis, but cyclists can circumnavigate the Lake in about an hour and a half (24 km) on quiet rural lanes, a lakeside road, and a dedicated cycle path near the town itself. • Map Zagori Villages and Vikos Gorge : A 45-minute drive to the northeast of Ioannina leads visitors to the stunning scenery and topography of these two chart-topping sights. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring sight of Vikos Gorge from Monodendri. Take in a sophisticated rural lunch in the villages of Papingo or Mikro Papingo. Map: Zagori , Vikos Gorge Recommended Ioannina Hotels Saz City Life Hotel – Re-purposed from tired inner-city office buildings, Saz offers trendy urban accommodation in the heart of Ioannina. • +30 26 5107 8888 • Map Guesthouse Politia – One of the forerunners of the boutique studios scene, this cozy space occupies choice real estate in the Old Town. • +30 26 5102 2235 • Map Villa Vilielmini – Less a hotel and more luxury apartments, Villa Vilielmini enjoys a location close to the lakefront and its café scene. • +30 26 5103 0515 • Map Getting To and From Ioannina Travel to and from Ioannina has been difficult in the past, with air connectivity only to Athens and road transport slowed down by tortuous access routes and the town’s mountain setting. Since the opening of the Ionian Way (south) and the Via Egnatia (east-west), however, road transport to Ioannina is super fast and in 2018 Ioannina opened up international air links with flights to Europe and the Middle East. Bus : Ioannina’s busy bus terminal is located by the lakeside at Georgiou Papandreou 45 ; the KTEL bus website is rather clunky and ageing, but is at least offered in English. Connections are pretty well spread across the country you can even take a bus to Chania in Crete. Air : Air links are mostly still with Athens, but charter companies from places such as Sweden and Israel have recently started flying into Ioannina. The King Pyrros Airport is 4.5 km northwest of the town. Taxi : Order a local taxi by calling +30 26 5104 6777. As with Athens and Delphi, Ioannina is subject to Greece’s public transportation strikes throughout the year, but especially on May 1. Avoid scheduling any flights or buses that day. Gytheio Gytheio is a pretty, laid-back port town with an enticing and genuine Greek atmosphere that’s rare among Greek tourist ports these days. Once the port of Ancient Sparta, Gytheio is now the de facto ‘capital’ of the Laconian Mani region of the Mani Peninsula and primarily makes its living from fishing. Cafés and restaurants line its waterfront where a recently established pedestrian walkway allows for ambling and chatting before dinner. A small islet offshore adds to the mix, while south of the village a long sandy beach provides for swimming and sun-baking. Gytheio also serves as a primary contact point between the Greek mainland and Crete, with options to visit the islands of Kythira and Antikythira in between. Gytheio’s friendly and sunny disposition makes it an excellent choice for a casual sojourn for two to four days while touring the area or while waiting for the boat to Crete. Things to Do in Gytheio Marathonisi Islet : Said to be the ancient Cranae where Helen and Paris of Troy consummated their affair, thus irresponsibly starting the Trojan War. Today called Marathonisi, which means ‘fennel island’, this long, cigar-shaped islet features a lighthouse and a small tower, and is linked to Gytheio by a narrow walkway – perfect for a sunset stroll. • Map The Mani Peninsula : The Mani is the central finger-like peninsula of the Peloponnese and wild both in topography and its people, who are known to be stubbornly and proudly independent. Travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor was inspired by this region to write his ‘Travels in the Southern Peloponnese;’ he settled and lived in Kardamyli in Messinian Mani. Travel slowly and take in the textures and subtleties of the region. • Map Recommended Gytheio Hotels Olive Yard Boutique Hotel – This small guest hotel north of central Gytheio offers a graceful and relaxing rural space to unwind and watch the sun go down. • +30 27 3302 9210 • Map Saga Pension – Directly over the best restaurant in town, in central Gytheio, right next to the port. • +30 27 3302 3220 • Map Mareggio – Fresh and modern beachfront suites and residences (some with private pools), 5 minutes north of town. • +30 27 3302 1113 • Map Getting To and From Gytheio Gytheio is an outpost, end-of-line destination, linked indirectly by bus to most Peloponnese destinations – typically via Sparti. It also has a little known and useful car ferry to Kissamos in Crete. Bus : The bus stop and ticketing agency is near the junction of Ermou and Vasileos Georgiou, a 650 m hike to the waterfront. Ferry : The car ferry Ionis makes a weekly run to and from Kissamos in Crete, though booking tickets online is next to impossible. See Rozakis Shipping Agency ( Vasileos Pavlou 5 , tel: +30 27 3302 2207) on the waterfront for bookings. Taxi : To get around by taxi call English-speaking Canadian-Greek Angeliki (tel: +30 69 4543 8209) for all the local gossip and lore as well a good way to get to local attractions. As mentioned above, Gytheio is subject to the public transportation strikes held throughout the year, with the largest taking place every May 1. Avoid scheduling any buses or ferries that day. Meteora (Kalambaka) The bright and cheery rural town of Kalambaka is the jumping-off point for visits to the soaring, suspended monasteries of Meteora. These monasteries grew out of a desire for prayerful isloation and the necessity for self-preservation, used by late Byzantine monks and hermits as a refuge and hideout against Ottoman incursions. Over the years, the monastery buildings grew organically and are now quite impressive in their size and appearance. Travelers can spot the tall sandstone pinnacles from afar as they rise unexpectedly from the surrounding plain, and the effect only gets more startling as you draw closer. The smaller settlement of Kastraki – a 15-minute walk west – is actually the heart of the Meteora monasteries and a more charming area to stay, though you can easily access the monasteries via a foot trail from the northern end of Kalambaka itself. While the bulk of visitors come for the monasteries, more athletic visitors come to climb the pinnacles themselves. The Kalambaka-Kastraki combination is a pretty destination package in itself with enticing restaurants , rustic wood and stone hostelries, and a vibrant atmosphere worthy of a day or three of lingering. The area is also an important transit point for travelers to Epirus or Western Macedonia. A winding 36 km road north leads to the junction with the Via Egnatia, where travelers can turn west for Ioannina or East for Kozani and Kastoria. Things to Do in Kalambaka The Meteora Monasteries : There are six major monasteries worth visiting, but unless you are a walker, or really like monasteries, you are better advised to stick with just two or three. Ideally, you will need transport to get around. The Great Meteoron is the biggest and most well-known. Start with that and choose another one or two based on proximity, or love of hiking. A small charge is levied to visit each monastery, and a strict dress code is enforced. Rock Climbing : You will inevitably spot specks of red, yellow and other visible colors edging their way up the vertical rock walls. These are real people doing what they love: climbing. If you climb, Meteora offers some serious challenges, and ClimbGreece can help you out. Hiking : You can enjoy Meteora without the need to actually visit the monasteries by hiking along a pretty well-defined series of hiking trails. Visit Meteora offers some excellent hiking and sightseeing tours. Recommended Kalambaka Hotels Hotel Doupiani House – Beautiful old-world retreat in Kastraki with a classy bar and fireplace lounge, plus a stone garden terrace with amazing views. • +30 2432 077555 • Map Tsikeli Hotel – Eco-friendly and adults-only, this stylish hotel in Kastraki offers e-bike rental and rooms with hot tubs or saunas. • +30 2432 022438 • Map Divani Meteora Hotel – Kalambaka’s more upscale traditional hotel. It offers an airy, modern interior and two swimming pools – one indoors, one in a lovely garden. • +30 24 3202 3330 • Map Getting To and From Kalambaka Kalambaka is a popular entry point for the monasteries of Meteora and is linked by rail and bus. Car : Travelers with cars are advised that the access route from the Via Egnatia to the north is a slow and winding route with many turns and bends – it may not suit people prone to motion sickness. Bus : The centrally located Kalambaka bus station (a simple street corner affair) is a subsidiary to the larger and modern Trikala bus terminal , 23 km away. Most ongoing services will involve a change of bus at Trikala. Trikala is linked to the most important mainland destinations. It takes about 6 hours to get from Athens to Kalambaka by bus (including the bus change in Trikala). Train : Kalambaka also boasts a train station with most services terminating at Paleofarsalos, where travelers can change trains for Thessaloniki or Athens, though there is one daily direct to/from service between Kalambaka and Athens (which takes just under 5 hours). Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 3202 2310. Like all major towns in Greece, Meteora (Kalambaka) holds annual public transportation strikes on May 1 and various dates througout the year. Avoid booking trains, buses, or any major travel on that day. Kastoria Kastoria is a pretty and picturesque town in western Macedonia that perhaps doesn’t receive as many international visitors as it deserves. Similar in many ways to its cousin Ioannina to the southwest, Kastoria features a large lake, as well as a prominent peninsula that juts out into the lake and upon which the Old Town is built. It is renowned for its serenity, beautiful nature, and skiing, with dappled mountain ranges and some of the best old mansion accommodation in the north. Very popular with domestic Greek travelers, Kastoria built its wealth on the fur trade and is still a major sale center for fur coats and fur products. Kastoria is not on any major thoroughfare but can be comfortably reached with an easy 40-minute drive off the cross-country Via Egnatia to the south. Things to Do in Kastoria Old Kastoria : Kastoria’s Old Town is focussed on the Doltso neighborhood, a labyrinthine collection of winding streets and imposing merchant mansions. Wandering this compact area, you will admire some very impressive old buildings, several of which have been turned into hotels for visitors. • Map Byzantine Museum : This impressive collection of Byzantine art and religious exhibits is worth an hour or two of study. Easy to find on Plateia Dexaminis in the center of the Old Town. • Map Cycling : The lake provides for a perfect circumnavigation on two wheels. O Podilatis hires out all kinds of bikes from serious to leisurely. The two and four seaters are great for fun with a group – and everyone gets to pedal. • Map Nestorio River Festival : Rock your socks off at this annual music fest by the river. Now into its 40th year, this five-day rockathon features contemporary and traditional Greek music. It takes place towards the end of July and you can camp. Buses take you there and back from Kastoria. • Map Arcturos Bear Sanctuary : Bears and other wild creatures have existed in this area for centuries, but have not always been appreciated. Located 37 km northeast of Kastoria, this wildlife sanctuary is worth a visit. Stop in the attractive nearby village of Nymfaio for lunch, or even to stay the night. • Map Recommended Kastoria Hotels Hotel Doltso – The best of Kastoria’s old town lodgings. Grandiose décor in a pleasing neutral palette. Cozy, comforting, and calming luxury dressed in stone. • +30 24 6702 2022 • Map Orologopoulos Mansion – This is another popular and spacious choice in old Kastoria. Tradition and luxury blend seamlessly in this striking looking building. • +30 24 6702 1604 • Map Vergoula’s Mansion – Traditional house offering old style comfort, lovingly renewed. Very convenient location in the Old Quarter. • +30 24 6702 3415 • Map Getting To and From Kastoria Car : Kastoria is a little bit ‘out on the edge’ and not on any major road routes, so it really lends itself to being visited by car – especially if you wish to see some of the surrounding countryside and make excursions to sights in western Macedonia. Bus : Nonetheless, it has a good intercity bus network and a centrally located bus station . Check the KTEL website for timetables. Kastoria is directly linked by bus to Thessaloniki, Athens, Volos, Kozani and Ioannina. Air : Kastoria is linked by air to Athens via Kozani with Astra Airlines . Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 6702 1222. Avoid booking flights or buses on May 1, when the annual public transportation strike takes place. Monemvasia A Byzantine fortress town on the southeastern coast of Laconia. Dubbed Greece’s Gibraltar due to its location on the base of a large rock rising from the sea, Monemvasia is quite unique in Greece – a medeival village of picturesque cobbled streets and lovingly restored stone houses. In existence since the 6th Century AD, Monemvasia served as a refuge from mainland invasions (when it was still disconnected from the mainland) and later developed into an important trade and maritime center. Passed from the Franks to the Venetians and the Ottomans and finally to the Greek State after the War of Independence (1821), the village languished in relative obscurity in later years. Recently ‘discovered’ by curious travelers, Monemvasia is now a magnet for painters, writers, and readers – one of Monemvasia’s more famous sons is the Greek poet Yannis Ritsos who was born and lived in the village, and is now interred in the cemetery there. Things to Do in Monemvasia The Kastro : The best thing to do in Monemvasia is amble aimlessly along its Byzantine tangle of alleyways and back streets. The historic village is peppered with little churches, squares, and small restaurants and cafés. • Map Upper Town : From the heart of the village you can walk up to the ruins of Upper Town, now abandoned but once the site of the settlement’s grandest homes and churches – including beautiful Hagia Sophia. Picture-perfect views over the roofs of the houses out to sea make the strenuous climb worthwhile. • Map Yannis Ritsos’ Home : Of interest to poets and the literary-minded, Ritsos’ House is located at the beginning of the village just after the entry gate. Monemvasia’s most famous son, this iconoclastic left wing bard fought dictatorships with words. • Map Recommended Monemvasia Hotels Kinsterna Hotel – 5-star luxury estate with gardens, vineyards, olive groves, and stables. 10 minutes south of the castle. • +30 27 3206 6300 • Map Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites – The best of the romantic and historic castle properties, close to the gate and with excellent views. • +30 27 3206 2122 • Map Likinia Hotel – A newly-built but traditionally-styled hotel in the Old Town of Monemvasia. Rooms and suites have sea views and cooling sea breezes. • +30 27 3206 1939 • Map Getting To and From Monemvasia Because it is a somewhat remote outpost status, Monemvasia is not such an easy place to visit on public transport. Bus : There are buses from Athens, but a bus trip to Momenvasia will likely involve a change in Sparti or Molai. The KTEL Lakonia website goes some way to explaining the links. There are three daily services from Athens and four vice versa. Buses arrive at and leave from Gefyra across the causeway; hike from there to the entrance of Monemvasia, or take the shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes from Gefyra to Monemvasia. Bus tickets can be obtained from Malvasia Travel in Gefyra. As with all other destinations mentioned, avoid taking public transportation to Monemvasia during the annual strike on May 1. Taxi : Arrivals from Kythira to the Peloponnese port of Neapoli are advised to seek a taxi (approx. €40) to Monemvasia. Call +30 69 3247 6486 (Minas Papoulis) or +30 69 7727 5414 (Ioannis Dertilis) or +30 69 7415 6097 (Georgios Minopetros) to arrange for a taxi to meet the incoming ferry. Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is a pretty, breezy, seaside town in the mostly overlooked mainland corner of Central Greece. A relaxing locale with a totally unpretentious Greek air, it’s worthy of a day or two of traveler time if heading out the little-known region of Greece known as Aitolo-Akarnania. A famous naval battle was once waged here between the Ottomans and a tri-part alliance of the Vatican, Spain, and Venice; today the town is a thriving and non-touristy seaside community with a postcard-pretty harbor full with restaurants and cafés. Nafpaktos is conveniently located halfway between Delphi and Olympia, making for a very convenient break between the two. Top class boutique accommodation rounds off the attraction. Things to Do in Nafpaktos The Harbor : Sitting at a café in this small and lovely harbor with its protective stone wall – sipping an iced frappé, or nursing an ouzo on ice – is a slow and unchallenging activity that nonetheless makes up a big part of the Nafpaktos scene. • Map Nafpaktos Castle : It is a bit of a strength-sapping hike up to the Kastro, but like all walks that involve an uphill climb for an hour or so, the view pays for the effort. The Kastro is in decent condition and its fortifications date back to Doric times. • Map Fethiye Mosque : Built by Sultan Bayezid II when he ruled the Ottoman Empire, this splendid mosque still stands and is open to the public. Exhibitions are held here in summer. • Map Botsaris Tower Museum : This gray-painted tower near the harbor, named after Souliot General Notis Botsaris, houses a small museum with paintings and engravings relating to the Battle of Lepanto. • Map The Nafpaktia Hinterland : Nafpaktos sits at the southern tip of a largely unknown and little-explored mountainous chunk of central Greece where a lot of outdoor activity takes place. A list of some of activities runs as follows: kayaking, climbing, hiking, rafting and paintballing. Driving north with a 4×4 to Karpenisi is a great eye-opener to another Greece. • Map Recommended Nafpaktos Hotels Apollon Library Suites – A modern concept hotel where the theme is artful reading. Twelve lovingly finished suites are fitted out in earthy textures and feature mini-libraries for guests. • +30 26 3403 8615 • Map Arhontiko Pepos – Occupying prime position in the pedestrian zone next to the harbour, Pepos is a sophisticated and elegant guesthouse with five tasteful element-themed rooms. • +30 26 3403 8185 • Map Hotel Akti – The exterior belies the interior in this affordable accommodation choice. Rich furnishing and lush lounges dominate while rooms are all tastefully appointed. • +30 26 3402 8464 • Map Getting To and From Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is on the main highway linking towns along the northern Gulf of the Peloponnese and is easily visited by travellers moving between Olympia and Delphi. (Travelers to Delphi will normally swap buses in the port of Itea.) Nafpaktos’ brand new KTEL bus station is unhelpfully located outside of the main town area , so you will need to take a cab (tel: +30 26 3402 5111) to/from the town center. Avoid bus travel on May 1, during the annual public transportation strike. Nafplio Nafplio is a classy weekend retreat or day trip from Athens for Greeks and travelers looking for a chic getaway close to the capital. Neo-classical and Venetian mansions, polished stone alleyways and thoroughfares, a couple of fortresses, beaches, quality hotels , and a picturesque harbor combine with fashion, gourmet food, and distinguished wines to create a winning destination in one of Greece’s most popular towns – all within easy driving distance to the significant archaeological attractions of the region such as Mycenae, Tiryns, and Epidaurus. Appointed Greek capital for one year after the liberation of Greece in 1821, Nafplio’s role as head city was passed over to Athens by Greece’s first King, Otto. That didn’t deter Nafplio from slowly developing into a swanky retreat for urbanites, artists, merchants and other posh people in later years. Today’s travelers are advised to make plans well in advance. Its gorgeous and sophisticated air ensures there are many visitors year-round – particularly in winter, though high summer sees a lot of northern Europeans drawn by its irresistible pull. Things to Do in Nafplio The Old Town : Nafplio’s primary attraction is the inimitable ambiance and taste of the streets of the traditional quarter. It invites strolling, browsing, shopping, eating, dining, seeing and being seen. Simple as that. • Map The Palamidi Fortress : Guarding the eastern flank of Nafplio town this enormous citadel can be approached by a steep climb, or a rather roundabout (but easier) drive. Go early if you plan to walk. It’s almost 1000 steps to the top. • Map The Bourtzi : Viewable from any part of Nafplio, this mini Venetian fortress sits asea and guards the harbour. Once a prison, it now accepts visitors by tour boat. • Map Archaeological Museum : This museum traces the history of the Argolis peninsula from its earliest days – well worth a pre-lunch, enlightening meander. • Map Akronafplia Fortress : Looming above the town is the unavoidable hulk of this immense natural bastion. Drive, walk or take the lift that’s located in the square near the “Five Brothers” cannons: it’s worth it for the views. • Map Komboloi Museum : Teeny tiny museum dedicated to komboloi ; the traditional worry beads that Nafplio is particularly known for creating. Located upstairs of a small storefront in Old Town – you can buy your own on your way out. • Map Recommended Nafplio Hotels Gambello Luxury Rooms – Utterly charming 11-room boutique hotel in a neoclassical mansion near the Nafplio harbor and waterfront promenade. Excellent views of Bourtzi fortress from some rooms. • +30 2752 023009 • Map 3Sixty Hotel & Suites – Cousin to the Ippoliti Hotel, the funky and elegant 3Sixty offers a modern twist on comfort and hosts a renowned gourmet restaurant. • +30 27 5250 0501 • Map Regno di Morea – Modern boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town Nafplio. • +30 27 5202 2232 • Map Getting To and From Nafplio Nafplio is connected to the rest of Greece by bus only, covered by the Argolis KTEL network . There are between 11 and 14 direct connections with Athens, as well as one or two services between other major Peloponnese towns such as Kalamata, Tripoli, and Patra. The bus terminal is on Andrea Syngrou on the eastern side of the Old Town where there is also a handy taxi stand. (Call +30 27 5202 6300 or get the app to arrange a taxi in advance.) Avoid taking public transportation on May 1, when most buses, trains, ferries, and flights are stopped. Olympia This pleasant, bucolic village in the northwestern Peloponnese is ancient birthplace of the Olympic Games, worth a day or two of traveling time in any trip to Mainland Greece. Olympia is a pleasant place to linger; there is a relaxed ambiance, fine dining, friendly cafés, and feeling that you are at one – if only for a day – with the principles of global harmony promoted by the games for centuries. Things to Do in Olympia Ancient Olympia : See where the Olympic movement started, including the spot where the Olympic flame is lit every two years. The site is enormous and requires some time to see. Start early to avoid the throngs of cruise ship travelers that arrive by bus and train by mid-morning, and read up (or visit the Archaeological Museum) in advance, so you know what’s what. • Map Archaeological Museum : Complementing the site itself is this impressive museum that features finds from the site of Ancient Olympia. It is advised to visit here on a separate day as the site itself, as there is a lot on display to absorb. • Map Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity : A separate museum exhibition, this collection focuses on the Games themselves and is best combined on the day with the Archaeological Museum. Entry is on the same ticket as the Ancient Olympia site. • Map Recommended Olympia Hotels Hotel Europa – A grand resort style hotel with a pool and excellent outdoor restaurant. You’ll need a cab to get here as it’s a little outside Olympia village, but worth the effort. • +30 26 2402 2650 • Map Hotel Pelops – A more modest accommodation option for visitors to the village; a small family hotel with all the necessary comforts and a welcoming atmosphere. • +30 26 2402 2543 • Map Central Guest Room – Conveniently-located double rooms & apartments with balconies. • +30 69 3690 7066 • Map Getting To and From Olympia Olympia is not particularly well-connected by public transport to any major destinations, though there are a couple of options to choose from, traveling through Pyrgos. Bus : Olympia is accessible via local bus from the main Pyrgos bus station to Olympia. There are thirteen daily departures, and the trip takes about 45 minutes. Buses leave from platform 1. Train : There is a very good modern train service that links Olympia with the port of Katakolo, via Pyrgos. There are three departures daily from Pyrgos. Taxi : Taxis in Olympia depart from the train station. Avoid taking the bus or train on May 1, when the yearly public transportation strike takes place. Thessaloniki Thessaloniki’s maritime location makes the second-largest city in Greece seem less like a commercial center than a breezy seaside resort. A smoother sibling city to Athens down south, Thessaloniki is immediately likable; the pace is more relaxed and the air seems somehow brighter here. Many great hotels too. An ancient city by any standards (founded in 315 BC), Thessaloniki wears its checkered and multi-cultural past with panache and pride. It was the second-largest and wealthiest city in the Byzantine Empire, home to a large Jewish community under the Ottomans, and became part of the Greek State in 1912. It is now considered to be the cultural capital of Greece, and many would also say culinary capital too – some of the country’s finest dining can be enjoyed here. Fashionistas will find some of the trendiest items of apparel on its chic streets. Things to Do in Thessaloniki Like Athens, there is enough to see in Thessaloniki to keep you occupied for weeks. If you’ve only got two to three days at your disposal, here are some of the must-dos: the best and easiest Thessaloniki attractions and experiences. Archaeological Museum : History buffs will love to browse among this elegant collection of ancient Macedonian and Hellenistic finds from the area. The Vergina Tombs exhibits are located in Vergina (see Veria section). • Map Boat Cruise : Take a free evening boat ride around the waterfront bay and enjoy the lights of the city from the sea. Just buy a drink on board – that’s your ticket (or €3 if you don’t want to order anything). One of Thessaloniki’s best-kept tourist secrets. Look for the boats near the White Tower. • Map Ladadika Quarter : This once tumbled-down industrial district has been the home in recent years to some of the city’s best dining surprises. Buttressing the north-western flank of the waterside, Ladadika is a great place for a drink or for schmoozing around on foot for an hour or two. • Map Shopping : the eastern end of Tsimiski Street hosts a dazzling array of fashion outlets and shoe boutiques. Greece’s latest fashions are debuted here and prices are brilliant – especially during the sales season. • Map The Kastro : backing the modern city are the walls of the Kastro that today constitute the Ano Poli (Upper City). It’s cooler up here and walking its walled streets peppered with battlements and monasteries makes a nice escape from the city, as well as a great spot for a sunset dinner. • Map The White Tower : The ultimate symbol of Thessaloniki, all of the city revolves around this unmistakable landmark. Despite its somewhat gruesome past as a prison and torture house, it’s now a great historical landmark, regional museum, and viewpoint spot. • Map Recommended Thessaloniki Hotels Electra Palace Hotel – Sumptuous, classic 5-star hotel hospitality. The grand dame of the Thessaloniki hotel scene, the Electra Palace towers over Aristotelous Square in the heart of the city. • +30 23 1029 4000 • Map The Trilogy House – A great concept hotel with only seven different and artfully designed rooms, all housed in a turn of the century building. As central as you can get. • +30 23 1023 2305 • Map Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – Arty, funky, very cool and very central, Blue Bottle offers hip, modernistic rooms at a good price. Coco-Mat beds and large family rooms. • +30 23 1052 0090 • Map Getting To and From Thessaloniki Thessaloniki is a major hub both for ground transport around northern Greece and for international and domestic air connections. Air : Thessaloniki Airport is 16.5 km east of the city center, connected by the No. 78 bus that also links the train station and the main bus station. Bus : Intercity buses leave from the large bus station that’s located 6.2 km west of the city center. Both domestic as well as international routes are serviced here. Buses to Halkidiki leave from a smaller terminal at the 9th km of the Ring Road. Train : The train station is closer to the city center, offering daily departures to Athens and destinations in between, as well as to Alexandroupolis in the east. International routes for Belgrade, Sofia, and Bucharest also pass through here. Car : Drivers planning to circumvent Thessaloniki are advised to the use the outer peripheral ring road to avoid traffic delays in the city center. Thessaloniki generally has great public transportation, but like the rest of Greece it is subject to strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day. Veria Perched on the south-eastern escarpment of Mt Vermio, Veria is breezy, bright, and very un-touristy. It is popular in winter for skiing on Mt. Vermio, as well as year-round for its amiable charm and as a good base to visit a clutch of important archaeological sites. Veria is an ancient city, first mentioned by Thucydides in 432 BC. St. Paul preached here, and today it is a very popular religious pilgrimage destination for Greeks. It was home to a large Jewish community until WWII and the old neighborhood has been revived. Veria is conveniently located on the Via Egnatia, an hour’s drive west of Thessaloniki. From Veria, travelers can easily drive to the other pretty escarpment towns of Naousa and Edessa. Things to Do in Veria Archaeological Sites : The Vergina Royal Tombs Museum is the star archaeological exhibit in this town. An unearthed burial ground revealed the gold and splendor of Phillip II’s tomb (father of Alexander the Great). The Pella Museum explains the significance of Pella (the ancient kingdom of Macedon) in the ancient world. • Map: Vergina Tombs , Pella Museums : In Veria itself are two museums worth a look-in: The Archaeological Museum with Neolithic figurines and findings from Vergina, and the Byzantine Museum , comprising three floors of excellent Byzantine artifacts. • Map: Archaeological Museum , Byzantine Museum The Old Jewish Quarter : Barbouta, by the river, is the Old Jewish Quarter. Once derelict, it now possesses a classy charm. Next to the Old Synagogue is a scattering of tastefully restored houses, now hosting boutique hotels. • Map Skiing : Pack your woollies and winter gear and take a skiing holiday at Veria’s Seli Ski Resort , or others in Macedonia. There are more options than most would imagine. • Map: Seli Recommended Veria Hotels Kokkino Spiti – The first of the renovated lodgings in the old Jewish Quarter, Kokkino Spiti offers comfort and a well-tailored finesse. • +30 23 3107 4440 • Map The House by the River – Another lovingly restored hotel house on the Tripotamos river, with thoughtfully designed rooms in soft pastel furnishings. Wood and iron feature in the restored architecture. • +30 69 3723 2809 • Map Veritas Boutique Hotel – Tradition and modernity meet in a jazzy, art-inspired hotel in the center of the new town. Dine at the in-house V-Bistro & Bar. • +30 23 3106 8100 • Map Getting To and From Veria Veria is well placed for visitor access on the Via Egnatia (Egnatia Odos) between Thessaloniki and Ioannina in the West. Bus : Buses operate out of the small main bus station in the center of town with regular services to Athens and Thessaloniki and destinations in Western Macedonia. Buses to Ioannina depart from outside the Veria Restaurant at Pierion 155 , 2.2 km on the south side of town. Train : Veria has a train station on the north-east side of town with connections to Florina and Thessaloniki, but it may not be operating due to the ongoing upgrading of the Greece railway system. Check the Hellenic Train website for current updates. Avoid relying on trains or buses to get around on May 1, when the largest public transportation strike is scheduled each year.

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Your Complete Guide To Visiting Mainland Greece

I’ve got a total soft spot for Greece… from the stunning Greek Islands like; Santorini , Mykonos , Samos and Skiathos , to more hidden areas that are just as charming but that little bit lesser-known, Greece has it all!

Now, I’m no stranger to the fact that my love of Greek food has a lot to do with my bias for visiting Greece but there’s so much more to this incredible country than just its amazing food and gorgeous islands.

That’s why we finally decided to hop over to the mainland, away from the islands and somewhere that was totally different.

Over the course of 7 days on the mainland, we decided to explore the more westerly fringes, flying in from Athens and making our way towards the West coast, which was incredible.

With our little car, Yaya’s terrible map reading (he really is that bad) and a whole load of stops, we saw some stunning sites that you just have to see when you visit.

Take a look at our complete guide on what to see, do and eat whilst travelling around Mainland Greece.

Getting around 

Okay, so it’s you’ll either arrive by car, train, boat, plane or NASA-style rocket… the latter being the obvious choice!

Car hire: Depending on which way you choose, you might need to pick up a hire car from your place of entry. This can be done in most places like Airports and even train stations where they will wait for you with the car to arrive.

Flights: We flew in via London on Aegean Airlines straight to Athens, though you can always choose different airports and airlines in the region depending on what suits you best. If you’re flying from outside London or from a different country, you might find other carriers provide direct flights to Athens (or the west coast).

Trains: Once we arrived at Athens Airport, you can actually take the train west to some of the larger towns without any need to drive.

This is a great option if you don’t want to drive long distances but, if you do drive, rent a car and explore some of the places outside of towns themselves. You won’t be disappointed.

What to eat?

As I’ve already rambled on about, Greece has some of my favourite food! It doesn’t matter when or where I visit the country, I always seem to gorge on everything.

If you’re wanting to try some of Greece’s most yummy dishes, make sure to read our post on the most delicious meals to have in Greece .

Read more: 12 Incredible meals to eat when in Greece

Your 1-week plan for visiting Mainland Greece

8:45: Arrive in Athens either first thing in the morning (or the night before) and take the train to Kiato Train station which is about 1-1.5 hours west of Athens Airport. Train tickets are relatively cheap, especially if you’re visiting from places like the UK. Our tickets were about €11 or so.

10:20: Arrival at Kiato station and pick up your rental car. We got ours from Avance who picked us up from the station itself.

10:30: Drive over to the citadel of Nafpaktos, the drive itself will take around 1 hour. One of the biggest draws of Nafpaktos has to be its history, around 3 millennia of influence and culture that has been pretty turbulent, especially with its key position on the Corinthian Gulf.

12:30:    Check-in to Apollon Library Suites which is situated within the town itself.

They have a gorgeous little courtyard for breakfast and each room is themed around different Greek folklore. 

13:00: Explore the neighbourhoods of this citadel and walk the coastal route to see the gorgeous Venetian harbour, mighty Antirrio Castle castle and intimate beaches (Psani and Gribovo) all before an essential foody stop-off for lunch in one of the fresh fish restaurants that line the harbourfront.

Keep your eyes peeled for Botsaris’ Tower, a 15th-century and town clock dating from the early 20th Century.

For a tasty bite head over to Ev-oinos or Papoulis tavernas, or, for a good coffee head over to Gribovo café.

15:00: After filling your tummy and exploring Nafpaktos, head to Agios Nektarios Monastery (in Τrikorfo), which is about 10km away from Nafpaktos itself. Perched in the mountains, overlooking the Corinthian Gulf, this monastery houses the largest bell tower in all the world.

Make sure to know the door hard when you arrive, the monks will then come to greet you and show you around (free of charge).

20:00: Head down the promenade and grab a bite to eat at Sousouro.

Here you’ll get to try some authentic Greek cuisine and some delicious local wines.

22:00: Catch some well-earned zzzzzz’s

08:00: Today is going to be a bigger driving day to head north to the iconic Meteora near the Greek town of Kalambaka. The drive will take around 3.5 hours from Nafpaktos so make sure to have a big sleep and lots for breakfast.

11: 30: Arrive In Kalambaka and head straight across to Meteora for a day of exploring. Built on the top of some pretty epic rock pillars, this range of Eastern Orthodox Monastary’s are some of the most important in the world.

Spend the day enjoying sites such as The Monastery of Great Meteoron, St. Nicholas Anapausas and the stunning Holy Trinity Monastery They really are an incredible place. Entry to many of the monasteries is a few Euro per place. Just remember to wear modest clothing and always cover shoulders for women.

18:00: After visiting Meteora, grab a bite to eat at Taverna Gardenia that serves up some of the tastiest stuffed peppers and moussaka. They’re based pretty close to the church in Kastraki, Kalambaka.

20:00: Spend the night in Kalambaka in one of the independent guest houses you’ll find in the town itself.

Read more on visiting Meteora, right here

 Day 4

12:30: After exploring the castle, head over to the sleepy and beautiful little town of Gialova. Set on the coastal fringe, it’s a great spot for a bite to eat before you leave Greece.

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10 Places To See in Mainland Greece Before Leaving For The Islands

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M ainland Greece is a collection of ancient treasures and pleasant surprises, just waiting to be uncovered. The sad thing is that people often bypass the mainland and go straight to the Greek islands. While an island itinerary is a great way to enjoy a Greek holiday in summer , the islands are only half of a whole. If you are to see the real authentic Greece, your trip should encompass just a little of the mainland! Before you choose which island is best for you, have a look at the mainland destinations in Greece that deserve your attention.

Travelling by ferry?

Embark on a delightful water adventure by booking your ferry tickets effortlessly using the form below.

This waterfront city in the North is one of the top places to see on the mainland in Greece. To wander the streets of Thessalonki is to take a step back in time. Amongst modern houses are the remains of Byzantium, preserved and cherished all throughout the heart of the city.

You can relive the past and visit some of the most important churches or merely admire them as you wander the streets. For anyone that visits you will quickly realise the waterfront is the place to be to grab a coffee and take in the view. But remember some of the most amazing traditional tavernas lie hidden in quiet alleys!

Thessaloniki is student city, which gives it a vibrant energy so there are plenty of quirky bars to sit at and enjoy a cocktail. If you’d prefer a more leisurely Greek holiday take a walk along the waterfront and catch one of the cities famous fiery orange sunsets.

☞ Related: What To Do In Thessaloniki For 2 Days: An Itinerary By A Local

When you see pictures of Halkidiki you could be forgiven for thinking they were taken on one of the Greek islands many beautiful beaches. But you would be wrong. These golden shores and rich turquoise waters belong to mainland Greece.

The wonderful thing about the region of Halkidiki is that it is only an hours drive from Thessaloniki. The peninsula consists of three ‘legs’ Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos. Together they resemble the trident of Greek god Poseidon in mythology. There is no shortage of places to go in Halkidiki, like the quaint village of Afytos or Diaporos island just off the peninsula.

☞ Related: 5 Olympian ‘Gods’ And Their Greek Island

Epirus is one of the better kept secrets of mainland Greece. This region is renowned for its dense forests, mountainous terrain, fairy tale villages, crystal-clear lakes and rivers and low-key seaside resorts. Perhaps one of the reasons why this area is largely untouched by tourism is its rugged landscape, which leaves it comparatively inaccessible.

A major attraction of Epirus is that this is where you will find the sparsely populated villages that make up the community of Zagori better known as Zagorochoria .

☞ Related: The Most Enchanting Villages in Mainland Greece You Need To Visit

In the region of Epirus you will find one of the most exquisite National Parks on mainland Greece, Vikos-Aoos National Park . You may have heard of this special place before as it is home to the world’s deepest gorge. The park is every nature lovers dream as there are copious walking tracks to explore, many with exquisite views of the deep chasm and beyond. Soak in the vibrant beauty of the quiet moments in this untouched destination that enhances the illusion that you are alone in the world.

Of course, we cannot miss one of the most important cities on mainland Greece, the capital! Everyone should visit Athens at least once as the city is the perfect introduction to Greece. The many museums in the city are there to enrich you with a wealth of knowledge. They help you piece together Greece’s long and complex past.

In Athens, there is an endless list of things to do. You might begin by climbing the slopes of the Acropolis , visiting the Ancient Agora or some of the other important archaeological sites that are scattered around, many within walking distance. Stop for a bite to eat, grab a coffee or sweet dessert, something the city does so well. The blend of good food, ancient history and eclectic modernism is a wonderful way to delve into Greece before seeing the islands.

You have probably never heard of this destination in mainland Greece. Quietly unassuming, this lush green town in Central Greece is for those looking for unexpected wonders. Only a few hours drive from Athens, Livadeia is the perfect stop on a road trip north to Delphi and the famous Sanctuary of Apollo.

Because the river Herkyna runs directly through the town you are immediately immersed in nature. Make sure you wander the cobbled paths under the shade of the plane trees and admire the waterfalls and watermills. You also can’t visit Livadeia without trying the famous souvlaki!

This small quaint seaside settlement has a surprisingly deceptive history. The town of Galaxidi was once a leading maritime power and it played an instrumental part in the Greek War of Independence in the 1800s. Throughout its history, the settlement has also experienced horrific losses.

Despite this, the magic of Galaxidi lives on, perhaps made more special by everything it has endured. This is one of the most underrated spots in mainland Greece, so make sure you take time to see the neoclassical houses along the waterfront, explore the harbour and be refreshed by a cool sea breeze.

☞ Related: 20 Unknown Destinations In Greece That Are Not On Your Radar

While you may not be able to point out Kalamata on the map, the name might be familiar. This is because this city is renowned for its olives. Kalamata olives! But this isn’t the only reason you should take the time to explore Kalamata. Just a 3-hour drive from Athens the seaside town is very accessible if you are interested in exploring more of mainland Greece.

Rather than simply passing through on route to the Peloponnese , make it a priority to explore. Kalamata is nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos and is enveloped by the Gulf of Messinia in southern Greece. You get both the mountains, the sea and beautiful beaches along with authentic shops and cafes.

☞ Related: A Brief History Of The Olive Tree

As well as Kalamata, the Peloponnese offers some extraordinary seaside routes to some magical places. One of them is the Mani peninsula . This harsh land stands out due to its unique architecture and breathtaking combination of sea and rock, making it the perfect place to explore if you are taking a road trip of mainland Greece.

Mani is famous for the stone towers that cover the area. Each is a representation of its historic past. Many castle-like houses date back to the 15th century, the times of the Byzantine Empire. You can stay in one for yourself and experience this history come to life!

☞ Related: The Most Amazing Road Trip In The Mani Peninsula

Another castle city of mainland Greece is Nafplion . With a rich history and a beautifully preserved historical centre, Nafplion is perfect for walking and exploring on foot. What you might not know is that Nafplion was the first capital of the newly established Greek state, between 1823 and 1834.

Nafplios, was the son of the Greek god Poseidon in mythology and is who the city is named after. Translating to “seafarer” or “navigator”, it is a name that leaves no doubt as to the connection of the people to the sea and marine occupation. In Nafplion you will be enchanted by its picturesque cafes and shops, the friendly and relaxing atmosphere and historical richness.

☞ Related: 10 Castles Around The Peloponnese You Need To See

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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Athens turns a vivid orange as dust shrouds the city, other parts of Greece: See photos

As clouds of dust blew in from the Sahara Desert this week, Athens and parts of southern Greece turned into a vivid shade of orange.

Video and pictures show the city and its popular landmarks covered in orange haze, presenting a scene that is almost apocalyptic. Officials said that the phenomenon was one of the worst of such episodes to hit Greece since 2018, BBC News reported , with the dust clouds heading as far north as Thessaloniki, about 315 miles from Athens.

“It’s the worst such case in years,” research director at the National Observatory of Athens Kostas Lagouvardos said, according to the New York Times .

Lagouvardos also compared the view from one weather station to planet Mars, reported BBC.

Residents of affected cities advised to stay indoors

While it might look pretty, the clouds of dust also worsened air quality in the affected cities. Greece's Ministry of Health advised the public to limit their time outdoors, avoid physical activity in the open and wear masks while stepping outside. People at increased risk, such as those with respiratory problems, heart patients and children were especially advised against going outdoors.

The dust was expected to clear Wednesday as winds shift and move the dust particles, and Thursday's weather report shows a clear day in Athens and no dust.

Why did Athens turn orange?

This is not the first time that Greece experienced a dust plume from the Sahara Desert. BBC News reported that dust plumes from the Sahara are common in Europe and vary in intensity.

The Sahara releases 60 to 200 million tons of mineral dust per year, according to BBC News. While most of the dust quickly settles down, some small particles can be carried by the wind and can travel huge distances, even reaching Europe.

In the current situation, an area of low pressure over Libya prompted strong southerly winds which brought in high concentration of dust and sand from North Africa into Greece, especially on Tuesday, BBC said. The winds also brought hot desert air with them causing the temperatures to rise significantly across the Greek mainland and islands.

The strong southernly winds have also prompted early wildfires in the country's south. The Associated Press reported that 25 wildfires broke out across the country on Tuesday.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @saman_shafiq7.

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Gay travel guide: The best places to visit in Greece

LGBTQ+ travel is all about inclusivity, which is great because when you visit Greece, you truly get it all. Bustling city streets, islands full of queer nightlife, and quaint beachfront romance can all be part of your gay Greek travel experience.

Stunning landscapes and legendary hospitality prove that the inviting local culture is as warm as the sun-drenched beaches. From ancient history to vibrant modernity, you don’t need an archaeologist to discover the best places to visit in Greece.

Is Greece LGBT-friendly?

Greece offers a rich cultural tapestry that’s as diverse as its landscape. While this guide will focus on gay-friendly Greek destinations, there are places where LGBTQ+ travelers may not be as welcomed. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with local laws and customs.

Typically, small islands and rural locations in Greece are more conservative than touristic islands and large cities. While this is true in even the most progressive countries, it’s important to note that the Greek Orthodox Church has a significant influence on society. The church has also made its opinions on gender identity and sexual orientation well known with a clear opposition to LGBTQ+ rights.

Despite opposition from the church and some politicians, Greece recently became the first Orthodox nation to recognise same-sex marriage. The same legislation grants parental and adoption rights to same-sex couples.

While anti-discrimination laws in Greece protect LGBTQ+ locals and travelers, incidents of violence against the community continue to occur. Within a month of the celebrated bill confirming LGBTQ+ marriage and parental rights, an attack on two transgender people in Thessaloniki overshadowed the historic legislation. The advancement of gay rights in Greece doesn’t mean safety and acceptance are universally guaranteed across the country, especially for transgender travelers.

Exercise caution and discretion in smaller towns and conservative areas that are less touristy. While the public is generally open-minded, public displays of affection can draw unwanted and negative attention in many areas of Greece.

While it’s rare you will need them, here are some emergency numbers to keep handy while visiting Greece.

• Emergency: 112
• Ambulance: 166
• Tourist Police: 171

The best places to visit in Greece for gay travelers

I'm thrilled to recommend my favorite Greek destinations. From the well-known to local hidden gems, I have curated this list of the best places to visit in Greece with the LGBTQ+ traveler in mind. Of course, our community is as diverse and unique as the destinations themselves, and I’m certain there is something for all of us.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, is easily one of the best places to visit in Greece for any gay traveler. It quickly developed a reputation as one of Greece’s up-and-coming gay destinations and is especially popular with the lesbian community. Visitors of all backgrounds make their way to Thessaloniki for the laid-back atmosphere and coastal vibes that will put you instantly at ease.

The city is known as a cultural centre of Greece, is capital of the Macedonia region, and boasts a large student population. As you may imagine, this type of city boasts a popular nightlife, but there are stunning beaches in Thessaloniki and incredible sites from Roman, Byzantine, and mediaeval history.

Thessaloniki Pride is the highlight of the LGBTQ+ calendar in Thessaloniki. In 2024 the event is expected to break attendance records as Thessaloniki will be the official Euro Pride host city. The city won a bid to host the event in 2020, but it was sadly canceled that year.

With pent up anticipation, Thessaloniki is ready to launch Euro Pride on Friday 21 June with a long-awaited opening ceremony concert and full, ten-day calendar of festivities. The main event of Euro Pride will be the parade, fair, and closing concert on Saturday 29 June.

The Greek capital needs no introduction. Athens is steeped in history, art, culture, cuisine, and it’s as iconic as its namesake, Athena, herself. While it’s an obvious pick for a list of the best places to visit in Greece for gay travelers, it’s far from a basic one.

History lovers should climb the Acropolis and stand in awe of the Parthenon and ancient Greek monuments. The cobblestoned neighborhood below, Plaka, sits in the shadow of the Acropolis and feels like a small village with adorable cafes and cute shops. Do some souvenir shopping, stop for a meal, or visit one of the tavernas in this adorable part of the city.

If you’re looking for gay nightlife in Athens, head to Gazi, a neighborhood known for bars, cafes, and nightclubs that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. Athens is a natural starting point and a destination in Greece where the acceptance and progress of modern Greece resonates the strongest.

Since 2005, Athens has hosted a lively Pride Celebration in Klafthmonos Square. Athens Pride 2024 is slated for 14-16 June, one week before Euro Pride in Thessaloniki begins. Everyone loves a combo deal, and this makes 2024 perfect for visiting Greece’s capital and second-city for back-to-back weeks of Pride.

Long considered a playground for the gay community, Mykonos is the most popular Greek island for the LGBTQ+ tourists. The vibrant nightlife, open-minded locals, and picturesque landscape are the reasons why.

Chora, or Mykonos Town, the island’s capital and hub of attractions, is the place to stay if you want to be in the centre of the scene. It’s everything you imagine a Greek island city to be - a maze of streets lined by whitewashed cubic houses with bright blue wooden doors.

No trip to Mykonos is complete without a trip to Elia Beach. You’ll see why it’s named among the best gay beaches in Mykonos, Greece if not all of Europe. If you’re looking for a party you can find a plethora of beach bars including at LGBTQ+ venues. The gay nightlife in Mykonos is just as enticing, or you can sit in the shadow of the iconic Mykonos Windmills along Little Venice as the waves of the bay crash onto the walkway.

Finding gay and gay-friendly accommodation is not a problem in Mykonos, but expect to pay a premium on the island. This is especially true during late August when the party scene is flooded with LGBTQ+ tourists, especially gay men visiting the XLSIOR Festival. This international gay party attracts over 30,000 visitors and is taking place 22-28 August 2024.

It may not have the gay nightlife of Mykonos, but Santorini is a vibrant island paradise that should be atop your travel list. Santorini is a naturally formed volcanic island with breathtaking topography jutting up from the Aegean Sea. Popular with couples, the island is world-renowned for its sunsets and the best can be viewed from the northern city of Fira.

Santorini is home to ancient ruins, wineries, and colorful beaches. From the volcanic eruption that formed the island, different layers were exposed and gave way to the famous Black Beach, Red Beach, and White Beach. It won’t take long for you to see why Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece.

The stunning island of Sifnos is getting increasingly popular with travelers but until recently it maintained hidden gem status, known only to Greek locals. In fact, I never would have known about Sifnos until I tagged along on that family vacation with my Greek friend.

Despite its increased profile, Sifnos is one of the best places to visit in Greece for mellow island vibes and a relaxed atmosphere. Sifnos is an ideal escape for couples, rainbow families, and travelers seeking an affordable Greek island getaway.

On Sifnos, you’ll find remote beaches, cosy fishing villages, and well-maintained hiking trails. It’s also a great island to sample Greek cuisine. There are traditional tavernas and restaurants all over Sifnos and ample nightlife, especially in Apollonia, the island’s largest city. Don’t forget to visit local shops for souvenirs from Sifnos, because the island is famous for its pottery.

Even if it isn’t as well known to the gay community, Crete is one of the best places to visit in Greece. It’s full of exquisite dining, shopping, and history, so it truly has something for everyone.

LGBTQ+ travelers can feel safe in Crete, but exercise caution outside of the main cities. Still, Crete is full of resorts, beaches, and bars that welcome queer visitors. The main cities of Heraklion and Chania are especially LGBTQ-friendly destinations.

For couples, consider the city of Elounda, it’s one of the most romantic places in Crete.

How do I plan a gay holiday in Greece?

Before you sashay away to your Greek holiday, you may feel overwhelmed. LGBTQ+ Greece has been millennia in the making, and you’ve only been planning this trip for a minuscule portion of that time. Fear not - trip planning can often seem intimidating, but with some help, it can be an Aegean Breeze.

To ease your mind let’s cycle through some planning tips and address the most frequently asked questions about travel to Greece. Soon you’ll have everything sorted and a packed itinerary with the best places to visit in Greece ready to be discovered.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

It will come as no surprise that peak season, from mid-June through August, is the busiest tourist season in Greece. During this period, you should expect peak crowds, the warmest temperatures, and prices that match the increased demand.

The shoulder seasons, just before and after peak season, often provide great weather, lower crowds, and more affordable prices on flights and accommodation. Consider the periods of April through early June or September and October for shoulder season. You’ll enjoy outdoor activities without the summer heat and historical attractions with lower crowds.

Winter season from November through March offers mild temperatures with few crowds. Greece isn’t known as a winter destination, although you can enjoy ski resorts in the northern mountains. In this period you’ll experience a different side of Greece that many tourists don’t bother exploring.

Since ancient times, Greek culture has been full of celebrations and festivals. Lucky for you, this hasn’t changed and festivals are a great time to book a trip to gay Greece. Greek cultural, music, and religious festivals are held throughout the year and in June 2024 you can head to Thessaloniki Pride, which marks 2024 Europride.

How do I get to the best places to visit in Greece?

Most travellers from abroad begin their Greek holiday in Athens International Airport, but some of the most popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos have their own airports.

Once you arrive, you’ll discover that getting around is just as exhilarating as spending time in the best places to visit in Greece. You’ll find the Greek public transportation system reliable, organized, and convenient.

Trains and buses connect much of mainland Greece and ferries connect travelers to the sunny Greek islands. Be sure to plan ahead and pre-purchase transportation when possible. This is especially important when travelling between islands where there may be limited ferries or flights per day.

Even far-flung Greek destinations are reachable without a car, but a car hire is often the most efficient way to travel around Greece.

How do I use money in Greece?

In 2001 Greece adopted the Euro, which is convenient if you’re visiting other countries on the Euro. If it’s your first time visiting the country or you haven’t had a Greek vacation in some time, you may be wondering, “do I need cash in Greece?” The short answer is yes, but you can get by with a debit or credit card in most cases.

Card payment was not as common when I first visited Greece, but over the last decade, it’s become the most popular form of payment. Tipping is also customary in Greece and it’s expected to leave a 10-15% tip for excellent service. Having some cash handy for smaller establishments and tips is wise.

How do I prepare for a vacation in Greece?

English is widely spoken among the younger generations and staff you may encounter during your vacation in Greece. Still, learning some basic phrases will enhance your time in Greece and show that you’re embracing the local culture. The Greek people are warm and friendly, so greeting someone with “kalimera” (good morning) or “kalispera” (good afternoon) can go a long way.

Stay up to date on the local weather forecasts before you travel to Greece and pack accordingly. Summer weather in Greece can be incredibly hot, even at night. If you plan to visit churches, monasteries, or other sacred places during your trip to Greece, you’ll need modest clothing for these sites.

Remember to stay well-hydrated, especially in the summer sun or when consuming alcohol. You don’t want to miss a day of Pride fun in Thessaloniki because drinking in the June sun left you dehydrated. Tap water in Greece is safe to drink, but bottled water is also available for those who prefer it.

Follow these tips, bookmark this LGBTQ+ travel guide of the best places to visit in Greece, and you’ll have a Greek trip for the ages.

For more gay-friendly travel advice check out LGBTQ+ travel page.

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I Stayed in Greece's First Mandarin Oriental Hotel — Here's What It Was Like

I n a quiet corner of mainland Greece, a glamorous new resort offers access to extraordinary treasures, both natural and archaeological.

When Petros Themelis first visited the ruins of Ancient Messene in 1986, there wasn’t much to see: only a few broken columns, strewn around the vineyards and olive groves, and some of the colossal foundations of the city’s fourth-century B.C. fortifications. Over the intervening millennia, whole sections of the city walls had been carted away for use in other buildings. Farmers had wrenched the metal from monuments to make tools and used broken statues and epigraphs to build walls to protect their flocks and crops. Gradually, a city that had flourished for 800 years was turned into a de facto quarry, then covered with earth and used as farmland. 

Widely acknowledged as a leading archaeologist of his generation, Themelis had already worked on some of Greece’s most famous ruins: the palace of Vergina, the sanctuary at Delphi, the stadium of ancient Olympia. Ancient Messene must have seemed like a backwater in comparison — a waterlogged valley in the southwestern Peloponnese , huddled against the slopes of Mount Ithomi. But as Themelis dug deeper, an incredibly sophisticated settlement came to light, just as the second-century A.D. travel writer Pausanias had described it. 

Related: The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year

Right around the time Themelis was beginning his dig, 40 miles to the south a very different type of project was breaking ground — one that would also alter the fate of this often overlooked region. There, a local shipowner was quietly laying the foundations for the most ambitious luxury tourism development in Greece. He gradually bought up huge parcels of coastal land in Messinia, with a master plan to create a modern landmark of a very different kind. 

Though I grew up in Greece, I had never been to Messene. So I was totally blown away by the scale, splendor, and masterful reconstruction of the 2,500-year-old city that stretched before me as I stood on the veranda of the only taverna in Ithomi, a sweet village shaped like an amphitheater overlooking the monuments.

Over the course of four decades, I learned, Themelis revealed and restored a city that was said to be larger than ancient Athens. The egalitarian urban plan included an amphitheater, a stadium, a gymnasium, a wrestling ring, a marketplace with colonnaded galleries, bathhouses, fountains, temples and sanctuaries, and an assembly hall where the city council deliberated. Today, the sheer ambition of the place is heightened by the remoteness of the setting — a landscape of hills in every conceivable shade of green, receding to the horizon. 

You can almost hear the roar of the crowds in the marble bleachers, smell the olive oil that wrestlers rubbed over their bodies until they glistened, picture the mosaic artists laying the intricate floors stone by stone, imagine the incense smoke from pyres where Pausanias witnessed “burnt offerings of every kind of living creature, thrusting into the flames not only cattle and goats but finally birds as well.” (Occasionally, when site-specific performances take place, visitors really can see artists at work and hear live music reverberating off the columns.)

When I visited last September, only a handful of people were rambling among the ruins. That week, the Greek government had limited the number of visitors at the Acropolis in Athens to 20,000 per day. It is extraordinary that Ancient Messene is so little known — just as it is hard to conceive that 40 years ago, it was nothing but muddy fields. Countless archaeological digs in Greece progress in slow fits and starts because of funding and staffing issues. Themelis, who died in October, was undaunted by such obstacles. First, he persuaded the state and other entities to buy land on and around the archaeological site from private owners. Then he secured European Union funding and recruited local farmers and craftsmen to supplement his small team of archaeologists and conservators. 

Themelis also reached out to benefactors to sponsor the excavations. One of those supporters was Vassilis Constantakopoulos, a self-made tycoon who went to sea at the age of 18 on an unpaid internship and ended up founding the largest private cargo-shipping company in the world. “Captain Vassilis,” as he is affectionately known, remained deeply committed to his homeland of Messinia, an agricultural region of the Peloponnese that’s known for its kalamata olives. 

Related: This Abandoned Winery in Greece Is Now a Luxury Resort

A lifelong environmental activist, Constantakopoulos formulated a plan to transform the region into a model for sustainable tourism. Starting in the mid 1980s, he slowly bought up almost 2,500 acres of land. His dream was not simply to create a beach resort or a playground for his other passion, golf; it was to regenerate the whole of Messinia through investment, vocational training, and a philanthropic foundation. The name of this new coastal development was Costa Navarino.

The first phase of this $1 billion project, Navarino Dunes, launched in 2010 with two large but low-slung hotels, a spa that uses olive oil in its treatments, and an 18-hole golf course. When I stayed there during the opening season, I was struck by how cleverly the construction blended into the shoreline, even though the highly polished atmosphere within the complex at times felt at odds with the rural, rough-around-the-edges surroundings. (At that time, tourism had barely made a dent in the silvery olive groves and golden dunes of the wider region.) “This is Avatar in Greece — paradise not yet found,” the golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. told me on that visit. “My golf course will be like walking into a Monet painting.” 

Fast-forward 13 years and surprisingly little has changed. Campers and pickup trucks still outnumber bus tours on the roads, and the clack of backgammon still beats time in shady village squares. Plenty of beaches are still blissfully lounger-free, and many locals still depend, at least partly, on Messinia’s 15 million olive trees for their livelihoods. 

However, a lot has happened at Costa Navarino. New hotels, golf courses, and recreational facilities have sprouted along the coastline, including the impetus for my return visit: Greece’s first Mandarin Oriental , the newest star in the constellation. As I alighted at the Mandarin’s curvaceous entrance, a handsome trio in straw hats and linens ushered me into a lobby with a profusion of plants, art books, and plump cocktail chairs. Floor-to-ceiling windows drew my eye toward a terrace poised above the glassy disk of Navarino Bay, one of Greece’s largest natural harbors. The world’s last naval battle fought with sailing ships took place there in 1827 — a turning point in the Greek War of Independence — but today, only a pair of paddleboarders rippled the water.

"Though I grew up in Greece, I had never been to Messene. So I was totally blown away by the scale, splendor, and masterful reconstruction of the 2,500-year-old city that stretched before me as I stood on the veranda of the only taverna in Ithomi, a sweet village shaped like an amphitheater overlooking the monuments."

All 99 suites and villas at the Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, have head-on views of the bay. Slotted into the hillside in rippling rows, the stone-and-cement buildings have rounded edges and “green roofs” covered with plants. Electric bikes and buggies purred up and down the lavender-scented paths to Ormos Beach Club, where futuristic floats were aligned in two sinuous pools and ranks of loungers were lined up in perfect symmetry on the raked sand. The international staff seemed to be everywhere all at once — refilling my dispenser of complimentary sunscreen, mixing me a peach daiquiri slushy, proffering a towel after I emerged from a dip off the jetty. 

From the water, it looked like a fleet of small spaceships had landed, but inside, the rooms felt like warm, silky cocoons. Rugs inspired by folk costumes, vintage engravings and textiles, and books related to the history and culture of the Peloponnese gave my villa a sense of place. But the true flavor of Messinia came from the kitchen. “I try to source products from within a thirty-mile radius,” said Bertrand Valegeas, the burly, smiley executive chef, as he talked me through all 10 dishes on the breakfast paramana — an upscale take on the meze tray brought to the table in traditional tavernas that lets diners pick whatever tickles their fancy. 

It required enormous restraint not to take everything: cold cuts with pickled okra, sheep-milk yogurt that tasted like whipped cream, warm pies, and irresistible petit fours. This sweet-and-savory smorgasbord appeared before I’d even glanced at the à la carte options, which included a sensational Greek spin on eggs Florentine with spanakopita stuffing and a feta-dill hollandaise.

Related: The Best Greek Islands to Visit, and Where to Stay on Them

After an afternoon of guided meditation and a meridian alignment in the spa, dinner at the flagship restaurant, Oliviera, was an elevated riff on Greek cuisine. Stuffed tomatoes had been transformed into a risotto swirled with smoked sfela, a local cheese made of sheep and goat milk cured in brine, and sardines swaddled in vine leaves and dotted with ouzo jelly. Even the cocktails, mixed tableside, had a Greek twist — a dash of tsipouro (Greece’s answer to grappa) in the martini or a feta emulsion in the Bloody Mary. 

Guests at the Mandarin Oriental can make use of a dizzying range of facilities and activities across

Costa Navarino’s properties — they can eat Peruvian or Japanese, hit up an escape room or open-air cinema, try yoga or yachting, wing foiling or wakeboarding. But the truly authentic side of Greece will only come into focus when they venture beyond the rarefied bubble of the resort. 

For those excited by history, Messinia is a thrill a minute: Neolithic settlements, Mycenaean palaces, classical temples, Byzantine churches, medieval castles, and Ottoman fortresses are scattered all around. The stones that made up the city walls of Ancient Messene were used to construct the seaside garrisons of Pylos, Methoni, and Koroni, a trio of pleasantly unspoiled towns, each guarded by its own heavily fortified castle. My favorite was Koroni, where everything from the flowerpots to the electricity meters in the lopsided alleys had been painted in bright colors. Real life seemed to take precedence over the trappings of tourism there. Within the castle’s walls are whitewashed cottages, a cemetery, and a nunnery — all but the cemetery still inhabited by living souls. Dinky wooden fishing boats supply the lively waterfront restaurants, but the thing to order is the crispy roast suckling pig at Café Synantisi, which has been a local hangout for generations. 

"Sprinkled with sea salt and slick with fruity olive oil, the tomatoes had been sun-ripened in the garden below the taverna’s terrace, which seemed to float above the ruins of Ancient Messene."

From the Mandarin Oriental, it’s an easy bicycle ride past the seaside strip of Gialova (worth a detour only for the excellent Anama restaurant) and the tantalizing sliver of Golden Beach. The coastal road peters out at a footpath, which follows the ragged cliffs up to the overgrown remains of a 13th-century fortress. I clambered over the ramparts and was suddenly teetering above Messinia’s most famous pinup: the perfect semicircle of Voidokilia Beach. The photogenic bay backs onto the Gialova lagoon, a habitat for hundreds of species of birds, with hiking and biking trails threaded through the reeds. 

Messinia is a habitat for hundreds of species of flora and fauna. “This biodiversity is very beneficial for our olive trees,” said Cristina Stribacu as we sniffed and swilled a selection of olive oils in the Mandarin Oriental’s Three Admirals Lounge. Fizzing with energy, Stribacu has won multiple awards for her extra-virgin Liá olive oil, extracted from the fruit of ancestral groves around Filiatra, a coastal town about 20 miles north of the resort. She and her brother Konstantinos are among a small group of young farmers hoping to revive the industry (most farmers in the region are well into their sixties). “I worry about who will produce our food ten years from now,” Stribacu said. “Smart, regenerative farming is very different from what our mom and dad did. Agriculture is also about entrepreneurship now. Otherwise, it’s not sustainable.” 

It’s an idea that circles back to Constantakopoulos’s original vision: to regenerate Messinia by preserving what has been there for generations, while creating new prospects for nearby communities. To this end, his charitable foundation has cofounded an agricultural entrepreneurship center to support the future of Messinian farming. One of its simplest initiatives is to protect rare local crop varieties, such as heirloom tomatoes. I’ve never tasted a sweeter, fleshier tomato than the Chondrokatsari variety served at the taverna in Ithomi. Sprinkled with sea salt and slick with fruity olive oil, the tomatoes had been sun-ripened in the garden below the taverna’s terrace, which seemed to float above the ruins of Ancient Messene. For the setting alone, Ithomi’s tomato salad just beat the San Marzano tomato marinara served at the Mandarin Oriental’s “omakase” pizza bar. There, elated by a flight of exceptional Italian wines, I tried eight different pies that were flipped, fired, and primped just a few feet away. 

In this surprising corner of Greece, I really could have it all: hospitality of the highest caliber, and a truly authentic experience. 

Costa Navarino: The Lay of the Land

With four branded resorts, four golf courses, dozens of bars, shops, and restaurants, and activities for all ages, Costa Navarino is one of the most ambitious tourism developments in the Mediterranean. It’s an easy 3½-hour drive from Athens or a 45-minute drive from Kalamata’s scrappy international airport—named after none other than Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos. 

The two adjacent resorts at Navarino Dunes are primarily tailored toward families and golfers. The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort is a little more sedate than the Westin Resort, Costa Navarino , which features a water park, bowling alley, NBA basketball school, and a soccer camp. 

About six miles south, on the Navarino Waterfront, the Agora, a mall and street-food hub, is popular with both hotel guests and locals. The Agora is sandwiched between the W Costa Navarino and the Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino . A fifth cluster of resorts, Navarino Blue, is also in development, located on a sandy beach a 10-minute drive from Kalamata airport.

A version of this story first appeared in the May 2024 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Of Sea and Stone ."

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• Breaking News

Greece hands Olympic flame to 2024 Paris Games hosts

Liverpool Premier League title hopes suffer blow, Sheffield Utd relegated

Hamas says studying new Israeli truce proposal

20 Cambodian soldiers killed in ammunition base explosion

Greece on Friday handed over the Olympic flame of the 2024 Games to Paris organisers in a ceremony at the Athens marble stadium where the competition was revived nearly 130 years ago.

Hellenic Olympic Committee chairman Spyros Capralos handed the torch to Paris Olympics chief organiser Tony Estanguet at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896.

Estanguet in a speech said the goal for Paris was to organise "spectacular but also more responsible Games, which will contribute towards a more inclusive society."

Organisers want to ensure "that the biggest event in the world plays an accelerating role in addressing the crucial questions of our time," said Estanguet, a member of France's Athens 2004 Olympics team who won gold in the slalom canoe event.

A duo of French champions, Beijing 2022 ice dance gold medallist Gabriella Papadakis and former swimmer Beatrice Hess, one of the most successful Paralympians in history, carried the flame during the final relay leg into the Panathenaic Stadium.

Nana Mouskouri, the 89-year-old Greek singer with a worldwide following, performed the anthems of France and Greece at the ceremony.

After spending the night at the French embassy in Athens, the flame on Saturday will begin its journey to France on board the 19th-century three-masted barque Belem.

On Sunday, the ship will pass from the Corinth Canal -- a feat of 19th century engineering constructed with the contribution of French banks and engineers. 

The Belem is set to reach Marseille -- a city founded by ancient Greek colonists around 600 BCE -- on May 8.

Over 1,000 vessels will accompany its approach to the harbour, local officials have said.

French swimmer Florent Manaudou will be the first torch bearer in Marseille. His sister Laure was the second torch bearer in ancient Olympia, where the flame was lit on April 16.

Ten thousand torchbearers will then carry the flame across 64 French territories.

It will travel through more than 450 towns and cities, and dozens of tourist attractions during its 12,000-kilometre (7,500-mile) journey through mainland France and overseas French territories in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Pacific.

On July 26 it will form the centrepiece of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.

A French historical monument launched just weeks after the Athens 1896 Games were held, the Belem carried out trade journeys to Brazil, Guyana and the Caribbean for nearly two decades.

Hours before the handover ceremony, the flame passed from Marathon, the town where the classic 42-kilometre endurance race, a key Olympic event, sets off annually. 

The torch harks back to the ancient Olympics when a sacred flame burned throughout the Games. The tradition was revived in 1936 for the Berlin Games. 

During the 11-day relay on Greek soil, some 600 torchbearers carried the flame over a distance of over 5,000 kilometres (3,100 miles) through over 50 towns and cities.

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Confessions of an 82-year-old hitchhiker

The founder of the Bradt travel guides and author of a new memoir has been thumbing lifts all over the world since her teens – and has no intention of stopping now

‘‘No one hitchhikes any more, do they?” I often hear people saying this and am proud to reply that I’ve hitchhiked every decade of my life, except the first. And I don’t intend to stop just because I’m now in my 80s.

So there I was, standing beside the road in southern Bavaria last year at the age of 82, with a sheepish smile on my face and thumb extended, while car after car swept past looking at me curiously. I could have taken the bus; indeed, that was the plan when I firmly told my companions that a seven-mile walk was enough for me, and they could complete the final five miles to Egloffstein, where we were staying, on their own.

I found a bus stop and learned that the next departure was in just under an hour. It was a fine afternoon, with the late sun illuminating the autumn colours of the beech trees, and there was a bench to sit on, so I decided to give hitching a go. If a car didn’t stop, I could hop on the next bus.

After about 10 minutes a large car stopped. I told the middle-aged driver where I wanted to go while his teenage passenger looked on with some misgivings.

“ Gasthof ?” he asked. I gave the name of a guesthouse, he nodded, and I climbed into the back, settling into the usual hitchhiker’s conversation. Where was he from? Italy originally, but he now lived locally. I told him I was on a walking holiday, and how much we were enjoying the region, rather whimsically called Franconian Switzerland, and in no time he was pulling up outside the guesthouse.

Sipping a beer while waiting for my friends to arrive, tired and hungry, I reflected on why my enthusiasm for hitchhiking is undiminished. It’s partly the serendipity – having no idea who you’ll meet and where you’ll end up – but mostly that more than any other form of travel, it confirms the innate kindness of most human beings. Learning to trust strangers is, I believe, one of the important lessons in life. Yes, there are risks, especially for lone women. Of course, bad things can, and do, sometimes (though rarely) happen, and obviously it’s much safer if there are two of you.

When I was a youngster, I took hitchhiking holidays to Greece and the Middle East with girlfriends, and we met some wonderfully kind people. However, my best hitchhiking memories are from later, when I was in my 20s, living in Boston and met my future husband who, I was astonished to discover, didn’t own a car. That would not be so unusual in Britain in the 1970s, but in America?

George hitchhiked as a matter of course and expected me to do the same. More mature and less selfish than my teenage self, I learned that every lift brings an opportunity to give as well as receive. George was good at this, a great conversationalist and always interested in other people’s lives. Often the driver just wanted to talk. That was fine; we listened. Yet I remember one couple who drove in tight-lipped silence for half an hour after picking us up (we learned later that they’d argued about whether to stop for us). By the end of the day, however, we joined forces to have a lobster and wine feast in a hired cabin on the Canadian coast. “Boy, I’m glad we stopped for you guys,” the husband said. “We were going to drive back to Boston tonight.”

I can’t remember the name of the island off the Maine coast where we had our most extraordinary encounter. We took a ferry there and planned to spend the day seeing as much as we could before returning to the mainland. A man soon stopped and we explained our open-ended plans. “OK,” he said, “I’ll show you where I live.” He drove us a few miles, stopping outside a white clapboard house where he got out, indicated the driver’s seat and said: “You kids go and explore. This is my house – just bring the car back when you’ve finished.”

Another time, another place, an elderly man stopped for us and asked where we wanted to go. “Well, where are you going?” we asked. He said it was up to us. He spent his days driving around looking for hitchhikers. This may sound creepy but his motives were simple. “Listen, I’m retired, I love driving, and I like people. Now where do you folks wanna go?”

Such displays of generosity were exceptional, and probably wouldn’t happen in these more suspicious times. My next decade was spent travelling through South America and Africa. In both continents hitching opportunities were limited to the wealthier southern countries, where there were more private cars. Otherwise, it was expected, and fair, to pay for your transport. Chile and Argentina were going through turbulent times politically (Allende had just been overthrown in Chile; Argentina was in the thrall of Juan Perón).

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We spent hours in cars just listening to the tales of ordinary people, but it was in South Africa that we had one of our most memorable lifts. George and I worked there in 1975, at the height of apartheid, and hitchhiking – if you were white – was relatively easy. One time, a battered bakkie (pickup truck) stopped. The black driver, a broad smile on his face, motioned to the back and we happily climbed in, knowing, as he did, that we were within the law. The usual arrangement, of course, was a white farmer driving the vehicle with the black farmworkers squashed in the back. It still makes me smile when I recall the look on the faces of people we passed.

As I continued to seek the occasional lift into my 40s and 50s, the drivers must have had a shock when they stopped and realised that this hitchhiker was getting on in years. However, it was only when I started travelling with Janice, two years older than me and with white hair, that I discovered the advantages of flaunting, rather than concealing, your age.

Janice had hitchhiked in Greece as a youngster, so when we planned a return visit to the Mani peninsula, to revisit some of her favourite places, we agreed that the once-a-day bus wasn’t going to get us far and we would hitchhike when necessary. I hadn’t realised how easy it would be. I’d push Janice to the front, and cars would stop because what else can you do when a white-haired old lady sticks her thumb out and looks beseeching – and is carrying a sign to the destination written in the Greek alphabet as well as in English? They stopped. They all stopped. We rode with a priest, with his hat and his little bun, and Janice chatted to him in Greek; we travelled with German tourists and exchanged information on the most rewarding Byzantine churches; and finally hopped on to the back of a pickup truck to join two young Albanians who, we gathered, were employed on a building site.

The Albanians spoke about as much Greek as Janice, so although conversation didn’t exactly flow, it sputtered along quite happily. They were, understandably, curious about why two women who certainly looked past the first flush of youth were hitchhiking. They muttered among themselves, casting furtive glances at us before asking Janice her age; 62, she told them. No interest there then.

Janice and I continued hitching through our 60s and into our 70s, although she did sometimes rebel and mention the T-word. No, we were not going to take a taxi when this would be more complicated than sticking our thumb out.

The last time was in France, trying to get to the prehistoric cave paintings at Les Eyzies, when there were no buses. Janice made a cardboard sign, in French, and a car soon stopped. It smelt deliciously of fresh bread. The female driver was on her way to her mother’s to deliver groceries. Did we mind waiting while she visited Mum? Of course not. She left the key in the ignition and her handbag on the seat and was gone for some time.

This exemplifies the mutual trust which is so integral to hitchhiking, and why I might still find myself standing by a road with my thumb out relying, again, on the kindness of strangers.

Taking the Risk: My Adventures in Travel and Publishing by Hilary Bradt ( Bradt Travel Guides , £20 ) is published on 1 May

• Adventure travel
• Travelling solo

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