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This Greece road trip itinerary takes you through a captivating mix of myth, history, and natural beauty. Begin your adventure in Athens, exploring the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the lively neighborhoods around Plaka. Enjoy a relaxed evening beneath the city’s illuminated temples before setting out on your self-drive journey.More...
Day 1 - 3
Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.
Based at the foot of the Acropolis and a few minutes away from the Museum, the Acropolis AMI Boutique Hotel boasts 18 rooms and has a modern, classic touch, with typical Greek hospitality. The hotel is conveniently located close to the city's major attractions, including The Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathinaikon Stadium as well as Hadrian's Arc. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, doctor on call, daily maid service, as well as laundry and dry cleaning services.
Your evening begins with a short panoramic drive through the city center and on the slopes of the sacred hill you will be able to see, admire and take photos of the illuminated Acropolis. Then a pleasant walk through the narrow picturesque streets of Plaka, the old city, will bring you at a Typical Greek Tavern where you will enjoy your dinner following a floor show with live music and Greek Folk Dances in traditional costumes.
Day 4 - 5
The small, charming port town of Nafplio is situated on the Argolic Gulf in the northeast of the Peloponnese Peninsula, just one and a half hours by car from Greece’s capital, Athens. The town is known for its remarkably scenic location, overlooking a picturesque harbour and presided over by two medieval castles, including the spectacular Palamidi fortress. At the centre of Nafplio’s historical Old Town lies the large, marble-paved Syntagma Square, lined with quaint cafes and featuring the Arsenal, a stately building occupied by a fascinating museum. At the other end of the square, a historic mosque now occasionally functions as a cinema. Nafplio serves as a popular weekend getaway for Athenians eager to escape the big tourist crowds of the city and enjoy Nafplio’s excellent restaurants, boutique shops, impressive architecture, quayside cafes, fine beaches and old-world atmosphere.
Adiandi Boutique Hotel is located in Nafplion, Greece and is within walking distance from the Nafplio Port. Accommodation at the portside property features a selection of tastefully decorated rooms and suites equipped with comfortable bedding, air-conditioning, smart TV, refrigerator, and a Hairdryer. Guests can also enjoy authentic Mediterranean gastronomy and a hearty breakfast each morning at the Wild Duck restaurant, located 4 minutes from the hotel.
The archaeological site of Mycenae, located in the northeastern Peloponnese of Greece, was one of the major centers of Greek civilization during the late Bronze Age (around 1600–1100 BCE). It is famously linked to the legendary King Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War. The site features impressive remains, including the Lion Gate, royal tholos tombs, and massive Cyclopean walls. Mycenae’s discoveries, such as gold masks and rich grave goods, reveal its wealth and importance as a powerful kingdom in ancient Greece.
Day 6
One of Greece's most significant archaeological and tourist destinations, Olympia is best known as the birthplace of the most famous sporting event of all time: the Olympic Games. Set on the breathtaking Peloponnese Peninsula, with the same name as its ancient site, this sacred area is known as the 'Valley of the Gods'. It contained many treasures of Greek art, such as temples, monuments, altars, theatres and statues - much of which is still evident today in the famous well-preserved ruins. The ancient site sits alongside a charming little traditional Greek village, which provides all the tourist facilities visitors might desire. The place was originally not a town but a sanctuary, with buildings associated with the annual games and the worship of the gods. Make sure to visit the impressive museums, too.
The Amalia Hotel Olympia in the Northwest Pelopponesus is set in a green filled landscape with olive trees, creating a quiet setting for a tranquil getaway. The spacious accommodation includes satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. Guests can dine at the main restaurant or at the lounge cafe which features an open-air terrace and beautiful scenery. The hotel also features a pool and large gardens.
The archaeological site of Olympia, located in the western Peloponnese of Greece, was the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. It served as a major religious center dedicated to Zeus, featuring the grand Temple of Zeus and a massive statue of the god, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The site also includes athletic facilities like the stadium and gymnasium, where athletes competed in honor of the gods. Olympia embodies the unity, athletic spirit, and cultural achievements of ancient Greece.
Day 7
Delphi is situated in southern Greece, about 180 kilometres northwest of the capital of Athens. This area consists of two separate sites: the modern village of Delphi, where visitors will find lodging and other amenities, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the same name. This ancient archaeological area, situated on the slopes of legendary Mount Parnassos, was once considered the centre of the universe and retains a truly special atmosphere. Make sure to see the Sanctuary of Apollo, ruins dating back more than 2,500 years, and take an informative walking tour of the vast area. This can be complemented excellently with a visit to the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Finally, those looking to explore the countryside surrounding Delphi will find many scenic stops, including the pretty seaside village of Galaxidi.
Das in Delphi gelegene Parnassos Delphi Hotel befindet sich in der Nähe des Museums von Delphi und der archäologischen Ruinen. Die geräumigen Zimmer sind mit Klimaanlage, kostenlosem WLAN-Zugang, Fernseher, Kühlschrank und Zimmersafe ausgestattet. Sie können im hauseigenen Restaurant speisen oder den Zimmerservice in Anspruch nehmen. Zu den weiteren Annehmlichkeiten gehören eine 24-Stunden-Rezeption, eine Bibliothek und ein Spielzimmer.
The archaeological site of Delphi, situated on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in central Greece, was considered the spiritual center of the ancient Greek world. It was home to the sanctuary of Apollo and the famous Oracle of Delphi, where priestesses delivered prophetic messages. The site includes the Temple of Apollo, the theater, and the stadium used for the Pythian Games. Delphi symbolized the Greeks’ pursuit of wisdom and their belief in divine guidance.
Day 8
Kalabaka - sometimes Kalambaka - is a town in Thessaly in northern Greece. Kalabaka is primarily known as the gateway for visiting the nearby cliff-top monasteries of Meteora. This magnificent Greek Orthodox temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, looms over the modern town and provides a fascinating insight into Greek history of the 14th to 16th centuries. There are many monasteries to visit, and many house on-site museums showcasing religious art and other historical artefacts, such as ancient manuscripts. Key monasteries include Great Meteoron, St. Stephen and Holy Trinity, which offer the best views over the town and its surrounds. The area is also renowned for rock climbing, with 170 peaks and over 600 different bolted routes to choose from.
The Amalia Hotel Kalambaka is located in Vasiliki. The accommodation consists of 170 guest rooms and two suites, spread over three floors with views of the Meteora or the gardens. All rooms have flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, air conditioning and minibars, while the suites have a living area. Room service is available for all rooms. The hotel's restaurant serves a rich American buffet breakfast, and Greek and Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed for lunch and dinner. A café on the lobby level near the swimming pool serves snacks, juices, cocktails and coffee. There is also a cosy piano bar where guests can enjoy a variety of drinks by a large fireplace. Other amenities include free on-site parking, a laundry service and a 24-hour reception.
Day 9 - 11
The optimal time for a road trip itinerary like this, which focuses on ancient sites and the mainland, is during the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to October). You will enjoy comfortable driving conditions and perfect weather for exploring historical sites like Olympia, Delphi, and the monasteries of Meteora, while avoiding the intense heat of mid-summer.
The cost for a road trip often starts at a lower rate than island-hopping adventures. A budget-friendly trip starts at approximately $65 per day, excluding the cost of your rental car and fuel. For a more comfortable, mid-range experience, a week-long trip, including basic accommodations and meals, starts at approximately $1,100.
The main highlights include visiting the dramatic, gravity-defying monasteries of Meteora and exploring the ancient stadium and ruins in Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Make sure to dedicate time to the atmospheric UNESCO site of Delphi and explore the massive Cyclopean walls at the legendary archaeological site of Mycenae.
When planning your route, be prepared for tolls on the major highways and allow extra time for scenic mountain roads, particularly those leading to Meteora and Delphi. For city stops like Athens, it is often best to park your rental car and rely on walking or public transit to navigate the narrow, crowded historic centers.
11 Days
6 Stops
Self drive
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4.5 of 5
4,421Reviews
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4,421Reviews
Island hopping Cyclades Islands
We took a trip with tourlane in May 2024. We came across tourlane by chance. We went island hopping in the Greek Cyclades with a flight and organized transfer from island to island by ferry and private transfer to the hotels. Everything was perfectly organized and planned.
Island hopping Greece
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Family trip to Greece
We had Tourlane plan a vacation with island hopping in Greece. Rental cars on every island, interesting hotels plus ferries and domestic flights. It was great how such a package was put together from our wishes. We are now looking forward to our vacation. Highly recommended.
Greece ISLAND HOPPING START: Athens, then we took the ferry to Paros, 4 days later to Naxos and finally 3 days to Santorini! You were so great! The island hopping went really well thanks to you! From cab, ferry to 3-star hotel, the whole organization! EVERYTHING TOP! And booking the trip was also super easy! I just want to say thank you, it was the best 14 days for a long time
We planned and carried out a family trip with Tourane. The entire planning went smoothly and all our wishes were taken into account. What was particularly pleasant were the very well organized transfers and hotels. Everything went very smoothly so that we could concentrate on the family vacation experience. We will be happy to use the Tourlane service for future family trips.