Greece Road Trip: Incredible Routes for the Best Trip

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Greece Road Trips Planner

Greece is a wonderful country for a road trip if you like the road less traveled. Packed with ancient sites, beautiful beaches and turquoise seas, historic towns and cities, and majestic mountains, a road trip is a great way to travel around Greece and explore all this gorgeous country has to offer.

The landscape of mainland Greece is dotted with ancient Greek monuments and temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, hot springs, small villages with roadside churches where lemon trees overhang the roads, and traditional tavernas where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

We spent a month driving through Greece and in this road trip planner, we share the best road trips in Greece including itineraries, travel tips, the best things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Greece roadtrip.

Getting to Greece

Fly into Athens Airport or Thessaloniki Airport to start your road trips in Greece. Both of these locations are great start points for the Greece road trip itineraries we have curated. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Greece? As one of the largest car rental companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental car prices, which benefits you when you’re planning your Greek road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Greece. We recommend Motorhome Republic, an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and wild camp on the edge of a fjord or with incredible sea views. Find out all you need to know in our guide to campervanning in Greece.

Greece Road Trips Map

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Mainland Greece Road Trip

  • Athens to Thessaloniki Road Trip Itinerary

Athens – Delphi – Galaxidi – Nafpaktos – Parga – Meteora – Mount Olympus – Thessaloniki

  • Distance: 947km
  • Duration: 2 weeks
  • Drive Time: 13 hours

Athens

This 14 day Greece mainland road trip starts in the capital of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city, which is both ancient and edgy.

The spectacular Acropolis dominates the skyline and is as connected to the modern city as it ever has been. At street level, Athens has become cool and contemporary, with open-air restaurants serving delicious Greek food, and live music on every corner.

There is graffiti and street art everywhere, especially on the many derelict buildings, but this is a long-running custom here. In ancient Greece, graffiti was carved on walls with a sharp object, chalk, or coal and the word originates from Greek γράφειν – graphein – meaning ‘to write’.

Some of the best places to see in Athens include the Acropolis crowned by the spectacular Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, considered to be the beating heart of ancient Athens and a hub of commercial, political, and social life, the ruins of Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Aristotle’s Lyceum and Syntagma Square, the beating heart of the modern city.

RELATED POST: One Day in Athens – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

  • Where to Stay in Athens

Upmarket: Xenodocheio Milos – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: The Athens Gate Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: InnAthens – Booking.com | Agoda

If you have a couple of days extra as you road trip Greece and want to experience some of the Greek islands, now is the time to hop on a ferry to chic Mykonos, fabulous Santorini, or even Crete, and enjoy a bit of Greek island life before starting your mainland Greece road trip. We use Ferryhopper to plan and book Greek island ferry trips.

Ancient Delphi

The next day, head west from Athens through Sterea Ellada (the region of Central Greece) to ancient Delphi. Of all of Greece’s many archeological sites, Delphi is probably the most important.

Built on the southern foothills of Mount Parnassus by the ancient Greeks, the Sanctuary of Apollo is the big draw here, and the heart of the Delphic Oracle, whose advice had the power to start wars, bless marriages, and create leaders.

The site is gorgeous, the surrounding landscape is carpeted with olive groves and has stunning views down to the Gulf of Corinth. It is also home to the Delphi Archaeological Museum and the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.

The history of Delphi is the stuff of ancient myths and legends and the site has much to share. Get the best from your visit with a private tour, where your knowledgeable guide will take you on a journey into ancient Greek mythology as you explore the site and learn about the archaeological ruins.

We recommend this Delphi guided walking tour, with an experienced English-speaking guide who has extensive knowledge of the site.

  • Where to Stay in Delphi

Mid-Range: Fedriades Delphi Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Orfeas – Booking.com | Agoda

Galaxidi

Your next stop is one of the prettiest resorts along the Gulf of Corinth. Galaxidi hugs a coastal mound, with twisting cobblestone streets connecting the harbors at either side and to the south, the newer harbor is a lively hub, lined with bars, tavernas, and fish restaurants, where you can sample traditional Greek food.

Opposite this harbor is a partially wooded peninsula, fringed with small rocky coves and crisscrossed with walking paths. There are lots of picturesque spots here and you’re sure to find the perfect place for a lazy afternoon, although don’t expect that at the weekend in good weather when carloads of Athenians descend as they escape the city!

  • Where to Stay in Galaxidi

Mid-Range: Ganimede Hotel, Galaxidi – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Galaxidi – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks, podcasts, and road trip songs for the journey!

Nafpaktos

Nafpaktos is a delightful town, built around a near-circular walled harbor that the Venetians constructed in the 15th century when the town was called Lepanto.

With colorful boats bobbing about in the turquoise waters that moor at the picturesque harbor, strolling the area is a highlight of this charming little town. From the harbor starts the beautiful long Psani Beach, the perfect location for a dip in those clear waters.

On a hill above Nafpaktos town sits one of the best-preserved ancient castles in Greece. The imposing Venetian Kastro (castle) enjoys breathtaking views of the sea and the opposite coasts of the Peloponnese. It’s well worth the climb for the views alone.

  • Where to Stay in Nafpaktos

Mid-Range: Asklipios Luxury Rooms – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Magnolia Suites – Booking.com | Agoda

Parga

Parga has to be one of the most picturesque locations on the Greek mainland. Famous for its exotic beaches, beautiful landscape, and traditional Greek architecture, Parga is also a good departure point to visit the gorgeous island of Paxos, one of the least commercial of the Greek islands.

Parga itself stretches around a south-facing bay, lapped by the turquoise Ionian Sea. Above the town is a Venetian castle built in 1792, which provides a breathtaking view over the surrounding coastline.

Located opposite Parga port, is the tiny Panagia islet, an iconic landmark of Parga and home to a pretty whitewashed chapel. Take a small boat from Parga to this tiny lush island, or swim out there if you fancy a dip!

The highlight of Parga is the island vibe, which is hard to find on the mainland! Kick back, relax, and enjoy the beaches and the lively feel of this enchanting place.

  • Where to Stay in Parga

Upmarket: Natura Luxury Suites Parga – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Suites of Happiness – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: PargaMondo Countryliving – Booking.com | Agoda

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Greece. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Vikos Gorge

The Vikos Gorge, located in the Pindos Mountains of Epirus, is sometimes called the Greek Grand Canyon due to its towering cliffs and natural landscape. While it may not be as deep as the American canyon, the Vikos Gorge is one of the most dramatic ravines in the country, with a depth of 490 meters / 1,500 feet.

Situated on the southern slopes of Mount Tymfi, the Vikos Gorge stretches for about 20km / 12.5 miles and has a width that varies from 400 meters to a narrow slither measuring just a few meters and according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the Vikos Gorge is the deepest gorge relative to its width in the world.

The Voidomatis River, which has been carving its way through the gorge for thousands of years, is renowned for its traditional stone bridges and is widely regarded as the cleanest river in Europe. Its smooth, crystal-clear waters are a real attraction for adventure sports enthusiasts.

There is also the famous Vikos Gorge hike, which passes through breathtaking scenery along a 13km / 8 mile trail that is widely considered to be one of the best hikes in Greece.

The route can be hiked in either direction, but we recommend starting from Monodendri for the best views. You’ll need to get a taxi back to your accommodation from Vikos village, the end of the linear route.

  • Where to Stay in Monodendri

Upmarket: Aristi Mountain Resort, Aristi – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Pirrion Wellness Boutique Hotel, Ano Pedina – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Guesthouse Lucas, Zagori – Booking.com | Agoda

Meteora

The name Meteora is derived from the Greek meteoros, which means ‘suspended in the air’. The extraordinary rock formations of the Meteora region seem to do just that, and then to add to the sheer spectacle of these stark pinnacles of rock, many are topped with Byzantine monasteries. No wonder then that the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora is one of the most visited attractions in Greece.

At one time, there were 24 monasteries gracing the peaks, now there are just six – Moni Agias Triados of ‘For Your Eyes Only’ fame; Monis Agias Varvaras Rousanou; Moni Agiou Nikolaou; the largest, Moni Magalou Mateorou; Moni Varlaam and Moni Agiou Stefanou.

Kastraki, the nearest village to the monasteries, sits high on the rocks of the region. Above is the Meteora massif, with a road that skirts the rim. The monasteries are perched on rocky outcrops of the massif.

You don’t need to climb the full height of each pinnacle, access is via a path and staircase cut into the rocks from the massif, with a typical ascent being around 200 steps. The schedule of which monastery is open and when changes regularly, so check here before making any firm plans.

The dress code is strict and you won’t be allowed to enter if you don’t wear appropriate clothing. That means no bare shoulders, men must wear trousers and women skirts below the knee (wraparound skirts are provided as you enter).

The complete driving loop of the monasteries from Kalabaka (sometimes called Kalampaka) to Kastraki and then back again is 20km. If you start early, you should be able to see them all in a day, but we think it’s better to do it across two days, so you don’t feel rushed and have time to stop along the way. It will be busier at the weekends and around holiday times like Easter when day trip buses descend.

If getting a flavor and the best photos beats seeing all the monasteries, then take this small group half-day panoramic Meteora and monasteries tour from Kalampaka, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit three of the monasteries and stop at all the best spots for those iconic Meteora images.

RELATED POST: Most Beautiful Places in Greece That You Must Visit!

  • Where to Stay in Meteora

Mid-Range: Archontiko Metsovou Luxury Boutique Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Fretzato – Booking.com | Agoda

Mount Olympus

Oft shrouded in clouds or covered in snow, the mythical Mount Olympus in northern Greece is spectacular. Home of the gods and the ancient site of the throne of Zeus, Olympus is important in Greek mythology and is the highest mountain in Greece at 2,917 meters.

The base for Olympus hiking and trekking is the typical mountain town of Litochoro, which sits between the foothills and the Aegean Sea and is within easy reach of the ancient city of Dion.

You need at least two days and be an experienced climber if you want to scale the peak. There are several local tour companies that offer flexible trekking packages, depending on your abilities and fitness. Check out Olympus Climbing and Vist Olympus for options.

Typical full day trips from Litochoro take in Prionia, the highest point you can reach in a car, the cave and old monastery of Agios Dionisios, and the beautiful Enipeas Gorge complete with waterfalls and natural swimming spots.

  • Where to Stay in Mount Olympus

Mid-Range: Robolo Boutique Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Mythic Valley – Booking.com | Agoda

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second city will suck you in with its beauty, charm, history and culture. With fantastic cuisine, amazing sea views, and incredible beaches just a few miles away, this is a worthy city to end your Greek road trip.

Thessaloniki’s neighborhoods are vibrant and full of life. Old and new blend together, with ancient Byzantine landmarks scattered through the urban terrain, happily sitting side by side with modern cocktail bars and contemporary architecture.

One of Thessaloniki’s highlights is the lively waterfront, home to the iconic 15th century White Tower, a 34-metre building with a murderous past. Just along from here is the award-winning new waterfront, which stretches to the Thessaloniki Concert Hall. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it’s a great place to promenade while enjoying an ice cream!

Egnatia is the main drag through the city and follows the path of the old Roman road. The Roman monuments of the Palace of Galerius, the Arch of Galerius, the Roman Forum, and the renovated Rotunda can all be found along the route.

For magnificent ancient Greek ruins and lesser-visited churches, head to Ano Poli, Thessaloniki’s upper town. The old Turkish Quarter is the only district to have survived the devastating fire of 1917, which actually started here but was swept toward the sea by offshore winds.

Ladadika, a picturesque quarter a short distance from the port, is the best choice if you’re heading out for the night, with restaurants, bars, and clubs lining the streets.

  • Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Upmarket: The Excelsior – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: S Hotel Boutique Thessaloniki – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Noa Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

If you have an extra few days before leaving Thessaloniki, head south to the popular Halkidiki Peninsula, with its three fingers dipping into the Aegean Sea. Kassandra and Sithonia both have stunning beaches, forested interiors, and gorgeous roads. The most easterly finger, Athos, is a tightly sealed semi-autonomous, all-male, monastic community, closed to the rest of the world.

Other Nearby Road Trips

Peloponnese Road Trip

  • Peloponnese Peninsula Itinerary

Athens – Corinth – Kalavryta – Olympia – Kalamata – The Mani – Sparta – Nafplio – Mycenae – Athens

  • Distance: 818km
  • Duration: 2-3 weeks
  • Drive Time: 13 hours

Athens

This Greece road trip itinerary in the Peloponnese starts in the capital city of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city to see the ancient sites and enjoy the lively street vibe.

Corinth Canal

The following day, head west from Athens towards Ancient Corinth and you’ll cross the Corinth Canal, which splits the Corinth Isthmus, the narrow strip of land between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and joins the Aegean and Ionian Seas.

The Corinth Canal was a major feat of engineering when it was built, and it was a long time in the making! The Roman emperor Nero first thought of the idea, and the isthmus was first crossed by boats in 600 BCE when a ship railway was built to carry small craft on wheeled cradles, which ran in grooves. This system was thought to be in use until the 9th century.

Work on the canal began in 1882, and it opened in 1893. The canal has dramatic steep limestone walls that soar 92 meters high, but the canal is only 21 meters wide at sea level! This width was fine when the canal was built in the late 19th century, but it is far too narrow for the vast cargo and passenger ships built today.

In February 2021, there was a large landslide close to the old passenger bridge near the center of the canal and it was closed to marine traffic. Restoration work saw the canal open again from 1st June 2023 until 31st October 2023, when the canal closed for the winter season.

If you want to make a brief stop and see the canal up close, take exit 9 from the E94 to Loutraki. You will then cross the Corinth Canal over the old bridge. After the crossing, there is a large parking area with tavernas and shops, where you can stop and take the short walk back over the bridge.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Greece.

Ancient Corinth

Home to the legendary Jason of the Argonauts, of Golden Fleece fame, Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BCE. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BCE before building a new city in its place in 44 BCE, which became the provincial capital of Greece.

Today, Ancient Corinth is one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. It is here that St. Paul preached to the people of Corinth in AD 51-52, an experience which later inspired him to write the New Testament books of the First Corinthians and Second Corinthians, often quoted parts of the Bible.

The most important monument in Ancient Corinth is the Doric Temple of Apollo, which overlooks the site from its small mound. The temple was built around 540 BCE and today, only seven of the limestone columns remain.

Akrokorinthos lies 3.5 kilometers south of Ancient Corinth. The 575m ascent to the top of this impressive fortified hilltop is made easier by a road, and once inside, the views from the high point at the Temple of Aphrodite, are stunning.

The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth has three display rooms and a large courtyard. Exhibits are labeled in both Greek and English and help you make sense of what you see around you. The entrance ticket to the site is also valid for the museum.

  • Where to Stay in Corinth

Mid-Range: Vasilios Marinos Rooms – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Jo Marinis Rooms – Booking.com | Agoda

Kalavryta

This pretty mountain town is surrounded by fabulous views and has lots to do in the surrounding area. If you’re road-tripping Greece in winter, give Kalavryta a miss – it’s also a ski resort!

Unusually in Greece, Kalavryta is best known for its more recent history. It is known officially as the place where the Greek War of Independence started when Greece revolted against the Turks in 1821.

Tragically, it is also the place of one of the worst atrocities to happen on Greek soil during World War Two. In December 1943, the Nazis massacred most of the male population of the village, nearly 500 souls. The hands of the old cathedral clock stand permanently at 2.34pm, the time the German guns fell silent.

Today, you can visit the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, a moving tribute to those residents and the story of the struggle between Greek partisans and the occupying forces. East of the town is the Martyrs Monument – the spot where the massacre took place. Both are difficult places to visit but should not be missed when you visit Kalavryta.

The Diakofto-Kalavryta Railway is a vintage rack and pinion railway between the two towns. The route is incredibly scenic, passes through seven tunnels, and twists along the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, clinging to its narrow ledge over the churning rapids below.

The cog train makes three journeys between the towns every day, each way takes an hour. From the seaside town of Diakofto, it is possible to make a return trip to mountainous Kalavryta when the cogwheel train climbs over 700 meters to reach the town.

Alternatively, you can hike the stunning 22km from Kalavryta to Diakofto along the route of the railway. Luckily, the train drivers are well used to hikers on the track and always give plenty of warning of their approach. It will take around five hours and you’ll need a torch for the tunnels. Time your hike so you can take a rest in Diakofto before hopping on the train back!

  • Where to Stay in Kalavryta

Mid-Range: Orias Guesthouse & Farm – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Filoxenia Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

As you leave Kalavryta, nature lovers should set their sat nav for the Cave of the Lakes near Kastria, which is en route to Ancient Olympia, your next destination. The Cave of the Lakes has a 500m boardwalk from which you can view the incredible rock formations and thirteen crystal clear subterranean pools formed by millennia of mineral deposits.

Ancient Olympia

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia is where the Games took place every four years, for over 1100 years! The Olympic Flame is still lit here for the modern Games.

This beautiful, shady archaeological site is incredibly evocative – wandering through the ancient ruins, it’s easy to imagine the ripped athletes and excited spectators of its heyday, amongst the magnificent temples and athletic facilities.

A visit to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia will help put the site into perspective – it was built and developed over one thousand years, so there are lots of periods of history, and artifacts, to be explored.

If you like something a bit different, book this brilliant self-guided virtual reality tour of Olympia, where you can step back in time with an interactive map and see the monuments of ancient times come back to life with virtual reality glasses!

  • Where to Stay in Olympia

Mid-Range: Leonidaion Guesthouse – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Anesi Rooms To Rent – Booking.com | Agoda

If you have time when you leave Olympia, set your sat nav for Figeleia, then follow the road signs for the Neda Waterfalls, a popular swimming spot. It’s a 1.5 hour drive, but the route is spectacular! You need to walk for around 15 minutes from the parking lot to get to the falls (there are actually two) along a narrow and rocky trail, so make sure to wear trainers or boots. Once at the falls, get on your swimmers and cool off in the beautiful water!

Kalamata

The second largest city in the Peloponnese, and famous for its large dark brown olives, Kalamata is a lively seaside town that most tourists drive through, although it is well worth visiting.

Most of the town is modern, after being razed by the 1986 earthquake. You’ll find a long sandy beach, good restaurants, and some excellent museums, such as the Museum of Traditional Greek Costumes and the History and Folklore Museum, to keep you busy.

Perched above the city center is a 13th century kastro, which miraculously survived the huge 1986 earthquake. There are fantastic views from the castle, which is a haven of peace from the busy city below.

  • Where to Stay in Kalamata

Upmarket: Villa Vager Mani Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Messinian Icon Hotel & Suites – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Kalamata Art Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Depending on how much time you have for your Greece itinerary, you can go one of two ways from Kalamata, or use the town as a base to explore in both directions!

Option One

Take route 82, the Langada Pass, to gory Sparta and the Byzantine capital of Mystras. The 59km narrow road, which crosses the Taygetos Mountains between Kalamata and Sparta is simply stunning, winding its way through traditional mountain villages, historical sites, rocky gorges, and along sparking rivers.

The pass itself sits at 1524m above sea level, so if you’re traveling outside of summer, check the weather before setting off.

Option Two

Take a scenic drive around the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese through the Messinian Mani. Take in picture-perfect small town of Kardamyli, home of the famous English writer and Cretan resistance fighter, Sir Patrick Leigh Fermor, and the colorful harbor of pretty Gythio.

The Mani is a wild and rugged region and the landscapes are dramatic. The traditional villages, historic tower houses, vast olive groves, and rocky coves to snow-capped mountains will give you good reason to spend weeks exploring this part of Greece.

From Gythio, you can head north on the main road to Sparta, or across the mountains to Leonidio on the east coast of the Peloponnese. This is a stunning drive that takes you through natural beauty to the traditional mountain village of Kosmas, which has interesting ancient and WWII history.

Nafplio

A charmingly romantic town, Nafplio (sometimes Nafplion) is blessed with an old town full of narrow streets, elegant neoclassical architecture, and interesting independent shops, bars, and tavernas. This is a great spot for wanderers who love to explore hidden corners and delightful squares.

Drive or climb the 911 steps up to the spectacular Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians between 1711 and 1714. The citadel stands on a 216-meter-high outcrop that dominates the town and gives panoramic views of Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf.

You can take a boat trip out to the tiny island fortress of Bourtzi, which sits in Nafplio’s large bay. The island has served many purposes, including as a pirate deterrent, home for executioners, and a hotel! Today the island hosts Nafplio’s Summer Music Festival, providing a stunning backdrop to classical music.

There are a couple of good beaches close to the town. Arvanitia Beach is a five minute walk south of town, past the Akronafplia Fortress and Karathona Beach is at the end of a gorgeous 3km path lined with fragrant pine trees, that follows the coast south from Arvanitia Beach.

  • Where to Stay in Nafplio

Mid-Range: Amymone and Adiandi – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Nafplia Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mycenae

On a hilltop with a stupendous mountain backdrop is Ancient Mycenae, your final stop and home of the legendary (and maybe mythical, but that’s not conclusive) Agamemnon, king of Mycenae and leader of the Greek army in the Trojan War.

For four centuries in the second millennium BCE, this kingdom was the most powerful in Greece and gave its name to the Mycenaean civilization.

Now known as Mykines, myth, and rich history are inextricably linked in UNESCO-listed Mycenae, which was name-checked by 9th century Homer, who wrote of ‘well built Mycenae, rich in gold’, in his epic poems, Illiad and Odyssey.

Surrounded by huge walls that were constructed by the mythical one-eyed Cyclops, Mycenae is home to many archaeological treasures, including the Lion Gate, the entrance of the citadel, and the Treasury of Atreus, the vaulted tomb of King Agamemnon. 

A short drive away are the wineries of Nemea, known as the ‘Bordeaux of South Eastern Europe’, with over 2,000 hectares of vines and 40 wineries producing wine from the native Agiorgitiko red grape.

But before you take a vineyard tour and wine tasting in Nemea, you should visit should be the stunning Temple of Zeus which was constructed in 330 BCE and replaced an earlier temple that had stood from the 6th to 5th century BCE. It is regarded as the last of the great Doric temples in the Classical tradition.

  • Where to Stay in Mycenae

Mid-Range: King Minos Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: La Petite Planete – Booking.com | Agoda

Greece Road Trip FAQs

When is the best time for a road trip in Greece?

Spring

April in Greece is perfect for a road trip, with quieter roads, cheaper flights, and fewer people. Even into late spring, attractions will still be quiet and you’ll be able to find good deals on accommodation.

Summer

July and August are the hottest and most crowded months, especially in Athens and the islands when the Greek population also takes their annual holidays. The high season is unsurprisingly the most expensive time to plan trips to Greece, with accommodation charging a premium. Book well in advance if you plan to road trip in Greece during the summer months.

Autumn

Autumn is also a great time to visit Greece. It will be warm during the day, with little rain, and you’ll be able to find good deals on accommodation as the summer season comes to a close.

Winter

Winter can be a good time for a Greece trip if you’re happy to live with unpredictable weather. Attractions may not be open and tavernas and bars will be quiet and possibly closed in tourist locations. Winter can bring snow across mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and driving conditions may not be ideal.

Visit in February for carnival (apokriátika) season. The celebrations span three weeks, ending during the seventh weekend before Easter. Patras Carnival is one of the largest and most flamboyant in the Mediterranean and the third largest of its kind in the world! 

Can you road trip in Greece?

Yes, you can road trip in Greece. You could choose mainland Greece for iconic sites such as Meteora, Athens, and other Greek cities like Xanthi. Pick the Peloponnese for ancient sites like Olympia, and the rugged coastlines of the Mani, or island hop with a car to mix beaches, cute villages, and spectacular views.

Is it hard for Americans to drive in Greece?

It may be hard for Americans to drive in Greece due to the different styles of driving, the often narrow roads that pass through tiny villages, and road signs in the Euclidean alphabet. Follow our Greece driving tips, go slowly, and enjoy the experience.

Which Greek island is best for driving?

The larger Ionian Islands of Kefalonia, Corfu, and Lefkada make the best road trip options. With plenty to see, decent roads, and easy access, these three strung together make a fantastic Greek island road trip.

Where can I go by car in Greece?

You can go everywhere in Greece with a car. All islands have ferries that take cars and passengers and run regularly, even in the winter months.

The only place you cannot go by car in Greece is the small island of Hydra. To preserve the island’s architecture and character, wheeled vehicles including cars, motorbikes, and bicycles, are not allowed, and people and goods are transported by donkeys instead!

Greece Essentials

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Greece.

  • Search for affordable flights to Greece with Skyscanner
  • Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Greece with Booking.com
  • Find and book the best campsites in Greece with Eurocampings
  • Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Greece with Rentalcars.com
  • Find and book Greek island ferries with Ferryhopper
  • Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
  • Get highly rated, reliable and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
  • Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Greece

As you roadtrip Greece, you’ll find that the quality of the roads and the abilities of Greek drivers are mixed. Motorways in Greece have received a lot of EU investment in recent years, and on the whole, are in good condition. The same cannot be said of other Greek roads, even the national road network.

When you travel around Greece by car you can expect potholes, uneven surfaces, and the occasional time when the road just becomes a track, before becoming a road again. Take it easy on your first day until you get a feel for the conditions and driving style.

  • You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Greece.
  • If you intend on taking your own car to Greece, you must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
  • Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driver’s License for driving in Europe. You can check whether you need an IDP here.
  • You must carry a warning triangle, first aid kit, and fire extinguisher in the vehicle. Reflective jackets are not mandatory.
  • The Greek alphabet will appear totally nonsensical to you (unless you speak Greek, of course!). Most road signs translate the Greek alphabet into Latin and all major and secondary roads and motorways have road signs in both Greek and English.
  • You must not carry or use a radar detector and if caught could be fined and the device can be confiscated.
  • In urban areas, sounding the horn is not allowed at any time, except in an emergency.
  • Greece has one low emission zone (LEZ) in Athens. Find out more about it here.
  • Tolls are levied for most motorways, the Rio-Antirrio Bridge and the Aktio-Preveza Tunnel. In Greece, you pay a fixed amount in advance to access the motorway, there are no payment booths as you exit. Tolls can be paid by cash or card, or with an electronic toll tag, depending on where you are in the country. Motorway toll tags are fully transferable between the six toll operators in Greece. You can’t buy these online or outside of Greece, but you can stop at a customer service point on one of the motorways and pick one up. You can find out more about Greek tolls and providers here.

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