11-Day Greece Road Trip from Thessaloniki traveling south to Metsovo, Patras, Athens, Chalkida, and Trikala

Say hello to Thessaloniki! Your exciting road trip through Greece is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Thessaloniki for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Thessaloniki is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Thessaloniki. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Thessaloniki. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Greek, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ενοχές Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Thessaloniki.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vogatsikou 3, known for its lively atmosphere. Castra- All Day Terrace Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Apallou offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Greece!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Thessaloniki. You’ll stay in Thessaloniki for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make White Tower of Thessaloniki one of your first sightseeing stops in Thessaloniki. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 51,335 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This fortified tower attracts 290,192 visitors every year.

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This archaeological museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,009 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Atatürk Museum. This house museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,650 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica. A trip to this popular church is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.9 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,909 previous visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Thessaloniki's best restaurants.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at rOOTS, a top-rated dining spot in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Menta, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Opsopoion Maganeiai. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Thessaloniki.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Tribeca stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kafodeio Greek offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pulp is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Greece and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Thessaloniki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Metsovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Thessaloniki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Metsovo. Your travel time is around 2 hours 26 min.

Make Kapani one of your first sightseeing stops in Thessaloniki. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,618 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Agias Sofias Square is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,231 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Holy Church of Hagia Sophia. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,652 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Arch of Galerius and Rotunda. A trip to this popular tetrapylon is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 12,215 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki. This sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,638 local and international travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Metsovo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you explore more of Metsovo, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Τα 5 ΦΦΦΦΦ, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Petrino offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Fame Μέτσοβο is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Metsovo.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Karma, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Κρήνη Cafe Metsovo, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Στυλ cafe provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Greece and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will explore Ioannina, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Patras. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ioannina, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Metsovo to Ioannina may take around 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ioannina, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cave of Perama. This show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,774 visitors.

When you’re finished at Cave of Perama, head to Ioannina Castle. This one-of-a-kind castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,505 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Ich Kale Acropolis of Ioannina. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,234 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,143 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Patras. Patras offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Patras. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Carousello, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fork is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Makina. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Patras tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Χάραμα Θερινό after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Notos for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Minimal is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Greece!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Greece. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Gefyra Isthmou and Corinth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Athens, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

After soaking in Corinth’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gefyra Isthmou. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Gefyra Isthmou, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Corinth Canal East Entrance. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,790 visitors.

After soaking in Patras’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Corinth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive in Corinth, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Temple of Apollo. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,725 visitors.

Next, make your way to Pegasus Statue. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 723 reviews.

While in Corinth, we also recommend a visit to Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. This archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,450 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Acrocorinth. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,293 travelers, this acropolis is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Corinth.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Athens, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Athens's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hytra, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Spondi, known for its delicious french cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Athens is The Zillers, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious contemporary and greek menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Μαύρος Γάτος after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kuko's The Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tiki Bar Athens also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Greece.

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Athens for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parthenon. This ancient greek temple is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Athens, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 72,885 visitors.

Acropolis of Athens is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 121,830 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 1,807,580 people visit this acropolis every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Visitors have rated this odeon an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 14,876 reviews.

Monastiraki Square 6 is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a rescue excavation rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,612 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Ancient Agora of Athens, perhaps the most famous archaeological site in Athens. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,433 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Athens on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Athens.

Make sure to reserve a table at Karamanlidika, an iconic dining spot in Athens. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ELLYZ Cafe Athens, a popular restaurant in Athens. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ama Lachei, a hidden gem nestled in Athens. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Brettos. Alternatively, go to Upupa Epops - The bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, LOT 51 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Greece!

Day 7 of your road trip across Greece promises a magnificent time exploring Athens. You have 1 night left in Athens. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Philopappos Hill, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,326 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Acropolis Museum is a recommended place to visit. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,209 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 814,565 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Athens is Temple of Olympian Zeus. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,224 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Athens offers an experience you will remember.

National Garden of Athens is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Athens. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,206 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on National Archaeological Museum of Athens. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,892 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit. This national museum gets closer to 594,219 visits every year.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Athens. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Kuzina, an iconic dining spot in Athens. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern Klimataria (est.1927), a popular restaurant in Athens. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Efcharis restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Athens. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting 360 Cocktail bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bolivar Beach Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Juan Rodriguez Bar •Compañia de Bebida likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Greece!

On day 8 of your road trip in Greece, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Palaio Faliro and Kallithea. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chalkida, where you will stay for 1 night.

Palaio Faliro’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Athens behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Palaio Faliro welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Palaio Faliro, a remarkable city where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,061 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Museum Ship Averof. This museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,784 travelers.

Chalkida’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kallithea behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Chalkida welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Water Square. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,901 reviews.

Continue your journey at Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. This cultural center is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,342 travelers from near and far.

Kallithea is also the home of Stavros Niarchos Park. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 36,893 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Chalkida, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chalkida. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Stavento, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 25 DRAMIA boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ψησταριά Αποστόλου. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Chalkida.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Boheme Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Γαλατικό Χωριό provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Ευάν offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Chalkida and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Greece!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Greece. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Thermopyles and Chalkida. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Trikala. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Chalkida and set your GPS to Thermopyles. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Upon reaching Thermopyles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Memorial of Leonidas and 300 Spartans. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,690 reviews.

Set your GPS to Thermopyles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Thermopyles beckons with new experiences!

Make Βαλοπούλα Δροσιάς your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 989 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Chalkida Waterfront. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,481 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Karababa Castle is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,450 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Trikala. Trikala offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Trikala.

Savor the flavors at ALVEO, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trikala Fortress beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Palia Istoria. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Trikala tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Σουίτα Art Cafe is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Factory Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Love Shake. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Greece!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kastraki and Trikala. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Thessaloniki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trikala, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,527 visitors.

Meteora is another popular attraction you could visit today. This monastery has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 36,135 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kastraki. This car ride takes around 37 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Trikala City Center Square. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,972 reviews.

Next up is Matsopoulos Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,887 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Thessaloniki, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Thessaloniki's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Blue Cup | Creative bar, an iconic dining spot in Thessaloniki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pantheon Bar, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of LOCAL Thessaloniki, a hidden gem nestled in Thessaloniki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Greece!

Day 11 of your road trip in Greece is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Thessaloniki before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Greece unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Thessaloniki’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Greece. Keep the spirit of your trip to Greece alive with these special souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Greece, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Thessaloniki.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kanoula, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Extravaganza offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Makedonia Palace Hotel.

You’ll then say farewell to Thessaloniki. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Greece!