One-Week Greece Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Thessaloniki to Kalambaka, Ioannina, Papigko, and Parga
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Greece on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Thessaloniki, Kastraki, Kalambaka, Ioannina, Metsovo, Koykoyli, Zagori, Papigko, Mikro Papigko, Konitsa, Parga, Mytikas, Pantokratoras, and Preveza. This road trip itinerary in Greece seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Greece takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Thessaloniki, 1 night in Kalambaka, 1 night in Ioannina, 1 night in Papigko, and 1 night in Parga. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Greece. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Thessaloniki, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Greece on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Greece. White Tower Of Thessaloniki and Aristotelous Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos, learn more about the unique Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ioannina Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Thessaloniki, Kastraki, Kalambaka, Ioannina, Metsovo, Koykoyli, Zagori, Papigko, Mikro Papigko, Konitsa, Parga, Mytikas, Pantokratoras, and Preveza, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Greece. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Greece.
Throughout your road trip in Greece, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Greece.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Greece fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Greece today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Thessaloniki - Arrival day
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- Ladadika
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Welcome to Thessaloniki, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Greece! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Thessaloniki's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Ladadika, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Thessaloniki. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Greece. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Greek, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Phanós. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beetle Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Vogatsikou 3 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Souel offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Greece!
Day 2
- Thessaloniki
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Drive 7 km, 59 min
- Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
- White Tower of Thessaloniki
- Arch of Galerius
- Aristotelous Square
- Kapani
- Tsimiski Street
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Thessaloniki has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Thessaloniki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Don’t miss Tsimiski Street in Thessaloniki today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the curiosity-inducing Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki, a heritage-rich museum in Thessaloniki. Next, go to White Tower Of Thessaloniki.
After visiting Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki and White Tower Of Thessaloniki, take time to explore Thessaloniki's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda. This culturally significant monument offers a unique experience. Aristotelous Square is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kapani, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Thessaloniki.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Greece is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Thessaloniki. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Mamalouka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Clochard beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sofi's House Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Thessaloniki tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Castra- All Day Terrace Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Apallou also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Greece!
Day 3
- Thessaloniki
- Meteora
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 33 min
- The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour
- Monastery of Varlaam
- Main Observation Deck of Meteora
- Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kastraki and Kalambaka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kalambaka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Thessaloniki today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. This UNESCO world heritage-listed monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Monastery Of Varlaam and learn what makes this breathtaking monastery unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Main Observation Deck Of Meteora. After exploring the observation deck, head to Natural History Museum Of Meteora And Mushroom Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a highlight in Thessaloniki.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kalambaka. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kalambaka's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Greece and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Meteora
- Ioannina
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Drive 116 km, 2 hours 56 min
- Monastery of the Holy Trinity at Meteora
- Monastery of St Stephan
- Ich Kale Acropolis of Ioannina
- Ioannina Castle
- Litharitsia park
- The Clock Tower of Ioannina
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will explore Kalambaka and 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 Ioannina. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Kalambaka, including a monastery, an archeological site, a castle, a park, a monument and much more! Start your day at Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora. This historic monastery is an intriguing place to see in Kalambaka. Then, wander over to Holy Monastery Of Saint Stephan. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monastery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ic Kale Acropolis Of Ioannina. This picture-perfect archeological site is a favorite among visitors.
Kalambaka offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ioannina Castle is an interesting spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Litharitsia Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park in Kalambaka.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Ioannina, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Ioannina, 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at To Dodeka Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Ioannina. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mustagogia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Accademia Del Panino. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ioannina.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into ⚜ V E D E M A ⚜. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Hogwarts Tales And Spirits offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Chevalier, another top-rated bar in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Greece.
Day 5
- Ioannina
- Papigko
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Drive 192 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Metsovo Folk Art Museum (Tossizza Mansion)
- Metsovo square
- Misiou ancient stone bridge
- Vikos Gorge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Greece. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Metsovo, Koykoyli, and Zagori. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Papigko. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Metsovo Folk Art Museum (tossizza Mansion). This underrated museum is an instagrammable place to see in Ioannina. Continue your discovery at Metsovo Square, a visually striking public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Ioannina, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Misiou Ancient Stone Bridge. This increasingly popular monument offers a history-steeped encounter with Ioannina. Next, make your way to Vikos Gorge to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Ioannina.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Papigko. Papigko offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Papigko's best restaurants.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Greece!
Day 6
- Papigko
- Parga
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Drive 193 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Papingo Rock Pools
- Stone bridge Konitsa
- Valtos Beach
- Venetian Castle of Parga
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On day 6 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 Mikro Papigko, Konitsa, Chrysogiali, and Parga. In the evening, you’ll end up in Parga, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the intriguing Papingo Rock Pools, a mesmerizing rock formation in Papigko. Next, go to Stone Bridge Konitsa.
After visiting Papingo Rock Pools and Stone Bridge Konitsa, take time to explore Papigko's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Valtos Beach. This mesmerizing beach offers a unique experience. Venetian Castle Of Parga is another noteworthy stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Parga. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Parga. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taverna Andreas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Aegis Dine & Drink offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pargas Distillery - Amicos food & bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Parga.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Sail In, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Terra is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Greece.
Day 7
- Parga
- Thessaloniki
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Drive 413 km, 4 hours 57 min
- Aesthetic Forest Mytikas Preveza
- Pantokratoras promenade
- Sailors Monument
- Archaeological Museum of Nicopolis
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Greece. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Mytikas, Pantokratoras, and Preveza. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Parga covers several incredible sights, including a nature reserve, a boardwalk, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Aesthetic Forest Mytikas Preveza. This up-and-coming nature reserve is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Pantokratoras Promenade, a must-see boardwalk in the village.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Sailor's Monument. This locally appreciated monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Archaeological Museum Of Nicopolis, where you can take in standout features.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Thessaloniki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Enoches Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider O Loytros, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at rOOTS. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Peiratis Cafe-bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, In Rock Cafe Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tribeca. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Greece!
Day 8
- Thessaloniki - Departure day
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- The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
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Day 8 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This popular art installation is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Greece, take time to indulge in shopping at Thessaloniki’s popular marketplace, Modiano Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Greece, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Thessaloniki.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Agora Ouzeri, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
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!
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