9-Day Greece Road Trip from Athens traveling north to Chalkida, Larissa, Thessaloniki, Trikala, Ioannina, and Patras

Your road trip adventure in Greece begins as soon as you reach Athens and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Athens for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Athens is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Athens. 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 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.

Hytra is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature modern meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 1-star Michelin restaurant in Athens, Spondi. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature french dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Athens you shouldn’t miss is The Zillers. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this restaurant’s contemporary and greek menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Athens. 360 Cocktail bar is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,580 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Upupa Epops - The bar. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,915 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is The Clumsies. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,694 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Greece!

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ancient Agora of Athens, a remarkable archaeological site where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,433 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Parthenon. This ancient greek temple has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 72,885 travelers.

Acropolis of Athens is another must-visit attraction. This renowned acropolis offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 121,830 travelers and attracting 1,807,580 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Philopappos Hill. This well-loved park boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 18,326 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Acropolis Museum awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an archaeological museum, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,209 previous visitors. Each year, approximately 814,565 people travel to Athens to experience it.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Athens and set your GPS to Chalkida. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Chalkida, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Chalkida. Chalkida 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 Chalkida.

Reserve your spot at Το Σπιτικό Μεζεδοπωλείο - Ουζερί, a popular local restaurant in Chalkida. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,217 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Asteria Plage during your stay in Chalkida. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,861 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of METOXIATIS GRILL, a popular local gem in Chalkida. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,355 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Chalkida. Γαλατικό Χωριό is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,186 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Xenia food cocktail cafe. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,213 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Stavento. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 795 customers.

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

On day 3 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 Chalkida, Thermopyles, and Larissa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Larissa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Chalkida Waterfront one of your first sightseeing stops in Chalkida. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,481 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Karababa Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,450 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!

Take the opportunity to see Memorial of Leonidas and 300 Spartans. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,690 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thermopyles, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Larissa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Larissa, 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 Larissa, 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 delightful dining experience at Nonna Rossa while you’re in Larissa. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 2,797 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Larissa is Las Ramblas Coffeebar. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 2,338 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

While in Larissa, enjoy Mpakalógatos’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,836 satisfied guests.

Gossip Downtown is one of the best bars you can visit in Larissa tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,557 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Klímax. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,734 customers.

Alternatively, try KUBRICK Pure Social “ Club ”. KUBRICK Pure Social “ Club ” is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,128 customers.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Katerini, Neos Panteleimonas, Vergina, and Thessaloniki, 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 Thessaloniki. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Larissa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neos Panteleimonas. This drive usually takes around 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Platamon Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,353 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Neos Panteleimonas, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Katerini may take around 31 min. Upon your arrival in Katerini, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

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

Don't miss out on experiencing Kanoula, a renowned dining spot in Thessaloniki. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,335 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at rOOTS while immersing yourself in Thessaloniki. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,104 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Kitchen Bar, a beloved dining establishment within Thessaloniki. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 9,067 satisfied customers.

After dinner, visit Pulp, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,573 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Wall by Wall. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,128 customers.

Alternatively, check out Loupino Restaurant. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,657 customers.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Greece!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Greece, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Thessaloniki and Trikala. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trikala. Trikala will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Trikala. 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.

Reserve a table at Ouzo Vasilis, a renowned restaurant in Trikala. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 972 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Το Χάνι while in Trikala. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 2,894 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Trikala at Palia Istoria, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,654 customers.

If you’re up for getting a drink, consider going to Κρύπτη Μπαρ. Around 620 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Thessaloniki also enjoy the drinks at Bonjour Cafe Trikala. This place is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,081 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Ivy. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 766 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Greece!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Greece. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Trikala, Kastraki, and Ioannina. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ioannina. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Trikala City Center Square. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,972 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Central Bridge. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,978 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Matsopoulos Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,887 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Trikala, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kalambaka may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Kalambaka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’ve had your share of Kalambaka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ioannina. Your travel time is around 1 hour 45 min.

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.

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

Don't forget to book a table at ΨΗΣΤΑΡΙΑ ΤΑΒΕΡΝΑ "Ο ΣΑΚΗΣ", a well-known eatery in Ioannina. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 885 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Balsamico while exploring Ioannina. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 5,077 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Φρόντζου Πολιτεία - Frontzu Politia Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Ioannina. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 4,712 discerning diners.

When you’ve finished your meal and an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit Spitaki με θέα, one of the best bars in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,243 customers, and is the perfect complement to your refreshing weekend getaway experience in Greece.

If you would like to try another place, Παλιά Αγορά is another great option that serves a variety of drinks. Considered one of the most popular bars in Ioannina, this bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,278 customers.

Scala is also a great bar where you can have nice chats with locals and fellow travelers in the area. Scala has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 909 customers.

Say good night to Ioannina and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Greece!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Ioannina, Patras, and Patras. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Patras, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ioannina Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,505 reviews.

Next up is Ich Kale Acropolis of Ioannina. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,234 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Cave of Perama. This show cave has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,774 reviews.

Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,143 reviews.

After soaking in Ioannina’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Patras. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 58 min. When you arrive in Patras, it's time to take a break from the road.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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

Make a reservation at Καφετέρια "Θεατράκι" | Πάτρα, a popular dining spot in Patras. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,539 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Carousello while indulging in the charm of Patras. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, cherished by 1,922 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Bodegas, a treasured establishment in Patras. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,710 satisfied guests.

Notos is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 708 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Beer Bar Q. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,281 customers.

Abbey is another of the best bars in the city of Patras that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,435 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Kallithea, Palaio Faliro, Moschato, and Athens. In the evening, you’ll end up in Athens, where you will stay for 1 night.

Moschato’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Patras behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 24 min. Moschato welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

After soaking in Moschato’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kallithea. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Kallithea, it's time to take a break from the road.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Athens. Athens 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 you explore more of Athens, 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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Maiandros restaurant. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Athens has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 5,357 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Ama Lachei should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Athens, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,018 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Efcharis restaurant. This highly regarded restaurant in Athens has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 3,655 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Kuko's The Bar, one of the best bars in the city. Kuko's The Bar is an excellent place to have a refreshing evening drink after exploring Athens. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,785 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Juan Rodriguez Bar •Compañia de Bebida. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,926 customers.

ELLYZ Cafe Athens also belongs to the list of the best bars in Athens, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,827 customers.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Greece!

Day 9 of your road trip in Greece is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Athens 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 Athens’s shopping district. 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.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Athens. 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!