Relaxed 9-Day Greece Road Trip Starting from Thessaloniki to Ioannina

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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 9-day road trip in Greece with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Greece at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Thessaloniki, Kastraki, Ioannina, Mandio, and Metsovo. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Thessaloniki, and 3 nights in Ioannina. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Greece.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Greece. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Thessaloniki, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Greece and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Greece with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Greece.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Greece. This relaxed road trip features the stunning White Tower Of Thessaloniki. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Aristotelous Square.

Traveling leisurely through Greece means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Meteora. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Greece's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Greece.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Greece. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Greece's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Greece.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Greece. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Greece. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Greece and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Greece today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Thessaloniki - arrival day

  • Thessaloniki - Arrival day
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Thessaloniki, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Thessaloniki and begin your adventure in Greece.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Thessaloniki.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kitchen Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Greek? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Phanós as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Thessaloniki.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Thessaloniki and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Beetle Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Vogatsikou 3 offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Souel is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Greece. Enjoy your first taste of Thessaloniki as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki
  • More

Drive 8 km, 25 min

  • Aristotelous Square
  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
  • The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Thessaloniki, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Greece are extraordinary.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Aristotelous Square. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 42,109 visitors.

When you’re finished at Aristotelous Square, head to White Tower Of Thessaloniki. This one-of-a-kind fortified tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 52,379 reviews. Every year, approximately 290,192 travelers come here to experience the fortified tower for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,165 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,884 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Thessaloniki Waterfront. This famous sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,071 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Greece. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Thessaloniki itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Greece, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Thessaloniki.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Thessaloniki and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Barbaben - Μπαρ/μπα/μπεν, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Apallou provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Greece!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki
  • More

Drive 4 km, 19 min

  • Kapani Market
  • Agia Sofia Square
  • Cathedral of Agia Sophia Thessaloniki
  • Ancient Agora Square
  • Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
  • More

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Greece, you’ll go deep into Thessaloniki, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Thessaloniki, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kapani. This market is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,747 visitors.

Agias Sofias Square is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,374 visitors.

Holy Church Of Hagia Sophia is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,861 visitors.

Ancient Agora Square is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,601 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Roman Forum Of Thessaloniki. This museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,304 travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Greece by joining a traveler-approved tour in Thessaloniki. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Thessaloniki that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Greece more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Thessaloniki to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Thessaloniki offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Thessaloniki’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Greece.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Πειρατής Cafe-bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of In Rock Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tribeca likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Thessaloniki!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki
  • More

Drive 9 km, 37 min

  • Acropolis of Thessaloniki
  • Heptapyrgion of Thessalonica
  • Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki
  • Arch of Galerius
  • Church of St Demetrios
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Greece means 24 hours of making the best memories in Thessaloniki. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Thessaloniki. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Thessaloniki!

Drop by the renowned Acropolis Of Thessaloniki. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,209 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Heptapyrgion Of Thessaloniki. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,777 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Atatürk Museum. This house museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,010 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda. This tetrapylon and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,542 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Holy Church Of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint Of Thessalonica. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,316 travelers, this church is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Thessaloniki.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Greece. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Greece.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Thessaloniki, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Millet, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Agora Ouzeri offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Oinohoos is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Thessaloniki.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Greece.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Note Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kafodeio Greek is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Crowbar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Greece!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Thessaloniki, Kastraki, and Ioannina

  • Ioannina
  • Kastraki
  • More

Drive 346 km, 4 hours 48 min

  • Main Observation Deck of Meteora
  • The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour
  • Meteora
  • More

On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Greece. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Greece.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 51 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Main Observation Deck Of Meteora, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 1,834 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. This place of worship has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,630 travelers.

Meteora is another must-visit attraction. This renowned monastery offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 37,365 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Ioannina. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Greece. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Ioannina, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Το Δώδεκα Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Ioannina. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Μυσταγωγία, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Omilos. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ioannina this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, ⚜ V E D E M A ⚜ offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Hogwarts Tales And Spirits is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Chevalier is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Greece!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Ioannina

  • Ioannina
  • More

Drive 25 km, 48 min

  • Archaeological Museum of Ioannina
  • Castle of Ioannina
  • Perama Cave
  • More

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Ioannina, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Greece are extraordinary.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Litharitsia Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,169 visitors.

Next, make your way to Archaeological Museum Of Ioannina. This top attraction is an archaeological museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 587 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Ioannina Castle. This castle is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,630 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Cave Of Perama. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,901 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Ιερά Μονή Ντουραχάνης. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 471 travelers.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Ioannina, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Greece.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Accademia Del Panino, a top-rated dining destination in Ioannina. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Spitaki με θέα, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ntrampatoba. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ioannina this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Ioannina. The bars in Ioannina make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Scala, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Route 66 Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Παλιά Αγορά provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Greece!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Ioannina

  • Ioannina
  • More

Drive 29 km, 53 min

  • Ich Kale Acropolis of Ioannina
  • Fethiye Mosque
  • Silversmithing Museum
  • Vrellis Greek History Museum (Wax Museum)
  • More

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Greece, you’ll go deep into Ioannina, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Ioannina, and meet locals along the way!

Make Museum "arslan Pasha" one of your first sightseeing stops in Ioannina. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,225 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Ic Kale Acropolis Of Ioannina is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,340 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Fethiye Mosque. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 367 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Silversmithing Museum Of Ioannina. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,583 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη. This museum enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,288 local and international travelers.

Greece makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Greece also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Ioannina has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Φρόντζου Πολιτεία - Frontzu Politia Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Ioannina. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Papi Cafe Bistro, a popular restaurant in Ioannina. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of PRESVEIA Restaurant Meze, a hidden gem nestled in Ioannina. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Ioannina.

Keep the evening going at Spitaki, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to American Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Olympic, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Greece!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Ioannina, Mandio, Metsovo, and Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki
  • Mandio
  • Metsovo
  • More

Drive 291 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Archaeological Site of Dodoni
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Greece will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Greece, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

When you’ve had your share of Ioannina, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Mandio. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Drop by the renowned Archaeological Site Of Dodoni. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,606 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mandio and set your GPS to Metsovo. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Metsovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Metsovo Square, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,803 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Αβερώφειος Κήπος. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 578 travelers.

Metsovo Folk Art Museum (tossizza Mansion) is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 760 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

In the city of Thessaloniki, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Greece.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Menta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Γράπα & μεζές beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Opsopoion Maganeiai. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Thessaloniki tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Greece.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Saxofono | Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Stereo, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Σάρωθρον Μπάρ provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Greece!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Thessaloniki - departure day

  • Thessaloniki - Departure day
  • More

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Greece is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Thessaloniki.

Maximize your last day in Greece and go on a shopping spree in Thessaloniki’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Greece.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Thessaloniki or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Elladitiko, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Thessaloniki and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Greece is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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