9-Day Greece Road Trip from Thessaloniki traveling south to Metsovo, Patras, Athens, Chalkida, and Larissa
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Summary
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Greece as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Thessaloniki, Metsovo, Ioannina, Patras, Athens, Kallithea, Palaio Faliro, Chalkida, Thermopyles, Larissa, Katerini, Vergina, and Neos Panteleimonas. Set off on the ultimate European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Greece takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Thessaloniki, 1 night in Metsovo, 1 night in Patras, 2 nights in Athens, 1 night in Chalkida, and 1 night in Larissa. 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. Acropolis of Athens and Parthenon are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Thessaloniki, Metsovo, Ioannina, Patras, Athens, Kallithea, Palaio Faliro, Chalkida, Thermopyles, Larissa, Katerini, Vergina, and Neos Panteleimonas, 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!
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Day 1 – Thessaloniki - arrival day
- Thessaloniki - Arrival day
- More
- Aristotelous Square
- More
Your road trip adventure in Greece begins as soon as you reach Thessaloniki and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Thessaloniki 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.
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 Aristotelous Square or 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 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.
Savor the flavors at Kitchen Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Greek beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ενοχές Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Thessaloniki tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Vogatsikou 3 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Apallou. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Greece!
Day 2 – Thessaloniki and Metsovo
- Metsovo
- Thessaloniki
- More
Drive 231 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Kapani
- Agias Sofias Square
- White Tower of Thessaloniki
- The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
- Heptapyrgion of Thessalonica
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will explore 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 Metsovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Metsovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Metsovo beckons with new experiences!
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Kapani. Previous visitors have rated this market an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,618 reviews.
Agias Sofias Square is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,231 reviews.
Another attraction you won't want to miss is White Tower of Thessaloniki. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 51,335 reviews. Every year, around 290,192 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.
The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos is another outstanding experience in Thessaloniki. Around 13,676 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
If you long for more, Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki is not far away. This point of interest is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,638 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Metsovo, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Metsovo. 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.
As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Τα 5 ΦΦΦΦΦ, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe Petrino is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Fame Μέτσοβο. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Metsovo tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Karma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Κρήνη Cafe Metsovo offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Metsovo. Στυλ cafe is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Greece!
Day 3 – Metsovo, Ioannina, and Patras
- Patras
- Ioannina
- More
Drive 272 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Cave of Perama
- Ioannina Castle
- Vrellis Greek History Museum (Wax Museum)
- Church of Agios Andreas
- More
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 Ioannina and Patras. In the evening, you’ll end up in Patras, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Church of Saint Andrew. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,700 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Metsovo, 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 47 min.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cave of Perama. This show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,774 reviews.
Continue your journey at Ioannina Castle. This castle is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,505 travelers from near and far.
Ioannina is also the home of Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη. This museum has 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Patras.
Make sure to reserve a table at Carousello, an iconic dining spot in Patras. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fork, a popular restaurant in Patras. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Makina, a hidden gem nestled in Patras. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Χάραμα Θερινό stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Notos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Minimal is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Greece!
Day 4 – Patras, Athens, Kallithea, and Palaio Faliro
- Athens
- Kallithea
- Palaio Faliro
- More
Drive 231 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Palaio Faliro
- Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
- Stavros Niarchos Park
- Ancient Agora of Athens
- Temple of Hephaestus
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Athens, Kallithea, and Palaio Faliro. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Athens, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
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 Temple of Hephaestus. This ancient greek temple has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,020 travelers.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kallithea. This car ride takes around 9 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. This extraordinary cultural center is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,342 visitors.
Next, make your way to Stavros Niarchos Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 36,893 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Athens, 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 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Athens by securing a table at Hytra. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Spondi, famous for its scrumptious french dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Zillers, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and greek cuisine in Athens. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for contemporary and greek cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Μαύρος Γάτος is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kuko's The Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Tiki Bar Athens. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Greece!
Day 5 – Athens
- Athens
- More
Drive 10 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Philopappos Hill
- Acropolis Museum
- Temple of Olympian Zeus
- National Garden of Athens
- National Archaeological Museum of Athens
- More
On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Athens. You’ll stay in Athens for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
When you're ready to see some sights, Philopappos Hill is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 18,326 visitors.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Acropolis Museum. This archaeological museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,209 travelers. Every year, 814,565 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Athens.
We also recommend a stop at Temple of Olympian Zeus. The ancient greek temple has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,224 visitors.
If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting National Garden of Athens. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,206 reviews.
National Archaeological Museum of Athens is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this national museum, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,892 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique. This attraction gets 594,219 visitors every year.
You can learn more about Athens today by going on a tour. Athens offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Athens. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Karamanlidika, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ELLYZ Cafe Athens? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ama Lachei as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Athens.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Brettos, known for its lively atmosphere. Upupa Epops - The bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, LOT 51 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Athens and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Greece!
Day 6 – Athens and Chalkida
- Chalkida
- Athens
- More
Drive 83 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Monastiraki Square 6
- Parthenon
- Acropolis of Athens
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus
- Technopolis City of Athens
- More
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 1 vibrant destinations - Athens. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chalkida. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Chalkida, 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 Athens to Chalkida may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chalkida, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take the opportunity to see Monastiraki Square 6. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 16,612 visitors.
Parthenon is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This ancient greek temple has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 72,885 travelers.
Athens is also the home of Acropolis of Athens. This acropolis gets more than 1,807,580 visitors on an annual basis. Around 121,830 people have rated this acropolis an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Odeon of Herodes Atticus. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from a total of 14,876 reviews, a visit to this odeon is a great idea.
This day of your vacation in Athens is also your chance to admire Technopolis City of Athens. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 15,517 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Chalkida, 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 Chalkida's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Stavento, an iconic dining spot in Chalkida. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of 25 DRAMIA, a popular restaurant in Chalkida. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ψησταριά Αποστόλου, a hidden gem nestled in Chalkida. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Boheme Cafe Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Γαλατικό Χωριό offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Ευάν. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Greece and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7 – Chalkida, Thermopyles, and Larissa
- Thessaly and Central Greece
- Thermopyles
- Chalkida
- More
Drive 301 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Waterfront of Chalkida
- Karababa Castle
- Memorial of Leonidas and 300 Spartans
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Greece. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Thermopyles and Chalkida. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Larissa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
After soaking in Chalkida’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Thermopyles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 34 min. When you arrive in Thermopyles, it's time to take a break from the road.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Memorial of Leonidas and 300 Spartans. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Thermopyles, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,690 visitors.
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!
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Chalkida Waterfront. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,481 visitors.
When you’re finished at Chalkida Waterfront, head to Karababa Castle. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,450 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Larissa. Larissa 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Larissa's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Nonna Rossa, a top-rated dining destination in Larissa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Βόσπορος | Restaurant • Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at THE ALLEY. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Larissa this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at sherlock easy bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kiou provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Wisedog offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Greece.
Day 8 – Larissa, Katerini, Vergina, Neos Panteleimonas, and Thessaloniki
- Thessaloniki
- Katerini
- Vergina
- Neos Panteleimonas
- More
Drive 205 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Platamon Castle
- Katerini Municipal Park
- Museum of the Royal Tombs at Aigai (Aegae)
- Lazaristes Monastery
- More
Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will explore Katerini, Vergina, and Neos Panteleimonas, 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.
Make Lazaristes Monastery one of your first sightseeing stops in Katerini. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,507 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
After soaking in Neos Panteleimonas’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Katerini. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Katerini, it's time to take a break from the road.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Katerini Municipal Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,555 visitors.
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.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at rOOTS, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Menta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Opsopoion Maganeiai. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tribeca. Alternatively, go to Kafodeio Greek, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pulp provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Thessaloniki and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Greece!
Day 9 – Thessaloniki - departure day
- Thessaloniki - Departure day
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- Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
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Day 9 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 you approach the end of your journey in Greece, take a moment for some retail therapy in Thessaloniki’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.
Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Greece, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Greece with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.
Before you conclude your road trip in Greece, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Thessaloniki.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.
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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