Cheap One-Week Greece Road Trip from Thessaloniki traveling south to Metsovo, Patras, Athens, Chalkida, and Trikala

Your exciting road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Thessaloniki, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Thessaloniki and begin your adventure in Greece.

Thessaloniki is a popular cheap holiday destination in Greece with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Greece, Thessaloniki is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Aristotelous Square. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 42,159 reviews.

Savor the culinary delights of Thessaloniki, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Kitchen Bar, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. The Greek is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Ενοχές Bar.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Thessaloniki, Vogatsikou 3. Castra- All Day Terrace Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Apallou, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Greece!

Day 2 of your road trip across Greece is another proof that cheap holidays in Greece can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Thessaloniki. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Metsovo, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Kapani. This extraordinary market has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,618 visitors.

Next, make your way to Agias Sofias Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,231 reviews.

While in Thessaloniki, we also recommend a visit to Arch of Galerius and Rotunda. This tetrapylon has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,215 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to White Tower of Thessaloniki. This attraction gets around 290,192 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 51,335 travelers, this fortified tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Thessaloniki.

Make your way to Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki, perhaps the most famous point of interest in Thessaloniki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,638 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Metsovo. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Metsovo, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Metsovo is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Τα 5 ΦΦΦΦΦ, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Cafe Petrino, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Fame Μέτσοβο, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Karma, known for its lively atmosphere. Κρήνη Cafe Metsovo is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Στυλ cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Greece with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Greece!

Day 3 of your road trip across Greece offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Ioannina. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Patras, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cave of Perama. This extraordinary show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,774 visitors.

Next, make your way to Ioannina Castle. This top attraction is a castle with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,505 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Ich Kale Acropolis of Ioannina. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,234 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,143 travelers.

Patras offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Greece. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Greece by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Patras that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Carousello offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Fork. Or, try Makina, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Χάραμα Θερινό after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Notos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Minimal also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Greece!

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Greece, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Athens. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Athens, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Athens’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 23 min. Athens welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ancient Agora of Athens is a great place to start. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,433 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Acropolis of Athens. This acropolis has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 121,830 travelers. Every year, 1,807,580 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Athens.

We also recommend a stop at Parthenon. The ancient greek temple has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 72,885 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Acropolis Museum. This archaeological museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,209 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 814,565 people visit Acropolis Museum every year.

National Garden of Athens is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,206 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

While exploring Greece is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Athens has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Athens on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Athens, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Discover the heart of Athens through its culinary scene, starting with Rosalia. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Harvest Coffee & Wine, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Cookoovaya, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Μαύρος Γάτος, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kuko's The Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tiki Bar Athens likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

A road trip vacation in Athens can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Greece!

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Greece will take you to the city of Chalkida, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Chalkida, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Greece, including Kallithea and Lavreotiki.

Set your GPS to Kallithea and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kallithea beckons with new experiences!

Make Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center one of your first sightseeing stops in Kallithea. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,342 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Stavros Niarchos Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 36,893 reviews.

When you arrive in Lavreotiki, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Archaeological Site of Sounion, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,111 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Temple of Poseidon at cape Sounion. Temple of Poseidon at cape Sounion is an ancient greek temple with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,557 reviews. Attracting more than 222,800 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Chalkida. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Chalkida, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Chalkida, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Start your foodie adventure at Stavento, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to 25 DRAMIA, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Ψησταριά Αποστόλου, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Boheme Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Γαλατικό Χωριό offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Ευάν, another top-rated bar in the area.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Greece! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Chalkida!

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Greece, you’ll tour 2: Chalkida and Thermopyles. You'll stay in Trikala for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Chalkida Waterfront. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,481 visitors.

Next, make your way to Karababa Castle. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,450 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Thermopyles. This car ride takes around 1 hour 34 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Memorial of Leonidas and 300 Spartans. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,690 reviews.

Trikala offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Greece. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Trikala has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to ALVEO, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Trikala Fortress - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Palia Istoria promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Σουίτα Art Cafe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Factory Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Love Shake is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Trikala!

Day 7 of your road trip across Greece is another proof that cheap holidays in Greece can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Trikala and Kastraki. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Thessaloniki, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Trikala City Center Square is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,972 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Matsopoulos Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,887 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Trikala and set your GPS to Kastraki. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Kastraki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,527 visitors.

When you’re finished at The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, head to Meteora. This one-of-a-kind monastery is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 36,135 reviews.

While exploring Greece is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Thessaloniki has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Thessaloniki on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Thessaloniki, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

ROOTS stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Menta offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Opsopoion Maganeiai, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Tribeca offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kafodeio Greek is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pulp is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Greece with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Greece!

Your budget road trip vacation in Greece is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Thessaloniki.

On your last day in Greece, take time to indulge in shopping at Thessaloniki’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Greece. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Greece forever.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Thessaloniki is the remarkable The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,676 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Thessaloniki, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at The Blue Cup | Creative bar, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Pantheon Bar features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, LOCAL Thessaloniki is a highly recommended spot.

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!