One-Week Relaxed Greece Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Kalamata to Athens
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-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 Kalamata, Kharavgi, Pylos, Chora, Mavromati, Corinth, Ancient Korinthos, Athens, Palaio Faliro, and Kallithea. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Kalamata and 4 nights in Athens. 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 Kalamata, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-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 Acropolis Of Athens. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Parthenon.
Traveling leisurely through Greece means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Acropolis Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. Get close to the spectacular Stavros Niarchos Park and the wonderful National Garden Of Athens. 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 7 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 8 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 8-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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Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Kalamata - Arrival day
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- Municipal Railway Park of Kalamata
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Your relaxed road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Kalamata, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Kalamata and begin your adventure in Greece.
Kalamata 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 Kalamata Municipal Railway Park, or just 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 Kalamata. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Greece. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Kalamata, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at THE CHAGIATI, a top-rated dining spot in Kalamata. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sto Kyma, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Limanaki Konstantinea. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kalamata.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Kalamata and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Momos Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Seaside Beach Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bitter also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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 Kalamata as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Kalamata
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Drive 174 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Polylimnio Waterfalls
- Pylos Central Square
- Mycenean Palace of Nestor at Pylos
- Archaeological Site of Ancient Messini
- Kalamata's Castle
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Greece continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Greece and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Kalamata and beyond. With 1 night left in Kalamata, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Polylimnio Waterfalls. This increasingly popular waterfall is an eye-catching place to see in Kalamata. Continue your discovery at Pylos, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Kalamata, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Palace Of Nestor. This beloved archeological site offers a historic encounter with Kalamata. Next, make your way to Archaeological Site Of Ancient Messini to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Kalamata's Castle, an up-and-coming castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kalamata.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Kalamata.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Luna Lounge, a top-rated dining destination in Kalamata. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Poseidon Ocean View, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at umami sushi and more. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kalamata this evening.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Kalamata.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kuttaro Rock Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Rodanthos Rock N Roll Beer Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Jardin offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Greece!
Day 3
- Kalamata
- Athens
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours
- Acrocorinth
- Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth
- Archaological Site Of Corinth And Temple of Apollo
- Corinth Canal
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Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Greece is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Corinth and end it in the city of Athens. You’ll stay in Athens for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Greece.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Kalamata today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Acrocorinth. This eye-catching archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Archaeological Museum Of Ancient Corinth and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Temple Of Apollo. After exploring the archeological site, head to Corinth Canal East Entrance. This worthwhile historical landmark is a highlight in Kalamata.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Athens in this laid-back road trip in Greece. You'll stay here for 4 nights.
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 Athens, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Discover the culinary delights of Athens by securing a reservation at Hytra. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Spondi, renowned for its delicious french dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to The Zillers, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary and greek menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
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.
Keep the evening going at Mayros Gatos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kuko's The Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Revolt Street Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Greece!
Day 4
- Athens
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Drive 6 km, 45 min
- Temple of Olympian Zeus
- Acropolis Museum
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus
- Acropolis of Athens
- Parthenon
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Greece means 24 hours of making the best memories in Athens. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Athens. 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 Athens!
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Temple Of Olympian Zeus. This popular archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Acropolis Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Odeon Of Herodes Atticus, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Athens. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Acropolis Of Athens. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to Parthenon, a top-rated archeological site that adds another dimension to your day.
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 the food culture in Athens 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 42 Barstronomy Athens offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, O Babas is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Athens.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Athens.
Keep the evening going at Tiki Bar Athens, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Brettos, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Luxus Bar Bistro, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Greece!
Day 5
- Athens
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Drive 7 km, 57 min
- Athens National Garden
- Syntagma Square
- Ancient Agora of Athens
- Temple of Hephaestus
- Technopolis City of Athens
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On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Greece, you’ll go deep into Athens, 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 Athens, and meet locals along the way!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Athens, including a botanical garden, a public square, an archeological site, a cultural center and much more! Start your adventure at National Garden Of Athens. This popular botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Syntagma Square located in Athens for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ancient Agora Of Athens. Its standout features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Temple Of Hephaestus. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this archeological site. Next up is Technopolis City Of Athens, a highly recommended cultural center.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Greece more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Athens offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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 Athens, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Dine in style at Cookoovaya, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Karamanlidika boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Estiatorio Auli. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Athens.
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 Athens. The bars in Athens make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kazu Cafe-bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Upupa Epops - The Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gazarte, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Athens!
Day 6
- Athens
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 26 min
- Nea Filadelfeia Forest
- National Archaeological Museum of Athens
- Monastiraki Square
- Roman Forum of Athens (Roman Agora)
- Philopappos Hill
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Athens, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Greece are extraordinary.
Today’s agenda in Athens includes a park, a museum, a public square, an archeological site and much more! Nea Filadelfeia Forest is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Archaeological Museum Of Athens, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Monastiraki Square 6, a heritage-rich public square, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Athens. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the notable Roman Agora. If you’re looking for more, Philopappos Hill is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Greece. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Greece and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
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 Athens.
Savor the flavors at Beer Tales, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Oinomageireio Epirus (est.1898) beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider To Kafeneio. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Athens tonight.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Athens and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ipitou The Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Lot 51 is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Klōstḗrion is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Greece!
Day 7
- Athens
- Kalamata
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Pani Hills
- Palaio Faliro Park
- Water Square
- Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
- Stavros Niarchos Park
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Greece promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Palaio Faliro and drive in the direction of the city of Kallithea for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Kalamata, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Athens. Your adventure starts at Pani Hill, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Palaio Faliro. This up-and-coming park is known for its eye-catching appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Athens's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Water Square. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is also worth visiting, along with Stavros Niarchos Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Greece at Kalamata. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring the food culture in Kalamata 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at (Katelanos) Amalia's mustikes suntages, an iconic dining spot in Kalamata. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Blossom Owl / Coffee Shop / Roastery, a popular restaurant in Kalamata. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Casablanca Beach Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Kalamata. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Kalamata and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Greece!
Day 8
- Kalamata - Departure day
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- Central Square
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Day 8 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 Kalamata.
On your last day in Greece, take time to indulge in shopping at Kalamata’s popular marketplace, Aristomenous Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Central Square Of Kalamata, an enchanting public square before you head out.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Kalamata or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Kalamata and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Greece is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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