13-Day Greece Road Trip from Athens traveling north to Volos, Thessaloniki, Ioannina, Preveza, and Patras

Welcome to Athens, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Greece! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 4 nights immersing yourself in Athens's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Athens. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Greece. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Athens. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Hytra, one of the top restaurants in Athens, holding 1 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on modern cuisine, Hytra has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

A local favorite is Spondi. This exceptional dining experience in Athens has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring french cuisine, this popular Bib Gourmand restaurant is a top choice for both locals and tourists.

Discover the extraordinary dining experience offered by The Zillers in Athens. Its 1-Michelin star menu is designed to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a culinary adventure. Many previous guests have raved about this restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star reputation.

360 Cocktail bar is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,580 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Upupa Epops - The bar. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,915 customers.

The Clumsies is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Athens. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,694 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Greece!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Athens for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Greece is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Maiandros restaurant, a popular restaurant in Athens. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 5,357 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Ama Lachei during your stay in Athens. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 4,018 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Efcharis restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Athens. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,655 satisfied guests.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Greece. One of the best bars in the city is Kuko's The Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,785 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Athens, we recommend the cocktails at Juan Rodriguez Bar •Compañia de Bebida. This bar has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,926 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Athens is ELLYZ Cafe Athens. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,827 customers.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Greece.

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Athens. You’ll stay in Athens for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Athens, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Athens below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Athens. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make a reservation at Nolan, a popular dining spot in Athens. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,404 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Tavern Klimataria (est.1927) while indulging in the charm of Athens. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, cherished by 3,650 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Rosalia, a treasured establishment in Athens. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,226 satisfied guests.

Locals recommend going for a drink at Brettos. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,481 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is Harvest Coffee & Wine. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,906 customers.

Ippopotamos also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,396 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Greece!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Athens has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Athens by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Athens has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Athens offers and add your favorites to your Greece travel package below.

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

Reserve a table at Lithos Tavern, a renowned restaurant in Athens. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,537 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Kuzina while in Athens. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 2,585 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Athens at LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,159 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Μαύρος Γάτος is a popular option with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,357 customers.

Another top option is Tiki Bar Athens. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,829 customers.

Nice n easy is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,597 customers.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Greece.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Pourithi and Volos, 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 Volos. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Staphylos while you’re in Volos. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,498 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Volos is Valentin - Curious Bierkneipe. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 652 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Volos, enjoy Red Nose Bar’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 577 satisfied guests.

PLEASURES seaside cafe + more is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,264 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Joy. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,177 customers.

Grooove is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Volos. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Greece!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Katerini, Neos Panteleimonas, Dion, Platamonas, and Thessaloniki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Thessaloniki, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Make Παραλία Πλαταμώνα your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 690 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Platamonas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neos Panteleimonas. This drive usually takes around 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Platamon Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,353 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dion. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your day with a visit to Archaeological Museum of Dion. This extraordinary archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,644 visitors.

Next, make your way to Archaeological Park of Dion. This top attraction is an archaeological park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,414 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Thessaloniki, 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 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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Kanoula, a distinguished dining establishment in Thessaloniki. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 2,335 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Thessaloniki is rOOTS. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,104 happy diners.

Kitchen Bar stands out as a local favorite in Thessaloniki. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 9,067 customers.

An excellent example is Pulp, which has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,573 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Wall by Wall. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,128 customers.

Locals also enjoy Loupino Restaurant, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,657 customers, an after-dinner drink at Loupino Restaurant is the perfect way to end this day.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Greece.

Day 7 of your road trip across Greece promises a magnificent time exploring Thessaloniki. You have 2 nights left in Thessaloniki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Reserve your spot at Giok Balik, a popular local restaurant in Thessaloniki. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,336 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Sebriko during your stay in Thessaloniki. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,978 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Charoupi, a popular local gem in Thessaloniki. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,912 satisfied guests.

Tribeca is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,262 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Castra- All Day Terrace Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,882 customers.

The Blue Cup | Creative bar is another of the best bars in the city of Thessaloniki that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,254 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Greece!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Thessaloniki for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Greece that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Thessaloniki has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Greece by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Book a table at The Rouga, a famous dining establishment in Thessaloniki. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,900 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Thessaloniki is The Greek, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.5 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 3,117 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Thessaloniki’s Palati Thessaloniki for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,775 satisfied diners.

Menta is one of the best bars in Thessaloniki and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,241 customers.

You may also want to check out Apallou. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Apallou is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,504 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Kafodeio Greek. Kafodeio Greek has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,095 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Greece. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Thessaloniki, Kastraki, and Ioannina. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ioannina. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Arch of Galerius and Rotunda is a great place to start with. This tetrapylon is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,215 visitors.

Set your GPS to Kalambaka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kalambaka beckons with new experiences!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kalambaka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ioannina may take around 1 hour 45 min. Upon your arrival in Ioannina, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

Make sure to book a table at ΨΗΣΤΑΡΙΑ ΤΑΒΕΡΝΑ "Ο ΣΑΚΗΣ", a popular restaurant in Ioannina. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 885 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Balsamico during your stay in Ioannina. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 5,077 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Φρόντζου Πολιτεία - Frontzu Politia Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Ioannina. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 4,712 satisfied guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Spitaki με θέα. This place has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,243 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Παλιά Αγορά. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,278 customers.

Scala is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Ioannina. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 909 customers.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Greece.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Greece, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Ioannina, Kanallaki, and Preveza. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Preveza. Preveza will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Treli Garida, an iconic dining spot in Preveza. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,699 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Rebetiko Steki while in Preveza. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,094 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Η ΨΑΘΑ / H PSATHA, a favorite in Preveza. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,040 discerning guests.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Greece. One of the best bars in the city is Prevere Cafe bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,346 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Preveza, we recommend the cocktails at Markus Espresso & Wine Bar. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 610 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Preveza is Deli & Bar Preveza. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 146 customers.

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

On day 11 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 Patras, Tsoukalades, Agios Nikitas, Lefkada, and Patras. In the evening, you’ll end up in Patras, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Preveza, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Tsoukalades may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Tsoukalades, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Patras, 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 Patras's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Καφετέρια "Θεατράκι" | Πάτρα. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Patras boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 3,539 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Patras is Carousello. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,922 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Bodegas, in Patras. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,710 satisfied customers.

Notos is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 708 customers.

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

Abbey is another top-rated bar in the city of Patras. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,435 customers.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Greece. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Mykines, Nafplio, and Athens, 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 Athens. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nafplio, 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 Patras to Nafplio may take around 2 hours 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nafplio and set your GPS to Mykines. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Mykines, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Mycenae, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 342,854 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,051 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Athens. Athens offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Athens. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don't miss out on experiencing Arcadia Restaurant, a renowned dining spot in Athens. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,812 satisfied guests.

Buena Vista Social Bar is a fantastic bar many locals in Athens recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,552 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at Barley Cargo, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,676 customers.

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

Day 13 of your road trip in Greece is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Athens before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Greece by visiting Athens’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Greece.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Athens. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Greece!