A Greek roadtrip offers a captivating journey through a land where ancient history meets modern-day paradise. For decades, Greece has been a beloved destination, known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cuisine. Nestled in Southeast Europe, Greece boasts a diverse landscape that includes a mainland bordering Bulgaria, Turkey, Albania, and North Macedonia, as well as an archipelago of over six thousand islands and islets, with around only two hundred of them inhabited. Each corner of this remarkable country invites travelers to discover its unique charm and beauty.
With so much land to explore and the distinct character of each island, the perfect way to maximize your time in Greece is by doing a road trip. Enjoy scenic boat travel as the sea resembles the road networks the majority of the time, but do get set to drive coastal roads around larger isles and the mainland. Here are five top tips, for creating exactly that.
When to go to Greece
Renowned for being a destination for the summertime, Greece sees the busiest influx of tourists in the peak season, spanning from July to August. With the assurance that all transport services will be in operation at this time of year and plenty of activities and nightlife being showcased, the islands are alight with a bustling international travel culture. Hop off on different party evenings and see the sunsets over the white-washed buildings in social settings.
For a more serene way to road trip Greece, the shoulder seasons of spring to early summer and late in the season to autumn create fewer tourist scenes with still pleasant temperatures for summer feelings. Enjoy quieter seas for sails to the next destinations and more reasonable prices thanks to quieter demand. From May onwards, the sea is still warm enough for dips and watersports galore, while Spring also brings blooming landscapes and the most luscious to amble in.
Ultimately, the best time to go will also depend on the top-priority islands for your party to visit. The Cyclades, including the hotspots of Mykonos and Santorini, are always highly busy in peak summer, so earlier or later on will mean better photo opportunities for the sunsets from Oia. The Dodecanese Islands, including Rhodes and Kos, are some of the warmest in Greece, so maybe save these to the back end of an extensive road trip journey. The biggest island, Crete, has the longest tourist season, so it is worth noting that this is likely to be busier for longer into the summer season.
Where to Visit on a Road Trip around Greece
Just the scale alone of Greece’s landscape can make planning the perfect road trip itinerary often overwhelming. Research the wealth of cheap holidays to Greece to uncover the top hotspots of attractions or regions you wish to visit. If starting on the mainland is most enticing, explore the most iconic ancient sites of the Acropolis and Parthenon on the hilltop, which also provide spectacular panoramic views across the cityscape.
On the islands, make sure to tick off the Palace of Knossos on Crete, and amble the charming streets of Rethymnon to get a taste of quintessential Greek charm. To see how neighboring countries have helped to shape the often international culture mix of Greece, Chania (also on Crete) is an old town with a mix of Venetian, Turkish, and local Greek influences. For the perfect beach day, head to Mykonos and Paradise Beach for a day lazing on white sands.
Things to Do on a Greek Roadtrip
Utilize the sublime natural beauty of the Greek landscape, and enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling days amid abundant marine life. Take on some of your own synonymous routes by car, including up infamous peninsulas like the rugged coastline of cliffs and bays making up the Mani Peninsula. Take a road trip from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki and have the freedom to stop wherever you please. From isolated coves to undiscovered beach bays, onward travel by car gives you the freedom and flexibility to road trip at your own pace.
Hike and cycle up and down the stunning natural landscapes for the best views of ornate Greek towns, and stop-offs are local villages. Explore one of the deepest gorges in the world, Vikos Gorge, and cool down within the waters cascading down rockfall. Explore the culinary scene in the form of cooking classes, and local festivals, and taste your way around the islands. From iconic Greek salads and vine leaves to wine tasting in the Peloponnese for some tipple warmth.
Places to See on a Greek Roadtrip
Every island and the mainland alike are scattered with stunning viewpoints, cozy towns, and ornate Greek charm. Discover inspiring tours of Greece, where a local expert can ensure you’re seeing the best bits of every island and region. From itineraries including the most signature islands to the most hidden gem spots across Greece’s portfolio, a tour ensures you tick off everything on the Greek bucket list and more. Whether you’re desperate for sunset spots, sunrise climbs or all that’s beneath the sea, let a Greek expert uncover the best of the country, along with stays in five-star luxury accommodation. Escape the ordinary and see the wealth of beauty with an island-hopping experience.
What to Pack for a Greek Roadtrip
Expect sunny skies and even warm nights in the peak months. This should hopefully make packing somewhat of a doddle, with lightweight clothing layers and sun protection taking up the bulk of your case. If you’re including a car in the road trip, don’t forget to create an all-important playlist to back up the memories, and make sure to save some room for the take-home-worthy trinkets you can collect along the way! Plan for the odd cooler day or potential rainfall hour, and don’t forget to wear walking boots if you are planning on taking on the classic Athens heights in the capital.
Summary
Seek out the difference in Cretan culture with Santorini charm, along with the features that make each island so synonymous with the Greek nationality. By car and boat, see all that Greece has to offer with a road trip experience.
