Greece is a beautiful country with many scenic routes that are perfect for exploring by car. Here are some top destinations to see in Greece by car:

Athens

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece, with a history that spans over 3,400 years. There are many things to see and do in Athens, including:

  1. Acropolis: This ancient citadel is one of the most famous landmarks in Greece, and is home to several important ancient ruins, including the Parthenon.
  2. Acropolis Museum: Located at the foot of the Acropolis, this museum features a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Greece.
  3. National Archaeological Museum: This museum houses a collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts, including statues, pottery, and jewelry.
  4. Plaka: This historic neighborhood is located at the foot of the Acropolis and features narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and tavernas.
  5. Monastiraki Flea Market: This open-air market is a great place to find souvenirs, antiques, and traditional Greek goods.
  6. Syntagma Square: This central square is home to the Greek Parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
  7. Mount Lycabettus: This hill offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
  8. Ancient Agora: This ancient marketplace is home to several well-preserved ruins, including the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.
  9. Panathenaic Stadium: This stadium was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and is still used for sporting events today.
  10. National Garden: This park is located in the heart of Athens and features walking paths, ponds, and a small zoo.

Santorini

Santorini is a stunning island located in the southern Aegean Sea, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. Here are some things you can see and do on Santorini:

  1. Visit the caldera: The caldera is the result of a massive volcanic eruption that took place over 3,500 years ago. You can take a boat tour to see the caldera up close or hike to the top of the caldera rim.
  2. Explore the towns: Santorini has several charming towns, including Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli. Each town has its own unique character and charm, with narrow streets, white-washed buildings, and stunning views.
  3. Relax on the beaches: Santorini has several beautiful beaches, including Perissa, Kamari, and Red Beach. Most of the beaches are black or red sand due to the volcanic activity on the island.
  4. Visit the Akrotiri archaeological site: Akrotiri is an ancient Minoan city that was buried by volcanic ash and preserved for thousands of years. You can explore the site and see well-preserved frescoes, pottery, and other artifacts.
  5. Taste the local cuisine: Santorini is known for its delicious food, including fresh seafood, Greek salads, and local wines. Be sure to try some of the island’s specialties, such as fava (a type of yellow split pea), tomato fritters, and white eggplant.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a beautiful island in Greece known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque villages. Some of the top attractions to see on Mykonos by car include:

  1. Little Venice: A charming neighborhood in Mykonos Town, known for its colorful houses and waterfront cafes.
  2. Windmills: Iconic landmarks of Mykonos, the windmills offer stunning views of the island’s landscape.
  3. Paradise Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Mykonos, Paradise Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant party scene.
  4. Ano Mera: A traditional village on the island, Ano Mera offers a glimpse into the local way of life in Mykonos.
  5. Delos Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delos is an ancient Greek archaeological site located near Mykonos, accessible by a short ferry ride.
  6. Panagia Paraportiani: An iconic church located in Mykonos Town, known for its unique architecture and stunning views.
  7. Psarou Beach: A beautiful, upscale beach on the island, popular among celebrities and high-end travelers.
  8. Elia Beach: A more relaxed and family-friendly beach on Mykonos, with crystal-clear waters and a wide range of water sports activities.
  9. Matogianni Street: A bustling pedestrian street in Mykonos Town, lined with high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
  10. Armenistis Lighthouse: A picturesque lighthouse located on the northwestern tip of Mykonos, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

Meteora

Meteora is a complex of six monasteries built on top of towering rock formations in central Greece. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts visitors from around the world who come to marvel at the natural beauty and architectural marvels of the monasteries. Meteora is also a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, with trails and climbing routes available for varying levels of difficulty. Other attractions in the area include the nearby town of Kalambaka, which is known for its traditional architecture and charming atmosphere, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Peloponnese

Peloponnese is a peninsula located in southern Greece and is a popular destination for travelers exploring the country by car. Here are some of the top places to see in Peloponnese:

  1. Ancient Olympia: This is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and visitors can explore the ancient stadium and temples.
  2. Mystras: This is a well-preserved Byzantine-era town with impressive ruins and stunning views.
  3. Nafplio: This is a beautiful seaside town with a picturesque Old Town, fortresses, and beaches.
  4. Epidaurus: This is home to a well-preserved ancient theater and sanctuary dedicated to the god of healing, Asclepius.
  5. Monemvasia: This is a stunning fortified town that sits on a rock island and is only accessible by a narrow causeway.
  6. Diros Caves: This is a unique natural attraction where visitors can explore stunning underground caverns.
  7. Pylos: This is a charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and a Venetian castle.
  8. Corinth Canal: This is a man-made canal that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf and is a marvel of engineering.
  9. Mani Peninsula: This is a rugged and beautiful region with traditional stone houses, ancient towers, and stunning coastline.
  10. Kalamata: This is a lively coastal town with a beautiful Old Town, castle, and excellent food scene.

Delphi

Delphi is an archaeological site in Greece located on the south-western spur of Mount Parnassus in the valley of Phocis. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the center of the world and was famous for its oracle, where Greeks would consult on important matters. Today, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, the Theater, the Stadium, and the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia. The site also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Corfu

Corfu is a beautiful island in Greece with a rich history and culture. Some of the top things to see and do in Corfu include:

  1. Old Town Corfu: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of narrow streets, picturesque alleys, and historic buildings dating back to the Venetian rule in the 14th century.
  2. Achilleion Palace: Built in the 19th century, this stunning palace was the summer home of Empress Elisabeth of Austria and boasts beautiful gardens and stunning views of the sea.
  3. Paleokastritsa: This seaside village is located on the west coast of the island and is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  4. Canal D’Amour: Located on the northwest coast of Corfu, this beach is famous for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
  5. Mount Pantokrator: At 906 meters, this is the highest peak on the island, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  6. Mon Repos Palace: This neoclassical palace was built in the 19th century and was the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
  7. Kassiopi: This picturesque fishing village is located on the northeast coast of Corfu and is known for its lively nightlife and stunning beaches.
  8. Corfu Museum of Asian Art: This museum houses a unique collection of artifacts and artwork from across Asia, including India, China, and Japan.
  9. Glyfada Beach: This beautiful sandy beach is located on the west coast of Corfu and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets.
  10. Angelokastro Castle: This Byzantine castle dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sea.

Crete

Crete is the largest island in Greece and has a rich history and diverse landscape. Here are some places to visit on the island:

  1. Heraklion – the capital city of Crete and home to the ancient Palace of Knossos.
  2. Chania – a beautiful Venetian harbor town with colorful alleys, stunning beaches, and a vibrant food scene.
  3. Rethymno – a charming town with a medieval fortress, lively nightlife, and scenic beaches.
  4. Elafonisi Beach – a pink sand beach with crystal clear turquoise water and a unique natural landscape.
  5. Samaria Gorge – a spectacular natural wonder with towering cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and unique wildlife.
  6. Balos Lagoon – a breathtaking beach with turquoise waters and a lagoon that can only be accessed by boat or hiking.
  7. Arkadi Monastery – a historic monastery with a tragic past, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and ancient architecture.
  8. Lasithi Plateau – a scenic mountainous region with traditional villages, winding roads, and stunning views.
  9. Spinalonga Island – an abandoned Venetian fortress that was later used as a leper colony, now a popular tourist attraction with stunning views and a rich history.
  10. Knossos – an ancient Minoan palace that dates back to 2000 BC and is believed to be the mythical labyrinth of the Minotaur.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece, located in the northern part of the country. It is known for its rich history and culture, with many archaeological sites, museums, and cultural events to explore. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Thessaloniki:

  1. Visit the White Tower – a historic landmark and one of the most recognizable symbols of the city.
  2. Explore the archaeological sites – Thessaloniki has many ancient ruins, including the Roman Forum, the Arch of Galerius, and the Rotunda.
  3. Discover the museums – Thessaloniki has several excellent museums, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, and the Thessaloniki Cinema Museum.
  4. Take a stroll along the waterfront – the city’s long waterfront promenade offers beautiful views of the sea and is perfect for a leisurely walk.
  5. Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine – Thessaloniki is known for its delicious food, including fresh seafood, meze, and other Greek specialties.
  6. Visit the Ano Poli – a picturesque, traditional neighborhood in the upper part of the city with narrow streets, old houses, and stunning views.
  7. Attend a cultural event – Thessaloniki has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival.

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, standing at an elevation of 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) above sea level. It is located on the border between the regions of Thessaly and Macedonia in northern Greece. The mountain is known in Greek mythology as the home of the gods, and it was believed to be the dwelling place of Zeus, the king of the gods. Mount Olympus is a popular destination for hiking and climbing, with a network of trails that lead to its peaks and other areas of interest, such as the Enipeas Gorge and the Prionia Forest.

These are just a few of the many destinations to see in Greece by car. There are many other scenic routes and hidden gems to discover along the way.

The most beautiful islands in Greece

Greece has numerous beautiful islands, here are some of the most popular and beautiful ones:

  1. Santorini
  2. Mykonos
  3. Crete
  4. Rhodes
  5. Zakynthos
  6. Corfu
  7. Naxos
  8. Paros
  9. Milos
  10. Skiathos

Each of these islands has its own unique beauty and charm, and offers visitors a range of activities and attractions, such as stunning beaches, picturesque villages, ancient ruins, and delicious local cuisine.

Campsites in Greece

There are many campsites in Greece, offering a range of facilities and services for campers. Here are a few popular options:

  1. Camping Karda Beach: located in the Peloponnese region, this campsite offers beachfront access and a range of facilities including a restaurant, mini-market, and sports facilities.
  2. Camping Sithonia: situated on the Sithonia Peninsula in Halkidiki, this campsite offers seafront access and a range of amenities including a restaurant, mini-market, and playground.
  3. Camping Drepanos: located in the Epirus region, this campsite offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, mini-market, and restaurant.
  4. Camping Ammoudia: situated in the Preveza region, this campsite offers beachfront access and a range of amenities including a restaurant, mini-market, and sports facilities.
  5. Camping Armenistis: located on the island of Sámos, this campsite offers seafront access and a range of facilities including a restaurant, mini-market, and sports facilities.

It’s always best to research and book campsites in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season.

Parking in Greece

In Greece, parking regulations and prices may vary depending on the location and the local municipality. In general, there are three types of parking areas:

  1. Public street parking: This type of parking is usually marked with blue lines and requires payment through a nearby parking meter or mobile application. Prices may vary depending on the area and time of day, but they are usually cheaper outside of the city center.
  2. Private parking lots: These are usually found near popular tourist attractions, beaches, and hotels. Prices may be higher than public street parking, but they may provide more secure and convenient parking options.
  3. Hotels and apartments: If you are staying at a hotel or apartment, they may have their own private parking areas for their guests. However, you should confirm the availability and prices with the hotel/apartment management.

In general, it is important to pay attention to the parking signs and regulations, as parking violations may result in fines or towing.

Ferries in Greece

Greece has an extensive network of ferries that connect the mainland with the various islands. There are several ferry companies operating in Greece, including Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and Anek Lines. Some of the major ferry ports in Greece include Piraeus, Rafina, and Thessaloniki.

To take a ferry in Greece, it is recommended to book your ticket in advance, especially during the high season (July-August) when the demand is higher. You can usually book tickets online or in person at the port. The price of the ferry ticket depends on the destination, the type of vessel, and the time of year. It is important to note that delays or cancellations can occur due to weather conditions, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and ferry schedule in advance.

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