Our road trip through Greece and the Peloponnese + tips
Dreaming of a road trip through Greece? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll take you on our ultimate 10-day Greece itinerary, starting from bustling Athens, through the beautiful Peloponnese, and, if you’re up for even more adventure, maybe even heading north.
Do you have more time, for example, 14 days or even 3 weeks? Don’t worry: we will also share extra tips at the end, such as a visit to Meteora or the sunny island of Zakynthos.
Greece has a special place in our hearts. We have travelled there several times, both on the mainland and to the islands (we even lived on the wonderful Cycladic island of Syros for almost half a year!). And every time we fall in love with the combination of nature, culture, history, and hospitality.
It is not easy to put together a travel route for Greece since there are so many things to see. Although island hopping is great and most people will consider that first when they think of visiting Greece, in this article, we mainly want to show you how surprisingly beautiful and versatile the Greek mainland and the Peloponnese are. And if you want to, you can easily combine this tour with some islands in the Aegean Sea.
We made our road trip through the Peloponnese in spring and can really recommend it, although every season has something to offer! Everything was in bloom, the temperatures were perfect, and we often only shared the most beautiful places with the locals. Think of walks along hidden waterfalls, deserted beaches, impressive excavations, and of course… delicious Greek food.
Because we believe that everyone should discover this side of Greece, we have put together a Greece itinerary that takes you to some of the most beautiful places in Greece. Perfect for a 10-day trip, and who knows, you might even stay longer!
TIP: Since there is so much to see on the Greek mainland, the itinerary below is quite intensive. If you want more time in certain places, keep in mind that you should plan 12 days or 2 weeks.
How to get to Greece
The easiest way to get to Greece is by plane. There are many cheap flights from almost anywhere in the world. The airport is located about 30 km from the center of Athens. If you want to leave for your road trip straight away, you can rent a car at the airport.
If you want to visit Athens first, you can also rent a car there. From the airport, you can easily go to the city center by metro (without traffic jams). It takes about 45 minutes. An alternative is to take a taxi, but then you can get into traffic jams, and it is a bit more expensive, especially if you travel alone or with two people.
You can also drive to Greece from somewhere else in Europe, but then you have a long way to go. You will cross Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and other Balkan countries such as Montenegro and Albania. We would not recommend this for a short trip. An alternative is to drive via Italy and take the ferry to the Greek coast in Venice or Ancona. From there, you can explore Greece and the Peloponnese.
Renting a car in Greece
To be able to do this road trip, you will need to rent a car. We are big supporters of having our own car for all of our trips, because your it gives you a lot of freedom and you can go where you want, at your own pace.
Have a look at Discovercars (our favorite online car rental platform) to find the best option for renting a car in Greece. Most car rental agencies are located a few kilometers away from the airport. There are shuttles that take you to the rental companies. You can also rent a car in the center of Athens.
Day 1: Athens – Nafplion
Total distance: From Athens Airport, it takes about 2 hours (170 kilometers) to reach Nafplion.
Time to start the real adventure! From Athens, you drive towards Nafplion, one of the most beautiful cities of the Peloponnese. In this tour, we chose to rent a car immediately at the airport and drive straight to Nafplion from there. We will visit Athens at the end of the itinerary. Of course, you can do this itinerary the other way around, depending on your preference or the arrival time of your flight.
On the way, you will pass the famous Corinth Canal. This impressive 6 km long canal cuts the mainland in half like a bar of chocolate and is the place to get some epic photos. From the bridge, you have a beautiful view of the canal and the long gorge through which the boats sail. Not ideal for people with a fear of heights, like Jurgen, but definitely worth it!
If you have some time (and energy) left, you can also visit the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth and walk among the ancient ruins for the first time.
You will also drive past Mycenae, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. But let’s be honest: the program for today is already quite full. That’s why we recommend that you explore Mycenae the next morning from Nafplion. That way, you can really take your time and start your second day with a big dose of ancient Greek glory.
When you arrive at your accommodation in Nafplio, you can reward yourself with a stroll through the cozy streets and a delicious dinner by the sea. You have now officially started your Greek adventure!
Where to stay in Nafplio
To recover from the traveling and give you enough time to explore Nafplio and the surrounding area, we recommend staying here for 3 nights. You can choose to stay in the old town (we especially loved this cosy family apartment) or just outside the centre.
Day 2: Nafplio
Today you will stay in one place to rest after the busy travel day yesterday! We are big fans of Nafplio (or Nafplion), one of the most charming towns of the Peloponnese and maybe even of Greece. Think: colorful winding streets, Venetian balconies full of flower pots, neoclassical mansions, small boutiques, and cozy squares where you can hang out on a terrace for hours (and that’s okay, it’s vacation). And then, of course, there is the beach that you can’t miss.
Start your day with a steep climb to the impressive Palamidi Fortress, which towers over the city. Yes, it’s 999 steps (or 857, depending on who you ask), but once you reach the top, the views of Nafplio and the sea are worth the effort. And don’t worry, there’s a road up for those who prefer to drive. On a small island off the coast, you’ll also see Bourtzi Castle, which was once a prison and can only be reached by boat.
After the descent (which suddenly feels suspiciously fast), wander around the old town in a relaxed way. Lose yourself in the narrow alleys, the nice shops, admire the facades, and take a coffee break on one of the squares, such as the main square of the city, Syntagma Square. You will find some cozy cafés there, such as the Xenon Café, where you can enjoy a freddo cappuccino, the national drink of Greece.
You either choose to have a quiet afternoon on the beach, walking along the Arvanitia promenade (we found it very relaxing), which runs along the water and around the hill to the other side. Be prepared that there are also many abandoned buildings and graffiti here, which can give a strange atmosphere to some people. We found it fascinating, however. If you want it to be a bit more crowded, you can also go outside Nafplion and visit, for example, the nearby town of Argos and its castle or the beach of Karathonas. Or if you really want to go for a unique experience, you can also book a boat tour from Nafplion.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the harbour or on a charming courtyard. Definitely try gemista (stuffed vegetables), or enjoy fresh fish with a view of the sea and the illuminated fort. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that, unless you have a gelato with it.
Day 3: Exploring around Nafplio: Epidaurus and Mycenae
Total distance: The loop from Nafplion to Mycenae, then to Epidaurus and back to Nafplion is approximately 100 km and 1.5 hours driving.
Today the alarm will go off a little earlier than usual, but trust us: it’s worth it. An early start is key to a great day, especially in the warmer months. This way, you can explore the archaeological sites before it gets too hot and crowded (and the kids get annoying).
First stop: Mycenae, about a 30-minute drive from Nafplion. I (Heleen) came here when I was 12, but this time I came back with my family and found it just as impressive. Mycenae is one of the oldest and most important archaeological sites in Greece. We are talking about kings, golden masks, and epic wars long before the time of the Acropolis. Walk through the iconic Lion Gate and the Cyclopean walls, discover the royal burial circles, the tomb of Agamemnon, and if you still have energy left, dive into the impressive domed tombs (or beehives), such as the so-called Treasury of Atreus. Who knows, you might catch a whiff of Homeric magic.
TIP: Visit the complex first and then the small museum. It will give you a better idea of where everything was found. An average visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
After this sample of ancient Greek grandeur, you will continue to the ancient city of Epidaurus (about a 45-minute drive), a place that you absolutely cannot miss during your tour of the Peloponnese if you ask us. The theater of Epidaurus is so well preserved that you almost expect a performance to start at any moment. Just stand in the middle of the stage and say something: the acoustics are so good that someone in the top row will hear you perfectly (yes, really, try it).
Next to the theatre, you will also find the rest of the sanctuary of Asclepius, the god of medicine. You can walk around between temples, bathhouses, and hospitals from ancient times. Quite impressive when you consider that thousands of years ago, this was already a kind of wellness resort avant la lettre. Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a visit.
After all that beauty, you drive back to Nafplio (around 30 minutes) for your last evening in this lovely town. Treat yourself to a refreshing swim at Arvanitia Beach, or have an aperitif with a sea view. You deserve it!
Day 4: Mystras + Areopoli
Total distance: From Nafplion to Areopoli, it is a 2h30 and 170 kilometers drive.
Today, we leave the romance of Nafplio behind us and head into the mountains towards the Mani peninsula. Destination: the fascinating Mystras, a well-preserved Byzantine ghost town against the hills of the Taygetos mountain. We had never heard of Mystras, but it turned out to be one of our favorite sights in the Peloponnese.
TIP: Are you a real history buff? On the way you will also pass the mythical city of Sparta (known from many Hollywood films). However, not much of the old city is left standing. You can visit the archaeological site and the museum.
The real gem of the day is Mystras: a medieval town full of churches, monasteries, and palaces built in steps against the mountainside. It was founded by the Franks in the 13th century and later became an important centre of the Byzantine Empire.
Wear sturdy shoes, because it is a climb, but every bend brings you closer to beautiful frescoes, mysterious ruins, and views that will leave you speechless (or just need to catch your breath, that is also possible). It is best to start at the top of the site if you are by car, so you do not have to walk up everything twice. At the very top is the castle from where you have a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley and the city of Sparta.
After exploring this unique open-air museum, continue to Areopolis, an atmospheric stone town and the gateway to the Mani peninsula. The drive from Nafplio to Areopolis was also one of our favorites of this Peloponnese road trip, with winding roads, rugged landscapes, and the sea that occasionally appears between the mountains. The image of blossoming olive trees and orange trees, with snow-capped mountain peaks (in spring) in the background, was fantastic in one word!
TIP: Do you have some time left? Then drive along the shipwreck of Dimitrios and the cozy village of Gytheio on the way to Areopoli. It is a small detour but definitely worth it.
Arriving in Areopoli, you will immediately be immersed in the typical Mani atmosphere: sturdy houses made of natural stone, narrow alleys, and a raw beauty that you will not find anywhere else in Greece. Treat yourself to a dinner tonight with local specialties such as syglino (smoked pork) or a fresh salad with Mani olive oil. It may sound simple, but wait until you taste it.
Spending the night in Areopoli
Aeropoli is a very pleasant town, and the base for visiting the Mani peninsula. We stayed here for two nights. We recommend staying in the old town in a pleasant pension or a stone guesthouse. Our favourites are the Sophia Town Square House, Maragazi Areopolis, and the more luxurious Ktima Karageorgou (with swimming pool).
Day 5: Mani Peninsula Road Trip
Total distance: The loop on the Mani Peninsula is about 100 km and 2.5 hours driving without stops.
Today, you will make an unforgettable road trip through the Mani peninsula, one of the most untouched and mysterious regions of Greece. Expect dramatic landscapes, traditional tower villages, winding coastal roads, and views that will make you silent. An early start is the message because we have a lot of miles to cover.
You leave Areopoli and drive south towards the coast. The first highlight: Limeni, a tiny fishing village with turquoise water that looks so perfect that you think you’ve landed in a postcard. Ideal place for an early swim or, as we did, just a coffee with a view of the sea and bobbing fishing boats.
Then drive on to Diros (15 min from Areopoli), where you can visit the famous caves of Vlychada. Here you get in a boat and slowly glide through an underground fairytale land of stalactites and stalagmites, impressive and cool. Definitely come here early, because it can get busy in high season, and book your tickets in advance.
From Diros, the road winds further south, passing small villages and dramatic cliffs. Don’t miss a stop at Gerolimenas beach and Vathia, the iconic Mani village with stone watchtowers that tower over the hills like a ghostly fortress. It seems as if time has stood still here, perfect for mysterious photos and a short walk. From here, you have a nice view of the village.
On the southern side of the peninsula, you can drive to Cape Tainaron, the southernmost point of the Greek mainland. From the lighthouse, you have a breathtaking view over the Aegean and Ionian seas. According to the ancient Greeks, the road to the underworld began here, and you can even find the cave of Hades here. A small, adventurous path takes you there in about 30-40 minutes.
On the way back to Areopoli, you can choose the east coast route, with its deserted bays and charming villages and beaches such as Kokkala or Alipa. Stop where it is beautiful (which is often), take a dip in the crystal clear waters, and enjoy a simple lunch in a taverna overlooking the sea.
TIP: Make sure you leave with a full tank, you will hardly encounter any gas stations on the way. Count on about 200-250km.
In the evening, you are back in Areopoli, tired but happy. Still have energy left? Then stroll through the cozy center with its cobbled alleys and lively terraces. Fancy some peace and quiet? Find a cozy corner on a roof terrace and watch the sun slowly disappear behind the mountains.
Day 6: Kalamata – Messini
Total distance: We have a long day of driving ahead of us, towards Olympia. Depending on where you stay, it is more than 200 kilometers driving, and that will take you 3.5 – 4 hours. So make sure you leave on time!
Today we head towards the legendary Olympia, but we won’t visit it until tomorrow as we have a long day of driving ahead of us. On the way, we drive along Kalamata, beautiful waterfalls, and Pylos with its castles.
You leave Areopoli and drive west, with the first big city on the route: Kalamata. This city is not only known for its olives (which you really should try), but also for its long boulevard and relaxed vibe. Take your time to stroll around here, do some shopping, and admire some of its beautiful churches. You will find beautiful long beaches, and from the citadel, you have a beautiful view.
TIP: Between Areopoli and Kalamata, you pass a nice Greek restaurant, Dioskouri Taverna. We stopped here by chance, and it turned out to be one of our highlights of the day. You can enjoy delicious local food with a magnificent view over a small bay.
Afterwards, you can opt for a small detour to the Polylimnio waterfalls, a hidden gem inland. Here you will walk along a series of small lakes and waterfalls, crystal clear, fresh, and surrounded by greenery. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be a bit slippery. And if it’s hot, bring your swimming gear! There’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in a natural pool in the middle of nature.
After this adventure, you will continue towards the west coast of the Peloponnese. Depending on the time of day, you can make a stop in the charming Pylos, a port town with Venetian influences and an impressive view over the bay of Navarino. Visit the castle of Niokastro or stroll along the square in the shade of the trees.
In the late afternoon or evening, continue towards Olympia (do not underestimate the distance you still have to cover).
Spending the night in Olympia
You can stay overnight somewhere along the way or in the village near the archaeological site. Make sure you book something in advance because everything fills up quickly (we can speak from experience). One of our favorites is this budget-friendly traditional house. If you want something a little more luxurious, this apartment with a pool is highly recommended!
Make sure you have a relaxing evening, because tomorrow we will immerse ourselves in the world of the ancient Olympic Games.
Day 7: Olympia – Patras – Nafpaktos
Total distance: Today we drive towards Delphi, where we will also spend the night. That is a drive of 230 km and about 3.5 hours. Visit Olympia in the morning, and then you will also encounter Patras and Nafpaktos on the way. We leave the Peloponnese today.
TIP: Do you have more time? Then you can also plan 2 or 3 nights on the beautiful island of Zakynthos. Further on in this article we will give some more information about Zakynthos.
Get up early again today, because we start the day with a visit to one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece: Olympia (and as always, the earlier you go, the fewer people and the more bearable the heat). The first Olympic Games occurred here in 776 BC, and you can still feel that when you walk between the ruins. We found it a magical place.
Stroll past the Temple of Zeus, marvel at the ancient gymnasium, and imagine how athletes once paraded across the sacred grounds. The Olympic Stadium, where you can do a sprint yourself (yes, really), is perhaps the highlight. And don’t forget the archaeological museum, a must-see with beautiful statues and artifacts that bring it all to life.
TIP: Download the park app so you can interactively compare the current buildings with the original buildings (also fun for children).
After a solid dose of history, it is time to hit the road again, towards the magical Delphi. The drive is quite long, but you will go through beautiful landscapes and past a few interesting places where you can easily take a break.
Patras is a large port city that is mainly practical for refueling. If you do want to stop, be sure to visit the Agios Andreas church and the Faros lighthouse. After Patras, you cross the Gulf of Corinth via the impressive Rio Antirrio bridge (toll).
A little further, you will come to Nafpaktos, a charming coastal town with an old Venetian harbour where you will find the nicest cafes and taverns. The beaches of Nafpaktos, Psani, and Grimbovo are located west and east of the town. You should also visit the well-preserved castle on top of the hill which has breathtaking views. If you don’t have much time, we recommend that you stop here and not in Patras.
Then you drive on a mountainous and winding route to Delphi. The road winds through olive groves, along steep slopes and charming villages, with occasional views that will make you stop. If you want to stretch your legs on the way, stop in Galaxidi, a small coastal town.
In the evening, you will arrive in Delphi, a village that lies against the mountain slopes of Parnassos and overlooks the impressive valley of Phocis. Here you can spend the night and enjoy a quiet evening with a Greek dinner and a view of the mountains. Sleep well, because tomorrow we will dive into the mystery of the oracle of Delphi.
Spending the night in Delphi
Near the historical Delphi, you can either stay in the village of Delphi itself, or in the mountain village of Arachova (10min drive), where you can have a nice meal or drink. We stayed in Delphi, but we actually recommend that you stay in Arachova. Delphi is quite touristy, and that sometimes also translates into the service. In Arachova, you will find several fantastic guesthouses, rooms, and apartments.
Day 8: Delphi
Total distance: First, we will visit Delphi, and then we will drive to Athens. That is about a 2.5-hour drive and 180 kilometers.
Let’s dive today into one of the most fascinating places of ancient Greece: Delphi, one of the most famous excavations in the world, and protected by UNESCO. In ancient times, this place was considered the spiritual center of the world. Literally, because according to the Greeks, this was the “navel of the earth”. The advantage of staying overnight near Delphi is that you can visit the famous archaeological site again in the morning, before it gets too busy or too hot.
Of all the archaeological sites, Delphi is our favorite. The location, built on a mountainside, and the views are simply fantastic. You can feel the energy and power that this place radiates. You walk past the ruins of the sanctuary of Apollo, the theater with a panoramic view, the stadium where sports competitions were held, and of course, the famous stone of the omphalos, symbol of the world center.
The archaeological museum of Delphi is also worth a visit. Here you will find, among other things, the bronze statue of the Charioteer of Delphi, a masterpiece that still appeals to the imagination. Take your time to admire this place and the museum, and count on the entire morning! There are toilets and a small café (with sandwiches) at the entrance. On the site itself, you are not allowed to eat anything, not even an apple…
After a morning full of myths, temples, and breathtaking views, it is time to set course again to where this tour through the Peloponnese and Greece began, Athens. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops, and first takes you along mountains and olive groves for a while, before you enter the city life again via the highway.
TIP: If you have 1 or 2 extra days, you can drive north after Delphi to visit Meteora and possibly Mount Olympos. Read on for more information about these beautiful sights in Greece.
Arriving in Athens, you can check into your hotel and relax for a while. Fancy an evening stroll? Then Plaka, the old district of Athens, is the perfect place to end your day with a cozy atmosphere and a delicious meal under the shadow of the Acropolis. Tomorrow, there is time to discover this impressive city yourself!
Spending the night in Athens
Athens is a fascinating and beautiful city to visit and stay in, but you need to know which neighborhoods to stay in. The most beautiful are, without a doubt, the historic Plaka district, the area around Monastiraki, and the Psiri district. Depending on when your flight is, we recommend staying here for 2 or 3 nights.
Day 9-10: Athens
We conclude our 10-day tour of Greece with a visit to the lovely city of Athens. After all that driving through mountains, ruins, and coastal towns, it is time to let go of the steering wheel (we recommend returning your rental car in the city) and explore Athens at a leisurely pace. And believe us: this city deserves more than a quick visit.
Use day 9 to discover the most beautiful sights of Athens. Start your day with a climb to the Acropolis, the symbol of Athens. The Parthenon temple, the Erechtheion with its famous caryatids, and the view over the city are impressive, especially if you go early in the morning, before the large groups and the heat. You should also not miss the Acropolis Museum, a modern gem where you walk on a glass floor on top of an excavated neighborhood.
Hungry? Sit down on a terrace in the charming Plaka district, where the narrow streets, colorful houses, and flowers everywhere give you an instant holiday feeling. Or head to Monastiraki, where you will find delicious food, nice markets, and a view of the old Hadrian’s Library.
In the afternoon, you can still immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the central market of Athens, stroll through the alternative Psiri, or relax in the shade of the trees in the national garden. Fancy something cultural? Then the National Archaeological Museum is a must, with masterpieces from all over Greece.
For your last evening, choose a restaurant with a view. Think of a rooftop bar in Thissio or Lycabettus Hill at sunset, where you can say goodbye to Greece in style, with the illuminated Acropolis as a backdrop.
Read more: You can find even more information in our article on what to do in Athens
On day 10, it is unfortunately time to say goodbye to this beautiful country. Depending on your flight time, you might be able to take a last walk, score a good coffee, or quickly stock up on some souvenirs (tip: Greek honey or olive oil always scores). After ten days full of old temples, charming villages, mountain roads, myths, and souvlaki’s you return home, hopefully just as in love with Greece as we are.
Extra time? Here are suggestions for 12 days, 2 weeks, or more in Greece
Mount Olympus
If you head towards Meteora, you can easily make a detour to Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece and the mythical home of Zeus and his friends. You certainly don’t have to be a mountaineer to enjoy this place: there are walks for all levels, from short forest routes to multi-day hikes towards the summit. The village of Litochoro is a good base, with cozy taverns and views of the imposing mountain.
Meteora
North of Delphi lies one of the most magical places in Greece: Meteora. Here, monasteries balance on towering rocks as if they were placed there by the gods themselves. The view is simply spectacular, and the atmosphere is almost otherworldly. You can visit several monasteries (bring appropriate clothing!) and take beautiful walks between the rock formations.
Expect to spend a night (or two) in Kalambaka or Kastraki, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset from a viewpoint (goosebumps guaranteed).
Zakynthos
If you still want to have some island feeling during your road trip in Greece, then the iconic Zakynthos (also called Zante) is a good idea. You can get there by ferry from Kyllini in the western Peloponnese (plan it between days 7 and 8).
Zakynthos is known for its turquoise bays, the famous shipwreck beach (Navagio), beautiful beaches, and the blue caves. The island itself is also perfect to explore by car. Count on two days to drive around, also discover the villages inland, and enjoy this nice place. Keep in mind that it can be busy and noisy in some places in the summer.
TIP: visit Marathonisi Island, where the protected Caretta Caretta sea turtles lay their eggs, a magical experience, especially with children.
Other nice additions:
- Monemvasia: This city is also called the Gibraltar of the East. The medieval fortified city on a rock in the sea is only accessible by a narrow road that connects the peninsula to the mainland, which contributes to its remote and mysterious character.
- Hydra of Spetses: some charming islands not far from Athens, perfect for a few days without a car.
- Melanon: If you like walking, you can add this region to your tour of Greece. It is centrally located in the Peloponnese and is especially known for its walks and rugged nature. You have a famous trail, the Menalon Trail, which runs over 8 different parts. You can choose to do one of these parts or all of them if you have more time. The trail is 75 km in total.
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