Most visitors to Greece will arrive to the country’s lively and historic capital, Athens. Cram in as much as possible on one trip by jumping in a car and taking to the road from Athens to tick off as many sights as you can, via the odd beach day and lazy taverna lunch, of course.
Itinerary: City slickers will love this easy 500km (310mi) route between the capital Athens and the country’s second city Thessaloniki. Wind inland towards Lamia, then stop for a night in the thriving city of Larissa on the banks of the Pinios River. Head on towards the coast by Mount Olympus, popping into the Museum of Royal Tombs of Aigai-Vergina on the way. In Thessaloniki, stroll the seafront parade, marvel at the Byzantine churches and be prepared to eat: the city is famous for its fantastic meze bars and bougatsa, a delicious custard-filled filo pastry.
The best bit: Driving in Greece you will have the ability to explore places without coming across a single person. You can visit authentic villages and mountain towns where time has stood still. You can have pristine beaches all to yourself and dine on some of the cheapest and most delicious homemade food.
