After nearly 50 hours of travel each way, our 20 days exploring Greece were unquestionably worth the journey. My phone is full of photos—landscapes, food, and the inevitable local cats—but here is a concise photo journal highlighting the best moments from an itinerary that combined history, food, islands, and stunning coastal scenery.
We began in Athens for five days, using the city as a base to explore its unparalleled archaeological sites and vibrant food scene. Key historic landmarks were priorities: the Acropolis and its museums, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, and the Lyceum. In addition to the city’s classical heritage, we enjoyed the leafy National Garden and the lively neighborhoods of Plaka and Syntagma. A day trip down the scenic Athens Riviera brought us to Cape Sounion and the dramatic Temple of Poseidon, a perfect spot for sunset views over the Aegean.
Leaving Athens, we spent four days driving through some of Greece’s most important historic regions. The route took us across the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, through the legendary sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, and into the Peloponnese plains toward Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. Along the way we passed charming towns such as Nafplio, stopped to admire ancient theatres and tombs, and explored the archaeological park at Olympia with its stadium and temples.
From Olympia we continued west to Patras and crossed the striking Rio-Antirio Bridge, arriving at the coastal town of Itea for the night. The next stages included the mountain town of Arachova and the sanctuary at Delphi, where the Temple of Apollo and the Tholos leave a strong impression of ancient religious life. We then traveled north through traditional villages to Kalambaka to visit the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora, perched on towering rock formations. Our return to Athens followed a scenic route through Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae and seaside Kammena Vourla.
After so much time on the road, a ferry ride provided a welcome change of pace: three nights in Mykonos to relax, wander the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, and enjoy iconic windmills and coastal views. We also took a short boat trip to Delos, the sacred island associated with Apollo, to walk among its ancient ruins and the Terrace of the Lions.
From Mykonos we sailed to Santorini for three nights on one of Greece’s most photographed islands. To fully appreciate Santorini’s dramatic caldera, we spent a day on a catamaran, visiting secluded beaches and anchoring for lunch on the water. The island rewarded us with breathtaking sunsets, volcanic beaches of black, red and white sand, and a relaxed island atmosphere that balances luxury and tradition.
Travelling through Greece is an essential experience for anyone who loves history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Athens, with its vibrant neighborhoods, rich archaeology and welcoming food culture, felt almost like a second home by the end of our trip. For readers interested in practical tips or culinary highlights from our journey, I plan to share a survival guide and a separate food-focused piece based on these experiences.
Athens + Cape Sounion
Corinth Canal – Mycenae – Epidaurus – Olympia
Itea – Arachova – Delphi
Kalambaka – Thermopyae
Mykonos
Delos
Santorini
Athens – Farewell
