After nearly 50 hours of travel each way, our 20 days under the Greek sun were absolutely worth it. My phone is full of photos of food, landscapes and local cats, but here’s a concise photo journal highlighting the trip’s most memorable moments.
We began with five days in Athens, intent on seeing the city’s historic and culinary highlights. With an emphasis on archaeology and local cuisine, we explored the Acropolis area, wandered through ancient sites, and soaked up the electric street atmosphere. A day trip down the Athens Riviera took us to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon at sunset.
Falling in love with Athens, we then set out on a four-day road trip through mainland Greece. Driving over the dramatic Corinth Canal, we visited Epidaurus and its famed theater, passed through picturesque Nafplio and the plain of Argos, and explored the ancient ruins of Mycenae. We continued through Tripoli and Megalopolis before arriving for the night in Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. From Olympia we headed to Patras, crossed the Rio–Antirrio Bridge and spent a night in the coastal town of Itea. The route then climbed into the mountains to Arachova and Delphi, and from there we traveled north through villages to Kalambaka to visit the monasteries of Meteora. On the return south we passed through Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae and Kammena Vourla before reaching Athens again.
After long days on the road, we took a ferry to Mykonos for much-needed relaxation. While on Mykonos we made a short trip to Delos, the ancient sanctuary island associated with Apollo. Following three nights in Mykonos, we continued to the unforgettable island of Santorini. There we boarded a catamaran to view the volcanic caldera from the sea, visited secluded beaches and enjoyed lunch on board before returning to port. After three nights in Santorini we flew back to Athens for one final night before the long journey home.
Greece is a destination that belongs on everyone’s travel list. If circumstances allow, I would return in a heartbeat — Athens already felt like a second home. For practical tips and a food-focused guide to traveling Greece, I’ve prepared additional articles on surviving and eating well in Greece.
Athens + Cape Sounion
Corinth Canal – Mycenae – Epidaurus – Olympia
Itea – Arachova – Delphi
Kalambaka – Thermopylae
Mykonos
Delos
Santorini
Athens – Farewell
