Northern Greece Road Trip Itinerary
Take a journey through the stunning landscapes of northern Greece with the Northern Greece Road Trip. Starting in the city of Xanthi, the route leads through the towns of Kavala, Thessaloniki, Konitsa, and Igoumenitsa, before ending in the vibrant Corfu Town. Along the way, you can explore the historical sites, such as the UNESCO Heritage Monuments, and take in the stunning scenery. The total distance of the trip is 727km and is recommended to be completed in 7 days, although this can be adjusted to suit your own needs. The best time to drive this route is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition.
The Northern Greece Road Trip is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed on a reasonable budget. You will be rewarded with a high level of experience and memories that will stay with you for many years to come. So, get ready to explore the beauty and charm of northern Greece with the Northern Greece Road Trip!
7
number of days
727 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Xanthi
Distance 727 km
Driving time 11.8 h
Pace: modest
189.0 kWh
Airports
KVA
,
SKG
[detailsContainer]
Xanthi, a city in northern Greece, is a great starting point for the Northern Greece Road Trip. Located in the Thracian Plain, Xanthi is a great place to explore the ancient and modern aspects of the country.
Some of the top attractions to visit while in Xanthi include the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Aesthetic Park of Xanthi. The Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from the Neolithic, Bronze, and Iron Ages, and the Folklore Museum provides visitors with an insight into the history and culture of the region. The Aesthetic Park of Xanthi is a great place to take a stroll and get some fresh air, with its many ponds and gardens.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), which is located about an hour and a half away by car. There are car rental services available at the airport, making it easy to start the Northern Greece Road Trip.
Xanthi is an excellent starting point for the Northern Greece Road Trip. With its many attractions, it is a great place to explore the ancient and modern aspects of the country. Those traveling by air can easily find car rental services at Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) and begin their journey.
1
Xanthi
- Kavala
Distance 52 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
15.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing adventure, starting in the beautiful city of Xanthi, Greece and ending in Kavala, a mere 52 km away. The drive should take you less than an hour, so you can take your time to explore all the great places in between.
In Xanthi, be sure to stop at the Xanthi Archaeological Museum to learn about the city’s rich history. Then, take a stroll through the old town and admire the colorful neoclassical buildings.
Continue your journey with a stop at the picturesque village of Stavroupoli, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Rhodope Mountains.
Your next stop is the charming town of Thasos. Here, you can visit the ancient ruins of the Temple of Dionysus, the Archaeological Museum, or the many beautiful beaches.
Finally, you will arrive in Kavala, the city of Philippi, where you can explore the ancient ruins of the city and visit the Acropolis of Philippi.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Kavala - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Pixabay
❯
❮
2
Kavala
- Serres
Distance 124 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
37.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Then, the journey from Kavala to Serres is the perfect choice for you! This route is a part of a larger tour, but it can also be taken as a stand-alone. It will take you through the stunning landscapes of Northern Greece, with a total distance of 124 km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours.
Your journey will start in Kavala, a city with a rich history, home to the ancient acropolis, the old city walls and the old castle. Be sure to visit the archaeological museum and the ancient theatre, as well as the picturesque harbor.
The next stop is the village of Nea Peramos, where you can take a walk along the beach and admire the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Then, you can visit the nearby village of Keramoti, known for its golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Your final destination is Serres, a city with an amazing cultural heritage. Here, you can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Serrai, the Byzantine fortress and the old city walls. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum, the Serres Folklore Museum and the Municipal Art Gallery.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Serres - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
3
Serres
- Thessaloniki
Distance 82 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
24.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the road trip stage from Serres to Thessaloniki! This 82km journey will take you less than an hour, and you’ll get to explore some of the most interesting sites in Greece. On the way, you’ll pass through some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll also get to experience some of the best local cuisine, as well as some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. As you drive, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea, and you’ll be able to stop and explore some of the most interesting historical sites along the way. Make sure to take advantage of the amazing opportunities that await you on this journey, and don’t forget to check the Itinerary of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites. Enjoy your road trip!
Thessaloniki - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
❯
❮
4
Thessaloniki
- Vergina
Distance 69 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
20.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a thrilling road trip? Start your journey in Thessaloniki, Greece and end it in Vergina, a mere 69 km away, in less than an hour's drive. Along the way, you will be able to explore the many historical sites, some of which are even UNESCO Heritage sites. You will have the opportunity to admire the unique architecture, the ancient ruins, and the breathtaking views. Make sure to take some time to visit the archaeological museum of Vergina, where you will get to see the royal tombs of the ancient Macedonian kings. As you drive through the countryside, you can also take a break to visit the nearby monasteries and churches. Don't forget to take a few pictures of the stunning landscapes and the breathtaking views of the mountains. To make the most of your journey, you can find more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Vergina - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Vergina - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
5
Vergina
- Konitsa
Distance 224 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
67.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the road-tripping stage of your tour that starts in Vergina, Greece and ends in Konitsa! This 224 km journey is estimated to take you less than 4 hours, so make sure you make the most of it!
Start your journey in Vergina, the archaeological site of the ancient city of Aegae, the first capital of Macedon. Here, you can explore the ruins of the royal palace and the burial mounds of the Macedonian kings, including the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.
Continue your journey to Konitsa, a town situated in the middle of the Pindus mountains. Here, you can visit the Monastery of Panagia Spileotissa, a 13th century Byzantine monastery, and the Averoff Gallery, an art museum with a collection of 19th and 20th century paintings, sculptures and engravings.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road-tripping adventure!
Konitsa - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
6
Konitsa
- Ioannina
Distance 64 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
16.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the road trip stage from Konitsa to Ioannina! This stage is part of a larger tour, and it is a 64km drive that will take you fewer than 2 hours.
Start your journey in Konitsa, located in the northern part of Greece. Here, you can visit the old bridge of Aoos River, the historical churches of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Athanasios, and the archaeological site of ancient Aiginion.
Continue your drive to Ioannina, the capital of the Epirus region. Here, you can explore the historical centre of the town, the Castle of Ioannina, the Cave of Perama, and the picturesque lake of Pamvotis.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Ioannina - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Needpix.com
Ioannina - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
7
Ioannina
- Igoumenitsa
Distance 108 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: slow
24.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Ioannina to Igoumenitsa! This 108 km journey will take you less than three hours and you will be able to enjoy some of the most interesting places in these two cities.
In Ioannina, you should definitely visit the Castle, the most iconic landmark of the city, where you can admire the breathtaking view of Lake Pamvotis. Other popular attractions include the Archaeological Museum with its collection of ancient artifacts and the Byzantine Museum with its impressive collection of Orthodox icons.
In Igoumenitsa, make sure to visit the Church of Agios Nikolaos, the city’s most prominent church, and the Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa, where you can learn about the history of the city. You can also take a stroll around the old town and admire the traditional architecture of the city.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
Igoumenitsa - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
8
Igoumenitsa
- Corfu Town
Distance 4 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: slow
1.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the amazing road trip stage from Igoumenitsa to Corfu Town! This is one of the most exciting and thrilling stages of the journey, and it’s only 4km away. You’ll reach your destination in less than an hour.
In Igoumenitsa, you can visit the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Municipal Market. In Corfu Town, you can explore the old Venetian fortresses, the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, and the Church of St. Spyridon.
For a great experience, make sure to visit the old port of Igoumenitsa, the Corfu Town’s historic centre, and the picturesque Corfu Old Town.
For even more fun and adventure, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. It contains detailed information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Have a great trip and enjoy the ride!
Corfu Town - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
Corfu Town
[detailsContainer]
End your Northern Greece Road Trip with a visit to the beautiful town of Corfu! Rich with ancient Greek culture, Corfu is a popular tourist destination and has plenty to offer. Start your exploration in one of the oldest parts of the town, the Old Fortress, built in the 16th century. Here you can marvel at the Venetian-style architecture, explore the surrounding gardens and take in the stunning views of the Ionian Sea. In the old city center, you can find the Liston, a tree-lined pedestrian promenade with a variety of cafes and restaurants.
If you are a fan of the arts, don’t miss the Achilleion Palace, a former summer residence of the Empress of Austria, and the Museum of Asian Art, where you can admire a rich collection of Chinese, Japanese and Indian artifacts. If you are looking for a beach experience, there are plenty of options. From the picturesque Canal d’Amour beach to the lively Glyfada Beach, you can find something to suit your style.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Corfu, there is something for everyone. The closest international airport to Corfu is Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport (CFU), located just 2 miles from the city center. So start planning your road trip to Northern Greece and don’t forget to include a stop in Corfu!
Northern Greece Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Xanthi
-
End:
Corfu Town
-
Distance:
727 km
-
Stay:
7 days
-
Getting there:
Kavala Alexander the Great International Airport (KVA),
Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport (SKG)
-
When to drive:
June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enchanting 727km journey through Northern Greece, a Road Trip that not only showcases the region's breathtaking landscapes but also immerses travelers in the rich tapestry of history and culture. From the vibrant town of Xanthi to the historic streets of Corfu Town, this adventure is best savored over a week to fully appreciate the splendor and charm of Greece's northern treasures.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Xanthi: Revel in the old town's well-preserved neoclassical architecture, and if you're lucky, catch the exuberant Carnival with its multicolored floats and costumes.
- Kavala: Marvel at the archaeological site of Philippi, where the famous Battle of Philippi took place in 42 BCE, now honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Thessaloniki: Explore Greece's cultural capital, with highlights including the iconic White Tower, the Rotunda, and the Galerian Complex, along with a plethora of Roman, Ottoman, and Sephardic Jewish heritage sites.
- Konitsa: Venture to the majestic Pindus Mountains, where the awe-inspiring Vikos Gorge claims one of the world's deepest canyons, and the Aoos River offers superb opportunities for rafting and natural exploration.
- Igoumenitsa: A gateway to the Ionian Islands, this coastal town is the perfect spot to relax by the sea or catch a ferry to explore further afield.
- Corfu Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site itself, Corfu Town is steeped in history, with the elegant Venetian architecture and the Achilleion Palace, once the summer retreat of Empress Elisabeth of Austria.
Best Time to Go:
To bask in the best of Northern Greece's weather and navigate Roads comfortably, plan your Road Trip between April and October. During this period, the climate is typically mild, and the natural landscapes are in full bloom.
Potential Risks:
- Navigating Greece's mountainous terrain requires cautious driving, particularly on narrow or winding Roads.
- Weather conditions such as fog, rain, or snow in higher altitudes can make driving more hazardous.
- Summer months may bring crowded attractions and limited availability in hotels, so consider booking in advance.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Greece has one of the highest numbers of archaeological museums per capita in the world, so seize the opportunity to visit some along your journey.
- Thessaloniki is known for its vibrant food scene; don't miss out on tasting local specialties like bougatsa and gyros.
- Corfu has a unique blend of cultural influences due to the various occupations throughout its history, including those by the Venetians, French, and British.
A good choice for:
The Northern Greece Road Trip is a delightful exploration of Greece's less-traveled paths, where intrepid Roadtrippers can uncover the layers of ancient history, engage with diverse cultures, and indulge in the scenic splendor that has enchanted travelers for millennia.
-
