Athens to Antiquity
Greece
Through the heart of ancient Greece from Athens to Thessaloniki, the Acropolis, the oracle sanctuary of Delphi above the Gulf of Corinth, Meteora's Byzantine monasteries on vertical rock pillars, the ancient sanctuary of Olympia, and the Mycenaean ruins of the Peloponnese. The most historically dense road trip in Europe.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Athens
The Acropolis, Agora, and National Archaeological Museum anchor the birthplace of Western civilisation. The 2009 Acropolis Museum is the finest classical collection in Europe.
- Corinth
The crossroads of ancient Greece, where the ruined Temple of Apollo overlooks the isthmus that saved sailors a 700-km voyage around the Peloponnese. The canal was cut in 1893.
- Delphi
Apollo's oracle sanctuary on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, where the Pythia delivered ambiguous prophecies. The Sacred Way, Treasury of Athens, and stadium climb above the Gulf of Corinth.
- Meteora
Six active Orthodox monasteries built atop sandstone pillars up to 400m high in the 14th and 15th centuries. Access was by rope ladder until stairs were cut into the rock.
- Thessaloniki
Greece's second city and Byzantine Balkan capital, with the 4th-century Rotonda, Arch of Galerius, White Tower, and the richly mosaicked basilica of Hagios Demetrios.
Where to Eat
- To KanoniGreek
Traditional Greek taverna in Delphi offering local specialties with panoramic views of the valley.
- Taverna VakhosMediterranean
Family-run restaurant in Delphi known for its fresh ingredients and authentic Mediterranean dishes.
- Taverna To ParamithiGreek
Cozy eatery in Meteora serving homemade Greek meals with a view of the monasteries.
- MourgaSeafood
Contemporary seafood restaurant in Thessaloniki offering innovative dishes in a modern setting.
- SebrikoGreek
Rustic restaurant in Thessaloniki serving traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist.
Things to Do
- Acropolis MuseumMuseum
Modern museum in Athens housing artifacts from the Acropolis, including the Parthenon sculptures.
- Ancient Theatre of EpidaurusHistoric Site
Well-preserved ancient Greek theatre known for its exceptional acoustics and classical performances.
- Archaeological Museum of ThessalonikiMuseum
Museum showcasing artifacts from Macedonia's history, including gold treasures and ancient sculptures.
- Mount OlympusNature
Greece's highest mountain, offering hiking trails through diverse flora and fauna, and mythical significance.
- VerginaHistoric Site
Site of ancient Aigai, featuring royal tombs including that of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.