After nearly 50 hours of travel, the 20 days we spent under the Greek sun were worth every minute. My phone is full of photos of landscapes, food and friendly cats, but here is a concise photo journal of the trip’s highlights.
We spent the first five days based in Athens, determined to explore its archaeology and culinary scene. Historic sites were top of the list: from Athens’ buzzing neighborhoods to a scenic drive along the Athens Riviera to Cape Sounion, where the Temple of Poseidon crowns the sea-cliff.
After falling for Athens, we devoted four days to the mainland. We drove across the dramatic Corinth Canal, paused at Epidaurus to admire the ancient theatre, wandered through Mycenae and the plain of Argos, and continued through Tripolis and Megalopolis to Olympia, the original home of the Olympic Games. From Olympia we headed to Patras, crossed the impressive Rio–Antirrio bridge and stayed a night in the harbor town of Itea. The route then climbed to the mountain town of Arachova, visited the sanctuary at Delphi, and continued north to Kalambaka to see the Meteora monasteries. Returning south, we passed through Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae and Kammena Vourla back to Athens.
Needing rest after long days on the road, we boarded a ferry to Mykonos. From there we made a short trip to Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and an important ancient sanctuary and port. After three tranquil nights in Mykonos we sailed to Santorini, where a catamaran cruise offered views of dramatic caldera cliffs and secluded beaches. Three nights on Santorini ended with a final flight back to Athens before the long journey home.
Greece should be on every traveler’s bucket list. If I had the chance, I would return to Athens in a heartbeat — it felt like a second home. For practical tips and more on Greek food, look for my forthcoming guides.
Athens + Cape Sounion
Corinth Canal – Mycenae – Epidaurus – Olympia
Itea – Arachova – Delphi
Kalambaka – Thermopyae
Mykonos
Delos
Santorini
Athens – Farewell
