Shoestring Road Trip in Greece: Explore Ancient Wonders on a Budget

Day 1: Explore Athens

Athens, Greece

08:00AM

Breakfast at Karavati

Start your day with a hearty and affordable traditional Greek breakfast of bread, olives, and feta cheese at Karavati.
Located in Plaka, a short walk from the metro station.
EUR10, 1 hour

09:30AM

Visit the Acropolis

Explore the iconic Acropolis and marvel at its ancient architecture and history.
Take the metro to Acropoli station, then a short walk.
EUR20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Souvlike

Grab a delicious souvlaki platter at Souvlike, known for its affordable and filling meals.
Located near Syntagma Square.
EUR8, 1 hour

01:30PM

Stroll through Monastiraki Flea Market

Wander through the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market for unique souvenirs and local products.
Accessible by walking from Souvlike.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

03:30PM

Explore the National Archaeological Museum

Discover some of the world's most significant artifacts from ancient Greece at the National Archaeological Museum.
Take the metro to Omonia station, then walk.
EUR12, 2 hours

05:30PM

Dinner at O Thanasis

Indulge in a classic Greek meal with a focus on grilled meats at O Thanasis.
Located in Monastiraki, a short walk from the museum.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Delphi

Delphi, Greece

07:00AM

Breakfast at a local bakery

Start early with a fresh pastry and coffee from a local bakery like Ariston.
Nearby your lodging area.
EUR5, 30 minutes

08:00AM

Travel to Delphi

Catch the local bus from Athens to Delphi, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Bus leaves from KTEL bus station.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site

Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in ancient mythology.
Short walk from the bus station.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Taverna Vakhos

Enjoy a local culinary experience with traditional Greek dishes in this budget-friendly taverna.
Located a short walk from the site.
EUR10, 1 hour

02:00PM

Visit the Delphi Museum

Learn more about the ancient site and its significance at the modern museum adjoining the archaeological site.
Located next to the archaeological site.
EUR6, 1 hour

03:30PM

Return to Athens

Travel back to Athens by the same bus service.
Board the bus at the Delphi station.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

06:00PM

Dinner at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Enjoy a delightful dinner of charcuterie and cheeses in this charming eatery.
In the city center, easily reachable by metro.
EUR15, 2 hours
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Day 3: Explore Arachova

Arachova, Greece

08:00AM

Breakfast at Café Meli

Fuel your day with a breakfast of local honey and yogurt at Café Meli in Arachova.
A short walk from your accommodation.
EUR6, 1 hour

09:00AM

Visit the local shops

Explore the quaint mountain town of Arachova and its traditional shops selling handmade goods.
Easy walking access throughout Arachova.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Scenic hike in the nearby mountains

Enjoy a beautiful hike in the surrounding mountains offering stunning views over the Delphi area.
Follow local trails marked around Arachova.
EUR0, 3 hours

01:30PM

Lunch at Taverna Koutouki

Savor local specialty dishes such as grilled meats and rustic salads at Taverna Koutouki.
Located in the main square.
EUR10, 1 hour

02:30PM

Visit the Church of Agios Georgios

Marvel at the quaint architecture of this local church and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Walking distance from the tavern.
EUR0, 30 minutes

03:00PM

Return to Delphi

Head back to Delphi for an evening of relaxation.
Take the bus back.
EUR5, 30 minutes

04:00PM

Dinner at To Patriko

Finish your day with dinner enjoying hearty Greek cuisine at To Patriko in Delphi.
Located in the heart of Delphi.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Visit Meteora

Kalambaka, Greece

06:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast provided by your accommodation.
On-site.
EUR0, 30 minutes

07:00AM

Travel to Meteora

Take the bus from Delphi to Kalambaka to reach the breathtaking rock formations and monasteries.
Bus leaves from Delphi station.
EUR10, 3 hours

10:00AM

Hike to the Monasteries

Embark on a hike to explore Meteora's stunning monasteries perched atop towering cliffs.
Local trails will guide the way.
EUR0, 3 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Meteora

Enjoy a warm, filling meal at the budget-friendly Restaurant Meteora.
Close to the hiking paths.
EUR10, 1 hour

02:00PM

Continue exploring Meteora

Spend the afternoon visiting more monasteries and enjoying the incredible views.
Walking access between monasteries.
EUR6, 2 hours

04:30PM

Return to Kalambaka

Head back to Kalambaka for the evening.
Short hike back.
EUR0, 30 minutes

05:00PM

Dinner at Taverna To Koutouki

Enjoy a relaxed meal at Taverna To Koutouki with local specialties.
Located in Kalambaka.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Discover Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece

08:00AM

Breakfast at Tacheles

Start your last day with a budget breakfast at Tacheles café, offering tasty local options.
In Kalambaka, before departing.
EUR6, 1 hour

09:00AM

Travel to Thessaloniki

Catch a bus from Kalambaka to Thessaloniki for a day of exploration.
Bus station in Kalambaka.
EUR15, 3 hours

12:00PM

Visit the White Tower

Explore the historic symbol of Thessaloniki and climb to the top for stunning city views.
Within walking distance from the bus station.
EUR8, 1 hour

01:00PM

Lunch at Aegian

Savor fresh seafood and traditional mezedes at this highly-rated, budget-friendly restaurant.
Close to the White Tower.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

02:30PM

Explore the Rotunda

Visit the Rotunda, a circular building with fascinating history and artwork.
A short walk from the lunch spot.
EUR4, 1 hour

03:30PM

Check out Aristotelous Square

Wander around Thessaloniki’s main square, enjoying street performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Walk to Aristotelous Square from Rotunda.
EUR0, 1 hour

04:30PM

Dinner at Kavouras

Finish your journey with a seafood dinner at Kavouras, known for its budget-friendly prices.
Located near the waterfront.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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