Guide for an unforgettable vacation
greece is an amazing country that we hardly know beyond its islands . However, its peninsula, still unexplored for most European travellers, has jewels that catch . We go through them in a 15 day roadtrip -an amount you can fit according to your needs -, starting with the capital, Athens, and ending with one of its most distinguished cities, Thessaloniki.
For both flights, we choose Aegean , the largest airline in the country, which carries out several daily routes between Madrid and the Hellenic country . Our flight is comfortable, they offer us a delicious lunch and, in the blink of an eye, we landed on Athens.
Spectacular landscapes await you
DAY 1-3: ATHENS
Athens, capital by right of the West , welcomes us with its polyhedral reality of ancient and majestic polis and city in the 21st century. From the airport, the best option is to take a taxiplon to get to Electra Hotel , a five-star located in the very center, in Syntagma Square, and from whose terraces you can see that view that it is difficult not to have never dreamed of: The Acropolis.
It's cold? Don't worry, you don't need to go out: this ancient mountain and its monuments are also appreciated from the bed, so make yourself comfortable, because the rooms of the Electra, spacious and extraordinarily comfortable, They are the perfect starting point for a long trip like this.
After resting a bit, it's time to gather strength. we do it in glyphs , a charming tavern serving delicious greek specialties and that will make you feel on a stage of Mamma Mia or Before Night Falls.
It's in plaka , the most picturesque and beautiful neighborhood in the city, which is located just a walk of the hotel. Along the way, we will cross its paved streets, its low, white houses covered with plants, its little shops... And, above all, a endless taverns with terraces where you can dine under a vine, from which every night flies away traditional music played live.
The next morning, more delicacies, this time in the form of endless breakfast : Greek cheeses, yoghurt, pancakes, juices, fruit, cakes... Anything you might want at this time of the morning fits in this beautiful 360º glazed roof terrace, from which you can see all the roofs of the city. And, about them, one of our next stops: the Parthenon.
To get to know both this essential monument and the rest of the city, we hired a personalized tour with ** Athens Insiders ).** And it is totally recommended, because here, as happens, for example, in Berlin, it's hard to understand what you see without explanation; there's just too much historical footprint that we would not know how to decipher without a specialist.
Therefore, we fell in love with the city even more thanks to our guide, Phoebus, a student of archeology who speaks perfect Spanish and who resolves diligently and good humor all our doubts, and even he tells us things that only know the locals...
At lunchtime, we chose ** Zampanó Bistró **, a warm restaurant and wine bar which is part of the beautiful boutique hostel ** City Circus ** and which modernizes traditional Greek cuisine with exquisite results. On Sundays, by the way, they serve jazzy brunch , which can give us an idea about the character of Psyri, the neighborhood we are in: "The Malasaña of Athens", according to our guide.
The area deserves a stroll, in which we will come across concept store, vintage stores, showrooms, record stores... Then we have the whole afternoon to explore the city and, if we are lucky, to come across street markets of delicious oriental scents.
For dinner we chose nice'n'easy, a restaurant that honors Sinatra with its decoration, and whose reason for being is the philosophy farm-to-table . The attention in the room will make you fall in love with the place, but the chef's kitchen Christos Athanasiadis, that merges Mediterranean and international dishes with a contemporary touch, it will make you fall directly at his feet. Don't forget to try your banoffee !
We have two more days to get to know this city of thousand landscapes : it is worth taking a walk through the area of the college, in which something is always brewing; by Exarchia, the anarchist neighborhood, whose residents have taken over squares and streets with graffiti, parks and urban gardens communal; by Metaxourgeio, "la Chueca" of Athens, as Phoebus baptizes it; by kukaki , the neighborhood in which to see and be seen and Petralona, a quiet and residential area with more and more flirty and bohemian cafes. The list is endless, so, you know: go ahead and enjoy!
The last day of our stay, obligatory stop at **Hertz**; there, in his office on the street Andrea Sigrou -a ten minute walk from the hotel- we will rent our car -which we can leave in Thessaloniki - and we will start our roadtrip. Starts!
Athens, always alive
**DAYS 4-5: PELION**
We leave the capital behind to head towards Pelion, the magical mountain of Greece . The journey that will bring us closer to our destination lasts four and a half hours -it will be the longest we will do-, so it is advisable to leave early to enjoy the journey in all its splendor.
Because if, we will go by the turnpike -it is not too expensive-, but for one that runs extraordinarily near the sea. This phenomenon gives rise to a fascinating landscape in which, on more than one occasion, the median will be the only thing that separates us from the Aegean.
However, the best of the road will begin once we pass the coastal city of Volos , which, however, is a good place to stop for a meal. There are famous tsipouradika , especially, those found on the seafront. It is about small restaurants who take their name from tsipouro , a liquor typical of the area, and in which they are served meze -that is, tapas- for free with each drink.
After enjoying this typical way of having lunch, we will begin our ascent through mountains that are verdant in spring and summer and full of reddish tones in autumn and winter.
On the beautiful road, we will come across several kandilakia , miniature Orthodox churches that mark the places that have claimed victims of traffic accidents or that are placed as thanks for having escaped from them. On other occasions, they simply serve as little chapels, and many times they have lighted candles and offerings inside.
Our path culminates today in Tsagkarada , one of many charming stone villages that we will find in Pelion. But folk architecture is only one of the many wonders that this destination for lovers of nature, virgin beaches and postcard landscapes has to offer you... This is all that we recommend you to see and do in the.
In Pelión there are locations of the film 'Mamma Mia'
DAY 6: TRIKALA
After having inundated ourselves with nature and tradition, we set out on a day in which our only mission will be to pamper ourselves. To do this, we head to Trikala , a coquettish city whose eclectic historic center, a reminder of the many civilizations that have occupied it, can be visited on a comfortable walk in which we will find old neighborhoods, classical ruins , churches, mosques, little bridges that cross the river that divides the city and even mills.
However, there are also attractions for those who want to delve deeper into the past of the place, such as the Kilafa Cultural Center .
But we have said that we came to pamper ourselves, and that is what we will do thanks to the wonderful facilities of Ananti City Resort , a five-star hotel with contemporary lines built on top of a hill, from which you can see a amazing panorama from the city.
there we can relax in the spa , give us a massage, enjoy excellent breakfasts with views... and, above all, let us take care for the fabulous staff.
the multiple culinary possibilities from the area will also conquer you. A walk is enough to make your mouth water with the many restaurants and bars in the area, although our favorites are two.
to eat, Κόκκινη Σβούρα , a warm gastro-pub where they cook mouthwatering typical dishes with a contemporary twist. There you will find various options of the day already cooked for a very tight price, which will certainly help you choose -the menu is only in Greek, but the most pleasant staff will help you with it-. Don't leave without trying the cheese wrapped in filo pastry , a classic in the area.
For dinner, no one can rival To Xani , a traditional tavern opened in 1918 with an endless letter in which absolutely Everything is delicious.
The place looks like a medieval dining room, with wall paintings on the stone walls and high wooden ceilings. We cannot recommend what to order because from the starters to the desserts (several, cooked with persimmon , a tree that you will come across several times throughout your journey) are exquisite. You will want to prolong the table, and not only because of its tempting wine list: above all, because the waiters will make you feel like at home
Trikala is called "Little Europe"
DAY 7: ELATI, PERTOULI AND PLASTIRAS LAKE
The Ananti City Resort is the perfect starting point for our excursions today, in which we will visit the surroundings of Trikala. To do this, we head to the saw of Pindos along a beautiful path that runs between conifers, until reaching the alpine beauty of Elati and ** Pertouli ,** two picturesque villages with the air of a mountain pass on whose paths you will come across herds of all kinds.
The same - they are located a few kilometers from each other -, are crossed by several routes of hiking , because they are completely surrounded by nature. There is also the possibility of carrying out horse or quad routes , climbing and even practicing winter sports , thanks to the small ski resort in the area.
For all this, your point of reference will be Kerketio Extreme Sport , whose owner will be happy to help you decide on the perfect ride for you. And when you finish enjoying nature, stop in your cozy Cafeteria to take you, for example, a mountain tea , with herbs gathered in the surroundings.
Later you can head to Lake Plastiras , a huge body of water surrounded by green meadows and groves. There you will see sheep grazing carefree, and, if you arrive at sunset, you will witness a sunset one of those that are not forgotten, in which the rays sneak through the branches giving rise to an ideal picture. Of course, it is the ideal place to practice all kinds of watersports.
The lake is surrounded by a beautiful path, perfect to do it on foot, by mountain bike or 4x4. It can also be toured in car , but there are very complicated sections -especially if it is raining or has recently rained-, since it is not paved.
If you have time, you can also visit the nearby towns, among which stand out for their beauty, Fylakti, Lambero, Kryoneri and Kastania.
Chromatic harmony
DAY 8-9: METEORA
Rocky giants that rise above the clouds, and on their tops, monasteries defying gravity. That's what awaits you in meteor , a World Heritage landscape with an amazing history. We tell you everything you need to know about the place and its tours.
To sleep, you can choose between Kalambaka and Kastraki. The first is the city closest to the monasteries, and also has various restore options , among which the traditional taverns of panellinion Y Archontariki .
The second is the town closest to the geological formations of Meteora. It has some hotels and several guest houses , in which, despite having fewer amenities, you can get in touch with the neighbors who run them and get to know the traditional architecture from the inside, as happens in Petrino Guesthouse.
Meteora, an unrepeatable landscape
DAY 10: IOANINA
After having soaked up the extraordinary landscapes of Meteora, we set off for Ioannina , a city modern and university which has traditionally been known as its good life and its culture . The road that separates us from it, less than two hours long, is full of forests and mountains , and it is not uncommon to see cute stalls of fruits and local products, such as honey.
Our first stop in Ioannina will be Saz City Life Hotel , a recently opened accommodation whose award winning interiors They are inspired by the world of haute couture.
Once there, go up to the cafeteria of the last plant and enjoy the views over the huge Lake Pamvotida, city symbol. And, when the sun goes down, go down to the first one to live the greek night rocking to the sound of live music, while you taste its exquisite contemporary kitchen . Finally, in their very comfortable beds, you will rest like a god.
The hotel is located on the main street of the city, full of shops and restaurants. Take it and browse slowly until you reach the citadel (called kastro ), the oldest area, crossed by the Ali Pasha's wall Inside, you will reach areas where you will feel like in another world, one in which cars don't pass , the houses have an air of small ottoman mansions and you can enjoy the shade of the orange trees in the patios.
You will also be amazed by the grandeur of the area of the Byzantine Museum , an enormous esplanade of grass in which they are grouped several historic buildings. One of them has been converted into a cafeteria full of life, from which you can enjoy the intense blue of the water and the green of the ground.
One of the must-sees in this city which, as you will see, is highly influenced by turkish presence , is the mosque of Ali Pasha . It is built on the old Ioannina castle (of which the ruins are still preserved), has the Museum of History and Folklore of Ioannina inside and its privileged position offers extraordinary panoramic views of Nisi , the island that stands in the middle of the lake.
This island -the only inhabited lake island in Greece- has well-cared Byzantine-style streets and several monasteries of interest. It can be accessed by ferry to go through it in a pleasant walk. And to rest from so much walking, return to the city: there we will let ourselves be entertained by the friendly and informal environment of Say Yes , where you can enjoy a tea or a cocktail lulled by the Jazz and the conversations of both neighbors and university students.
Ioannina has dreamy corners
DAY 11: PARGA AND GLIKI
At Saz City Life Hotel they tell us a secret: that of a beautiful fishing village whose square, open to the sea, is the perfect snapshot of greek beauty . So we're going to parga , where the monarch Ali Pasha also did his thing, attacking the picturesque facades of the town on several occasions.
However, none of this is remembered anymore on its dock, where you can see one of the most beautiful views in the world : in the background, of course, we have the horizon , where the sun will make its stellar disappearance leaving behind an orange world; left and right, green hills that bathe in the sea, framing the panorama -and crowned, one of them, by the castle from town-; behind us, one row of colorful houses staggered; around us, little fishing boats and some kids who run around, carefree, celebrating the morning one more day.
Sit in any of the many cafes that overlook the pier and ask for a frappe, or what is the same, a coffee with ice , one of the most typical drinks of Greece. Dedicate yourself to the contemplative life: that is why we have come to Parga. And take advantage, because soon we'll get going again.
It will be in Gliki, where we will arrive by car, but where we will enjoy the proverbial majesty of the Acheron River on foot. On the GPS, you will find our first stop under the name of " Acheron Springs ". It is a recreation area in the middle of nature in which there is enough space to leave the car and from which a path starts beautiful, short and very simple that serves as the first contact with the area and that runs parallel to the riverbed. You can trace it in kayak or even ride horse because of its surroundings; Ask at one of the various companies adventure sport that you will find along the way.
The most striking route, however, requires some physical prowess and above all, of time : it is not circular, and completing it can take you from three to four hours (not counting the return), but we strongly recommend it for its majesty.
It is one of those that connects gliki with the historic village of Soulis , and runs through spectacular stretches from which you will have amazing views and that they will take you through narrow gorges, gigantic oak forests , and by the curious landscape of weathered white stone that the turquoise waters have left in their wake - it is not a manner of speaking: they are the most turquoise that you have seen in your life - of Acheron.
To find it, go to ** Skala Tzavelena **, which is the name given to the old stairs by which the neighbors came to Soulis.
The Acheron, turquoise until enough is said
DAYS 12-13: ZAGORI AND METSOVO
After this excursion, we headed towards Zagory , a beautiful stone village perched on the mountain of Pindus . There we will sleep in the very comfortable ** Kipi Suites **, we will cross its legendary bridges, we will immerse ourselves in nature and we will explore the curious monastery of Agia Paraskevi and the throat of Vikkos, the deeper of the world.
In addition, we will eat in the extraordinary Kanela & Garyfallo , whose specialty is mushrooms cooked in a thousand different ways.
A day later, our destination will be ** Metsovo ,** another town of those that will make us fall in love.
For its robust houses with red roofs, for its silent slopes and cozy traditional taverns, and for its excellent and unique wines such as katogi averoff , whose winery can be visited and also has a charming boutique hotel, the Katogi Averoff Hotel & Winery . To savor each of these stops as it deserves, we have prepared a gallery for you as a guide; enjoy it!
Metsovo will captivate you
DAYS 14-15: THESSALONIKI
Our last stop, like the first, will also be a big city. In this case, it is ** Thessaloniki ,** a young, vibrant and multicultural, with a history plagued by encounters of civilizations and where until a few decades ago it was not difficult to find greek jews who spoke that Spanish variant What is Sephardic?
There we will sleep in the splendid Electra Palace Thessaloniki , located in the grandiose Plaza de Aristotle, or what is the same: in the very center from the city.
From its rooms, and above all, from its elegant Roof garden -where you will have breakfast like a Greek prince- you will see both the sea and the happy bustle of the neighbors, whose favorite activity is occupy the terraces in groups and spend long hours talking - and, of course, drinking frappe -.
But to get to know these locals instead of looking at them from afar, and, above all, to try the delight of Thessalonian gastronomy, born under the protection of thousand influences different, nothing better than joining the gastronomic tour offered by Thessaloniki Urban Adventures. Thanks to him, we get in touch with Kyriakos, a very nice neighbor who takes us around your favorite places of the city, giving us the opportunity to taste some of his most recognizable dishes.
We visit, for example, Loumidis , a hundred-year-old shop where they sell greek specialties and where they teach us how to do it the real coffee of the country -and whose preparation includes beautiful golden utensils typical of another era-; we also walked through the open-air markets of Modiano, Kapani, and Athonos , and Kyriakos leads us to try the best feta, the tastiest olives and the koulouri, those light baggels typical of the place. He asks us, yes, that we leave room for loukomia, some traditional sweets that taste like gummy bears.
With our guide we also visit Bit Bazaar, a square surrounded by arcades that constitutes one of the areas more charming of Thessaloniki, as well as being the favorite place for youths to reunite. We also walked through the recently recovered area of Valaoritou , where live eternal nights jumping from bar to bar.
In addition, Kyriakoa will ask for us in Takadum , a restaurant with an oriental air richly decorated, where succulents are eaten sea dishes typical of this coastal city.
Although what really dazzles us, what makes us have to make extra space in the suitcase, is Pontika, a small and picturesque shop whose manager tells us her story: how she decided, in her ella Organic Farm, retrieve old recipes and preparations , typical of an Ottoman civilization that lived in Greece and of which hardly anyone remembers . And absolutely everything he gives us to try is exquisite.
After the walk, we still have two days left to tour the big avenue which starts from the Plaza de Aristotle, and in which we will find interesting thrift shopping, shops of all kinds and takeaway restaurants in which the neighbors queue up at lunchtime, so it's easy to know where they're sold the best empanadas -and, in very rich empanadas, nobody beats Greece-.
We also walked through ancient Roman Agora, the White Tower -symbol of the city- and several monuments that are part of the UNESCO, like the monastery Vlatadon , the mosque of Alatza Imaret, the mausoleum of muse slime , the Triangular Tower... And it will even give us time to try a more modern cuisine in ROOTS , where our vegetarian dreams (and vegan!) will come true.
But everything has an end, also this long and wonderful journey . It is difficult for us to say goodbye to Greece, and above all, to its people, before whose sympathy it's hard not to fall for it.
Slowly, like trying to enlarge our stay, we drive to the airport, leave the car in the hertz car park and we take the flight Aegean that will take us back home. But alas, let's fall into the cliché: it's just a 'bye', because our heart is now a little more greek and he will always push us to his new homeland. We will be back!
Thessaloniki invites you to live it