XpatAthens
Monday, 24 March 2025 08:00
March 25 - Greek Independence Day
On March 25th, Greek people all over the world celebrate the Greek Independence Day. Even if you are not familiar with Greek history, we have put together a brief outline of the events that led to the Greek War of Independence and the way Independence Day is celebrated today!
From 1453 to 1821 Greece was under Ottoman (Turkish) rule. Despite almost 400 years of occupation, the Greek identity remained strong, largely due to the influence of the powerful Greek Orthodox Church. However, Greeks were subjects of the Ottoman Empire, without independent political power. Over the centuries many uprisings against the oppressive rule were vanquished by the Ottoman Empire.
The Greek War of Independence
On March 25, 1821, the bishop Germanos of Patras called upon Greeks to rise up against the Ottomans once again. The War of Independence was fought fiercely under the motto 'Freedom or Death'. This time, the Greek freedom fighters would not be vanquished.
The battle raged through mainland Greece for several years, until a small region was reclaimed. The freedom fighters were known as klephts, and tens of thousands gave their lives in the war. The French Revolution both weakened the Ottoman Empire and raised European consciousness to the plight of the Greeks. Many joined the fight, both in spirit and proclamations of support, and by actually bearing arms with the Greeks. The poet Lord Byron went to fight and lost his life in Greece, as did many supporters from Europe and the Americas.
In 1832, the first official international treaty was declared, recognizing central Greece as under independent Greek rule. Over the next century, through wars and diplomatic agreements, mainland Greece and her islands were reclaimed one by one until Greece as we know it was under one rule. The last region to return to Greek rule were the Dodecanese islands, after the end of World War II.
March 25th, the day in which Bishop Germanos of Patras raised the flag and declared battle is also one of the holiest days of the Greek Orthodox religion. This is the day of the Annunciation when the archangel Gabriel told Mary she would bear the Son of God. The day is celebrated throughout Greece as a day of independence and also an important religious holiday.
Independence Day Celebrations
Throughout the country, both secular and religious celebrations fill the streets, churches and homes. Athens hosts a huge Independence Day parade, as do many cities and towns. Streets are blockaded and military bands, dignitaries and throngs of spectators fill them to capacity. Travel and work in the large cities comes to a standstill on March 25. Marching bands in traditional Greek military uniforms and brightly costumed Greek dancers move through the streets while vendors sell drinks and desserts to the flag-waving crowd. The churches are filled with Annunciation Day worshippers and smaller parades in honor of the Feast of the Annunciation.
People also celebrate privately in their homes. Children are dressed in new clothes, and the house is cleaned and sparkling.Feasts and family gatherings are held in honor of events both secular and religious.
Greek Independence Day is also celebrated in other countries. Every year the President of the United States declares a national day of celebration of Greek and American democracy on March 25. Cities around the world with large Greek populations hold parades in honor of Independence Day and Greek traditions and customs.
A national holiday in Greece wouldn't be complete without traditional food! Read more about it HERE!
Published in
Greek Traditions
Tagged under
Tuesday, 25 August 2015 08:33
A Corfu Recipe: Fried Eggs In Tomato Sauce
Veteran Corfu author Effrosyni Moschoudi shares with is her local recipe, as featured in The Flow, book 2 in The Lady Of The Pier trilogy:
INGREDIENTS (serves 2)
3-4 eggs
1 large onion, chopped
Extra virgin olive oil
1 large (or two medium) ripe beef tomatoes
1/3 teaspoon of sugar
Salt, pepper
PREPARATION
Grate the tomatoes (leave out the skin)
In a large frying pan, fry the onion in the olive oil until soft, add the tomato, salt, pepper, sugar, and a small amount of water (about 1/4 of a wine glass). Cook in medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Break eggs and place in a bowl.
When the sauce has thickened (only oil left, no water), add the eggs in one go, then quickly start stirring with a fork or wooden spatula.
Serve immediately with a salad and fresh bread.
To read more, and to find out more about The Lady Of The Pier Trilogy, please visit: Effrosyni Writes
To read more, and to find out more about The Lady Of The Pier Trilogy, please visit: Effrosyni Writes
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
Tagged under
Thursday, 04 November 2021 07:00
Mesmerizing Autumn & Winter Escapes In Greece
Many people associated Greece as being just a summer destination, but with its hidden treasures and diverse winter scenery, Greece is an amazing surprise for anyone lloking to explore its diversity all year around!
Here are a few of our favorite places to visit during the winter.
Lake Plastira & Agrafa
@babispanag
@babispanag
Lake Plastira is probably the most scenic lakes in Greece with exquisite surroundings, virgin nature, mountain villages, and fine monasteries and churches. You can limit your trip to the tour of Lake Plastira, however, if you are in the mood for an adventure and have a car that can take dirt roads or an SUV, it is definitively worth wandering through the rough dirt roads of Western Agrafa.
Kalavryta
@billakosssss
@billakosssss
Known as a fashionable place in the winter months, visitors come from mostly Athens and Patra to enjoy a fun weekend at the ski resort. The natural scenery and old monasteries are also fun for all ages.
Zagorohoria
@georgeeptr
This area never fails to awe its visitor with its majestic natural beauty, pine and fir forests, crystalline streams, and stunning scenery. Visitors can also see arched stone bridges, imposing mansions, and lovely old churches.
@georgeeptr
This area never fails to awe its visitor with its majestic natural beauty, pine and fir forests, crystalline streams, and stunning scenery. Visitors can also see arched stone bridges, imposing mansions, and lovely old churches.
Kastoria
@un1.co
@un1.co
Imposing and charming, Kastoria is embellished with impressive lakefront mansions and Byzantine churches. Among the places you should definitely visit is the Petrified Forest, which dates back approximately 20 million years, Lake Orestiada, designated as a Monument of Natural Beauty, and last but not least the Cave of the Dragon with its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Trikala
@dimitris_moutsopoulos
Just a breath away from Lake Plastira you will find the charming town of Trikala. The first thing you should do is take a walk through the ancient town, particularly in the Varousi and Old Manavika districts, where you will be transported to another era. Varousi is home to some gorgeous houses and the city's oldest churches.
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Thursday, 22 June 2017 11:38
June 20 - Summertime News
Discover the ultimate online supermarket in Athens and enjoy the benefit of grocery shopping from home! Also, learn about which investments are expected in the Athenian Riviera and all you need to know about Athens International Airport's biggest facelift and its new additions to the food and shopping experience!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Published in
Newsletters
Tagged under
Thursday, 21 December 2017 09:04
WTTC & McKinsey Report Addresses Overtourism Issues In Greece
Released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and McKinsey & Company, their latest report addresses the issues surrounding tourism, including constrained infrastructure, diminished cultural experience, damage to natural resources, threat to cultural heritage, and alienation of local residents.
Titled “Coping with Success: Managing Overcrowding in Tourism Destinations”, the report found that the top 20 country destinations – among these France, the US, Spain, China and Italy – will add more arrivals by 2020 than the rest of the world combined.
Greece is also among these countries expected by 2020 to see the number of international tourist arrivals rise by 3 million.
Besides highlighting the problems posed by too much tourism, the survey also identifies actions including extending visitor numbers over time, spreading visitors across sites, adjusting pricing to balance supply and demand, regulating accommodation supply and limiting access and activities.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages
Published in
Greece In The News
Tagged under
Friday, 15 June 2018 17:36
Megaron - The Athens Concert Hall
The Megaron Athens Concert Hall is located in the heart of Athens and operates as a major cultural center with the vision of the great singer Alexandra Trianti.
Opening it's doors in 1991, it has since become one of Athens' landmarks regarding music, theater, dance, exhibitions and conferences. They host numerous events every week, from renowned Greek and foreign artists, to world class choirs and theater teams.
Megaron covers a wide range such as Opera, classical music, Ballet, orchestras, tributes, classic theater plays and much more!
Published in
Museums & City Venues
Tagged under
Friday, 15 February 2019 14:46
The 3rd Messinia Pro-Am Schedule
Costa Navarino is all set to host the 3rd Ιnternational Messinia Pro-Am golf tournament at its signature golf courses from 20 to 23 February 2019.
Professionals and amateur golfers will enjoy the 3 rd Messinia Pro-Am programme that has been further enriched this year with several themed nights and surprise events. More specifically, on Wednesday, February 20, participants will have the opportunity to carry out their first formal workout at the award-winning 18-hole golf courses The Dunes Course and The Bay Course. The same evening, Costa Navarino will welcome golfers with a reception themed “Never On Sunday”. On Thursday, February 21, sporting action begins with the first round of competition for all teams at The Dunes Course.
On Friday, February 22, golfers will compete for the second round at The Bay Course, while the day will end with the “Mamma Mia” Charity Event thematic night. All participants will take part in a bowling game entitled “A good cause to STRIKE” in which for each strike a corresponding amount will be donated to SOS Greece Children’s Villages. The charity night is expected to greatly enhance the action of SOS Children's Villages, and those who wish to contribute online can here!
On Saturday, February 23, Messinia Pro-Am comes to a close with the third round at The Dunes Course. Anticipation about this year’s champion will culminate at the “Buena Vista” Dinner and Prize Giving Ceremony. Acclaimed British golf professionals, Peter Finch of Quest Golf Academy and Iona Stephen will be the presenters of the Awards Ceremony.
Discover the programme highlights of the 3rd Messinia Pro-Am HERE!
AEGEAN , a member of Star Alliance, is the official airline partner of the event.
Vodafone Business, Eclectic Greece by Kyvernitis Travel , Ford Motor Hellas , Athens International Airport and Hertz are the official sponsors of the event.
Luanvi is the official sportswear partner.
Official supporters of the tournament include ECOLAB , "Vikos" Natural Mineral Water , J.VOURAKIS SONS EE , Poseidonia , Pylos Poems , METAXA , Luc Belaire , Paulaner , The Blue Beetle , Nescafé Alegria and Kalamata Papadimitriou .
Fysiotek is the physio partner of the event. The tournament is assisted by Salty Bag , Stoli , Fever-Tree , Ahead and BiancoNero .
Erasmus is the official travel partner coordinating and ensuring the smooth registration & accommodation process.
The 3rd Messinia Pro-Am is organized in collaboration with the PGAs of Europe and is held under the auspices of PGA of Greece and the Hellenic Golf Federation
Hashtag: #messiniaproam
Photo credit: Mike tsolis
Professionals and amateur golfers will enjoy the 3 rd Messinia Pro-Am programme that has been further enriched this year with several themed nights and surprise events. More specifically, on Wednesday, February 20, participants will have the opportunity to carry out their first formal workout at the award-winning 18-hole golf courses The Dunes Course and The Bay Course. The same evening, Costa Navarino will welcome golfers with a reception themed “Never On Sunday”. On Thursday, February 21, sporting action begins with the first round of competition for all teams at The Dunes Course.
On Friday, February 22, golfers will compete for the second round at The Bay Course, while the day will end with the “Mamma Mia” Charity Event thematic night. All participants will take part in a bowling game entitled “A good cause to STRIKE” in which for each strike a corresponding amount will be donated to SOS Greece Children’s Villages. The charity night is expected to greatly enhance the action of SOS Children's Villages, and those who wish to contribute online can here!
On Saturday, February 23, Messinia Pro-Am comes to a close with the third round at The Dunes Course. Anticipation about this year’s champion will culminate at the “Buena Vista” Dinner and Prize Giving Ceremony. Acclaimed British golf professionals, Peter Finch of Quest Golf Academy and Iona Stephen will be the presenters of the Awards Ceremony.
Discover the programme highlights of the 3rd Messinia Pro-Am HERE!
AEGEAN , a member of Star Alliance, is the official airline partner of the event.
Vodafone Business, Eclectic Greece by Kyvernitis Travel , Ford Motor Hellas , Athens International Airport and Hertz are the official sponsors of the event.
Luanvi is the official sportswear partner.
Official supporters of the tournament include ECOLAB , "Vikos" Natural Mineral Water , J.VOURAKIS SONS EE , Poseidonia , Pylos Poems , METAXA , Luc Belaire , Paulaner , The Blue Beetle , Nescafé Alegria and Kalamata Papadimitriou .
Fysiotek is the physio partner of the event. The tournament is assisted by Salty Bag , Stoli , Fever-Tree , Ahead and BiancoNero .
Erasmus is the official travel partner coordinating and ensuring the smooth registration & accommodation process.
The 3rd Messinia Pro-Am is organized in collaboration with the PGAs of Europe and is held under the auspices of PGA of Greece and the Hellenic Golf Federation
Hashtag: #messiniaproam
Photo credit: Mike tsolis
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Wednesday, 10 February 2021 07:00
Coronavirus In Greece - Tips & Advice
With the continued Coronavirus cases in Greece, this article outlines a lot of helpful information including steps to protect yourself, symptoms, and where to get tested.
Click here to learn more about goverment enforced measures to contain the spread of the virus.
Click here to learn more about goverment enforced measures to contain the spread of the virus.
Click here to read about how to get vaccinated for COVID-19 in Greece.
Get A Daily Update On COVID-19 Cases In Greece
Get a daily update on the course of the coronavirus pandemic in Greece. The data is updated daily according to the official announcements of the Greek Ministry of Health.
To stay up-to-date, please visit covid19.gov.gr
If you have symptoms of the coronavirus (see below) and believe that you may have come into contact with an infected individual, you are urged to stay home and to contact your doctor immediately or the EODY (Greece's National Public Health Organization) at 210 5212054 or the telephone hotline 1135 for accurate instructions and information on where to seek treatment.
Where To Get Tested For Covid-19 In Athens
There are multiple ways to get tested and the following are a couple of these to help you in your research and decision process.
If you have health coverage from the Greek state (you hold a valid AMKA number), you can call 14900 and book an appointment for a FREE COVID TEST at your local clinic. This service is only available in Greek.
There are several private clinics throughout the city that offer testing for a charge typical in the range of €40-€80. Some of these include:
Get a daily update on the course of the coronavirus pandemic in Greece. The data is updated daily according to the official announcements of the Greek Ministry of Health.
To stay up-to-date, please visit covid19.gov.gr
When To Seek Medical Care
Please stay home (initially) if you feel unwell, it will protect you and help prevent spreading the virus and other infections.
If you have symptoms of the coronavirus (see below) and believe that you may have come into contact with an infected individual, you are urged to stay home and to contact your doctor immediately or the EODY (Greece's National Public Health Organization) at 210 5212054 or the telephone hotline 1135 for accurate instructions and information on where to seek treatment.
It is vital that you seek medical attention quickly, but do so immediately from your home. In order to contain the spread to others, authorities in Greece have dedicated specific hospitals and health facilities for coronavirus cases.
Where To Get Tested For Covid-19 In Athens
There are multiple ways to get tested and the following are a couple of these to help you in your research and decision process.
If you have health coverage from the Greek state (you hold a valid AMKA number), you can call 14900 and book an appointment for a FREE COVID TEST at your local clinic. This service is only available in Greek.
There are several private clinics throughout the city that offer testing for a charge typical in the range of €40-€80. Some of these include:
Bioiatriki - appointment is required, results typically within 48 hours, service in English (website is in Greek), call 210 6966000.
Central Clinic of Athens - appointment is required, results typically within 24 hours, service in English, call 2103674110.Athens Medical Group - appointment is required, results typically within 48 hours, service in English.
Temporary Clinic at Athens Airport - no appoinment required but payment online is required ahead of time, results within 24 hours, service in English.
Steps To Stay Safe Against The Coronavirus In Greece
The World Health Organization (WHO) shares some necessary protective measures against the coronavirus and advises people to take care of their health and protect others by using these methods; also, these important tips on when and how to use a mask.
Following are the recommended protective measures:
1. Wash Your Hands Well & Frequently
The World Health Organization (WHO) shares some necessary protective measures against the coronavirus and advises people to take care of their health and protect others by using these methods; also, these important tips on when and how to use a mask.
Following are the recommended protective measures:
1. Wash Your Hands Well & Frequently
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them carefully with soap and water. Remember to wash hands when cooking, helping sick individuals, and after contact with animals.
2. Maintain Social Distancing
Keep at least 1 meter (at least 3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Be extra careful of the elderly and indiviuals with chronic illness.
3. Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, And Mouth
Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth; from there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
4. Practice Respiratory Hygiene
Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory etiquette. Make sure you cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; properly dispose of the used tissue immediately and wash or sanitize your hands following.
How To Use A Mask
Even though masks should be used as part of a comprehensive strategy of measures to suppress transmission, the use of a mask alone cannot provide an adequate level of protection against COVID-19.
How To Use A Mask
Even though masks should be used as part of a comprehensive strategy of measures to suppress transmission, the use of a mask alone cannot provide an adequate level of protection against COVID-19.
Here are the basics of how to wear a mask:
1. Make sure to clean your hands before you put your mask on, as well as before and after you take it off.
2. Make sure your mask covers your nose, mouth, and chin.
Here are some specifics on what type of mask to wear, depending on where you go and who you are.
Wear a fabric mask unless you’re in a particular risk group. This is especially important when you can’t stay physically distanced, particularly in crowded and poorly ventilated indoor settings.
Wear a medical/surgical mask if you are over 60, have underlying medical conditions, are feeling unwell, and/or looking after an ill family member.
Symptoms Of The Coronavirus
If a person becomes infected with the virus, they can develop symptoms that range from mild, such as the common cold, to very serious. As with other respiratory infections, infection of COVID-19 can cause mild symptoms, such as:
· Collapse
· Sore throat
· Fever
· Cough
Some people may have serious symptoms such as:
· Pneumonia
· Difficulty breathing
It rarely leads to death. Elderly and people with underlying diseases (such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease) are more susceptible to developing serious symptoms.
Volunteer For Free COVID-19 Testing
About 20,000 tests are performed daily by the public health system on people who have an increased chance of being exposed to the virus. The Greek government's goal is to significantly increase the number of tests by monitoring asymptomatic volunteers through the random selection of 12,000 citizens daily.
Your participation will give experts a better picture of the coronavirus in Greece and help contain its spread throughout the community. Fill in the following "COVID19 Free Test Application Form" to become a candidate for the COVID19 sample testing. The test will be carried-out with rapid antigen detection of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Your participation is valuable. For you, for your neighbor, for your own people, for all of us.
Find more information about how to participate in the sample testing procedure please visit testing.gov.gr (Information Available in Greek Only)
If a person becomes infected with the virus, they can develop symptoms that range from mild, such as the common cold, to very serious. As with other respiratory infections, infection of COVID-19 can cause mild symptoms, such as:
· Collapse
· Sore throat
· Fever
· Cough
Some people may have serious symptoms such as:
· Pneumonia
· Difficulty breathing
It rarely leads to death. Elderly and people with underlying diseases (such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease) are more susceptible to developing serious symptoms.
Volunteer For Free COVID-19 Testing
About 20,000 tests are performed daily by the public health system on people who have an increased chance of being exposed to the virus. The Greek government's goal is to significantly increase the number of tests by monitoring asymptomatic volunteers through the random selection of 12,000 citizens daily.
Your participation will give experts a better picture of the coronavirus in Greece and help contain its spread throughout the community. Fill in the following "COVID19 Free Test Application Form" to become a candidate for the COVID19 sample testing. The test will be carried-out with rapid antigen detection of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Your participation is valuable. For you, for your neighbor, for your own people, for all of us.
Find more information about how to participate in the sample testing procedure please visit testing.gov.gr (Information Available in Greek Only)
Important Notice from XpatAthens
It is important to remind our readers that XpatAthens is not in any way a media source. While we do our best to keep our readers informed, we advise you to consult Greek media outlets such as ekathimerini.com, amna.gr, naftemporiki.gr, and protothema.gr and/or international news sites for up-to-the-hour updates on the coronavirus. Be wise and stay safe.
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Sunday, 29 May 2022 11:45
Navarino Challenge Awarded As “Best Health & Wellness Event In Greece”
Amateur and professional athletes of all ages and abilities from Greece and abroad will participate in the top sports tourism event Navarino Challenge and celebrate its 10 years, on October 21-23, 2022, at Costa Navarino and Pylos.
Once again at the top of the 2022 Tourism Awards – with 45 awards in total!
With the recent addition of 3 more awards, Navarino Challenge reached 45 awards in total in its history. The event, in collaboration with Costa Navarino and the Municipality of Pylos-Nestor, won 3 Gold Awards at the leading institution in Greece which highlights the best and most innovative practices in tourism, the Tourism Awards 2022. At the same time, it remained as the only event that continues to be distinguished in this institution from its very first year. Navarino Challenge won the Gold Award in the “Health & Wellness Tourism” category for the implementation of top wellness activities in its program, the “Pet-friendly Environment” category for the pet-friendly strategy followed and implemented throughout last year’s event, enabling all people to take part with their pets in all activities and the “Storytelling Excellence” category for the successful dissemination of the event’s message “Sports Unites People” and the promotion of the region’s sports tourism around the world.
Watch here the video with the best highlights from last year and come this year to celebrate with us the 10 years of Navarino Challenge.
Run at the beach of Voidokilia
The most famous beach of Messinia -with its unique shape outlining the Greek letter omega (Ω)- and one of the most beautiful in the world, Voidokilia is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to test his strength in running. Navarino Challenge gives participants the opportunity to run in the top Greek Half-Marathon 21.1km, together with the Greek-American ultramarathon runner Konstantinos Dean Karnazes and cross the beautiful beach of Voidokilia. This is the only trail run that combines soil, sand and asphalt. At the same time, they can run the 10km route, or the fun 5km route Powered by Samsung, which can even be completed with dynamic walking. On the same day, the 1km children’s route will be held in two groups, for children 10-14 years old and kids up to 9 years of age.
Register in the running activities
Runners can take advantage of the early bird offers, which are valid until July 31st, featuring discounts higher than 50% on registrations. The children’s race is held with free participation. Register now by completing the available form through the following link.
Play in tennis, beach volley tournaments and golf and stay at Costa Navarino
Enjoy a weekend full of outdoor wellness activities for people of all ages. Book now the event’s accommodation package which is full of sports activities and includes half board. Live this year’s unique sports and cultural experience. For more information on accommodation packages at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino you may send your email to booking(at)navarinochallenge.com or call Vita N Travel at +30 210 3249070. Check the accommodation packages here.
Samsung Electronics Hellas supports the event for a 6th consecutive year as its Official Technology Partner.
Luanvi is the Official Sports Supplier.
Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino are the Official Hospitality Sponsors.
Poseidonia Restaurant and Karalis Beach Hotel are Navarino Challenge’s Official Supporters.
Pilia Express is the event’s Partner.
The event is assisted by Vita N Travel and Kayak.
Explore Messinia, FitnessArt, F45 Barrio Salamanca, Mouratoglou Tennis Center – Costa Navarino, Navarino Golf Academy, Navarino Outdoors, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim O’ Clock, Triantafyllidis Beach Arena, Vizantinos target sport club are Navarino Challenge’s Athletic Partners.
Navarino Challenge will take place under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, whose mission is the formulation of the tourism policy and the executive planning of the tourist development of Greece. The event has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2022 program of the European Commission and is held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.
The event is organized by ActiveMedia Group which is also responsible for the event’s Sports Production.
Photo credit: Angelos Zymaras
Photo credit: Angelos Zymaras
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Monday, 28 April 2025 12:48
Exploring Greece: 3 Unique Road Trips Along The Country’s Most Beautiful Rivers
Greece is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from sun-kissed islands to ancient ruins, but its rivers also offer some of the country’s most breathtaking natural beauty. Embarking on a road trip along Greece's rivers provides a unique opportunity to explore serene waters, lush green valleys, and charming villages.
Of course, no epic road trip is complete without the right set of wheels. Discover Cars makes renting a car in Greece easy and hassle-free, offering everything from rugged SUVs for mountain adventures to compact cars perfect for charming village streets. With competitive rates, flexible booking options, a network of top-rated local providers, and no hidden fees Discover Cars gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and with total confidence. Their platform also lets you easily compare prices and vehicle types, helping you find exactly what suits your trip. Having your own car means you can follow winding river roads, uncover hidden gems, and make spontaneous stops whenever a breathtaking view catches your eye. If you’re ready to turn your dream Greek road trip into reality, book your car today and hit the road the right way!
In the meantime, here are 3 unique Greek road trip ideas that take you through some of the country’s most picturesque river landscapes.
1. The Aoos River Route: From Metsovo to Konitsa
📍The stone bridge in Konitsa. 📷 @greece_islands
The Aoos River, flowing through the rugged Pindus mountain range, offers a captivating road trip through northwestern Greece. Start your journey in Metsovo, a charming mountain town known for its traditional architecture and local cheeses. From Metsovo, head towards the Zagori region, renowned for its picturesque villages and stunning stone bridges.
Of course, no epic road trip is complete without the right set of wheels. Discover Cars makes renting a car in Greece easy and hassle-free, offering everything from rugged SUVs for mountain adventures to compact cars perfect for charming village streets. With competitive rates, flexible booking options, a network of top-rated local providers, and no hidden fees Discover Cars gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and with total confidence. Their platform also lets you easily compare prices and vehicle types, helping you find exactly what suits your trip. Having your own car means you can follow winding river roads, uncover hidden gems, and make spontaneous stops whenever a breathtaking view catches your eye. If you’re ready to turn your dream Greek road trip into reality, book your car today and hit the road the right way!
In the meantime, here are 3 unique Greek road trip ideas that take you through some of the country’s most picturesque river landscapes.
1. The Aoos River Route: From Metsovo to Konitsa
📍The stone bridge in Konitsa. 📷 @greece_islands
The Aoos River, flowing through the rugged Pindus mountain range, offers a captivating road trip through northwestern Greece. Start your journey in Metsovo, a charming mountain town known for its traditional architecture and local cheeses. From Metsovo, head towards the Zagori region, renowned for its picturesque villages and stunning stone bridges.
- Metsovo: Explore this vibrant town with its rich history, local museums, and cozy tavernas. Don’t miss out on the traditional Metsovone cheese and local wines.
- Zagori Villages: Drive through the scenic Vikos-Aoos National Park, where you'll encounter the historic villages of the Zagori region. Each village is unique, with traditional stone houses and breathtaking views of the Aoos River Gorge. The most famous village, Vitsa, is known for its stone-paved streets and beautiful old mansions.
- Konitsa: Your journey ends in Konitsa, a town with an impressive stone bridge spanning the Aoos River. Enjoy the natural beauty and explore the nearby Voidomatis River, one of Greece’s cleanest rivers.
2. The Nestos River Adventure: From Kallithea to Komotini
📍Stena Nestou. 📷 @jenny_kann
The Nestos River, flowing through northeastern Greece, provides a scenic route through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to ancient ruins. Start in Kallithea, a small town with easy access to the river.
- Kallithea: Begin your trip by exploring the tranquil waters of the Nestos River. Enjoy activities like kayaking or take a relaxing walk along the riverbanks.
- Stena Nestou: A highlight of this route is Stena Nestou, the impressive gorge where the Nestos River carves its way through the landscape. The dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain create a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploring the area's natural beauty.
- Xanthi: Drive through the picturesque town of Xanthi, famous for its vibrant market and Ottoman-era architecture. The town’s old bazaar is a great place to sample local delicacies and shop for traditional crafts.
- Komotini: Continue to Komotini, known for its rich history and multicultural influences. Visit the local museum and explore the charming old town. The area around Komotini is also home to beautiful nature reserves and the river’s scenic landscapes.
📍Acheron River. 📷 @dafnou_
The Acheron River, steeped in mythology as the river of the dead in ancient Greek lore, offers a mystical road trip through northwestern Greece. Start in Glyki, a small village near the river.
- Glyki: Begin your adventure in Glyki, where the river’s crystal-clear waters are a highlight. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the river or take a boat ride to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
- Necromanteion of Acheron: Visit the ancient Necromanteion, an archaeological site dedicated to the ancient practice of necromancy. The site is located near the river and offers insights into ancient Greek rituals and beliefs.
- Parga: End your trip in the picturesque coastal town of Parga. With its beautiful beaches and charming harbor, Parga provides a perfect contrast to the river’s mystical and serene landscape. Enjoy the town’s vibrant nightlife and stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
These three road trips offer a unique way to experience Greece’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged mountains and lush valleys to the serene rivers and charming towns. Each route provides a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities, making them ideal for those looking to explore the lesser-known sides of Greece. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, these river routes offer something for every traveler.
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under