The roads less travelled

Day 1 – Arrival in Thessaloniki

Arrive at Thessaloniki International Airport, collect your rental car and drive to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace. Walk along the waterfront and White Tower, discover the colourful city-centre neighbourhoods, and enjoy your first dinner at a traditional restaurant. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 2 – Thessaloniki to Meteora

Approx. driving time: 3 hours

The journey begins south-west towards Central Greece, stopping along the way in small towns, local cafés and scenic viewpoints. As the landscape changes, the spectacular rock formations of Meteora come into view. Drive between the towering rock pillars before arriving in Kalambaka or Kastraki. Before sunset, find a panoramic viewpoint and watch the sun disappear behind this extraordinary landscape. Overnight in Meteora.

Day 3 – Meteora to Tzoumerka

Morning exploring of Meteora, following the scenic road between the monasteries and visiting selected monasteries built high on the rocks. Continue west towards the mountains of Epirus, where the scenery becomes increasingly remote and dramatic. Enter the Tzoumerka Mountains, passing forests, gorges and traditional mountain villages. Arrive near Pramanta and settle into a traditional guesthouse. Enjoy an evening meal featuring local Epirus products and recipes. Overnight in Tzoumerka.

Day 4 – Exploring Tzoumerka

Spend the day exploring Tzoumerka's spectacular mountain roads. Suggested stops include Pramanta, Kipina Monastery, built into a vertical rock face, and the picturesque stone villages of Kalarrites and Syrrako. Stop for coffee in a village square, photograph an old stone bridge or simply enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery. Optional activities include a short nature walk or rafting on the Arachthos River. Overnight in Tzoumerka.

Day 5 – Tzoumerka to Zagori

Cross an increasingly wild landscape of forests, rivers and mountains towards Zagori, one of mainland Greece's most beautiful regions. Stop at traditional bridges, viewpoints and villages before reaching Monodendri, known for its stone houses and cobbled lanes. Continue to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Vikos Gorge, surrounded by historic Zagori villages such as Vikos, Papigo, Aristi, Vitsa and Kapesovo. Enjoy dinner in a local taverna with regional dishes and wine. Overnight in a traditional stone guesthouse in Zagori.

Day 6 – The Villages of Zagori

Follow winding mountain roads through Monodendri – Vitsa – Kapesovo – Aristi – Papigo, discovering traditional stone bridges, villages, slate-roofed houses and cobbled streets. Continue to Papigo via a spectacular mountain road with views towards the Towers of Astraka. Explore Megalo Papigo and Mikro Papigo on foot, with an optional short walk to the natural rock pools between the villages. Enjoy lunch in a traditional taverna before returning through the mountains, stopping at viewpoints along the way. Overnight in Zagori.

Day 7 – Zagori to Ioannina

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Zagori before driving to Ioannina and the shores of Lake Pamvotida. Discover the historic fortified old town and its narrow streets, reflecting the city's rich multicultural heritage. Take an optional boat ride on the lake or enjoy a lakeside walk before dinner. End the journey with traditional Epirus cuisine at a local restaurant. Overnight in Ioannina.

Day 8 – Departure

Drive to Thessaloniki Airport for your departure

Included sevices:

Car rental
Accommodation
Program Suggestions

Recommended travel period:

All year

Excluded services:

Gas
Meals
Personal Expenses

Image Source: LCC GreeceontheGo
Image Source: LCC GreeceontheGo
Image Source: LCC GreeceontheGo
Image Source: LCC GreeceontheGo