How to Make the Most of Your Trip

If you’re looking for last minute holidays in Greece with a camper, don’t worry – there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or indulging in delicious Greek cuisine, this itinerary has got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Greek adventure!

Athens: Start in Athens and explore the ancient city.

If you’re short on time and looking for a last-minute trip to Greece, starting in Athens is a great option. Spend a day or two exploring the ancient city, visiting the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and learning about the rich history of Greece.

The Acropolis Museum is a great way to learn more about that part of the history. It is an archaeological museum situated near the Acropolis. It is considered one of the most important museums in the country, dedicated to the ancient Greek civilization and specifically focused on the findings of the Acropolis archaeological site. The building itself is a modern architectural masterpiece. The contemporary design of glass and concrete aims to harmonize with the historic context of the Acropolis.  The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and sculptures dating back to the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods. The exhibits include statues, friezes, pottery, jewelry, and other archaeological treasures found on the Acropolis site and its slopes.   The centerpiece of the museum is the Parthenon Gallery, which displays the Parthenon Marbles, also known as the Elgin Marbles. These sculptures once adorned the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis. The gallery showcases the surviving frieze sections, metopes, and pediments, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the Parthenon’s history and significance.  One of the unique features of the museum is its glass floor, allowing visitors to observe the ongoing excavations below. As you walk over the transparent floor, you can glimpse the ancient ruins and archaeological remains, providing a fascinating insight into the layers of history beneath your feet.  The museum offers panoramic views of the Acropolis and its slopes. Through large windows and outdoor terraces, visitors can appreciate the close proximity to the iconic monuments and gain a better understanding of their original locations and context.

Take a walk through the charming Plaka neighborhood, where you can find traditional shops and tavernas serving up delicious Greek cuisine.  Monastiraki is also close and has a vibrant atmosphere. It is a lively neighborhood known for its flea market, traditional shops, and diverse culinary scene. Explore the Monastiraki Square, browse through antique shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the local tavernas.

Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle at the National Garden. Located behind the Greek Parliament, it offers a peaceful retreat with shady paths, beautiful flowers, and ponds. Visit the Zappeion building and the Botanical Museum located within the garden.

For breathtaking panoramic views of Athens, head to Mount Lycabettus. You can either hike up the hill or take a funicular railway to the top. Enjoy stunning vistas of the city, visit the Chapel of St. George, and savor a meal at the hilltop restaurant.

Dive into the local culinary scene by exploring the Athens Central Market, also known as Varvakeios Market. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, see an array of fresh produce, spices, meats, and fish, and try some traditional Greek delicacies.

There are plenty of places to try traditional Greek food while you’re here. Souvlaki and moussaka are delicious, but there is much more than that.  Athens is a food lover’s paradise.  Look for gemista (stuffed tomatoes and peppers with rice and sometimes minced meat), grilled sardines, fried gavros, pasta with octopus, eggplant salad, spanakopita (pie made with layers of phyllo pastry and a filling of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs), and dolmades (grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat). These are just a few suggestions.

After soaking up the culture and history of Athens, you can easily hop on a ferry or flight to one of the many beautiful islands Greece has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled trip, Greece has something for everyone. With its rich history, delicious food, and easy access to other destinations, Athens is the perfect starting point for any last-minute trip to Greece.

Kyklades: Head to the islands for some relaxation and beach time.

If you’re looking for a last-minute getaway to Greece, the islands are the perfect destination for some rest and relaxation. Santorini is a must-visit, with its iconic white-washed buildings and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Take a boat tour to explore the island’s volcanic landscape, or simply relax on one of its famous black sand beaches. Mykonos is another popular choice, known for its lively nightlife and picturesque windmills. But if you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, consider visiting the lesser-known island of Naxos. Here, you’ll find charming villages, secluded beaches, and a slower pace of life that’s perfect for unwinding. No matter which island you choose, you’re sure to find plenty of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Crete: Experience the local culture and cuisine in Crete.

Crete is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure. Walk through the narrow streets of Chania’s old town, where you’ll find colorful buildings, quaint shops, and charming cafes. Or, head to the ancient city of Knossos, where you can explore the ruins of the Minoan civilization. And of course, no trip to Crete is complete without a visit to one of the island’s many beaches. From the secluded coves of Elafonisi to the lively shores of Agia Marina, there’s a beach for every taste.

This beautiful island offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. But perhaps the best part of Crete is its cuisine. Sample local specialties like dakos, a traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusk, tomatoes, and feta cheese, or kalitsounia, savory pastries filled with herbs and cheese. Start your day with a traditional Greek breakfast of yogurt, honey, and fresh fruit, then head out to explore the island’s charming villages and ancient ruins. In the evening, indulge in a seafood feast at a local taverna, paired with a glass of crisp white wine. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the local delicacy of snails cooked in a tomato sauce. And don’t forget to try the island’s famous olive oil, which is considered some of the best in the world. 

With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and delicious food, Crete is the perfect destination for a last-minute getaway.

Halkidiki: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos.

Last minute trips to Greece’s Halkidiki region offer an excellent opportunity to explore the stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage of this peninsula. Halkidiki, also known as Chalkidiki, is located in Northern Greece and consists of three distinct “fingers” or peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos.

Halkidiki boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Kassandra Peninsula, with its lively beach resorts, offers sandy beaches with beach bars and water sports facilities. Sithonia Peninsula is known for its more secluded and pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and solitude.

Mount Athos, located on the easternmost peninsula of Halkidiki, is a unique monastic community and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to 20 Eastern Orthodox monasteries, where only male visitors are allowed. The area’s natural beauty, rich history, and spiritual ambiance make it a captivating destination.

Village of Afytos: This picturesque village in Kassandra Peninsula is known for its charming stone houses, narrow streets, and traditional tavernas. Explore its cobbled pathways, enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, and savor delicious local cuisine.

Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to discover the hidden coves, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters of Halkidiki’s coastline. Many tour operators offer day trips or half-day excursions to explore the region’s breathtaking shoreline.

About archaeological sites, visit the ancient site of Olynthos, located near the town of Polygyros in Halkidiki. Olynthos was once an important city-state in ancient Greece and offers well-preserved ruins to explore, including houses, streets, and a central marketplace.

Indulge in the local culinary delights of Halkidiki. Try fresh seafood, grilled meats, local cheeses, and traditional Greek dishes.  Don’t forget to sample the region’s famous olives and olive oil, which are renowned for their quality.

Whether you seek relaxation on beautiful beaches, exploration of ancient history, or indulgence in delicious Greek cuisine, Halkidiki offers a diverse range of experiences that will make your last-minute trip to Greece a memorable one.

Thessaloniki: End your trip with a visit to the historic city of Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Visit the White Tower, a symbol of the city, and explore the Archaeological Museum to learn about the city’s ancient past. Along with the Archaeological Museum, you can pay a visit to the Byzantine Museum, which is very close. Make your way to Ano Poli neighborhood, with its narrow streets and traditional houses, and enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea from the Byzantine walls. And of course, no visit to Thessaloniki is complete without trying some of the city’s famous street food, like the savory bougatsa pastry or the sweet koulouri bread.