Hi there, we're planning to spend a few days in Corfu and then a week in the surrounding area, and we were wondering if southern Albania is worth visiting. Could we explore it in a week from Corfu?
Thanks
Hi! We’d like to go away for 10 days around May 15th, either to Menorca or Crete—we don’t know either place. We love hiking, unspoiled nature, good food, swimming, and, if possible, avoiding crowds. We enjoy getting off the beaten track. Menorca seems ideal because it’s not far by plane from Lyon, but if Crete is really wilder and more beautiful in terms of landscapes, we can add an extra hour of flight time. Can you help us out? Thanks!
Hi there,
we’re heading to Crete from May 8th to 15th, staying at a hotel in Agia Pelagia, 20 km from Heraklion, on half-board, so we’ll be back every evening. What daily itinerary would you recommend? We love hiking and discovering local cultures...
Thanks in advance!!
We’ve only been to Crete in Greece before, so this trip is new to us—but planning the itinerary isn’t easy because we have to make choices. We’d love to hear from those in the know about the following plan:
Day 1: flight to Athens, then flight to Milos
3 days in Milos,
4 days in Sifnos,
3 days in Paros,
Final 3 days in Athens.
Should we book ferry tickets between the islands in March in advance, or can we wait until the last minute?
Same question for accommodations on these different islands.
Finally, on the 3 islands we’ve chosen, is renting a car essential, or are the buses enough?
Thanks for your help!
Hi everyone,
Here’s a little account of our two-week family trip (with two boys aged 7 and 10) to Corfu. I hope it helps other travelers! We chose Corfu because there are direct flights from Paris, and we were looking for a destination where it’d be easy to swim with the kids. We were there from August 14 to 28.
Since I wasn’t sure about the distances and had read quite a bit about Greek driving and the state of the roads, I decided to split the trip into three parts: Corfu Town, the North, and the South.
Corfu Town (3 nights) Day 1: We landed in the late afternoon. Booked three nights via Booking on the edge of the old town (Sueno Garden Apartment), which is walkable from the airport—no need to rent a car for the first few days or stay in Corfu Town. First evening in the old town, dinner at Pane e Souvlaki on Dimarchiou Square. Touristy, but good vibes.
Day 2: Visited the Old Fort. Nice for the Church of St. George, which looks like an ancient Greek temple, and especially for the 360° view from the top. By 11 a.m., the sun was already beating down. Left the fort and strolled through the People’s Gardens. Lunch at Mouragia a bit further away, then backtracked to let the kids swim at Faliraki Bathing Beach.
Day 3: We took bus line 2A from Spinada (in front of the Old Fort) to the end of the runway (stop ΚΑΛΟΚΑΙΡΙ Ε). Poorly signposted when you’re at the top—you have to go down via the bar. Not well set up, which is a shame. The Panagia Vlacherna Monastery is pretty on its little island, but don’t turn around—the landings are impressive. Returned via the 2A with a stop at Mon Repos Beach, where the kids loved jumping off the pier.
North (6 nights) Day 4: Headed to Sidari, rented a small Fiat Panda from Europcar—no issues with this rental company (I booked late, so it’s probably possible to find cheaper). We’d also booked via Booking at Blue Dreams Apartment, just south of Sidari. A family-run hotel with a nice pool, we had a great stay (it’s just been taken over by Belgians who speak French). We wandered around Sidari to the Canal d’Amour. Not easy to access—you have to walk through all the bars, and the tiny beach is pretty dirty. Still, it’s fun for a swim and exploring the cave.
Day 5: Quick breakfast to be at Cap Drastis by 9 a.m. Parked at the top, but there’s very little space (we couldn’t park on the way back), and it’s a dirt road. The signs saying “To the sea” actually lead to a boat dock for a cape tour. You only see the cape from above, not below. A bit of a letdown, but since it was early and no one was down there yet, we treated ourselves to a quick swim. Brunch back in Sidari at Eviva—I recommend it: not Greek at all, but high quality. Agios Stefanos in the late afternoon after the heat. The port is awful (dirty and uninteresting), but there’s a swimming spot just before the beach, near the old port (park above, by the church). No one was there—great moment with the kids.
Day 6: Left around 9 a.m. for Mount Pantokrator. A bit of a climb at the end in the Fiat Panda—it’s steep! The road is long, but I think it’s worth it for the lunar landscape at the top, the monastery-antenna, and the 360° view. Then down to Kassiopi (we paid 5 euros for the Kassiopi Car Park—I think it’s the best option, as there’s no big free parking like in Sidari) and a swim at Paralia Mpataria (small but nice). Really relaxing in the late afternoon. Walked around the peninsula and saw several dolphin pods with amazing jumps. Unforgettable. Kassiopi is more family-friendly than Sidari and has more charm (Sidari has none, so that’s easy!).
Day 7: Morning off at the hotel, then afternoon at Paralia Kalamaki for the inflatable playground the kids had spotted on the way back from Kassiopi. 10 euros per person for an hour, not many people around 4 p.m., and we had a blast. Shallow sandy beach. Not much marine life, but safe for young kids. Note: free freshwater shower. Dinner at Nikos Family Restaurant in Roda. Great welcome and atmosphere. The stifado and soutzoukakia were delicious, and the Greek desserts were amazing too. Next door, at Roda Park restaurant, there was a Greek party with traditional dancing and plaster plate-smashing. Even though we didn’t eat there, everyone was invited to join in the street—it was fun. Probably touristy, but pretty spontaneous, and it was a good time.
Day 8: I’d booked two dives in Paleokastritsa with Achilleon Diving Center, directly via WhatsApp. Great international vibe, two easy but interesting dives (a barracuda school and a “cow” nudibranch at Colovri Reefs, cool crevasses and holes at Donald’s Place). In the afternoon, we visited the Paleokastritsa Monastery (well-maintained, pretty nice) and spent some time at the beach (very crowded).
Day 9: Day off—we enjoyed the hotel pool and went to Olea next door to buy a small olive wood souvenir. Note that the old man who works the wood doesn’t have many fingers left…
South (5 nights) Day 10: Headed to Lefkimmi. Stopped at Achilleion on the way. I knew from reviews that only the gardens were accessible, but I think it’s worth it, even at 7 euros. We passed by the French military cemetery nearby (nothing special, poorly signposted but quiet and peaceful) and ate at Elia Tavern right next door: super good, best calamari of the trip. We’d booked our accommodation at Villa Rosa South Corfu, a bit outside Lefkimmi, near Alikes. Pretty isolated, but the beach is a 3-minute walk away, right next to the old salt pans. On the way, we saw a poster (use Google Lens to translate) for a local festival near Linia. We went that evening: barbecue, concert, and local dancing. Lots of people, but only locals—it was a great time.
Day 11: Short “hike” to Arkoudilas. We parked at the exit of Kavos, just before The Rose Tree restaurant. Some people drive all the way to the beach, but it’s very rocky. We followed the “Monastery” path to see Cape Asprokavos and the ruins of the monastery nearby. To avoid backtracking, we continued through the woods after the monastery to reach Arkoudilas Beach. Nice shaded walk, but dusty road. Dinner at Agali on the Potami Canal (friendly family vibe, but long wait).
Day 12: Boat trip to Sivota with Pegasus. A wooden boat, human-sized. Crowded, but not cramped. Two swimming stops (Blue Lagoon in the morning and a beach in the afternoon) and a 2-hour stop at noon in Sivota. We knew it’d be touristy, but the vibe was good, with some dancing on the way back. Not too many people at the swimming stops.
Day 13: Kouris Museum in Lefkimmi. Okay, don’t go for the history—the guide cracks more jokes than gives rational explanations. Still, we laughed a lot and had a great time. Lunch at The Village on the main road: very fresh, very good. Perfect homemade dip platter. Not the best location since it’s right on the road, but it’s worth it. Free ice cream for the kids, super-friendly owner. Fresh ratatouille (finally, some veggies!). Afternoon at Paralia Issos. View of Korission Lagoon and a walk through the sand dunes, a bit like the Sahara in places (hard to do before 5 p.m., even 6 p.m., because of the heat).
Day 14: I’d booked a visit/tasting at Pontiglio Winery. Short tour of the small site and tasting of the 4 wines produced there: 2 whites, 1 red, 1 rosé. Fresh homemade snacks, fruit for the kids, great welcome. Then to Paralia Kanoula Beach. Mikro Nisi Bar, sunbeds at 20 euros—expensive. But a nice beach with some rocks, so a bit of marine life. We saw octopuses while snorkeling with the kids—great moment.
Honest take on Corfu The island is dirty—not just at the garbage sites, which aren’t collected often enough and overflow constantly, but everywhere. Not a single square meter without cigarette butts, even if you get off the main paths. Stray cats everywhere, wasps everywhere, sewage smells often.
The natural heritage is stunning but ruined by private encroachment on the coastline. Bars and restaurants take over the land right up to the sea. I’d only been to Santorini and Paros about ten years ago, and I don’t remember it being like this at all. Maybe the Cyclades are different now. From talking to a few tourists here and there, it seems Crete is better managed. We still had a good vacation, even if it was sometimes hard to overlook the dirtiness.
Here’s a little account of our two-week family trip (with two boys aged 7 and 10) to Corfu. I hope it helps other travelers! We chose Corfu because there are direct flights from Paris, and we were looking for a destination where it’d be easy to swim with the kids. We were there from August 14 to 28.
Since I wasn’t sure about the distances and had read quite a bit about Greek driving and the state of the roads, I decided to split the trip into three parts: Corfu Town, the North, and the South.
Corfu Town (3 nights) Day 1: We landed in the late afternoon. Booked three nights via Booking on the edge of the old town (Sueno Garden Apartment), which is walkable from the airport—no need to rent a car for the first few days or stay in Corfu Town. First evening in the old town, dinner at Pane e Souvlaki on Dimarchiou Square. Touristy, but good vibes.
Day 2: Visited the Old Fort. Nice for the Church of St. George, which looks like an ancient Greek temple, and especially for the 360° view from the top. By 11 a.m., the sun was already beating down. Left the fort and strolled through the People’s Gardens. Lunch at Mouragia a bit further away, then backtracked to let the kids swim at Faliraki Bathing Beach.
Day 3: We took bus line 2A from Spinada (in front of the Old Fort) to the end of the runway (stop ΚΑΛΟΚΑΙΡΙ Ε). Poorly signposted when you’re at the top—you have to go down via the bar. Not well set up, which is a shame. The Panagia Vlacherna Monastery is pretty on its little island, but don’t turn around—the landings are impressive. Returned via the 2A with a stop at Mon Repos Beach, where the kids loved jumping off the pier.
North (6 nights) Day 4: Headed to Sidari, rented a small Fiat Panda from Europcar—no issues with this rental company (I booked late, so it’s probably possible to find cheaper). We’d also booked via Booking at Blue Dreams Apartment, just south of Sidari. A family-run hotel with a nice pool, we had a great stay (it’s just been taken over by Belgians who speak French). We wandered around Sidari to the Canal d’Amour. Not easy to access—you have to walk through all the bars, and the tiny beach is pretty dirty. Still, it’s fun for a swim and exploring the cave.
Day 5: Quick breakfast to be at Cap Drastis by 9 a.m. Parked at the top, but there’s very little space (we couldn’t park on the way back), and it’s a dirt road. The signs saying “To the sea” actually lead to a boat dock for a cape tour. You only see the cape from above, not below. A bit of a letdown, but since it was early and no one was down there yet, we treated ourselves to a quick swim. Brunch back in Sidari at Eviva—I recommend it: not Greek at all, but high quality. Agios Stefanos in the late afternoon after the heat. The port is awful (dirty and uninteresting), but there’s a swimming spot just before the beach, near the old port (park above, by the church). No one was there—great moment with the kids.
Day 6: Left around 9 a.m. for Mount Pantokrator. A bit of a climb at the end in the Fiat Panda—it’s steep! The road is long, but I think it’s worth it for the lunar landscape at the top, the monastery-antenna, and the 360° view. Then down to Kassiopi (we paid 5 euros for the Kassiopi Car Park—I think it’s the best option, as there’s no big free parking like in Sidari) and a swim at Paralia Mpataria (small but nice). Really relaxing in the late afternoon. Walked around the peninsula and saw several dolphin pods with amazing jumps. Unforgettable. Kassiopi is more family-friendly than Sidari and has more charm (Sidari has none, so that’s easy!).
Day 7: Morning off at the hotel, then afternoon at Paralia Kalamaki for the inflatable playground the kids had spotted on the way back from Kassiopi. 10 euros per person for an hour, not many people around 4 p.m., and we had a blast. Shallow sandy beach. Not much marine life, but safe for young kids. Note: free freshwater shower. Dinner at Nikos Family Restaurant in Roda. Great welcome and atmosphere. The stifado and soutzoukakia were delicious, and the Greek desserts were amazing too. Next door, at Roda Park restaurant, there was a Greek party with traditional dancing and plaster plate-smashing. Even though we didn’t eat there, everyone was invited to join in the street—it was fun. Probably touristy, but pretty spontaneous, and it was a good time.
Day 8: I’d booked two dives in Paleokastritsa with Achilleon Diving Center, directly via WhatsApp. Great international vibe, two easy but interesting dives (a barracuda school and a “cow” nudibranch at Colovri Reefs, cool crevasses and holes at Donald’s Place). In the afternoon, we visited the Paleokastritsa Monastery (well-maintained, pretty nice) and spent some time at the beach (very crowded).
Day 9: Day off—we enjoyed the hotel pool and went to Olea next door to buy a small olive wood souvenir. Note that the old man who works the wood doesn’t have many fingers left…
South (5 nights) Day 10: Headed to Lefkimmi. Stopped at Achilleion on the way. I knew from reviews that only the gardens were accessible, but I think it’s worth it, even at 7 euros. We passed by the French military cemetery nearby (nothing special, poorly signposted but quiet and peaceful) and ate at Elia Tavern right next door: super good, best calamari of the trip. We’d booked our accommodation at Villa Rosa South Corfu, a bit outside Lefkimmi, near Alikes. Pretty isolated, but the beach is a 3-minute walk away, right next to the old salt pans. On the way, we saw a poster (use Google Lens to translate) for a local festival near Linia. We went that evening: barbecue, concert, and local dancing. Lots of people, but only locals—it was a great time.
Day 11: Short “hike” to Arkoudilas. We parked at the exit of Kavos, just before The Rose Tree restaurant. Some people drive all the way to the beach, but it’s very rocky. We followed the “Monastery” path to see Cape Asprokavos and the ruins of the monastery nearby. To avoid backtracking, we continued through the woods after the monastery to reach Arkoudilas Beach. Nice shaded walk, but dusty road. Dinner at Agali on the Potami Canal (friendly family vibe, but long wait).
Day 12: Boat trip to Sivota with Pegasus. A wooden boat, human-sized. Crowded, but not cramped. Two swimming stops (Blue Lagoon in the morning and a beach in the afternoon) and a 2-hour stop at noon in Sivota. We knew it’d be touristy, but the vibe was good, with some dancing on the way back. Not too many people at the swimming stops.
Day 13: Kouris Museum in Lefkimmi. Okay, don’t go for the history—the guide cracks more jokes than gives rational explanations. Still, we laughed a lot and had a great time. Lunch at The Village on the main road: very fresh, very good. Perfect homemade dip platter. Not the best location since it’s right on the road, but it’s worth it. Free ice cream for the kids, super-friendly owner. Fresh ratatouille (finally, some veggies!). Afternoon at Paralia Issos. View of Korission Lagoon and a walk through the sand dunes, a bit like the Sahara in places (hard to do before 5 p.m., even 6 p.m., because of the heat).
Day 14: I’d booked a visit/tasting at Pontiglio Winery. Short tour of the small site and tasting of the 4 wines produced there: 2 whites, 1 red, 1 rosé. Fresh homemade snacks, fruit for the kids, great welcome. Then to Paralia Kanoula Beach. Mikro Nisi Bar, sunbeds at 20 euros—expensive. But a nice beach with some rocks, so a bit of marine life. We saw octopuses while snorkeling with the kids—great moment.
Honest take on Corfu The island is dirty—not just at the garbage sites, which aren’t collected often enough and overflow constantly, but everywhere. Not a single square meter without cigarette butts, even if you get off the main paths. Stray cats everywhere, wasps everywhere, sewage smells often.
The natural heritage is stunning but ruined by private encroachment on the coastline. Bars and restaurants take over the land right up to the sea. I’d only been to Santorini and Paros about ten years ago, and I don’t remember it being like this at all. Maybe the Cyclades are different now. From talking to a few tourists here and there, it seems Crete is better managed. We still had a good vacation, even if it was sometimes hard to overlook the dirtiness.
Hi everyone,
I’m planning my first trip to Greece from October 29th to November 23rd and I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions on the itinerary I’m considering. For a first visit, I’ll definitely cover the traditional tourist route, but I’m also open to off-the-beaten-path ideas. I’m curious and interested in history, archaeological sites, and the islands—more for culture than beaches, anyway, especially in November!
Here’s the plan: 3–4 days in Athens, 2 days in Nafplio: visiting Epidaurus and Mycenae, Stop in Olympia on the way to Delphi via Patras by bus? To avoid backtracking to Athens; 2 days in Delphi, including the site and Mount Parnassus, Explore the Ionian coast and a few islands? A few days in Corfu, 3 days in Meteora, 2–3 days in Thessaloniki, Direct flight from Thessaloniki to Heraklion, Crete, 3–4 days in Crete, November 22nd–23rd: overnight ferry back to Athens to catch my return flight to Montreal.
You’ve probably guessed I’m traveling solo. It might seem a bit scattered right now—I’ve started reading up on Greece, and there are must-see spots. What feels unclear are the 4–5 days between Delphi and Corfu. Also, mid-November in the islands might not be ideal if the weather’s bad.
Is Corfu worth it? Maybe there are other options—like a few days in Albania? Just throwing the idea out there.
Thanks for your input! I’d love to hear about your experiences to help enrich my upcoming trip.
Here’s the plan: 3–4 days in Athens, 2 days in Nafplio: visiting Epidaurus and Mycenae, Stop in Olympia on the way to Delphi via Patras by bus? To avoid backtracking to Athens; 2 days in Delphi, including the site and Mount Parnassus, Explore the Ionian coast and a few islands? A few days in Corfu, 3 days in Meteora, 2–3 days in Thessaloniki, Direct flight from Thessaloniki to Heraklion, Crete, 3–4 days in Crete, November 22nd–23rd: overnight ferry back to Athens to catch my return flight to Montreal.
You’ve probably guessed I’m traveling solo. It might seem a bit scattered right now—I’ve started reading up on Greece, and there are must-see spots. What feels unclear are the 4–5 days between Delphi and Corfu. Also, mid-November in the islands might not be ideal if the weather’s bad.
Is Corfu worth it? Maybe there are other options—like a few days in Albania? Just throwing the idea out there.
Thanks for your input! I’d love to hear about your experiences to help enrich my upcoming trip.
HELLO!
For a trip to the Cyclades in early May (1st–18th), we’re planning to visit Naxos, Amorgos, and finish on Paros to catch a flight back to Athens.
I was wondering if we need to book the ferries now or if we can wait a bit... also, for car rental, can we book on the spot?
For accommodations, our bookings are done except for Paros... any suggestions for good value-for-money options?
Also, any other tips about our route or anything else would be super welcome!!!
Thanks in advance from Quebec! 🙂
Christine
For a trip to the Cyclades in early May (1st–18th), we’re planning to visit Naxos, Amorgos, and finish on Paros to catch a flight back to Athens.
I was wondering if we need to book the ferries now or if we can wait a bit... also, for car rental, can we book on the spot?
For accommodations, our bookings are done except for Paros... any suggestions for good value-for-money options?
Also, any other tips about our route or anything else would be super welcome!!!
Thanks in advance from Quebec! 🙂
Christine
Hello,
We’ve finally decided on which Cycladic island to visit...
My partner and I are planning our first trip to Greece for June 2025. We’re leaving France for 15 days.
Here’s our itinerary, and I’d love your feedback on whether it’s doable, plus any other suggestions...
Arrival in Athens for 2 nights =
- Visiting the Acropolis, Parthenon, Theatre of Dionysus, Archaeological Museum, Syntagma Square for the changing of the guard, and strolling through the Plaka neighborhood...
4 nights in Nafplio
- To explore the town of Nafplio, the Theatre of Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Olympia
Then off to Milos for 7/8 nights (it was so hard to pick just one island). I’m considering flying from Athens with Olympic Air.
Is it worth doing a guided tour of the Acropolis or the other sites?
I’m open to all your tips.
Thanks so much.
Hi there.
I’m looking for feedback from travelers or tips from locals on how to get around the islands. There are four of us—two teens—and my partner isn’t super comfortable riding a scooter. So, should we rent a car? By the day or for 4 days on each island we’re visiting (Tinos, Paros, Syros)? Is it possible to rent e-bikes? Is that a good idea?
Thanks for your input!
Tom
I’m looking for feedback from travelers or tips from locals on how to get around the islands. There are four of us—two teens—and my partner isn’t super comfortable riding a scooter. So, should we rent a car? By the day or for 4 days on each island we’re visiting (Tinos, Paros, Syros)? Is it possible to rent e-bikes? Is that a good idea?
Thanks for your input!
Tom
Hi there,
The least we can say is that neither the internet nor guidebooks are overflowing with info on Thrace, this region in the far northeast of Greece (part of which is also in Bulgaria and Turkey). Needless to say, if anyone’s already visited this "eastern" Greece, I’d love to hear ANY tips about it. I’m planning to spend 4 or 5 days there next May, with a rental car. The distances seem pretty big, and I don’t want to rack up too many kilometers at the risk of being a bit disappointed—especially, what do you think of the Evros Valley, near the Turkish border?
Thanks in advance.
Hi there,
We’re planning to visit Crete during the second half of May and rent a car.
A knee issue means we can’t do any hiking anymore, just leisurely walks.
Is it realistic to explore the whole island by basing ourselves in two spots—one in the east and one in the west?
Could you recommend some nice places to stay that aren’t tourist factories?
Thanks in advance for your help with my questions.
Best regards.
Hi there,
We’re heading to Greece this summer and will be stopping in Nafplio for 3 days. We’d love to visit Epidaurus and Mycenae, but we don’t have a way to get around. We checked the KTEL Argolida website, but couldn’t figure out the right stops or schedules. Is it possible to do a round trip from Nafplio to Epidaurus in one day, as well as Nafplio to Mycenae? If not, are there any cheap alternative options?
Thanks in advance for your tips!
We’re heading to Greece this summer and will be stopping in Nafplio for 3 days. We’d love to visit Epidaurus and Mycenae, but we don’t have a way to get around. We checked the KTEL Argolida website, but couldn’t figure out the right stops or schedules. Is it possible to do a round trip from Nafplio to Epidaurus in one day, as well as Nafplio to Mycenae? If not, are there any cheap alternative options?
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi there.
I’m planning a family trip to Greece in July for 7/8 days. There are two adults and I have three daughters aged 12, 4, and 2. 1. Which islands would you recommend for a total budget of 3000 €? For activities, we’re looking for beaches, short walks, and other kid-friendly options. 2. Is it better to go all-inclusive or book flights, hotels, and meals separately? Thanks
I’m planning a family trip to Greece in July for 7/8 days. There are two adults and I have three daughters aged 12, 4, and 2. 1. Which islands would you recommend for a total budget of 3000 €? For activities, we’re looking for beaches, short walks, and other kid-friendly options. 2. Is it better to go all-inclusive or book flights, hotels, and meals separately? Thanks
Hi there,
I’m reaching out for some help planning a short trip to Greece at the end of April with my dad.
We’ll be staying for 7 days, flying in and out of Athens, where we’ll rent a car.
After quite a bit of research, we’ve decided to explore the Peloponnese, which we don’t know at all.
We’ve read that basing ourselves in Nafplio for a few nights and then in Gytheio would be a good way to organize our visits.
Here are the main spots we’ve noted so far: Corinth (just the canal, as the rest seems to have little interest based on what we’ve read), Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio, Monemvasia, and Mystras.
Could you help us figure out the best route to take?
Are there other places worth considering given the time we have?
Thanks so much in advance for your help!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Pelion with my partner and then to Chalkidiki around mid-September (from September 12th to 26th). I arrive in Thessaloniki on Saturday evening and plan to spend a day there to check out the market (though it’s marked as temporarily closed on Google??) and, most importantly, enjoy the local food scene.
After that, I’ll head toward Meteora (Sunday evening/Monday), spend a week in Pelion, and then head up to Nikiti to finish the trip (5 days in Vourvourou) and explore the beaches of Sithonia. We’ll also make a trip to Afytos since I think it’s worth the detour.
About Pelion, I’m really not sure where to stay because the distances between Volos and Afissos aren’t straightforward.
I’m looking for a quiet spot but with a little evening activity—like strolling through a village or by the sea. I’ve seen a few suggestions via ChatGPT, but I’m not convinced about the vibe (Milies, Makrinitsa).
Volos is big… but kind of ugly.
We love hiking, spending time in picturesque/typical villages, and, like everyone else, tasting local specialties. As for balancing the trip, I’m open to changes or adjustments if you’ve got any tips—I’d love to hear them, along with any other ideas.
I’m heading to Pelion with my partner and then to Chalkidiki around mid-September (from September 12th to 26th). I arrive in Thessaloniki on Saturday evening and plan to spend a day there to check out the market (though it’s marked as temporarily closed on Google??) and, most importantly, enjoy the local food scene.
After that, I’ll head toward Meteora (Sunday evening/Monday), spend a week in Pelion, and then head up to Nikiti to finish the trip (5 days in Vourvourou) and explore the beaches of Sithonia. We’ll also make a trip to Afytos since I think it’s worth the detour.
About Pelion, I’m really not sure where to stay because the distances between Volos and Afissos aren’t straightforward.
I’m looking for a quiet spot but with a little evening activity—like strolling through a village or by the sea. I’ve seen a few suggestions via ChatGPT, but I’m not convinced about the vibe (Milies, Makrinitsa).
Volos is big… but kind of ugly.
We love hiking, spending time in picturesque/typical villages, and, like everyone else, tasting local specialties. As for balancing the trip, I’m open to changes or adjustments if you’ve got any tips—I’d love to hear them, along with any other ideas.
Hi there,
My wife and I are heading to Santorini from October 11th to 18th (it’s her birthday gift). I’ll admit I’m torn between spending the full 7 days on Santorini or combining it with another island (I was thinking Milos) for 2 or 3 days. Since the ferry schedules aren’t announced yet for October, it’s hard to plan ahead.
Do you think 7 days on Santorini is too much, or is splitting 7 days between 2 islands too short? Any other destinations worth considering?
Thanks in advance
My wife and I are heading to Santorini from October 11th to 18th (it’s her birthday gift). I’ll admit I’m torn between spending the full 7 days on Santorini or combining it with another island (I was thinking Milos) for 2 or 3 days. Since the ferry schedules aren’t announced yet for October, it’s hard to plan ahead.
Do you think 7 days on Santorini is too much, or is splitting 7 days between 2 islands too short? Any other destinations worth considering?
Thanks in advance
Hi there.
I’m planning a 4-day trip to Syros at the end of July. Any great tips or recommendations for a place to stay on the island? We’re a family of 4 with two teens (13 and 15).
Thanks!
Tom
I’m planning a 4-day trip to Syros at the end of July. Any great tips or recommendations for a place to stay on the island? We’re a family of 4 with two teens (13 and 15).
Thanks!
Tom
Hi there! We're heading to Athens in April 2026 with our three kids (ages 7 to 14). We won’t be renting a car and plan to stay in Athens the whole time. What do you think of this itinerary?
- Day 1: Arrival and first stroll around Athens (Anafiotika, Monastiraki, Psiri, Areopagus Hill)
- Day 2: Acropolis (+ museum?), Plaka, Koukaki or Filopappou depending on how we feel
- Day 3: Day trip to Hydra, overnight in Aegina
- Day 4: Aegina
- Day 5: Changing of the Guard, National Garden, Lycabettus Hill, Panathenaic Stadium, Plaka
- Day 6: Organized Peloponnese excursion
- Day 7: Athens Riviera, relaxed pace
- Day 8: Organized Delphi excursion
- Day 9: Departure
Thanks in advance! ☀️☀️☀️
Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Corfu (Greece) and want to rent a car to explore the island. I’ve heard that you can’t rent a car after a certain age—I’m 81. What do you all think?
Hi,
I’m renting a car in Greece (Heraklion).
Should I get extra insurance?
What’s driving like with the Greeks?
Thanks for any tips!
hi,
I'm looking to rent a small car, not too expensive, for Crete in April. Do you have any great tips? Thanks in advance! Best regards
I'm looking to rent a small car, not too expensive, for Crete in April. Do you have any great tips? Thanks in advance! Best regards
Hi there!
We’re heading to Crete (Heraklion) as a couple and I’d like to rent a car.
1) Do we need an international driver’s permit?
2) Are rentals super expensive?
Thanks everyone!
Hi everyone on the travel forum.
We’re heading to the Cyclades on May 15th for about a month and we’re debating whether to rent a car on each of the islands we’re visiting. Naxos, Andros, Tinos, Paros, and Santorini—we’ll be staying around 5 days on each. Everything’s booked except for the potential car rental. In your opinion, is it essential, or are public transport options good enough for all or some of these islands? Which companies are the most reliable, and which ones should we avoid (we’ve already had bad experiences with companies that weren’t always very professional). Thanks for your advice!
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Greece next February, flying in and out of Athens. The itinerary isn’t set yet (but it’s my first time, so I’ll hit the *must-sees*), but one thing’s for sure—we’re renting a car.
Any rental companies you’d recommend? Local agencies are usually cheaper than the big names (Avis, Europcar, etc.), but you’ve got to know which ones are reliable...
Thanks in advance for your tips! ;)
I’m planning a trip to Greece next February, flying in and out of Athens. The itinerary isn’t set yet (but it’s my first time, so I’ll hit the *must-sees*), but one thing’s for sure—we’re renting a car.
Any rental companies you’d recommend? Local agencies are usually cheaper than the big names (Avis, Europcar, etc.), but you’ve got to know which ones are reliable...
Thanks in advance for your tips! ;)
Hi there!
We bought our tickets to Greece at the end of November 2025, and let’s just say the geopolitical climate has really taken a turn since then with the war started by the United States against Iran. Not to mention all the other conflicts happening around the world 😕... Anyway!
Our flight from Montreal is on May 1st, and I was wondering how things are currently being experienced in Greece.
We were planning to rent a car and had already booked accommodations on three Cyclades islands!!
The oil shortage is also worrying us...
If you could share some insights on this, that would be great!
Thanks!!
Thanks!!
Hi everyone,
I’m heading to Athens at the end of June. I’ve planned a day trip to the island of Aegina. That said, I’d love to hear if anyone has gotten around the island by bike or bus? What’s the traffic like there? We’re also considering a scooter, but since we’ve never ridden one before, it’s making me a bit nervous…
Thanks for your tips! 😊
I’m heading to Athens at the end of June. I’ve planned a day trip to the island of Aegina. That said, I’d love to hear if anyone has gotten around the island by bike or bus? What’s the traffic like there? We’re also considering a scooter, but since we’ve never ridden one before, it’s making me a bit nervous…
Thanks for your tips! 😊
We’re a Canadian couple, both 77, and we’re already planning our vacation for fall 2027.
Timeframe: mid-September to mid-October... dates are flexible, and we might stay even longer.
Initially, I had planned this itinerary:
Athens (3), Naxos (4), Paros (4), Santorini (4), then a flight to Istanbul (7–10 days!!). This would let us maximize our flights and experience another culture.
That’s a lot of ferries, though... I’ve already cut out Milos.
Our second option would be to stay 2 x 15 days on two different islands, but I’d still keep Istanbul as our next destination... or maybe 30 days on one island that offers the chance to take day trips to other islands where the ferry ride is no more than 2 to 2.5 hours. For example, Naxos to Paros only takes 30 minutes. We could return the same evening or stay overnight.
Naxos seems like the best option!!!
For Istanbul, of course we want to do a day cruise on the Bosphorus and see Hagia Sophia. If we stay 6–7 days, what would be the other main attractions? Are there any points of interest we can reach by local bus?
Our second option would be to stay 2 x 15 days on two different islands, but I’d still keep Istanbul as our next destination... or maybe 30 days on one island that offers the chance to take day trips to other islands where the ferry ride is no more than 2 to 2.5 hours. For example, Naxos to Paros only takes 30 minutes. We could return the same evening or stay overnight.
Naxos seems like the best option!!!
For Istanbul, of course we want to do a day cruise on the Bosphorus and see Hagia Sophia. If we stay 6–7 days, what would be the other main attractions? Are there any points of interest we can reach by local bus?
Hi everyone,
We’re thinking of spending 3 weeks in Crete between mid-August and early September, renting a car, quickly exploring a few spots in the east, and focusing on the west, southwest, and south.
I’m worried about the heavy tourist crowds. Is it really more noticeable than elsewhere in Greece? Is there a way to avoid the crowds without missing out on the iconic places, which I imagine are stunning in Crete? Thanks for your thoughts and experiences!
What are the main sights to visit on Rhodes itself or the surrounding islands, and what’s the weather like? We’re leaving on May 18th.
I’d like to book tickets for a visit to the Acropolis at the end of April. The official site is down. What do you think of agencies like Get Your Guide? Are they reliable? It’s a lot more expensive. The audio guide option is tempting, but is that reliable too? We’re a bit older and like to take our time...
Do the other museums (National Archaeological Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art) also require reservations? We visited Athens 50 years ago, and it seems like things have changed a lot.
Thanks for any help!
Do the other museums (National Archaeological Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art) also require reservations? We visited Athens 50 years ago, and it seems like things have changed a lot.
Thanks for any help!
