Greece is known for its stunning islands, but the mainland has just as much to offer! From Ancient Olympia to the underrated Peloponnese and the busy city of Athens, there’s so many places to visit in Greece! Here’s a perfect 2 week Greece mainland itinerary.
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Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or food enthusiast, this Greece mainland itinerary will take you through some of the best spots in the country, with ancient ruins, beautiful beaches and charming towns. It’s easy to find underrated spots when you’re avoiding the over-touristed Greek islands!
From Athens to Afytos and beyond, this travel guide takes you to the must-see spots and hidden gems you’ll love, all while giving you a bit of time to relax as well.
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Map of the best Greece itinerary
This is a map of the itinerary in this guide. If you’re wondering where to go in Greece for 2 weeks, check out the icons within the map and the itinerary below.
What to pack for your Greek vacation itinerary
Before we dive into this Greek vacation itinerary, be prepared for an amazing time in mainland Greece with this list of essentials!
- Good walking shoes. This two days in Athens itinerary has you walking a ton around the city. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and socks. I love my Vessi’s whenever I travel to Europe! Sandals aren’t very practical on the stone streets and rocky terrain at some attractions.
- Shoulder bag or waist bag. Prevent pickpockets (a challenge in many European cities) and conveniently carry your essentials.
- Small reusable water bottle. Be kind to our Earth and carry a reusable water bottle. This water bottle fits in small bags and is perfect between meals.
- Sun protection. Sunscreen and a sun hat are critical, especially in the summertime. This two weeks in Greece itinerary will have you at a lot of outdoor attractions, so prepare for it! I always recommend using mineral sunscreen because it’s better for the Earth’s waterways and marine life.
- Swimwear for beach days and hotel pools. Each time I’ve traveled to Europe, I’ve packed my favorite swimming suit and swim cover.
- Water shoes. They’re hands down one of my favorite items to pack for a beach vacation, and a must for the rocky beaches in Greece.
- Lightweight clothing for warm days, plus a light jacket for evenings. Check the weather the week before you go to grab any last-minute items!
- Mini umbrella. Depending on when you’re visiting Greece, you may really need an umbrella!
- Power bank and cord. You’re likely going to be taking photos, so have a back up plan so your phone doesn’t die.
- US-Europe adapter plug. If you’re from the US, you’ll definitely need this.
Charms of mainland Greece: perfect 2 week itinerary
With a 2 weeks Greece itinerary without islands, you can enjoy the beauty and history of mainland Greece without the hustle of island hopping.
Let’s dive in!
Days 1, 2, 3: Athens – the heart of Ancient Greece
Your adventure begins in Athens, the city where ancient history and modern life meet. Athens is the perfect starting point for your Greece travel itinerary 2 weeks.
The city is easily accessible, with great public transportation options, and it’s surrounded by stunning beaches, picturesque hills, and nearby islands. You can truly spend a lot of time there, soaking up the sights! It’s easy to fill 2 days in Athens, or even more.
👉This is the best Athens food tour for amazing Greek food and this is the best 1/2 day tour to see the Acropolis.
Best of mainland Greece: top things to do in Athens
Fill your days with tours or make your way casually or slowly through the city. So many options in Athens!
- Acropolis & Parthenon: start your trip with Athens’ most iconic site. Wander around the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion, all perched atop the Acropolis hill.
- Plaka District: wander through the old Plaka neighborhood, where you’ll find charming streets filled with cafes, tavernas, and quaint shops.
- Syntagma Square & Changing of the Guard: watch the ceremonial changing of the guard in front of the Greek Parliament at Syntagma Square. It’s an iconic moment in Athens!
- Panathenaic Stadium: original home of the modern Olympic Games in Athens, visiting this spot is not only amazing, but a prelude to what’s in store later on this mainland Greece itinerary.
Where to stay in Athens
You’ll want a location convenient for all the walking you’ll be doing in this city. The main attractions within Athens are all within a few miles of each other, so put yourself right in the middle of the action. I loved staying at both of these hotels:
- AboV Athens. This boutique hotel in the city center is prime location, and won’t break the bank during your vacation in Athens. Be sure to book a room with a balcony and request a high floor for views of the Parthenon!
- Central Stay Athens. Close to Monastiraki Square and the Ancient Agora of Athens, this is a great spot to be.
Transportation
- Getting around Athens: walking is really convenient, if you’re able. Athens also has a great public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. The hop-on, hop-off tour bus also goes to the main sites.
- Travel time to Kalamata: from Athens, Kalamata is about a 2.5-hour drive by car. Alternatively, you can take a bus or domestic flight, but driving gives you more flexibility for your Greece vacation.
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Days 4, 5: Kalamata – beaches and olive oil
After exploring Athens for a few days, head to Kalamata. A coastal city in the southern Peloponnese, Kalamata is famous for its beautiful beaches, olive groves and relaxed vibe. This is one of my favorite regions in Greece, and vastly underrated compared to some of the other areas I’ve visited!
👉This is the best olive oil tour and a fun boat tour for groups in Kalamata!
Greek vacation itinerary: best things to do in Kalamata
- Kalamata’s beaches: spend some time unwinding on the beautiful beaches of Kalamata, including the bustling Kalamata Beach and quieter ones further south.
- Olive oil tasting: take a tour of one of the local olive farms and taste some of the famous Kalamata olives and extra virgin olive oil.
- Kalamata Castle: for a history fix, head up to Kalamata Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Boat tour: perfect for groups, this activity takes you to lesser-known beaches and snorkeling spots in the Aegean Sea.
Hotel recommendations for Kalamata, Peloponnese
- Filoxenia Grecotel Hotels & Resorts. Right on the beach, you’ll get amazing views and spectacular service.
- IRA – ΗΡΑ Hotel. Stay in the heart of the city, with walking distance to Kalamata’s best restaurants and attractions, at an affordable price.
Transportation
- Getting around Kalamata: the city is small and walkable, but renting a car will give you the freedom to explore surrounding areas like olive farms and nearby beaches. Getting a taxi is also common if you’re going a fair distance.
- Travel time to Voidokilia Beach: It takes about one hour by car to get to Voidokilia Beach from Kalamata. Driving a rental car gives you the flexibility to explore more scenic spots along the way. Alternatively, you can arrange a private transfer quite easily through your hotel.
Day 6, 7: Voidokilia Beach – relaxation on this two weeks in Greece itinerary
Well, you’re about half way through your vacation, so it’s time to truly relax! This mid-trip stop is the perfect place for gentle exploration and relaxation. Voidokilia is one of Greece’s most picturesque beaches, known for its turquoise waters and stunning natural beauty.
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Top attractions & tours
- Voidokilia Beach: spend a day lounging on this iconic beach, which is shaped like an Omega and rich in Greek history. It’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Nestor’s Cave: get active with a hike to the beach, including Paliokastro hill and Nestor’s Cave, which offers beautiful views and a touch of history. You can take a guided hike or use this guide for your own adventure!
- E-bike tour: experience a ride through diverse terrain including hundreds’ years old olive groves, a waterfall, lagoon and more. This was one of my favorite things to do in southern Greece!
Resort recommendation
- Costa Navarino. This set of hotels is perfect for relaxation, dining and activities. A community of hotels and outdoor activities, there are many hotels to choose from. I loved my time at The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino. Be sure to eat at the fabulous Barbouni while you’re there!
Transportation
- Getting around: you can explore Voidokilia Beach and the area via rental car or by arranging private transport from your resort.
- Travel time to Ancient Olympia: Voidokilia Beach to Ancient Olympia is just under 2 hours by car.
Day 8, 9, 10: Western Peloponnese – Ancient Olympia, Kastro & Arkoudi Beach
Next, you’ll head to Ancient Olympia! The birthplace of the Olympic Games, where history comes alive in the ruins and museum. Then, spend a couple days in western Greece to experience this region and all it has to offer!
I recommend spending one day visiting Ancient Olympia, one day visiting Kastro and Arkoudi and one day lounging at your hotel (see epic recommendation below)!
Ancient Olympia: visiting the birthplace of the Olympics
While it can take some effort to get here, it’s a powerful place in Greece, and perhaps one of the most culturally relevant to modern-day life.
I still get chills thinking about my visit to this incredible place!
- Archaeological Site of Olympia: explore the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, sanctuary of Olympia, the original Olympic starting line and entrance, the place of the original Olympic flame (that burned continuously for 12 centuries!) and other monumental structures that once hosted the first Olympic Games.
- Archaeological Museum of Olympia: after visiting the site, head to the museum to see ancient sculptures, including the famous statue of Zeus.
Kastro & Arkoudi – the underrated gems on this Greece itinerary
Kastro and Arkoudi are two charming, lesser-known destinations that are a perfect escape from the crowds while visiting Ancient Olympia. Summertime is the busiest season, but you’ll for sure see less crowds than most of Greece, and especially busy spots like Mykonos or Santorini.
What to see and do in Kastro & Arkoudi
- Chlemoutsi (Kastro) Castle: visit this medieval fortress that provides as much history as beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the lush green hills.
- Arkoudi Beach: spend some time falling in love with the small villages in Western Greece! Arkoudi is a small coastal village with a relaxed vibe, where you can shop, rent bikes, or do various waterspouts. The beach is a highlight and does get full in the summertime!
Where to stay near Olympia
- Grecotel LUXME Oasis at Riviera Olympia & Aqua Park: this hotel offers amazing views of the beach, incredible restaurants and of course all the pools! I absolutely loved my stay here and would love to return.
Transportation
- Getting around Olympia, Kastro and Arkoudi: you’ll probably want a rental car for this area, unless you arrange transport through your resort.
- Travel time to Thessaloniki: you absolutely can drive from southwestern Greece to Northern Greece, but the drive time from Olympia to Thessaloniki is 6-8 hours. Alternatively, you can get a bus ride or drive back to Athens (3-4 hours) and a quick 2-hour flight to Thessaloniki. Another option is to take a ferry to Zakynthos, where you can get a flight from Zakynthos International Airport to Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia, typically with a layover in Athens.
Day 11, 12: Thessaloniki – more of the best of mainland Greece!
While it’s not necessarily easy to get to Thessaloniki from the Peloponnese, it’s definitely worth the adventure because the region has so much to offer! It’s the perfect city to add to your mainland Greece itinerary.
Thessaloniki is a charming city in Northern Greece that gives a welcoming vibe to visitors. The city’s most popular attractions are near the waterfront, and within walking distance of the city center which is convenient as a visitor.
Top things to do in Thessaloniki
- White Tower: one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the White Tower offers panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Aegean Sea.
- Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki: see ancient artifacts from the Greek and Roman periods at this museum.
- Museum of Byzantine Culture: visit the exhibits from the early Christian, Byzantine, and post-Byzantine periods, most of which artifacts came from the geographical area of Macedonia.
- Modiano Market: visit this lively market offering fresh Greece produce, local cheeses, meats, and spices, ideal for food lovers. Open most days until 2:00pm so get there early in the day.
Hotel recommendations
- Electra Palace Hotel Thessaloniki: a luxury hotel located near the city center, offering stunning views and excellent amenities.
- ON Residence: waterfront views and easy access to Thessaloniki’s main attractions – amazing find in the city!
Transportation
- Getting around Thessaloniki: walking is easy in this city as most attractions are close together. Alternatively, Thessaloniki has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and taxis.
- Travel time to Afytos: it’s about an hour drive from Thessaloniki to Afytos by car.
Day 13, 14: Afytos – a peaceful end to this mainland Greece itinerary
Editor note: while I’ve spent many weeks in Greece, I have not yet been to Afytos, but my friend from Fuse Travels had such spectacular things to say about the area, I felt compelled to add it to this 2 weeks Greece itinerary of the mainland.
Finish your vacation in the charming seaside village of Afytos! Known for its traditional Greek charm and beautiful beaches, Afytos is the perfect place to relax before heading home.
Northern Greece consistently receives numerous Blue Zone awards, making it a top destination for those seeking crystal clear and clean waters. Afytos is considered one of the best beaches to visit due to its picturesque location on a hill in a white village, offering a breathtaking view of the ocean.
See the best of Afytos (underrated gem on this Greece itinerary)
- Afytos Village: Afytos is a picturesque village with a rich history and traditional Greek architecture. Take a stroll through its narrow streets and discover charming boutiques, souvenir shops and local crafts. The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, though it can get very crowded during the summer.
- Local beaches: s pend your days relaxing on Afytos Beach and Kallithea Beach known for crystal-clear waters and laid-back atmosphere.
Hotel recommendations
- Blue Bay Halkidiki. With spacious rooms, ocean views and near Afytos Beach, this is the perfect spot to spend the last of your vacation in Greece!
Transportation
- Getting around Afytos: renting a car is highly recommended, as things are quite spread out and relying on local transportation would consume too much time.
Final tips for this two weeks in Greece itinerary
- Stay hydrated: Greece can get hot, especially in summer. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Respect locals: Greeks are known for their hospitality. Be polite, and don’t forget to greet people with a smile.
- Bring cash: although credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases. Be sure to exchange your USD to Euros in Athens because it may be difficult to find exchange places in the smaller towns.
2 weeks Greece vacation itinerary – that’s a wrap!
This 2 weeks Greece itinerary without islands offers a mix of ancient history, beautiful beaches, and delicious food, making it the perfect mainland escape for anyone looking to explore the heart of Greece!
With so many amazing places to visit in Greece, don’t stick to just the islands – explore these underrated destinations instead! And enjoy fewer crowds, delicious food and incredible history, too.
Related content to read next:
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Mykonos vs Santorini: Which is the PERFECT Greek Island for You?
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