Mainland Greece & Corfu
Greece is a lot more than just Mykonos and Santorini and this itinerary takes you on a journey across some of the best destinations in mainland Greece and an island that's worth all your time and love. Your journey starts in Athens, the Cradle of Western Civilization and one of the world's oldest capital cities. Apart from exploring the Greek capital's rich history in famous archaeological sites like the Acropolis, get ready to dive into the city's culture and exceptional dining scene too, before you continue your trip to Meteora. A complex of century-old monasteries built atop dramatic column-like rocks, Meteora is one of the most unique landscapes in Greece. From there, it's a short drive to Ioannina, a vibrant university city dominated by a beautiful lake. This itinerary wouldn't be complete without a taste of the Greek Islands, though. End your trip in Corfu, one of the most elegant islands in Greece, home to a stunning Old Town and several traditional villages tucked away in the mountains or built next to the sea.
One of our team members in Greece will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best Greece has to offer, including things to see and do and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
2 Nights in Athens
2 Nights in Athens
2 Nights in Athens
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Athens
Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.
Love at First Sight
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens
Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour
Discover the myths behind the greatest landmarks in Athens. Learn about Greek gods and heroes, and discover what really hides behind ancient myths. At the same time visit the best landmarks and sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis (Parthenon, theater of Dionysus, temple of Athena Nike, temple of Erechtheion, and the sanctuary of Asclepius), Olympian Zeus’ temple, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Hephaestus.
Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour
As the sun sets, embark on a truly decadent foray into Greek gastronomy and viticulture. This immersive food tour includes two authentic eateries, followed by a wine tasting, in which an expert sommelier takes you through five different varieties, plus ouzo.
Day 3
Day 3 - Traveling to Meteora by Private Transfer
Today you will leave Athens and travel to Meteora. A driver will pick you up at your accommodation based on your preferred departure time and take you on a 4-hour journey to Meterora. If you'd prefer, you can make a day of this transfer and visit the Archeological Museum of Thebes or Delphi, UNESCO listed site on the way. Please note this is a non-guided transfer.
1 Night in Meteora
1 Night in Meteora
1 Night in Meteora
As the name (meaning "high in the air") implies, Meteora seems suspended in space. The six monasteries (some dating as far back as the 11th century) sitting above dramatic rocky pillars are UNESCO-listed, and Greece's second most important pilgrimage destination, after Mount Athos. The views here are breathtaking, and can seem hard to believe, attracting tourists and film crews alike. Inside, you'll find a rich collection of artifacts explaining the last thousand years of events and belief. Beyond, explore the region's rugged landscape, whether hiking from monastery to monastery, or ascending the surrounding peaks.
As the name (meaning "high in the air") implies, Meteora seems suspended in space. The six monasteries (some dating as far back as the 11th century) sitting above dramatic rocky pillars are UNESCO-listed, and Greece's second most important pilgrimage destination, after Mount Athos. The views here are breathtaking, and can seem hard to believe, attracting tourists and film crews alike. Inside, you'll find a rich collection of artifacts explaining the last thousand years of events and belief. Beyond, explore the region's rugged landscape, whether hiking from monastery to monastery, or ascending the surrounding peaks.
Day 3
Day 3 - Arrival in Meteora
Upon arrival in Meteora, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.
Majestic Meteora Sunset Group Tour
On this captivating journey to the historic monastic community of Meteora, perched atop towering rocks, you will be able to explore all six Holy Monasteries and have the chance to enter one. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, delve into the area's history and geological marvels with scenic stops and insightful walks. Conclude your tour with a breathtaking sunset view from the best vantage point, where you can witness the sun descending behind the majestic Pindos mountain range. Capture the mesmerizing play of light and colors before returning to your accommodations, cherishing this once-in-a-lifetime Meteora sunset experience.
Explore and Savor Meteora!
Due to its many forests and mild climate, Meteora excels at mushrooms. In local shops and the Mushroom Museum, you can buy truffle flakes, truffle oil, packets of dried mushrooms, powdered mushrooms, mushrooms preserved in oil, and, strangest of all, a mushroom liqueur. In autumn and winter, you also can take part in mushrooming and truffle hunting excursions. Mushrooms aside, the local diet draws on produce like yogurt, cheese, honey, fruit, and first-rate meat. At a taverna, try the local leek sausage or lamb stew with aubergine. Be sure to try soutzoukos, a sweet specialty made from grape must and nuts akin to Georgia's Churchkhela and available in the family-run wineries near Kalambaka. Wash down your meals with a shot of twice-distilled Tsipouro brandy made from local varieties of grapes. Shots are almost always served with a small plate of traditional appetizers!
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Ioannina by Private Transfer
Today you're off to lakeside Ioannina. Your driver will pick you up at your accommodations, and take you directly to Ioannina, a drive that takes about two hours, although you can make stops along the way for an extra fee.
2 Nights in Ioannina
2 Nights in Ioannina
2 Nights in Ioannina
Small but charming, Ioannina's history is closely linked to Ali Pasha, the ruthless and divisive provincial leader who made Ioannina into a center of Greek culture in the late 18th century, at great cost. Ioannina's castle, a lakeside Byzantine fortress with earlier elements, was made into a palace by Ali Pasha, with generous green spaces and historical monuments, mosques, and museums covering the town's cosmopolitan past. Ioannina's modern museums cover topics from its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish past, to Byzantine history and art, and the town's famed silversmiths. Lake Pamvotis is home to tiny Ioannina Island, which somehow manages to fit seven monasteries, forming Greece's third largest monastic community. Here, you'll also find the Museum of Ali Pasha, in the monastery where he was assassinated at the end of a failed rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.
Small but charming, Ioannina's history is closely linked to Ali Pasha, the ruthless and divisive provincial leader who made Ioannina into a center of Greek culture in the late 18th century, at great cost. Ioannina's castle, a lakeside Byzantine fortress with earlier elements, was made into a palace by Ali Pasha, with generous green spaces and historical monuments, mosques, and museums covering the town's cosmopolitan past. Ioannina's modern museums cover topics from its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish past, to Byzantine history and art, and the town's famed silversmiths. Lake Pamvotis is home to tiny Ioannina Island, which somehow manages to fit seven monasteries, forming Greece's third largest monastic community. Here, you'll also find the Museum of Ali Pasha, in the monastery where he was assassinated at the end of a failed rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Ioannina
Upon arrival to Ioannina, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.
Stroll Around the Historic Centre
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Ioannina's historic center, where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences intertwine seamlessly. A must-explore destination, the vibrant streets are adorned with charming bars, mezedopoleia offering delectable small portions, and inviting coffee shops. Each establishment in this diverse quarter provides a unique opportunity to savor the multifaceted flavors of Ioannina's history and heritage, making it an essential and delightful aspect of your visit.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Ioannina
Zagori Sightseeing Private Tour
As the Zagori region and National Park is quite a huge area, hoping into a mini van is a perfect way to see as many places as possible within one day. You will have the chance to learn about this region from your guide and to see the natural wonders and traditional villages of the area.
Stock Up on Local Specialties
Ioannina may be famous for its baklava, but there are plenty of goods that are a bit easier to take home. Stock up on herbs from the surrounding mountains, items made from silver, and an alcohol-free liqueur made from various fruits and herbs. If you like your drinks to have a bit more of a kick, the region is also known for traditional wines, such as Zitsa and its raki.
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Corfu by Private Transfer
Today you will be traveling from Ioannina to Corfu. First, the driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Ioannina and drive you to Igoumenitsa in plenty of time for your departing ferry to Corfu. For an additional fee, we can include a stop in Dodoni, at the Temple of Zeus - an important ancient Greek archaeological site. The private transfer from the Ioannina to the port takes one hour and the ferry takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
3 Nights in Corfu
3 Nights in Corfu
3 Nights in Corfu
The jewel of the Ionian Sea, Corfu exudes a sense of elegance, nostalgia and aristocratic grandeur. Its charming old town, with its noble architecture, sophisticated ambience, and impeccable sea views, has a prime spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Corfu’s multicultural history is a juxtaposition of conquests by the Venetians, French, and British. Their stories are reflected in the island’s eclectic, neoclassical, and Art Nouveau architecture. Corfu's historical center is protected by two Venetian Fortresses: the Old Fortress which played a crucial role in Corfu’s history protecting the island from many sieges, and the hilltop New Fortress, with its vaulted passageways, underground galleries, and astonishing views of the Old Town. Discover the island’s unique history by visiting a few of its grand palaces, like the Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elizabeth ("Sisi") of Austria in 1892, with its luscious gardens and impressive collection of marble statues. Corfu's countryside is dotted with pretty villages, expansive olive groves, vineyards, and herbal gardens. The coastline is a dream world of its own, with crystalline azure waters and secret coves only accessible by boat.
The jewel of the Ionian Sea, Corfu exudes a sense of elegance, nostalgia and aristocratic grandeur. Its charming old town, with its noble architecture, sophisticated ambience, and impeccable sea views, has a prime spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Corfu’s multicultural history is a juxtaposition of conquests by the Venetians, French, and British. Their stories are reflected in the island’s eclectic, neoclassical, and Art Nouveau architecture. Corfu's historical center is protected by two Venetian Fortresses: the Old Fortress which played a crucial role in Corfu’s history protecting the island from many sieges, and the hilltop New Fortress, with its vaulted passageways, underground galleries, and astonishing views of the Old Town. Discover the island’s unique history by visiting a few of its grand palaces, like the Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elizabeth ("Sisi") of Austria in 1892, with its luscious gardens and impressive collection of marble statues. Corfu's countryside is dotted with pretty villages, expansive olive groves, vineyards, and herbal gardens. The coastline is a dream world of its own, with crystalline azure waters and secret coves only accessible by boat.
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Corfu
Upon arrival at Corfu's Port, your driver will meet you and take you to your centrally located accommodation.
Artemis' Sanctuary
Just outside of Corfu lies the remains of the Temple of Artemis, an early Doric temple built around 580 BC in the ancient city of Korkyra. Partially excavated by a vacationing Kaiser Wilhelm II on the eve of WWI, this was one of the first buildings to include all the elements of Doric architecture. The pediment that once crowned it, depicting Perseus killing the Medusa, can now be admired in the town of Corfu's National Archaeological Museum.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Corfu
Corfu Old Town and Olive Oil Tasting Half-Day Private Tour
Are you a foodie enthusiast who wants to taste the top quality olive oil of Corfu? Set on a half day experience & enjoy the flavour intensity of the extra virgin olive oil coming from local ancient olive groves. Have the chance to walk among hundreds-years-old trees and learn the basics of olive oil tasting, how to distinguish the different grades of olive oil and pair them appropriately with carefully selected local goods. Round up your day by paying a visit to the UNESCO protected, Old Town of Corfu!
Museum of Asian Art
Located at the upper extremity of 'Spaniada,' the central park area of Corfu Town, the Palace of St Michael and St George stands prominently. This distinguished structure, dating back to the era of English governance, was initially constructed as the opulent residence for the British Lord High Commissioner of that time. Presently, it houses the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, a unique institution in Greece dedicated exclusively to the diverse arts of Asia.
Day 8
Day 8 - Your Second Full Day in Corfu
Best of Corfu Half-Day Private Driving Tour
Engage in this half-day Corfu highlights tour and explore the most important attractions of the island from the comfort of your private luxury vehicle. Ideal for those visiting the Homeric island of the Phaeacians for the first time, immerse into the beauty and history of the jewel of the Ionian Sea. From imperial palaces to tiny picturesque islands and of course, the Italianate beauty of the magnificent town of Corfu, it is certain that this tour will captivate your senses and create a memorable experience for you, your family and friends.
Shop Local
Nestled mainly in the heart of the capital, Corfu's shops beckon with a diverse and plentiful array. Among the treasures, discover intricately hand-woven carpets, elegant tablecloths, napkins, as well as lace and cotton skirts and blouses, showcasing the island's artisanal craftsmanship. Embrace the charm of heavy white stitched sweaters, uniquely crafted on the Aegean Islands, adding a touch of timeless fashion to your collection. Don't miss the chance to bring home typical Greek delights, from skewers for souvlaki enthusiasts to delectable Greek pastries, ensuring your journey is not only a visual feast but a delightful sensory experience.
Day 9
Day 9 - Departure Day
Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Corfu's airport, with plenty of time to catch your departing flight.
What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Athens
Meteora
Ioannina
Corfu
package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
More than met our expectations. Great having in country contact.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Meteora, Volos, Athens, Chania, Athens
Rating :
JayWay travel company delivered as promised. Visited all places I requested. The transportation was excellent! The guides, trained in a guide school, were extremely knowledgeable! The hotels were very good. I would use this company again.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki, Santorini
Rating :
JayWay Travel can effectively help plan and book even complex, customized itineraries in many parts of the world. The local resources are invaluable for making everything run smoothly.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Delphi, Ioannina, Athens, Chania, Heraklion, Heraklion, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Athens
Rating :
Choose the month of travel, how many travelers and what star level accommodation you'd like to stay in, then get an instant price estimate.
Once you’ve done that you can request a tailor-made itinerary based on this by entering just a few more details.
Thank you!
Thank you for your interest in taking a trip based on this itinerary. One of our expert travel advisors will be in touch soon to start tailoring it precisely to your preferences.
Ooops!?
Something went wrong at our end, please try again in a moment.