Autumn is perhaps one of the best seasons to explore Greece by car. The intense summer heat has faded, the roads are quieter, and the landscapes take on a whole new palette of colours. From mountain villages and forests to historic towns and traditional tavernas, an autumn road trip is the perfect way to discover a different side of Greece.
Athens – Nafplio – Monemvasia
One of the easiest road trips from Athens, this route is ideal even for a long weekend. Start in Nafplio, where you can explore the old town before continuing towards Epidaurus or Argos, and then making your way to Monemvasia. In autumn, the milder temperatures make exploring these historic destinations particularly enjoyable.
Zagori and Epirus
For those looking for mountains, nature and traditional villages, Epirus is an excellent choice. A road trip through Zagori can take you through its stone-built villages, historic bridges and the Vikos Gorge, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and stopping at local tavernas along the way. In autumn, the region’s forests are transformed by rich seasonal colours.
Pelion
Pelion offers the perfect combination of mountains and sea, with its villages connected by scenic roads and winding routes. Start in Volos and make your way to Makrinitsa, Portaria, Zagora and Milies. The autumn scenery, forested hills and traditional cobbled paths make this an ideal time of year to explore the region.
Kalabaka – Meteora – Trikala
This road trip combines nature, culture and food. Meteora is spectacular at any time of year, but in autumn, the surrounding hills and forests add even more colour to the landscape. After visiting the monasteries and taking a hiking trail, continue to Trikala for a walk around the city and a meal at one of its local restaurants.
Mountainous Arcadia
For a quieter autumn road trip, head to Mountainous Arcadia. The villages of Dimitsana, Stemnitsa and Karytaina offer stone houses, forested roads and beautiful landscapes. The region is ideal for those looking to combine nature with good food and a slower pace.
From northern Greece to the Peloponnese, autumn is the perfect excuse to leave the city behind, fill up the car and discover Greece from a slightly different perspective.
