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Mainland Greece & Corfu

9 Days / 8 Nights

Athens, Meteora, Ioannina, Corfu

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

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.

Route for Athens, Meteora, Ioannina, Corfu tour

2 Nights in Athens

2 Nights in Athens

3 days in Athens
3 days 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

Suggestion to explore on your own

Taking advantage of the opportunity for views of the Acropolis shining in the night, Athens has plenty of rooftop venues, which have become popular hubs for nightlife among locals. One of our favorite rooftop bars is POINT a - the only bar that provides views of both the Acropolis and the modern elegant lines of the Acropolis Museum, lit beautifully at night. POINT a has a relaxed vibe and Greek cuisine with a twist. It’s perfect for couples and even families or groups of friends. If you happen to stay around the Monastiraki District, you should definitely visit A for Athens, a popular venue among locals. Hytra and GB Roof Garden are full-on luxury restaurants and bars that perfectly provide romantic evenings. We guarantee that if you spend your first night dining at one of those places, you will quickly fall in love with the mind-blowing views and lively city.

Love at First Sight

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens

Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour

Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 4 hours

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

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.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Traveling to Meteora

Today you will be departing by train. We will arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the train station. We included standard class train tickets for this journey. An upgrade to a higher class is possible for an extra fee.

We also offer the following excursions in Athens

Acropolis for Families Private Tour
Moderate2 hours
Ancient Corinth Tour & Nemea Wine-Tasting Private Tour
Moderate9 hours
Athens Highlights Mythology Private Tour
Moderate4 hours
Athens Markets and Chronicles Small Group Tour
Light4 hours

1 Night in Meteora

1 Night in Meteora

2 days in Meteora
2 days 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 at the train station, we will arrange for a driver to pick you up and take you to your accommodation.

Majestic Meteora Sunset Group Tour

Majestic Meteora Sunset Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Enjoy a wonderful tour of the magnificent monasteries and cliffs of Meteora at sunset! This spectacular UNESCO-listed site is a must-see when in Greece, and with their dramatic locations, are great locations for watching the sun disappear beneath the horizon.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Explore and Savor Meteora!

Suggestion to explore on your own

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 yoghurt, 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 speciality 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 always served with a small plate of traditional appetizers!

Explore and Savor Meteora!

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.

Ioannina by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Meteora

Meteora Small Group Hiking Tour
Moderate4 hours
Panoramic Meteora and Monasteries Group Tour
Light4 hours
Private Meteora Monastery Tour
Light5 hours

2 Nights in Ioannina

2 Nights in Ioannina

3 days in Ioannina
3 days 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 accommodation.

Stroll Around the Historic Centre

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Stroll Around the Historic Centre

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Ioannina

Zagori Sightseeing Private Tour

Zagori Sightseeing Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 7 hours

Stock Up on Local Specialties

Suggestion to explore on your own

Ioannina may be famous for its baklava, but there are plenty of goods which 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 for its raki.

Stock Up on Local Specialties

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.

Corfu by Private Transfer and Ferry
We also offer the following excursions in Ioannina

Rafting on the Voidomatis River Group Tour
Light3 hours 30 minutes
Zagori Private Jeep Tour and Cooking Experience
Light7 hours

3 Nights in Corfu

3 Nights in Corfu

4 days in Corfu
4 days 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

Suggestion to explore on your own

Just outside of Corfu lies the remains of the Temple of Artemis, an early Doric temple built around 580 BC at 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.

Artemis' Sanctuary

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Corfu

Corfu Old Town and Olive Oil Tasting Half-Day Private Tour

Corfu Old Town and Olive Oil Tasting Half-Day Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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!


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 hours 30 minutes

Museum of Asian Art

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Museum of Asian Art

Day 8

Day 8 - Your Second Full Day in Corfu

Best of Corfu Half-Day Private Driving Tour

Best of Corfu Half-Day Private Driving Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 hours 30 minutes

Shop Local

Suggestion to explore on your own

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 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.

Shop Local

Day 9

Day 9 - Departure Day

Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you straight to Corfu's airport, with plenty of time to catch your departing flight.

We also offer the following excursions in Corfu

Admire the Most Iconic Sights of Corfu in a Day Private Tour
Easy7 hours 30 minutes
Cape Drastis and Loggas Cliffs Private Hiking Tour
Moderate4 hours
Corfu Food Walking Private Tour
Easy3 hours
Corfu in a Day Private Tour
Light7 hours

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

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Athens Airport Transfer
Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour
Athens Train Station Transfer
Athens- Meteora Train Tickets

Meteora

1 Night Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Meteora Train Station Transfer
Majestic Meteora Sunset Group Tour
Meteora - Ioannina Private Transfer

Ioannina

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Zagori Sightseeing Private Tour
Ioannina - Igoumenitsa Private Transfer
Igoumenitsa - Corfu Ferry

Corfu

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Corfu Port Transfer
Corfu Old Town and Olive Oil Tasting Half-Day Private Tour
Best of Corfu Half-Day Private Driving Tour

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
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

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.
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