Who said you need to go to the Greek Islands to have a luxurious, Mamma Mia style Mediterranean beach getaway? The European Summer vacation guide you need for mainland Greece is here, inspired by my 11 day trip.
We flew Norse Atlantic Airways from JFK to Athens. This was a comfortable and affordable option, and I would definitely fly on them again. We took off at 1:30AM EST and landed in Athens about 5:00PM local time. We were fed, able to sleep, and I found the seats to have enough room for my short frame!
Since we arrived late, we checked into Tina’s Apartments, a cozy, clean, and simple hotel near the airport with a shuttle. For the price, this was a great move, and they had a beautiful rooftop terrace we could eat dinner at, then rest up, grab a free breakfast, and head out for the day!
Chrani
Our main portion of the trip was spent in Chrani, a coastal village in the Peloponnese, near Kalamata. We stayed at the White Donkey Hotel, an exquisite luxury hotel up on the hills, located within an olive grove. This hotel had spacious suites, incredible grounds, and top notch service. We felt spoiled the entire time, and were totally at peace. From the extensive breakfast to the infinity pool to the donkeys on property, what more could you ask for?
Since we had a rental car, we were able to try out all the restaurants in town, and also ate at the hotel a few nights. Socrates Fish Taverna was our favorite local spot for dinner, but we also loved Billy’s for their no frills, authentic food. The grocery store in town was well stocked for snacks and souvenirs, and with the hotel shuttle, we took a daily trip to Ombak beach bar for the loungers, drinks, and stunning beach front. Their food was a highlight, especially the greek yogurt bowl!
Mycenae
On our way down the coast, we stopped at the archaeological site of Mycenae. If you know anything about Homer and his epic’s, this is home to King Agamemnon and plenty of treasure. The Tomb of Agamemnon/Vault is an engineering feet, as is the cyclopian stone walls and the lions gate. My inner archaeology nerd loved seeing these monuments, and even if you aren’t one, the surrounding landscape is a site to behold.
Kalamata
Home of the olive! Another day trip, we drove to Kalamata to walk around the town. This is what I would say is a classic, real Greek town. There were lots of little boutiques, high street shops, and cafes to explore.
Methóni Castle
This fortress/castle is parked at the point of a peninsula, looking magnificent in the distance. With extensive grounds to walk through, this is a great way to explore some Greek archaeology that isn’t from the Classical period! Make sure to stop by the tower out in the water and climb up, as well as visit the Orthodox church to say some prayers.
A fun secret spot on the way home? Agia Triada Beach. This hidden beach where all the locals go was one of my favorite spots on the whole trip. The water is other-worldly blue, and as you make your way down the path and see it for the first time, it is certain to take your breath away.
Athens
We spent our last 3 nights in Athens, taking in the sites and the city. The city itself was not my favorite I’ve been to, but visiting the Acropolis and the Plaka neighborhood made my inner archaeology nerd scream. It’s a must do for any city visitor.
All thoughts and opinions are my own and I paid for everything myself.