Athens and the Southern Peloponnese

Why we like it

This is a Greece with a difference, focusing on the southern sites of Arcania and Ancient Athens. Outside of the cities the Greek landscape, characterised by its mountain chains, gorges and jagged coastline, provides a spectacular backdrop to the history of this mesmerizing region. Self-driving brings greater freedom and sense of discovery to this holiday which truly makes it unique to you.

How To Visit Athens

If you only have a single day in Athens, let us help you plan it well. Resist the temptation to rush to the Acropolis. In busy times the line of people, often from tour buses, create a cacophony of sound and it can be overrun with visitors by nine in the morning. Either rise with the sun and be one of the first in -an hour before the groups – or why not spend the day at a more leisurely pace, after all, this is your holiday. Wait until the late afternoon to walk up to the Acropolis after having visited the must-see National Archaeology Museum and stopping for a well deserved alfresco lunch at the Plaka. The walk up and around the Acropolis Hill will prove entertaining as you walk the cobbled boulevards lined with artisans street entertainers and virtually no cars.

Now, enter the Acropolis – the city has cooled down – and there are a fraction of the people here compared to the morning. Sit over a promontory for an amazing view of the city laid beneath you as the sun lowers. Wait until the best light or until the guards politely signal you to departure – whichever comes first – as they come to secure the Acropolis for another night.

Arcadia - The Central Peloponnese

Head out of Athens to the picturesque region of Arcadia, the centre of the Peloponnese Peninsula. Levidi is a traditional town, two or so hours driving distance from Athens. It has several interesting museums and churches and a lively central square. Villa Vager is located on the highest hill in the village, and has a unique viewpoint, at the centre of the village. It serves as the perfect base from which to explore Arcadia with its ancient and mythical sites including Olympia, the byzantine city of Mistras, and Nafplion, one of the most beautiful seaside towns in Greece.

The central Peloponnese enjoys a backdrop of fir forest and farmlands and acts as a great base for activities including horseriding, rafting and even quad bike safaris with the hotel owners.

Discover the Remote Mani Peninsula

Further south in a remote corner of the Peloponnese is the Mani Peninsula. The area of Mani is well known for its beautiful lunar landscape, olive groves, rugged hills, blue waters and small seaside villages with traditional tavernas. Such a combination of gastronomy, history and beauty makes it one of the most perfect places to visit in Greece.

We have created this holiday to include a few days relaxing in the family-run, boutique hotels. Our favourites are Citta Dei Nicliani in Cita and Villa Vager Mani, overlooking the Gulf of Messinia. Explore the beautiful scenery, peppered with Byzantine and ancient monuments and enjoy opportunities to taste local food and wine with tavernas an easy walk away. See first-hand, olive oil and wine in production. We are on hand to advise you which secret cove to visit each day. Swim in turquoise waters and relax on pristine beaches from sweeping sandy bays to pretty coves. Visit Voidokiia, the most photographed beach in Greece.

When to travel

Greece in January

In the mountainous regions of Greece, there is a possibility of snowfall during the winter months meaning travel to these regions can be difficult. However bigger cities, such as Rhodes, will be less affected and experience average temperatures of 14.C in January.

Greece in February

Travelling during February can be an ideal time to visit some of Greece’s archaeological sites with fewer crowds than during the summer months. Temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing but perhaps less suitable for sunbathing on the beach, when between May and September are the best months.

Greece in March

As the start of spring begins in Greece, it can be a great time to experience the country’s many outdoor activities, including its various walking and hiking trails. Depending on your exact location, average temperatures can differ. Travelling to Crete during March, you can expect an average of 15.C and so be pleasant for exploring the country’s largest island.

Greece in April

With temperatures averaging 19°C on mainland Greece, it can be great to explore both the countryside and the country’s well-known cites. Throughout the Greek islands, temperatures will also start to rise with more hours of daily sunshine.

Greece in May

Prior to the peak summer months, May is often classified as the â€˜shoulder season’ when temperatures are on the rise but there are fewer crowds and it can be much cheaper than travelling during July and August. May will experience little rainfall, lots of sunshine and temperatures can be expected to average 24.C.

Greece in June

June can be the perfect time to travel to Greece. Depending on your exact location, temperatures will average 26.C, there will be a higher chance of daily sunshine than previous months and it will be much quieter than during August.

Greece in July

During both July and August, Greece will experience its warmest temperatures with highs of 29.C. Humidity levels can also be particularly high with daily sunshine and clear blue skies.

Greece in August

August can be particularly busy in Greece due to guaranteed sunshine and the European school holidays. Accommodation can get booked up very quickly and will be generally more expensive than the start or end of summer. Temperatures will average 30.C in Athens.

Greece in September

With temperatures averaging 27°C, very little rainfall and fewer crowds than during July and August, travelling to Greece during September can be ideal.

Greece in October

At the beginning of October temperatures can remain high and the climate like that of September. However, as the month progresses, temperatures can be less predictable with some chance of rainfall in certain regions of Greece.

Greece in November

From November through to March, Greece experiences its coldest months and there will be less guarantee of daily sunshine. Particularly on the smaller Greek islands, some accommodation will even close during the winter period. On mainland Greece and on the larger Greek islands, such as Crete, they are less likely to do so.

Greece in December

The weather can be unpredictable in December and being outside of the peak season, accommodation prices will be slightly cheaper. However, some transportation services may be less frequent and certain activities unavailable.