Northern Greece: 8-Day East Macedonia & Thrace Self-Drive

About this experience

Venture off the beaten track into one of Greece's most diverse and least-explored regions. This 8-day self-drive tour, with car rental included, takes you northeast from Thessaloniki through a landscape of extraordinary contrasts: European wetlands and ancient forests, Ottoman Old Towns and Greek neoclassical harbours, Aegean island beaches and dramatic river gorges. Lake Kerkini is one of Europe's top birdwatching destinations, home to around 300 bird species including pelicans, which nest on specially constructed platforms. A boat ride on traditional 'plaves' brings you close to this spectacular wildlife. Continue to the Alistrati Cave (one of Greece's finest) and a visit to a Drama winery before discovering the Pomakochoria villages of Xanthi, a hidden gem where Greece's only Muslim population preserves centuries-old traditions in a stunning mountain setting. The Nestos Delta offers a full day of adventure: kayaking, SUP, zip lining, or peaceful hiking through lagoons, lush riverbanks, and wildlife habitats. Don't miss Porto Lagos, the 'floating' monastery of Agios Nikolaos, reflected in still waters surrounded by pink flamingos. Thassos island (optional day trip by ferry) rewards with traditional villages, a historic monastery, and crystal-clear waters. Kavala reveals its history as a key stop on the ancient Via Egnatia, with an impressive castle, acropolis, and the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Philippi. The return via Olympiada and the mountain village of Taxiarchis completes a journey through Eastern Greece's most authentic landscapes.