18 days in Athens & Thessaloniki Itinerary

One of the world's most ancient cities, Athens remains Europe's undisputed historical and cultural capital.

Step off the beaten path and head to Temple of Hephaestus and Mount Lycabettus. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Athens: Vouliagmeni Beach (in Vouliagmeni) and Temple of Poseidon (in Sounio). There's much more to do: don't miss a visit to Philopappos Hill, contemplate the long history of Ancient Agora of Athens, appreciate the history behind Temple of Athena Nike, and take in the waterfront activity at Flisvos Marina.

For ratings, photos, other places to visit, and other tourist information, you can read our Athens tour planner.

Brisbane, Australia to Athens is an approximately 26- hour combination of flight and subway. You can also do a combination of bus, flight, and subway; or do a combination of train, bus, flight, and subway. Traveling from Brisbane to Athens, you'll gain 8 hours due to the time zone difference. October in Athens sees daily highs of 28°C and lows of 18°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 13th (Sun) to allow enough time to travel to Thessaloniki.

A city with a stormy history and a cosmopolitan heart, Thessaloniki attracts visitors with its diverse culinary scene, dynamic nightlife, and youthful energy.

Explore hidden gems such as Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai (Vergina) and Ladadika District. Explore Thessaloniki's surroundings by going to Vima Apostolou Pavlou (in Veroia), Edessa (Church of the Koimisis (14th cent.) & Edessa Waterfalls) and Nea Fokea (Cavalo riding resort, Saint Paul's Church, &more). There's still lots to do: don't miss a visit to White Tower of Thessaloniki, take an in-depth tour of Museum of Byzantine Culture, steep yourself in history at Church of St.Sophia, and kick back and relax at Kallitheas Beach.

To find ratings and tourist information, read Thessaloniki trip builder tool.

You can fly from Athens to Thessaloniki in 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Expect slightly colder temperatures when traveling from Athens in October; daily highs in Thessaloniki reach 24°C and lows reach 14°C. On the 22nd (Tue), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can travel back home.