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 Mount Lycabettus and Philopappos Hill. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Athens: Vouliagmeni Beach (in Vouliagmeni) and Temple of Poseidon (in Sounio). And it doesn't end there: explore the ancient world of Temple of Hephaestus, admire the masterpieces at Museum of Cycladic Art, go for a stroll along the water at Flisvos Marina, and take a stroll through Anafiotika.

For ratings, other places to visit, reviews, and other tourist information, refer to the Athens trip planner.

Brisbane, Australia to Athens is an approximately 25-hour flight. Traveling from Brisbane to Athens, you'll gain 8 hours due to the time zone difference. In October, daily temperatures in Athens can reach 28°C, while at night they dip to 18°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 13th (Sun) so you can catch the flight 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 Hellenic Pharmaceutical Museum. Explore Thessaloniki's surroundings by going to Edessa (Church of the Koimisis (14th cent.) & Edessa Waterfalls), Vima Apostolou Pavlou (in Veroia) 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, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Church of St.Sophia, and contemplate the long history of Hagios Demetrios.

To see reviews, ratings, other places to visit, and tourist information, read Thessaloniki trip builder tool.

You can fly from Athens to Thessaloniki in 2.5 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 fly back home.