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 Walking tours and Temple of Hephaestus. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Athens: Temple of Poseidon (in Sounio) and Vouliagmeni Beach (in Vouliagmeni). The adventure continues: don't miss a visit to Philopappos Hill, pause for some photo ops at Erechtheion, admire the masterpieces at Museum of Cycladic Art, and delve into the distant past at Temple of Athena Nike.

For ratings, reviews, more things to do, and more tourist information, read Athens trip planner.

Brisbane, Australia to Athens is an approximately 25-hour flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll gain 8 hours traveling from Brisbane to Athens. In October, daytime highs in Athens are 28°C, while nighttime lows are 18°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 13th (Sun) early enough to fly 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 Vima Apostolou Pavlou (in Veroia), Nea Fokea (Cavalo riding resort, Saint Paul's Church, &more) and Edessa (Church of the Koimisis (14th cent.) & Edessa Waterfalls). 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 explore the ancient world of Rotunda.

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.