itThe mainland of Greece can make you feel like you’re on an island making another trip just a few hours by car. Places close to Attica or even a little further where you can spend pleasant summer holidays without having to take a ship or a plane. There are, in other words, many summer destinations in Greece that you can only go by car. You will find exotic beaches, green landscapes, hospitable residents and you will try local traditional recipes that will be unforgettable.
In exploringgreece.tv we have chosen and we recommend the five summer destinations to which you can only go by car.
Pylos
Travel to one of the most beautiful places in the Peloponnese. Located at the top of the list and is a summer destination a few hours away from Athens which it has everything. The fact that Pylos is in Messinia probably gives you an idea of what wonderful beaches you will enjoy. In this beautiful town, you will find the accommodation you are looking for quite easily, you will swim in turquoise waters and you will have the opportunity to see various monuments for the battle of Navarino.
Distance from Athens: 274 km
Don’t miss: Take a swim on the majestic beach of Voidokilias.
Lefkada

The island you don’t need a ship to go to. Lefkada does not exactly remind you of an island when you are there, but its beaches are magnificent. On the one side, you will find blue diamonds such as Porto Katsiki and Egremnous while on the other side there are beaches suitable for families like Nikiana. There the waters are shallow and calm. Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy an island destination that has everything, but you don’t need a ship to go.
Distance from Athens: 360 km
Don’t miss: Climb the village of Exanthia and admire the Ionian Sea. It has a majestic view
Pelion

The destination that is loved equally in winter – summer time. Pelion is a dreamy place that you can spend the best summer vacation beyond your imagination. There you will find beaches with crystal clear waters and trees that literally touch the sea. They’ll remind you in some places of Ionian sea beaches. All you’re going to need is just your car to get there. In Pelion, apart from beautiful coastlines, you will visit beautiful graphical villages and you will try local traditional recipes.
Distance from Athens: 350 km
Don’t miss: Enjoy your dives at Papa-Water beach.
Sivota

The Caribbean of Greece is not as far away as you may think. You don’t even have to take a boat to get there. Sivota is an exotic destination that it will be unforgettable to you. You will swim in blue but cold waters and you will be able to visit by boat the close ones small uninhabited islands which are full of pine trees. You will find organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas as well as smaller beaches. Now it is up to you to choose and to visit.
Distance from Athens: 460 km
Don’t miss: Enjoy your dives at Papa-Water beach.
Evia

Whether you choose the south or northern Evia you will have a nice and relaxing time. You will find beautiful beaches with clear waters, green villages where you can have a pleasant stay and sights that will enrich your knowledge. Marmari and Karystos are the ideal options for southern Evia and Edipsos for the northern part. Wherever you go, you’ll be absolutely satisfied.
Distance from Athens: 79 km
Don’t miss: Enjoy your swim at Lake Beach in northern Evia.
Read also:
Karpathos: Holidays on the island with 100 beaches
Antisamos Beach: The mirror beach with crystal clear waters
Koufonisia and their exotic beaches
Frequently Asked Questions
The five best summer destinations in Greece accessible by car are Pylos, Lefkada, Pelion, Sivota, and Evia. These destinations offer exotic beaches, green landscapes, hospitable residents, and traditional local cuisine without requiring a ferry or plane. Each destination is located at varying distances from Athens, ranging from 79 km to 460 km, making them perfect for a car-based holiday.
Pylos is located 274 km from Athens in Messinia, Peloponnese. It's one of the most beautiful summer destinations with turquoise waters and excellent accommodation options. You must visit the majestic Voidokilias beach and see various monuments related to the battle of Navarino. The town combines stunning beaches with historical significance, making it an ideal destination for a few hours' drive from Athens.
Yes, Lefkada is an island you can reach by car without needing a ferry. Located 360 km from Athens, it features magnificent beaches on both sides of the island. The western side offers dramatic blue waters with beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremnous, while the eastern side has family-friendly beaches like Nikiana with shallow, calm waters. Don't miss climbing the village of Exanthia for majestic Ionian Sea views.
Pelion, located 350 km from Athens, is a dreamy destination with crystal clear waters and trees that touch the sea, reminiscent of Ionian beaches. It's equally beautiful in summer and winter, offering both stunning coastlines and charming traditional villages. You can reach it by car and enjoy local cuisine, beaches, and beautiful villages. Papa-Water beach is a must-visit spot for swimming and diving.
Sivota is located 460 km from Athens and is known as the Caribbean of Greece due to its exotic appearance and stunning blue waters. It features organized beaches with amenities and smaller secluded beaches, allowing you to choose your preferred experience. You can explore nearby small uninhabited islands full of pine trees by boat. It's an unforgettable destination accessible by car without requiring a ferry.










