From Nafplion you trace the shoreline south along long coastal curves, past quiet harbours, and all under the wonderful Mediterranean sun, before turning inland and climbing over the mountains to Kalamata. After the seaside scenery, the route rises to around 1,300 metres toward the Spartan plains, legendary birthplace of Helen of Troy. The riding up here is the real deal: big views, serious corners, and mountain roads that can hold their own against Switzerland’s best, before the descent pulls you back toward the coast.

You continue on smaller mountain roads toward Ancient Olympia, crossing another 1,300-metre pass to visit the 2,500-year-old Temple of Apollo, tucked away in the mountains. From there, the road drops more than 1,000 metres down to Olympia itself. This is a perfect place to slow the pace and take time off the bike: explore the original Olympic site, the Museum of Antiquities, and the Archimedes Museum.

Next comes Meteora, where rock pinnacles spear the sky and cliff-top monasteries seem to defy gravity. Give yourself time here to wander the walkways, chapels, and viewpoints at an unhurried rhythm - it’s one of those places that’s as impressive standing still as it is arriving by road.

When you leave Meteora, you head on to Volos, riding beneath Mount Olympus, long regarded as the throne of Zeus and home of the Twelve Olympians, before reaching the coast. The roads are sublime, and the mountain’s sheer scale makes it easy to see why it inspired divinity. After visiting Hercules’ birthplace, you can pick up sections of the old national road, once the main artery of Greek life and now a rider’s playground, to complete the loop back to Athens.

Ride through the land of gods and legends with Magellan

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Tour highlights

Aegean Coast Road: With views of the turquoise sea and long, sweeping bends, this route passes through traditional coastal towns and fishing harbours, delivering mile after mile of unforgettable riding along the Aegean.

Suspended Monasteries at Meteora: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonder of both nature and architecture, with monasteries from the 14th–16th centuries balanced atop 1,000-foot rock towers. The views from here are simply unmatched.

Ancient Olympia: Step into history at the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Wander the ancient stadium and racetrack, visit the Temple of Zeus with its impressive sculptures, and explore the Archimedes Museum’s remarkable reconstructions of ancient inventions.

Amphitheatre at Epidavros: One of the best-preserved theatres of the ancient world, this impressive structure could seat nearly 12,000 people, with acoustics so precise that even a whisper on stage carries to the back row. Stand where actors once performed and experience the effect yourself.

Corinth Canal: A dramatic feat of engineering, this 6 km waterway slices 80 metres through the rock, linking the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf. For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping from the bridge is an option.

Mount Olympus: Towering close to 3,000 metres, this is the fabled home of the twelve gods of Greek mythology. Its sweeping roads and vast panoramas make for an unforgettable ride.

Athens, Parthenon, and the Acropolis: Immerse yourself in the history of Greece’s vibrant capital. Walk through the iconic Acropolis, explore the remains of Hadrian’s Library, or simply relax by the beach near your hotel with a cocktail in hand. Athens blends ancient landmarks with lively neighbourhoods, offering a perfect mix of culture, history, and modern charm.

The Old National Road: Long before today’s motorways, this route was Greece’s main transport link. Now, it’s a quieter and more scenic alternative, combining sweeping curves, technical riding sections, and panoramic views — a favourite among local motorcyclists.

They say that Greece is the most mountainous country in Europe, and fortunately for us, that is spot on! Many trips offer cultural days out in some form or another, but none I have ever been on come anywhere near this one to Greece – sensational in every respect. Thanks, Magellan, for one of the most incredible tours I have done to date.

David B

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Tour Map / Itinerary

Full Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival

Arrive in Athens and head to your hotel. Take the evening to settle in, explore the local area, and enjoy your first taste of the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 2 155 Miles

Pick up your motorcycle and ride west along the coast, crossing the impressive Corinth Canal before climbing into the mountains and descending to the picturesque seafront of Nafplion. If time permits, make a detour to the remarkably preserved amphitheatre at Epidavros.

Day 3 140 Miles

Ride the famous Aegean Coast Road for around 50 miles of sweeping curves and dazzling turquoise views. From there, climb to about 1,300 metres toward the Spartan plains — the legendary birthplace of Helen of Troy — before descending into Kalamata.

Day 4 155 Miles

Wind through mountain roads and cross another high pass en route to the remote Temple of Apollo, then drop down to Ancient Olympia, almost at sea level.

Day 5 Rest day

Spend the day exploring the archaeological treasures of Olympia, from the original Olympic stadium and Temple of Zeus to the Museum of Antiquities and the fascinating Archimedes Museum.

Day 6 155 Miles

Head north through scenic backroads and rolling mountains to reach the riverside city of Arta, known for its historic stone bridge and relaxed charm.

Day 7 155 Miles

Enjoy a varied day of riding before arriving at Meteora, where monasteries crown dramatic rock pinnacles.

Day 8 Explore Day

Take your time to explore the cliff-top monasteries, panoramic viewpoints, and winding footpaths of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 9 185 Miles

Ride east through central Greece, passing by Mount Olympus, mythical home of the Greek gods, before reaching the coastal city of Volos.

Day 10 230 Miles

A full day’s ride along a mix of mountain and coastal roads. Pass through Hercules’ birthplace and take in sections of the old national road — once Greece’s main highway, now a rider’s delight — before returning to Athens and dropping off your bike.

Day 11 Departure

Fly home with lasting memories of Greece’s breathtaking roads, ancient heritage, and welcoming hospitality.

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What's included

If you select motorcycle rental, insurance and breakdown cover is included.

10 nights’ accommodation in high-quality hotels.

Excellent breakfasts each morning at the hotels.

Full access to all leisure facilities at each hotel.

Detailed route plans, maps, and GPS coordinates for Garmin/TomTom devices.

A comprehensive daily schedule with sights, suggested lunch stops, and fuel locations.

What's not

Flights.

Fuel.

Toll charges.

Occasional hotel parking charges.

Meals and drinks other than specified above.

Travel/breakdown insurance covering repatriation back to the UK.

Common questions about this trip

What will the weather be like on this tour and will it be too hot?

While weather can be unpredictable, most of this route enjoys warm and sunny conditions, but it shouldn’t be too hot. A combination of vented gear and waterproofs with some base layers should cover all weather possibilities. We provide a full kit and packing list, and we’re happy to offer advice on packing for any of our trips.

What type of motorcycle will I ride?

You’ll be riding a high-quality, well-maintained rental motorcycle suited to touring, complete with luggage. A range of models is available, and you can select the one that best fits your height, experience, and preferences when booking.

What documents do I need to bring?

You’ll need a full motorcycle licence valid in Greece (and an International Driving Permit if required for your home country), along with your passport. We also recommend travel insurance that covers motorcycling of the engine size you’ll be riding. A full list of our recommended documents will be provided in our class-leading tour booklet.

More information

For general information on planning and preparing for motorcycle trips including what to pack please see our Prepare for your trip section.

More Information

Magellan Hub

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Bike Option	Single Rider Price (Total for 1 rider, 1 bike)	Rider & Passenger (Total for 2 riders, 1 bike)	Two Bikes, Shared Room (Total for 2 riders, 2 bikes)
Own Bike	£5195	£8590	£9390
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Honda NT1100 (DCT)	£6905	£10300	£12810
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Ride of the Gods

Greece

Ride of the Gods

Greece

Tour highlights

Tour Map / Itinerary

Full Itinerary

Full Pricing

Common questions about this trip

Other similar trips