Central Greece Car Hire

Guide of Central Greece

Geography

Central Greece is a region on mainland Greece known colloquially as Roumeli. It is flanked by the Pindus Mountains in the north and the Ionian Sea in the south. The total area spans approximately 24,818 sq. km and encompasses Attica, Euboea, Boeotia, Phocida, Phthiotida, Aetoloakarnania and Evrytania. The topography is mostly mountainous.

Climate in Central Greece

Central Greece is one of the warmest regions in Greece. Summer begins in June and lasts until the end of September, though temperatures remain mild until the end of October. The hottest month of the year is July, with an average maximum temperature of 31°C. The coldest month in Central Greece is January, when temperatures average a maxim of 11°C.

However, Central Greece is a large region and many pockets have their own micro-climates. On the coastline, visitors can enjoy a typically Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The west receives more rainfall, while the east is generally cooler due to the mountains.

Culture

Central Greece is one of the country’s oldest regions. It played a formative role in the birth of western civilization and is rich in legends, customs and folklore. The region is best known as the home of the ancient site of Delphi, considered by the ancients as the centre of the earth. The religious sanctuary here was dedicated to the Greek God Apollo.

Things To Do in Central Greece

See the famous oracle of Ancient Greece in Delphi

For the Ancient Greeks, Delphi was the ‘naval of the earth’. Home to spectacular scenery and a jaw-dropping archaeological site, it is one of Greece’s blockbuster attractions. The site encompasses the temple of Apollo, the Castalia Fountain and a superb museum. The nearby Sanctuary of Athena Pronea is well worth a visit too.

Hit the slopes in Parnassos

Mount Parnassos, known as the ‘Mountain of Light’ is one of the country’s most famous national parks. Come winter, thousands flock here for a snowy adventure. Arahova, which sits just below Parnassos, is a popular spot for apres skiing too. As well as winter activities, Arachova is well-known for its buzzing nightlife.

Explore the picturesque seaside town of Galaxidi

This pretty seaside town is rich in maritime history. Until the 1960s, it was only accessible by boat. Today, visitors head here for its pristine waters, flowering bougainvillaea and charming narrow streets. In the 18th and 19th centuries, luggers would set sail from here for the spoils of the Mediterranean Sea.

Beach hop across the region’s best sandy stretches

Greece’s islands might get all the attention when it comes to sparkling sea views, but Central Greece is home to some superb beaches too. Evia, which is connected to the mainland by the bridge of Chalkida, is packed with picture-perfect sandy spots, like Kalamos, Lefkandi and Chryssi Ammos. On the mainland, you’ll find magical spots like Eratini, Trocadero and Gallini.

Pump up your adrenalin in Karpenisi

Karpenisi is a paradise for outdoorsy types. You can fill your boots with pulse-pumping activities, from magnificent mountain trails and racing ravines to epic winter sports and rock climbing. For a more serene trip, head to the calmer waters of Kremaston Lake, where you can hire out canoes and kayaks for an afternoon of birdwatching.

Meander around Chalkida

Take a stroll along the majestic marina waterfront in Chalkida, a popular day trip from Athens. Then brush up on local history at The Archaeological Museum of Chalkida, home to larger-than-life statues from the Roman Empire. The Emir Zade mosque is home to an excellent collection of Byzantine mosaics and ceramics too.

Eating Out in Central Greece

Like the rest of the country, dishes in Central Greece showcase local flavours and traditions. Popular local delicacies include katiki (a soft white cheese), formaella (a semi-hard cheese), prosciutto from Evitranica and some of the country’s best olive oil. The Anagnou traditional pasta is a must-try too.

There are hundreds of excellent cafes, tavernas, restaurants, bars and farmsteads dotted across the region serving fantastic fare. If you’re near Delphi, don’t miss To Patriko Mas. This fifth-generation family-run restaurant was built in 1860 and serves up some of the sweetest specialities on the island. Steki Family is a popular seaside restaurant in Galaxidi, while Maritsa offers sublime sunset views.

Transport

Airport

The closest airports to Central Greece are Athens International Airport (ATH), Aktion National Airport 9PVK) and Skithathos Island National Airport (JSI). Athens Airport is the largest in Greece and served by dozens of international airlines. It is also the main base for Aegean Airlines, which offers flights to many of Greece’s most famous destinations. Airlines including British Airways, Condor, Jet2, Vueling and Wizz Air operate regular scheduled and charter flights to Aktion.

Getting Around Central Greece

For those relying on public transport, buses are the best way to get around Central Greece. While there are train routes throughout the region, the infrastructure is old and slow. Most locals opt to travel by bus, which is cheap and relatively reliable.

However, if you’re hoping to get under the skin of the region and travel beyond the major cities, we recommend hiring a car. Road conditions are generally good and driving is a pleasant experience. Travelling independently will give you more flexibility that private transfers, taxis or public transport too.