Mainland Greece, with its blend of ancient history, bustling cities, and scenic landscapes, offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From the archaeological wonders of Athens to the vibrant cultural life of Thessaloniki and the natural beauty of the Peloponnese, mainland Greece is rich with opportunities for exploration. This guide focuses on accessible travel options, including hotels, attractions, transportation, and amenities, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying local cuisine, or relaxing in picturesque surroundings, this guide will help you navigate mainland Greece with ease. Wheelchair travel to the Greek Islands too!
Athens
Athens, the historic capital of Greece, is home to some of the world’s most significant ancient sites, including the Acropolis and Parthenon. The city combines its rich history with a lively modern atmosphere, featuring vibrant neighborhoods, excellent dining options, and bustling markets. Accessibility in Athens varies, but many of the main attractions and accommodations are equipped to cater to wheelchair users.
Attractions
- The Acropolis: Home to iconic structures such as the Parthenon and the Erechtheion. Accessible pathways and elevators, though some uneven terrain exists.
- The National Archaeological Museum: Features extensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts. Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways.
- Plaka Neighborhood: A historic district known for its charming streets, shops, and restaurants. Mixed terrain; some areas are accessible with ramps and smoother paths.
Tour
- Athens Accessible Tours: Customized tours of the Acropolis, museums, and local markets. Pathways are mostly smooth with some cobblestone streets. The tour uses transportation with accessible vehicles with ramps.
Restaurants
- Kostas: Traditional Greek dishes. Level entry with ramps. Accessible restrooms.
- Spondi: Gourmet French and Mediterranean cuisine. Accessible entry and spacious dining areas. Accessible restrooms
Hotels
- Electra Metropolis: King-size and single beds available. Roll-in showers with grab bars. Accessible rooms, elevators, and a rooftop pool with hoist.
- Divani Palace Acropolis: King-size and twin beds available. Roll-in showers with grab bars. Accessible rooms, dining areas, and proximity to the Acropolis.
Transportation
- Athens Accessible Taxis or Pantou offers wheelchair-accessible taxis and shuttles around Athens.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is a vibrant hub of culture and history with a rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. The city’s waterfront promenade, bustling markets, and historic sites offer diverse experiences. Accessibility in Thessaloniki is generally good, with many modern facilities and attractions catering to wheelchair users.
Attractions
- White Tower: A historic tower and museum offering panoramic city views. Accessible entrance and elevators.
- Rotunda: A large circular building with historical significance. Ramps and accessible pathways.
- Aristotelous Square: The main square of Thessaloniki, known for its cafes and shopping. Smooth pathways and ramps.
Tours and Transportation
- Thessaloniki Accessible Tours: City tours including historical sites, markets, and waterfront. Pathways are mostly smooth with some cobblestone areas. The tour uses wheelchair-accessible minibuses.
Restaurants
- Ouzeri Aristotelous: Greek seafood and meze. Level entry and spacious seating. Accessible restrooms.
- La Doze Bar: Modern Mediterranean cuisine. Ramp access and accessible dining areas. Accessible restrooms.
Hotels
- Mediterranean Palace Hotel: King-size and twin beds available. Roll-in showers with grab bars. Accessible rooms, ramps, and a spa.
- Electra Palace Thessaloniki: King-size and single beds available. Roll-in showers with grab bars. Accessible rooms, rooftop restaurant, and spa facilities.
Peloponnese
The Peloponnese peninsula offers a rich tapestry of ancient ruins, picturesque villages, and stunning coastlines. Highlights include the ancient city of Mycenae, the beautiful town of Nafplio, and the archaeological site of Olympia. While some areas have challenging terrain, many tourist sites and accommodations are accessible.
Attractions
- Mycenae: Ancient archaeological site known for its impressive ruins. Some accessible paths; uneven terrain.
- Olympia Archaeological Site: Site of the ancient Olympic Games. Accessible pathways and ramps.
- Nafplio: A charming town with beautiful architecture and waterfront. Mixed terrain; accessible areas include the waterfront and some streets.
Tour and Transportation
- Peloponnese Accessible Tours: Visits to Mycenae, Olympia, and Nafplio with Care Under the Sun tours. Pathways Primarily are smooth; some uneven terrain at historical sites. Adapted vehicles with ramps are used for transportation.
Restaurants
- To Perasma: Traditional Greek food. Accessible entry and dining area. Accessible restrooms.
- Ta Fanaria: Local specialties. Ramp access and spacious seating. Accessible restrooms.
Hotels
- Nafplia Palace Hotel: King-size and twin beds available. Roll-in showers with grab bars. Accessible rooms, pool with hoist, and scenic views.
- Hotel Amalia Olympia: King-size and single beds available. Roll-in showers with grab bars. Accessible rooms and restaurant.