Greece Travel Guide: Thessaloniki, Corfu, and Beyond

Greece sits at the southern edge of the Balkan peninsula and functions as a natural complement to any Balkans trip. From a practical standpoint, two entry points make sense: Thessaloniki via the overland route from Skopje or Tirana, and Corfu via the 35-minute ferry from Saranda, Albania. Both are straightforward to include without requiring a separate trip.

Why Greece works with a Balkans itinerary

Albania and Greece share the Ionian coast. The Saranda–Corfu ferry crossing takes 35 minutes, making Greece almost frictionless to reach from southern Albania. Travellers moving through the western Balkans — Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia — often find Thessaloniki a natural exit or entry point. Book accommodation in Thessaloniki near the waterfront for the most central base. Browse Thessaloniki tours and day trips for the Vergina tombs, Mount Athos trips, and Halkidiki excursions.

For the full breakdown of overland routes, costs, and what to expect, see the Greece travel guide.

Comparing the two regions

Albania offers rough edges, striking natural scenery, and some of the cheapest travel in Europe. Greece offers world-class archaeological sites, island hopping, and a food culture refined over millennia. For a side-by-side comparison of costs, food, and accessibility, see Albania vs Greece.

Cities & regions in Greece

The site’s Greece content is focused on the most practical destinations for Balkans-based travellers.

Plan your trip: Browse guided tours in Greece — day trips from Thessaloniki, coastal excursions, and island experiences. Find hotels in Thessaloniki for the mainland entry point. Sort travel insurance for the Balkans before you travel — cover extends to Greece.

See also

• Albania vs Greece
• Tirana vs Thessaloniki
• Greece travel guide
• Balkans Schengen day-count guide