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Argostoli, Greece
Drive from Vrilissia to Patras (~2.5 hrs), then take the Patras–Sami ferry (~2.5 hrs) and drive to Argostoli (~30 min). Must-sees include the iconic Myrtos Beach, the pastel village of Assos, and the enchanting Melissani Cave. Don't miss the Dekapentavgoustos (August 15th) celebrations in Argostoli with local music and festivities, and try fresh seafood at the waterfront tavernas on Lithostroto street. Day-trip to Fiskardo for its Venetian harbour charm, Antisamos Beach for crystal-clear waters, and Xi Beach near Lixouri for its distinctive red sand.
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Vathy, Greece
Take the short ferry from Fiskardo (Kefalonia) to Frikes (Ithaca) or Sami to Pisaetos (~45 min) and settle into the charming harbour town of Vathy. Explore the neoclassical architecture of Vathy, the hilltop village of Ano Vathy, and the archaeological museum with Homeric artefacts. Enjoy secluded beaches at Forikas, Sarakiniko, and Skinos at a leisurely pace, and dine on grilled octopus and local wine at waterfront tavernas in Vathy port.
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Halkidiki, Greece
After returning to Vrilissia on August 22 via the Ithaca–Patras ferry and a rest day on August 23, drive north to Halkidiki (~5 hrs) on August 24. Base yourself in a private house on the Sithonia or Kassandra peninsula, with stunning beaches like Kavourotripes, Karidi, and Lagomandra just minutes away. Make a day trip to Thessaloniki (~45 min drive) for a walk along the waterfront promenade, the White Tower, and a feast of local specialties like bougatsa and grilled meats in the Ladadika district. August 29–30 are relaxed buffer days before the drive back to Vrilissia on August 30.