We have just realised we will be flying into Athens on Easter Saturday evening April 11th 2026. We have two weeks planned for Greece and two weeks for Croatia and Slovenia. We also depart from Athens on May 11th for our flight home to Australia. My question is, as we are already in Greece do we travel here first two weeks or last two weeks. I’m not sure how successful we will be finding accommodation at this late stage in Athens over the Easter Break. I already have the name of someone who can organise a self Drive itinerary of Croatia but don’t have the name of anyone for Greece yet so would also appreciate a recommendation. Thank you.
Posted by
Oregon
424 posts
Monday April 13 is also a national holiday.
Posted by
Freedonia
17701 posts
The Saturday evening you arrive is also part of the Easter celebration with late night church attendance followed by parades around midnight.
I spent one Easter in Greece. Actually, Heraklion, Crete. That Saturday night I could hear the festivities late in the evening with ships in the harbor blowing their horns at midnight.
Its still a long way until April. You shouldn't have a problem finding accomodations.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
If we arrive Saturday evening is it best to stay near the airport and then head into the main part of Athens on Sunday and see what is open? I’ve been searching but most places are closed until Tuesday. I think is the first day we can pick up a car and then head out to the Peloponnese. Websites say “may be closed on Public Holidays’
Posted by
France Southwest
3061 posts
I get the impression you're worrying too much.
Easter Saturday is a huge celebration in Greece with fireworks, and Sunday is also a celebration with traditional meals. It will be even livelier than usual.
However, yes, there will be places with restricted opening hours on Easter Saturday and others completely closed on Easter Sunday, including archaeological sites and museums, but Athens is a city of over 3 million inhabitants that welcomes 10 million visitors each year. It's not a shopping mall that closes on public holidays.
Restaurants, hotels, taxis, and car rental companies don't stop working for 3 days.
If you want to head out to the Peloponnese on Saturday, why not, but otherwise go to Athens, don't stay near the airport, there is absolutely nothing to do or see there except watch the planes taking off.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Yes I am giving myself a stern talking to! We are supposed to be having a fun holiday so thanks for your response it’s very helpful.
Posted by
Houston, Texas
1100 posts
suebobbylove:
I sent you a private message concerning someone to set up a self driving tour in Greece. Since you are arriving on Saturday, I would suggest that you stay in Athens at lest until Tuesday it will give you a chance to get your bearings and get over the rigors of travel including jet lag.