10:00

Merichas Port

Start at the port, the ferry arrival point and a convenient place to sort out your rental pickup; allow about 30–45 minutes to get oriented and stow your luggage. Take a short stroll along the waterfront and buy water and supplies before heading to the beaches. The walk is free; rental and refreshments vary, typically from 30–60 EUR per day for a car and from 3–8 EUR for a simple drink.

Check ferry schedules and rental terms in advance; availability and prices change with the season.

12:00

Kolona Beach

From Merichas, reach the beach in about 20–30 minutes by car, following local roads; the final stretch may be unpaved and requires caution. Set aside 2–3 hours for the shoreline and take in the distinctive sandy isthmus between two bodies of water, bringing shade and water with you because facilities may be limited. Access to the beach is generally free, but transport, any boat trip, and food or drinks can add up to about 5–30 EUR per person; check availability and rates on site.

Before taking any unpaved stretches, check road conditions and what your rental coverage includes.

15:30

Apokrousi Beach

Continue by car for about 10–20 minutes, depending on the route and road conditions, to reach Apokrousi. Stop for a swim or a stroll along the shore, then enjoy a late lunch on your own or at a local place, if one is available. Staying on the beach usually does not require a ticket; budget around 8–20 EUR for a simple meal and check on site for any paid services.

Allow time for the return journey and do not rely on boat connections without confirming schedules and availability first.

09:30

Chora (Messaria)

Drive to Chora from Merichas in about 20–30 minutes and park where permitted on the edge of the center, then continue on foot through narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and views of the hills. Allow 2–3 hours for a relaxed visit and a coffee break; walking around the village is free, while drinks and snacks cost roughly 3–8 EUR. For any places that require an entry fee, check opening hours and tickets on the official websites or through local channels.

The streets in the center are narrow: it is more practical to explore on foot and respect the marked parking areas.

13:30

Loutra

From Chora, reach Loutra in about 15–25 minutes by car, following the road toward the northeastern coast. Spend the afternoon on the seafront and in the thermal springs area, checking locally for access arrangements and any activities available, as these may vary. The walk is free; a simple meal can cost about 12–25 EUR per person, and any thermal service should be checked directly for access and price.

Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to look into thermal bathing options; don’t assume services will be available.

09:30

Dryopida

Reach Dryopida by car from Merichas in about 15–25 minutes and leave the vehicle in the permitted parking areas, then continue on foot through the village. Allow about 1–2 hours for the lanes, the houses with traditional roofs and the covered passages, taking a break for water or coffee. Visiting the village is free; budget around 3–8 EUR for a drink and check on-site for any access restrictions to visitable spaces.

Wear comfortable shoes: the route through the village includes slopes and uneven paving.

11:30

Katafyki Cave

The cave is located near Dryopida: reach the entrance on foot or with a short local transfer and set aside about 45–90 minutes for the visit, if permitted. Admire the natural formations and underground chambers, following safety instructions and the site rules. Accessibility, whether an accompanied visit is required and any ticket price should be checked in advance on official channels; as a cautious estimate, allow 0–10 EUR for admission and possible transport costs.

Do not enter unmarked areas and check the official access information in advance.

14:30

Panagia Kanala

From Dryopida continue southeast by car for about 20–30 minutes, allowing extra time for stops along the way. In Kanala, visit the sanctuary and take a stroll around the area, then make time for lunch or to enjoy the coastal scenery before heading back. The outdoor area can be visited free of charge; expect about 10–25 EUR for a simple meal and check official channels for any information about access and visits to the religious spaces.

Leave enough time to return to Merichas or reach the port, depending on your departure time.