Thessaloniki has superb avenue meals, waterside bars, Ottoman historical past, Byzantine church buildings, bustling markets and loads of nice playgrounds โย itโs additionally surrounded by some nice day journeys to discover.
Thessaloniki is the right launch pad to see a completely totally different aspect of northern Greece โ from hidden waterfalls to historical tombs and sandy seaside days.
In the event youโre planning a Thessaloniki metropolis break, save a minimum of a day (or three) for these simple journeys โ all doable in a day, and all price setting your alarm for. Expertise the allure of the encircling area with these unforgettable day journeys from Thessaloniki.
1. Mount Olympus: hike the throne of Zeus
Distance: 100km | Drive time: 1.5 hours
How may you resist ticking off Greeceโs legendary Mount Olympus? This iconic peak was the legendary house of the gods (did you watch Kaos on Netflix?) โ and at the moment itโs a nationwide park full of mountain climbing trails, epic gorges and luxurious forests.
Most guests base themselves in Litochoro, a cute stone village on the foot of the mountain the place you may gas up with a espresso and native pastries earlier than setting off.
What to do:
Hike the Enipeas Gorge (easy-to-moderate path, about 2-3 hours spherical journey).
Go to the Holy Monastery of St. Dionysios, nestled amongst pines.
Picnic by waterfalls and pure swimming pools alongside the path.
High tip: Put on respectable strolling footwear and pack a change of garments โ youโll most likely wish to paddle!
2. Vergina: step into historical Macedon
Distance: 70km | Drive time: 1 hour
In the event youโre a historical past lover (or simply inquisitive about Alexander the Nice), Vergina ought to be prime of your Thessaloniki day journeys record. This tiny village hides considered one of Greeceโs biggest archaeological treasures โ the Royal Tombs of Aigai, believed to incorporate the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander himself.
What to do:
Discover the Royal Tombs Museum, constructed inside the traditional burial mound.
Wander the archaeological park with its palace ruins. Cease off at Veria, a riverside city with an previous Jewish quarter, cute cafes and a relaxing vibe.
High tip: The tomb museum is gorgeous however darkish and funky โ useful for escaping the warmth!
3. Halkidiki: solar, sea and seaside bars
Distance: 70โ120km | Drive time: 1โ2 hours (relying on the seaside)
When locals fancy a seaside day, they pack up and head to Halkidiki โ that iconic three-pronged peninsula that dips into the Aegean simply south of Thessaloniki.
The primary โlegโ (Kassandra) is legendary for its celebration seashores and massive resorts.
The second (Sithonia) is wilder, greener and quieter โ assume hidden coves, pine forests and chilled tavernas. We stayed there on the Lagomandra Seaside Lodge.
The third (Mount Athos) is off-limits to most (itโs house to monastic communities) however you are able to do boat excursions to see the monasteries from the ocean.
Greatest seashores for a fast day journey:
Nea Potidea (gateway to Kassandra, simple for a fast swim)
Kalogria Seaside (Sithonia, turquoise shallows, seaside bars)
Possidi Seaside (Kassandra, nice for sundown cocktails)
High tip: Go midweek when you can โ weekends might be busy with locals escaping the town warmth. There are some nice eating places in Halkidiki so be certain to take a look at my publish.
4. Edessa: chase waterfalls
Distance: 90km | Drive time: 1โ1.5 hours
Fancy a change from the ocean? Head inland to Edessa, a small city well-known for its waterfalls โ the largest in Greece. The city sits on a plateau, with water pouring dramatically over the cliffs into lush parkland under. You may get proper behind among the falls, so pack a lightweight rain jacket (or embrace getting a bit damp!).
What to do:
Stroll the Waterfall Park โ donโt miss the double waterfalls and hidden caves.
Seize lunch at one of many tavernas with waterfall views.
Wander the previous Varosi district for Ottoman-era homes and cobbled lanes.
High tip: Mix Edessa with close by Pozar Thermal Baths for a correct spa day โ soak in pure sizzling springs surrounded by forest.
5. Meteora: monasteries within the sky
Distance: 230km | Drive time: 2.5โ3 hours (every means)
Okay, this one is a giant time out โ but it surelyโs so price it. The rock pillars of Meteora topped with gravity-defying monasteries are considered one of Greeceโs true bucket-list sights. A UNESCO World Heritage website, itโs nonetheless house to energetic monks and nuns. You’ll be able to go to a number of monasteries (simply bear in mind shoulders and knees should be lined โ scarves and wraps are sometimes offered).
What to do:
Go to just a few monasteries โ the Nice Meteoron is the most important.
Drive the loop highway for epic views.
Do a brief hike between rock formations.
High tip: Take into account an in a single day keep in Kalambaka or Kastraki village when you can spare the time โ dawn or sundown over Meteora is unforgettable.
Sensible ideas for Thessaloniki day journeys
Rent a automobile: Itโs the best technique to hop between websites and seashores at your individual tempo.
Go away early: Greek roads might be quiet however plan further time for scenic detours and occasional stops.
Pack snacks & water: Some distant spots have few outlets.
Respect native gown codes: Particularly for monasteries and historical websites.
Northern Greece is filled with day journeys that make Thessaloniki really feel just like the gateway to an entire new journey. So rent that little rental automobile, hit the highway, and let the hidden seashores, historical kings and mountain trails present you why the locals love this nook of Greece a lot.
Gatwick airport parking and lodge
We flew to Thessaloniki from Gatwick โย staying on the Bloc Lodge the evening earlier than. Have you ever seen my Reel about Bloc Lodge on Instagram? I really assume the Premier Inn is best when youโre staying with household, however Bloc is nice when youโre solo.
We used ilovemeetandgreet.co.uk for our Gatwick parking. Iโve had some unhealthy experiences previously with different firms and valet parking, so Iโm all the time a bit nervous however the ease of communication made I Love Meet and Greet stand out.
Reserving was simple after which I phoned ten minutes earlier than arrival to warn them we had been coming. We had been advised to park simply outdoors Premier Inn on the North Terminal and so they had been there ready and able to take the automobile. Once we returned we phoned once we picked up our luggage, and so they had been there about quarter-hour later. Clean and simple โย Iโd undoubtedly advocate them.
I Love Meet and Greet serve Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Birmingham and Manchester.