Thessaloniki has superb road meals, waterside bars, Ottoman historical past, Byzantine church buildings, bustling markets and loads of nice playgrounds – it’s additionally surrounded by some nice day journeys to discover.
Thessaloniki is the right launch pad to see a very completely different facet of northern Greece – from hidden waterfalls to historic tombs and sandy seaside days.
Should you’re planning a Thessaloniki metropolis break, save at the very least a day (or three) for these straightforward journeys – all doable in a day, and all price setting your alarm for. Expertise the appeal 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 might you resist ticking off Greece’s legendary Mount Olympus? This iconic peak was the legendary residence of the gods (did you watch Kaos on Netflix?) – and as we speak it’s a nationwide park filled with 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 sneakers and pack a change of garments – you’ll in all probability need to paddle!
2. Vergina: step into historic Macedon
Distance: 70km | Drive time: 1 hour
Should you’re a historical past lover (or simply inquisitive about Alexander the Nice), Vergina must be prime of your Thessaloniki day journeys record. This tiny village hides certainly one of Greece’s best archaeological treasures – 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 calming vibe.
High tip: The tomb museum is beautiful however darkish and funky – helpful for escaping the warmth!
3. Halkidiki: solar, sea and seaside bars
Distance: 70–120km | Drive time: 1–2 hours (relying on the seaside)
When locals fancy a seaside day, they pack up and head to Halkidiki – that iconic three-pronged peninsula that dips into the Aegean simply south of Thessaloniki.
The primary ‘leg’ (Kassandra) is known for its occasion seashores and large resorts.
The second (Sithonia) is wilder, greener and quieter – assume hidden coves, pine forests and chilled tavernas. We stayed there on the Lagomandra Seashore Lodge.
The third (Mount Athos) is off-limits to most (it’s residence 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, straightforward for a fast swim)
Kalogria Seashore (Sithonia, turquoise shallows, seaside bars)
Possidi Seashore (Kassandra, nice for sundown cocktails)
High tip: Go midweek should you can – weekends will be busy with locals escaping the town warmth. There are some nice eating places in Halkidiki so be sure to take a look at my put up.
4. Edessa: chase waterfalls
Distance: 90km | Drive time: 1–1.5 hours
Fancy a change from the ocean? Head inland to Edessa, a small city well-known for its waterfalls – the most important in Greece. The city sits on a plateau, with water pouring dramatically over the cliffs into lush parkland beneath. You may get proper behind a few of the falls, so pack a light-weight rain jacket (or embrace getting a bit damp!).
What to do:
Stroll the Waterfall Park – don’t 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 – soak in pure sizzling springs surrounded by forest.
5. Meteora: monasteries within the sky
Distance: 230km | Drive time: 2.5–3 hours (every manner)
Okay, this one is an enormous day trip – but it surely’s so price it. The rock pillars of Meteora topped with gravity-defying monasteries are certainly one of Greece’s true bucket-list sights. A UNESCO World Heritage web site, it’s nonetheless residence to lively monks and nuns. You’ll be able to go to a number of monasteries (simply bear in mind shoulders and knees have to be lined – scarves and wraps are sometimes supplied).
What to do:
Go to a couple of monasteries – the Nice Meteoron is the biggest.
Drive the loop highway for epic views.
Do a brief hike between rock formations.
High tip: Think about an in a single day keep in Kalambaka or Kastraki village should you can spare the time – dawn or sundown over Meteora is unforgettable.
Sensible suggestions for Thessaloniki day journeys
Rent a automobile: It’s the best approach to hop between websites and seashores at your individual tempo.
Go away early: Greek roads will be quiet however plan additional time for scenic detours and occasional stops.
Pack snacks & water: Some distant spots have few retailers.
Respect native gown codes: Particularly for monasteries and historic websites.
Northern Greece is filled with day journeys that make Thessaloniki really feel just like the gateway to a complete new journey. So rent that little rental automobile, hit the highway, and let the hidden seashores, historic kings and mountain trails present you why the locals love this nook of Greece a lot.
Gatwick airport parking and resort
We flew to Thessaloniki from Gatwick – staying on the Bloc Lodge the night time earlier than. Have you ever seen my Reel about Bloc Lodge on Instagram? I really assume the Premier Inn is best should you’re staying with household, however Bloc is nice should you’re solo.
We used ilovemeetandgreet.co.uk for our Gatwick parking. I’ve had some dangerous experiences previously with different firms and valet parking, so I’m all the time a bit nervous however the ease of communication made I Love Meet and Greet stand out.
Reserving was straightforward after which I phoned ten minutes earlier than arrival to warn them we have been coming. We have been advised to park simply exterior Premier Inn on the North Terminal they usually have been there ready and able to take the automobile. After we returned we phoned once we picked up our baggage, they usually have been there about quarter-hour later. Easy and simple – I’d positively advocate them.
I Love Meet and Greet serve Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Birmingham and Manchester.