Discover the charms, the sights and the hidden gems of five wonderful destinations that are one to one and a half hours from Thessaloniki.
Imposing mountains, traditional settlements, tranquil lakes, waterfalls and enchanting landscapes that transform with the seasons. A breath away from Thessaloniki, there are wonderful places for getaways that combine nature, culture and tradition. If you are looking for a nearby outing one to one and a half hours from the beautifulcity of the North, then put these destinations on your itinerary.
5 day-trip ideas a breath away from Thessaloniki
Edessa: In the city of waters
From Thessaloniki, Edessa,the «water city» of Northern Greece, is just 95 kilometers away (about 1½ hours). The capital of Pella has become inseparable from its waterfalls, which lie within a unique geopark of cobbled lanes, stone bridges and superb views, to the northeast of the city. Their natural creator is the Edessaios River, whose waters run through the city before plunging forcefully over the falls. The largest and most impressive waterfall, Karanos, drops 70 meters with power and momentum, creating a thick cloud of droplets that cools the air.
The other jewel of Edessa is the traditional settlement of Varosi with its old mansions. The neighborhood’s distinctive atmosphere is enhanced by the old Byzantine churches of the Dormition of the Virgin and of Saints Peter and Paul, built in the 14th century and adorned with interesting frescoes.
Lake Kerkini: Watery paradise
At a distance of 40 km. from the city of Serres and about 100 km. from Thessaloniki, you encounter one of the most beautiful places in Greece. The superb Lake Kerkini was created by a dam built in 1932 and today is a highly protected wetland and a landscape of rare beauty with views to Mount Beles and the Serres valley. Nature makes the journey here unforgettable. The riparian vegetation with riverside forests of wild willows, the vast floating water lilies, the great variety of fish, the herds of buffalo splashing along the shores, and the magnificent panorama of the mountain ranges of Mount Beles and the Kroussia, endow the place with a unique charm.
Observe the rich birdlife and take a boat ride in the traditional «plaves» to admire the lake’s beauty up close. You can also go horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and jeep tours. A short distance away, Ano Poroia awaits you, one of the liveliest villages in the area, with unique views of Lake Kerkini, charming guesthouses and good food.
Litochoro: In the shadow of Olympus
Inextricably linked with explorations of the mythical mountain of Olympus, the picturesque Litochoro is an all-season destination. Litochoro is built on the eastern foothills of the mythical mountain, 25 km. from Katerini and 90 km. from Thessaloniki. The picturesque town of Pieria is the main gateway to Olympus, since from the locations «Prionia» and «Gortsia» the ascents begin to its mountain refuges and the summit, Mytikas (2.918 m.).
From Litochoro’s central square begins a labyrinth of narrow lanes, while at the top of the settlement lies the old village. Houses of Macedonian architecture, neoclassical captains’ mansions, small neighborhood squares, stone fountains and churches paint the settlements’ image. Do not miss the Nautical Museum, whose exhibits reveal the rich seafaring heritage of the Macedonian town. Litochoro is also an ideal base for exploring the traditional settlements of Palaios Panteleimonas and Skotina.
Pangaio, Kavala: On the magical mountain
Traditional settlements, running waters, Byzantine monasteries, myths, history, beauty… At a distance of 17 km. from Kavala and 130 km. from Thessaloniki, the Municipality of Pangaio and its mountain villages make an alluring destination for those who love nature, tradition and adventure.
Discover Moustheni with its arched bridges and stone-built traditional houses, Mesoropi with its imposing 19th-century mansions and impressive tobacco warehouses, Palaiochori with Vranokastro and the chestnut forest, the giant plane trees and the running waters, as well as the historic traditional settlement of Eleftheroupoli with its distinctive architecture that recalls major Macedonian urban centers. The hike along the beautiful Mesoropi trail, which leads to small waterfalls and pools, is well worth it, as is a visit to the historic Monastery of Panagia Eikosifoinissa. Wine lovers will be thrilled with the area’s wineries that produce the renowned "Vivlinos wine", mentioned by Hesiod as a wine of exceptional quality.
Arnaia: The other Halkidiki
A visit to mountainous Arnaia, about 70 km. from Thessaloniki and 38 km. from Polygyros, is an experience you should not miss, if you want to discover the other face of Halkidiki. Built amphitheatrically at an elevation of 600 m., on the northern foothills of Mount Holomon, in a lush setting with rich forests and abundant running waters, Arnaia is filled with beautiful houses and buildings that are outstanding examples of traditional Macedonian architecture. It is no coincidence that CNN included it on its list of the most beautiful villages in Greece.
Restored mansions with covered verandas and traditional houses painted in bold colors or ochres adorn Arnaia, which has been designated a «Historic site» and «Traditional Settlement» since 1987 by the Ministry of Culture. In fact, the Municipality has designed six distinct walking routes to better serve visitors and make it easier to get acquainted with the settlement. Do not forget to try Arnaia’s famed local products, such as honey, wine and the unique Mountovina, a distinctive tsipouro made from honey (PDO product). Near the village there is the beautiful grove of Agia Paraskevi, as well as the chapel of Prophet Elias for walks in nature.
