These Greek cities are ideal for family holidays at Christmas.
Squares brimming with life, landmarks and traditional neighborhoods that transport you back in time, great food and sparkling Christmas parks. What more could anyone ask for from a festive escape in Greece? We find all this in five cities that blend beauty, tradition, fun and Christmas surprises. Gather the family and off you go!
Trikala
The Lithaios River, the charming old town, historic monuments, squares, parks and pedestrian streets make the city of Trikala ideal for leisurely strolls. Wander through the old Varousi quarter with its traditional houses, enjoy a walk or a bike ride (bicycles are everywhere in Trikala),along the banks of the Lithaios, climb up to the Fortress with its 33-meter-high clock tower to take in the panoramic view and head to Manavika where some of the best spots for food and nightlife are found. And dont forget: right next to Trikala are Meteora, the villages of Elati and Pertouli, as well as Lake Plastira, for short and longer escapes.
This season, the fairytale «Mill of the Elves» steals the show in Trikala, set up at the old Matsopoulos Mill, in the citys namesake park. With various activities and plenty of events, Greeces largest Christmas themepark guarantees a delightful experience for the whole family. Each year, a brand-new theme gets visitors firmly into the Christmas spirit.
Drama
With a centuries-long history and many sights, picturesque neighborhoods, listed buildings that give the city a unique atmosphere, green spaces and abundant waters welling up, Drama welcomes its visitors with wonderful scenes and landscapes. Nearby are renowned wineries as well as the countrys northernmost ski center on Mount Falakro. Among the citys most important attractions are the famous Agia Varvara Park, a 60-stremma oasis with springs, little lakes and waterfalls, the Byzantine walls and the mansions of the Old Town, the Municipal Park, Freedom Square, the Archaeological Museum and Korylovos Hillwhich offers panoramic views.
One of the most beautiful and most fairytale-like Christmas villages in Greece, «Oneiroupoli» is set up every year in the Municipal Garden and the citys central square.Hundreds of different free activities, cultural events and themed workshops are offered daily.
Kastoria
One of the most beautiful and picturesque cities of northern Greece, Kastoria is mirrored in the waters of Lake Orestiada and charms visitors with its grandeur and serene aura. The lake which, especially when frozen in winter, is magical, the traditional neighborhoods with imposing mansions, the Byzantine churches and the gastronomic delights make Kastoria one of the best winter destinations in Greece.The first thing you will want to do here is to see its lake up close and savor the scenery. Next come strolls through the picturesque Doltso and Apozari neighborhoods, with the listed mansions of affluent Kastorians, which will transport you to the past.
Young visitors will be thrilled with the Magical Lake City, the theme park set up in Olympic Flame Park. If you stay in Kastoria until January 6, you will have the chance to enjoy Ragoutsaria, the famed Kastorian carnival with a history lost in the depths of the centuries.
Ioannina
This season, Ioannina becomes even more enchanting. Here you will find yourself before Pamvotida, the lake of legends and traditions. This lake has a special magic and you will feel it as you take a stroll, on foot or by bicycle, along the serene lakeside promenade adorned with towering trees. When fog falls, the scene turns dreamlike. Wander through the historic center and the imposing Castle and then take the boat to visit the little island on the lake.
At Frontzou Recreational Park, on Holy Trinity Hill, the Santa Claus Village is set up every year, with an open-air market and plenty of events. If you have more days at your disposal, from the city of Ioannina you can take short trips to the famous stone-built villages of Zagori, as well as stately Metsovo.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is a city you never get enough of. No matter how many times we go, we will always want to return. Major sights, great food, irresistible sweets, traditional markets, culture - everything meets on its streets and there is always something new to discover. What could be better this season than a short escape to Thessaloniki with the family?
During the festive days Thessaloniki is a beauty. You will certainly visit Aristotelous Square with the Christmas tree, but also Dikastirion Square with the elves little houses, the Christmas market and the carousel. Adding its own festive touch to the city is «Asterocosmos», at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center. This impressive Christmas theme park includes a unique Fun Park with 15 rides and an ice rink.
