Festive destinations for unforgettable moments with the family, strolls through festively decorated streets and outings into the Greek countryside.
The holidays are the perfect excuse to leave everyday life behind and enjoy a few days filled with joy in a warm atmosphere and beautiful moments with the family. A short family getaway to welcome the New Year is not just a trip, but an opportunity for play, relaxation and creating memories that will stay with us for a long time. If youre looking for ideas for family getaways at New Year, these six destinations are ideal choices.
Drama
The Drama transforms every winter into a magical destination, thanks to Oneiroupoli, one of Greeces most beloved Christmas villages. Every year the Municipal Garden and the citys central square fill with childrens laughter. Get ready to meet Santas elves and write him a letter, to paint and to enjoy unforgettable moments at the events organized daily.
Drama, a city with a long history and many sights, is ideal for strolls. Walk in Agia Varvara Park, a 60-stremma oasis with springs, ponds and waterfalls, discover the picturesque neighborhoods and leave behind stress and long distances. Dont miss trying the local cuisine and visiting the renowned nearby wineries, as well as the countrys northernmost ski resort on Mount Falakro.
Thessaloniki
Ever-welcoming Thessaloniki is magical during the holidays. There are many options for good food, great sights and experiences. The city is impressively decorated, with lights along the avenues, the Christmas tree in Aristotelous Square, Christmas markets and events for adults and children. All the streets are filled with lights and people strolling and shopping, in a scene that feels straight out of a movie.
A walk with the family along the seafront with the White Tower as a backdrop is the ideal way to start or end the day. Walk through the city center, enjoy treats and street food at the huts and markets, visit Thessalonikis museums, book a show and relax in cafés with views of the impressive sunset over the Thermaikos.
Trikala
The Trikala have been established in recent years as the top family destination for the holidays thanks to the famous Mill of the Elves. The Christmas theme park is a magnet for families from every corner of Greece who want to experience the magic of the holidays to the fullest. Its venue, the listed Matsopoulos Mill, is one of the citys important sights. It is the first industrial flour mill built in Greece and among the largest in the Balkans, operating between 1884 – 1984. Dont miss spending happy moments at the Christmas park and trying hot wine and sweets.
Every year the city is impressively decorated, with little lights on the streets, on the bridges and along the Lithaios River. Trikala is friendly to families with small children, as its center is very easy to walk and everything is within close distance from each other on foot or by bicycle. For food you will sit in the famous Manavika, the neighborhood with meze eateries and little tavernas. If you want to take short excursions, a few kilometers away are the Meteora, Elati, Pertouli, Neraidochori, Lake Plastira and the Karamanoli Ski Center.
Karpenisi
The Karpenisi is the ideal destination for families who love the mountains and nature. If youre lucky, at New Year you may enjoy a snowy setting in the surrounding villages. In the square an impressive decorated fir tree is set up and the streets fill with lights. Every year the events organized during the holidays are rich, with music and games for young and old. On New Year the spectacle is impressive, with fireworks that fill the sky with light from the hill of Agios Dimitrios.
Family activities in Karpenisi are many, from walks in the snowy landscape and a visit to the ski resort to hikes on easy trails and trips to nearby villages. Visit Kefalovryso with its plane trees and crystal-clear waters, Old Mikro Chorio and Megalo Chorio with their picturesque alleys and wonderful views of the surrounding mountains, and sit down for food at tavernas with the areas authentic flavors.
Kalavryta
One of the most beloved winter destinations for family holidays, the Kalavryta have everything you need to start the new year in the best way. The picturesque small town at the foot of Helmos is radiant during the holidays, with decorated pedestrian streets, shops and warm cafés. The Christmas Village welcomes visitors in the central square, along with a large Book Fair. The program of events is rich, with melodies and activities for children.
Kalavryta, with its history, nature and winter activities, is a destination that does not disappoint. The ski resort offers activities for all levels, while the rack railway is an experience that especially thrills children. Visit the surrounding villages, discover Zachlorou and the lush landscape within the Vouraikos Gorge. Dont miss a visit to the Kalavryta Ski Center, which will delight the children. The tavernas serve traditional dishes, ideal for warming you up after a day in the snow.
Kalamata
For those who prefer a winter escape by the sea, Kalamata is an excellent choice. The city offers sunlit moments, cafés with sea views and a relaxed atmosphere all year round. Its lively center is filled with shops and cafés, the fairy-tale houses and treehouses are set up in the central Vasileos Georgiou Square with handmade options for gifts and more. The festive program includes theater and dance performances, while melodies also fill the citys streets.
Enjoy your strolls along the seafront and the citys squares and visit its castle. The Kalamata Municipal Railway Park delights train lovers young and old. If you have time you can take short trips to Messinian Mani or to the villages of Mount Taygetos. Local gastronomy, with fresh produce, olive oil and traditional recipes, makes the trip even more enjoyable.
