Between the mythical Mount Olympus and the sea, Katerini and its surrounding area are a destination for all seasons of the year.
Where myths meet lush nature and where the sea stretches out in the shadow of the mountain, Katerini is a distinctive city with a rich history that offers travelers many experiences. Built in the shadow of Olympus, the capital of Pieria enjoys a privileged position beside the Thermaic Gulf, combining the comfort and vibrancy of the city with proximity to beautiful beaches, important archaeological sites, and picturesque villages. Whether you visit for relaxation or exploration, Katerini and the surrounding area have much to offer.
Katerini in the shadow of Olympus
In the shadow of Olympus, Katerini is a modern city with squares, fountains, and pedestrian streets lined with shops. Liberty Square is a landmark, with cafes and shops bustling with people at all hours of the day. It is the city’s central square, where the statue of Liberty dominates, a female figure with a flowing dress and raised arms, created by the sculptor Efthymios Kalevras. Next to the square you will also see the Holy Cathedral of the Divine Ascension, built in 1858.
Stroll along the pedestrian streets where the city’s modern market unfolds, on the famed Megalou Alexandrou, as well as at Town Hall Square with the Town Hall and at Macedonia Square where you will find cafes and restaurants. One of the most impressive spots in Katerini is the Municipal Park, a lush green space, ideal for walking and relaxation, with more than 39 species of trees, a lake, the open-air municipal theater, pathways, and a playground.
Next to the park you will encounter the Folklore Museum of the Association of Pontians of Katerini, founded by the Pontic Association of Pieria and opened its doors in 1990. Its collection includes about 600 objects of social, folkloric, and historical interest related to the customs and traditions of the Pontians of the area. Near the Courthouse, you will find the Katerini Tobacco Station, which operated for decades from 1933 as an annex of the Tobacco Institute of Greece. Since 2018, the Pieria Prefecture Volunteer Action Group has turned the site into a cultural center that hosts activities for young and old throughout the year.
A sight in itself is the Katerini Railway Station, which opened in 1916, not only for its architecture that takes you back in time, but also for the Fortress of the Katerini Railway Station that stands there. The tower, a characteristic example of German pillbox tower architecture, is a living historical monument, as it was constructed during the period of the German occupation and survives to this day.
Archaeological sites and attractions
The Archaeological Park of Dion
One of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, Dion is an ancient city dedicated to Zeus, built at the foot of Olympus, which became a major cultural and religious center of ancient Macedonia. In the Archaeological Park of Dion you will wander among the Roman Odeon, the ruins of various buildings, temples, theaters, and public baths. Dominating here are the Temple of Zeus and that of Isis, while important stops also include the Ancient House of Dionysus with its standout mosaics.
At the Archaeological Museum of Dion there is a large collection of finds unearthed in the archaeological site, where excavations continue to this day. The exhibits are organized into sections according to the area where they were found, and among them you will see objects of everyday life as well as items from the sanctuaries and the necropolis of Dion.
The Macedonian Tombs of Korinos
About 10 km outside the center, at the location «Toumbes» outside the seaside town of Korinos, lie the two large Macedonian tumuli of the 4th century BC. The archaeological site reveals elements of the funerary rites of the era in Macedonia. Excavations in the area have brought to light various objects connected with the burial ceremonies, such as vessels and personal items. In one of the two, there are speculations that Olympias, mother of Alexander the Great, was buried, although nothing is confirmed.
Ancient Pydna
One of the most important port cities of ancient Macedonia, Ancient Pydna, is located near Makrygialos, Pieria, 20 km from Katerini. Its strategic position on the Thermaic Gulf had elevated it to an important commercial center of the area. The archaeological site reveals sections of the fortification, houses, and sanctuaries, offering visitors the chance to get to know the region’s rich history up close.
The mythical Leivithra
Ancient Leivithra, at the foot of Olympus near Litochoro, is a place that combines history and myth, as according to tradition Orpheus was buried here by the Muses. According to mythology, this was the Muses’ favorite place and for that reason they were called Leivithrides. The archaeological site, set in a verdant environment with running waters, reveals ruins of walls, buildings, and sanctuaries, while the atmosphere of the place captivates the visitor. Today, in addition to the excavations, a park has been created with themed routes that bring visitors into contact with nature and the legends of the area.
Panagia Kontariotissa and the Monastery of Saint Ephraim
Panagia Kontariotissa, or Kountouriotissa, is an impressive Byzantine monument in the settlement of the same name, 11 km outside Katerini. The stone-built 11th-century church stands in the shadow of the Holy Monastery of Saint Ephraim the Syrian and is said to be the oldest Byzantine monument preserved in Pieria. The Holy Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos, as its official name is, as well as Saint Ephraim, impress with their architecture.
Nearby excursions
Picturesque Litochoro and mythical Olympus
The popular town of Pieria, Litochoro, built at the foot of Olympus, is a destination for all seasons. It unites the mountain with the sea and fills with people who love this unique combination for holidays. Litochoro is ideal both for a day trip from Katerini and for a stay of several days. Wander the picturesque lanes and sit for coffee in the shadow of the mythical mountain. Stroll through the Municipal Park and visit the Maritime Museum, which highlights the area’s connection with the local seafaring tradition.
Litochoro is an ideal base for mountaineers, since most of the trails that lead to Olympus start from here, as well as those to the Enipeas Gorge. The ascent to Greece’s highest mountain is for many a dream of a lifetime. The Mountain of the Gods reveals its charm to those who dare to climb to the summit, Mytikas at 2,918 meters. Olympus National Park includes the high peaks and the northern slopes of the mountain and is one of Greece’s most important natural monuments, with rich flora and fauna.
The picturesque Palaios Panteleimonas
Palaios Panteleimonas is one of Pieria’s most picturesque villages, perched on the slopes of Olympus, with endless views over the Thermaic Gulf. The settlement was built in the 14th century and was abandoned in the 1950s, when the inhabitants moved lower to create Neos Panteleimonas, near the sea. In the 1980s it was designated a traditional settlement, resulting in its preservation and emergence as one of the finest examples of Macedonian architecture in Northern Greece. Indeed, at that time it also served as the setting for the film «Alexander the Great» by Theodoros Angelopoulos.
Cobbled alleys, stone mansions, and blooming courtyards paint a charming picture, while the square with its plane trees, tavernas, and the church of Saint Panteleimon offers visitors a sense of authenticity and hospitality. The area around the village is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and nature excursions.
Neos Panteleimonas is built near the sea. Today it attracts travelers who want to take a summer holiday, as it offers accommodations, tavernas, and nearby beach bars. Visiting both settlements is the ideal combination for those who want to experience both mountain and sea.
Platamonas with the medieval castle
Platamonas is one of Pieria’s best-known summer destinations, as it combines wonderful beaches with rich history. The seaside resort is famed for its sandy shore, organized beach bars, and fish tavernas. A landmark of the area is the Castle of Platamonas, a 10th-century medieval fortress, among the best preserved in Greece, rising imposingly above the hill, with panoramic views of the sea and Olympus.
Seaside Leptokarya
One of the most popular seaside resorts in Pieria, Leptokarya is ideal for a family summer holiday. On its long sandy beach with shallow waters there are accommodations and restaurants. A characteristic attraction of the area is the Museum of the Geological History of Olympus, with minerals and rocks that originate from Olympus, as well as exhibits from the surrounding region, which show special interest in the evolution of fauna and flora.
The verdant Orlia stream
The Orlia stream, on the northeastern slopes of Olympus near Litochoro, is one of Pieria’s most beautiful natural landscapes. A popular destination for hiking and cool respite in nature, it reveals a magical scene with running waters through lush green forests, impressive waterfalls, and pools with crystal-clear waters. The Orlia waterfalls are a refreshing alternative to the area’s beaches and a destination for hikers and nature lovers.
The beaches of Pieria
Katerini is a destination that offers opportunities for dips in clear waters. Its beach is 8 km from the city center and fills with people from morning to night, as it has hotels, beach bars, and water sports. However, along the entire coastline of Pieria you will find beaches for every taste.
At a short distance we find Variko, Gritsa and Plaka Litochoro where sand meets pebbles and the view of Olympus is mesmerizing. The beach of Korinos is a little further north, Leptokarya has extensive tourist development and facilities, while its beach is large.
At Platamonas beach the setting is magical with the castle that dominates the hilltop, Neoi Poroi is truly vast in area and lends itself to quiet holidays, while Skotina is tranquil and calm. One of the most impressive beaches in the area is that of Panteleimonas, with pristine waters, sand, and pebbles.
