North Greece: general guide on where to go, what to see and what to do
When it comes to Greece, it happens to instinctively associate it with the most famous islands of the Cyclades, such as Santorini or Mykonos, or with the most famous historical places such as the Acropolis or Mycenae. When you think of Greece, summer immediately comes to mind. But there is also a less known part of Greece that offers a lot to visit, not only for the sea but above all for nature and the mountains during summer and winter.
We are talking about the part of mainland Greece north of Delphi and Athens, which extends to the borders with Albania and Bulgaria and which crosses various regions that are so varied between them. Below I will list some of the main places in this area of the Hellenic state that are worth a visit.
The city of Thessaloniki, the beating heart of Macedonia between history and fun
The Byzantine city of Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece, after the capital of Athens. It is a city in constant motion which doesn’t lack the entertainment. The White Tower is the reference point for both tourists and citizens who live there and for those who want to take a walk along the pedestrian promenade.
For the Greeks, Thessaloniki is also considered the capital of foodies. The center is full of typical taverns and the finest restaurants. There are also many varieties of desserts: you immediately notice it from the bright pastry shops scattered in every corner. It is a youthful city with an incredible nightlife and recommended for a weekend.
Mount Olympus, find yourself immersed in the nature of Greek mythology
Mount Olympus is the sacred mountain of the Gods of ancient Greece. This already says everything about the awesomeness of such a mythological place. Although there are unfortunately no traces of mythology, the area is an ideal place for nature lovers. You can walk along paths surrounded by flowers, waterfalls, streams and lots of greenery. For the more fit, you can go trekking and climb up to the almost 3,000 meters of the Mitika peak.
The advantage of Mount Olympus is that it is located close to the sea. During the same day you can climb and then dive into one of the beaches on the coast of the Riviera. In addition, you can combine other excursions in the area, such as the theater of Dion, or move to Vergina, where there is the tomb of Alexander the Great’s father.
Meteora, the monasteries suspended between earth and sky that know how to amaze
Meteora, in my opinion, is a magical place and the beauty of seeing monasteries suspended between earth and sky is unique. We are in the town of Kalambaka, in the region of Thessaly. The destination has become famous because there are particular rock formations on some of which Orthodox monasteries have been built.
There are 6 functional monasteries to visit, such as the monastery of Gran Meteora, that of Varlaam or Roussanou. Some can be reached by car, while others require a walk that often involves climbing a final staircase. In my opinion, one night in Kalambaka is already more than enough to have two days (even if not complete, depending on where you come from) to visit the monasteries and enjoy the view of this sacred place.
Mount Pelion: traditional villages and bays to be discovered in the midst of a lot of greenery
Mount Pelion is a destination not yet so well known by mass tourism, but it holds pleasant surprises for visitors throughout the year. This peninsula, named Pelion from the name of its mountain, extends near Volos and overlooks the Aegean sea. For mountain enthusiasts, the area offers many trails ideal for walking or cycling and horseback riding.
Mount Pelion, however, is also about the traditional stone villages, whose background setting changes color with the changing of the seasons and the foliage. Portaria and Zagora are some of the best known or even Milies, where a legendary steam train departs. There is no shortage of beaches. They are generally small bays, not equipped, close to thick vegetation and with a color of the blue sea that contrasts.
The Halkidiki Peninsula: the ideal place for a beach holiday
If you talk to some Greek from the North, chances are he will tell you that the best beaches in Greece are in the Halkidiki Peninsula. He’s not all wrong! The Halkidiki Peninsula is made up of three peninsulas (the last one is actually governed by the monks of Mount Athos) where you can find many sandy beaches with a sea of incredible colors.
If you are looking for a relaxing summer holiday by the sea, the Halkidiki peninsula is for you! Both for groups of friends looking for fun, given the presence of many beach bars, and for families, since many beaches are sandy with shallow waters and safe for children to play by the shore.
The surprising coast of Epirus, with the main centers of Parga and Sivota
The coast of Epirus is the stretch of sea that overlooks the Ionian Sea in front of the famous islands of Corfu or Paxi. The sea is the classic sea of Greece, that is, beautiful! Among the most famous beaches, I mention those of Bella Vraka and Mega Ammos. To reach the unique Bella Vraka, you cross a small strip of sand that connects the mainland to the islet where it is located.
The two main seaside villages are Parga and Sivota, but along the entire coast you can meet other villages and bays, both sandy and pebbly. The water in some places has an emerald green color. Parga draws its charm from the castle which stands on the hill above the city and by the colorful houses. Sivota is a pretty fishing village.
The stone villages of Zagorohoria or Metsovo with enchanting mountain scenery!
The Zagorohoria area is located north of the city of Ioannina. If the Greek islands are wonderful, thanks to the colors of the sea and their white houses, the stone villages of this area are no exception, thanks to a very fascinating natural landscape. If you visit this area you will find yourself surrounded by architectural bridges, monasteries carved out of the rock and an incredible nature, such as the Vikos gorge. There is no shortage of luxurious resorts with SPA treatments.
Another well-known destination is Metsovo, also in Epirus, a village that offers views of the Pindos mountain range, with the possibility of skiing and tasting the local cheese, wine and meat. You can combine the villages described above with a visit to the capital of the region, Ioannina, known for its historical lake and silver craftmanship.
Many other regions from Western Macedonia to Thrace
There are so many other destinations that it becomes difficult to name them all, such as the region of West Macedonia which offers a mountain holiday and pleasant places such as Florina, Lake Kastoria or Nymfaio, with its natural bear conservation parks. Ski slopes and strictly winter food to dispel the false myth that Greece is only sea and summer!
Another region that you can consider for a sightseeing tour is Thrace. The main cities to visit are Alexandroupoli and Xanthi. The region is furthermore enhanced by natural attractions such as the Evros Delta and the Dadia forest.
