As a livable and alternative city, full of wonders, Thessaloniki has so many things to see and do. But also, it is a great base to explore the rest of Northern Greece with attractions at a few hours' distance. Because Greece has much more to offer than the capital and the islands.
Vergina to Meteora
About an hour away from Thessaloniki, visit the small village of Vergina, which became internationally famous in 1977, when archaeologists unearthed what they claimed was the burial site of the Kings of Macedonia, including the tomb of Philippe II, father of Alexander the Great. Then, head to the “hanging from the sky” monasteries on Meteora, those magnificent huge rocks, on which the most priceless historical and religious treasures have been built.
Under Mount Olympus, Dion
Not far from Vegina, at the footsteps of the mountain of the Greek Gods, lies the religious center of the Ancient Macedonians, Dion. Visitors tend to explore the ruins of the ancient place, dedicated to the worship of Zeus. This is where sacrifices were made to Gods by Alexander the Great before his legendary expedition.
Egnatia to the West, Philippi
A site that was recently added to the UNESCO Heritage list with a history starting from 356 BC with the foundation of King Philip II. Within a few hours from Thessaloniki, visitors can admire the remains of a glorious city with theater, baptistery, acropolis, the ruins of a huge basilica and arena. This is where St Paul was hosted as he entered Europe and held the first Christian Baptism.
Into the blue of Toroneos Gulf
Since Greece is not only ruins, but beautiful places and especially near the sea, a traveler to Thessaloniki can also enjoy the deepest color of blue waters not far from the city in Chalkidiki. Known among locals, a cruise trip around Toroneos Gulf and the coastline of the Sithonia and Kassandra peninsulas could be the best choice for sunbathing and swimming.
So close to the center of Orthodoxy, Mount Athos
This trip seems like it has a different vibe. A mysterious and miraculous place with monasteries built since the early Byzantine times within nature where only men are allowed to enter with a specific certification. But it is possible to admire them even from the water as you sail over the Aegean Sea and take glimpses of their exceptional architecture.