Northern Greece

The landmark of Thessaloniki and the most photographed building in the city. The cylindrical tower (34 m high, 70 m in circumference) stands at the eastern end of the waterfront promenade and has a grim history: Under the Ottomans, it served as a prison and execution site — its old name was "Blood Tower." After the Greek liberation in 1912, it was whitewashed to symbolically wash away the past.

Today, the tower houses an interactive museum on city history, spiraling upward over six floors. The exhibition is modernly designed with multimedia stations, maps, and artifacts — from the founding by Cassander through the Byzantine heyday to the multicultural Ottoman era. The highlight is the observation deck at the top: 360-degree panorama over the city, the Thermaic Gulf, and on clear days, Olympus to the south.

Right in front of the tower begins the Nea Paralia, Thessaloniki's 5 km long waterfront promenade — one of the most beautiful in Europe. 13 themed gardens (rose park, sculpture park, playgrounds), bike paths, cafes, and the famous umbrella sculptures by Giorgos Zongolopoulos. In the evenings at sunset, the Paralia is the place where the whole city comes together.

Admission to the museum: 6€ (adults), 3€ (reduced), free under 25. Daily 8:30 am–3:00 pm (Monday from 10:30 am). Observation deck also accessible when closed.

While the lower town was almost completely destroyed in a devastating fire in 1917, the Upper Town (Ano Poli) was spared — and still preserves the character of old Thessaloniki. Up here, within the Byzantine city walls (UNESCO World Heritage), a labyrinth of narrow alleys, Ottoman wooden houses with bay windows, dilapidated mansions, and tiny churches with 800-year-old frescoes winds its way.

The climb to the Upper Town is worth it for the view alone: From the walls of the Eptapyrgio (Seven Towers Fortress) at the top, you have the best view over the city, the gulf, and — on clear days — Olympus. The Trigoniou Tower further east also offers a fantastic panorama, especially at sunset.

In Ano Poli, you will also find some of the most atmospheric taverns in the city. Tsinari and the alleys around the Trigoniou Tower are full of small venues with terraces and live music. Here, in the evenings, the locals sit with ouzo and meze, while the tourists party down in Ladadika.

Hidden among the alleys are several Byzantine small churches — Osios David (5th century, with a sensational mosaic of the Transfiguration of Christ), Nikolaos Orfanos (14th century, fully preserved frescoes), and the tiny Profitis Ilias. All free, all almost deserted.

Getting up: Bus No. 23 from Eleftherias Square (1.10€) or a 20 min steep uphill walk. Comfortable shoes are a must — the cobblestone streets are uneven.

This massive round building (24 m in diameter, 30 m high) is one of Thessaloniki's oldest surviving structures and has undergone more identity changes than any other building in the city. Built around 306 AD under Emperor Galerius — presumably as his mausoleum or temple. However, Galerius was never buried here.

Instead, the Rotunda was converted into a Christian church in the 4th century — and received spectacular gold-ground mosaics on the inside of the dome, which are among the oldest surviving Christian mosaics in the world. Saints in magnificent robes in front of imaginative architectural backdrops — some still astonishingly well-preserved.

After the Ottoman conquest in 1430, the church was turned into a mosque — the minaret (the only one preserved in Thessaloniki) still stands beside it. Since 1912, the Rotunda has been a museum and since 1988 a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as part of Thessaloniki's early Christian and Byzantine monuments).

Combine the visit with a walk to the nearby Kamara (Galerius Arch) — the triumphal arch of the same emperor, once connected to the Rotunda by a grand avenue. The Kamara is now a student meeting point and a lively scene in the evening.

Admission: 6€. Tue–Sun 8:30 am–3:00 pm. The minaret is currently not accessible.

Thessaloniki's historic market hall was reopened in 2023 after an extensive renovation and has since become the city's hottest food spot. Named after the Sephardic Jewish architect Eli Modiano, who designed the hall in 1922, the renovated market combines traditional vendors with a modern food hall — and actually manages to bring both under one roof.

On the ground floor, you'll find the traditional vendors: fishmongers with fresh catches from the Thermaic Gulf, butchers with Loukaniko (Greek sausages) and Pastourma (spiced dried meat), cheese vendors with mountains of Feta, Kasseri, and Metsovone, spice vendors with saffron from Kozani and wild oregano. On the upper floor and the peripheral areas, a food hall has established itself: craft beer bars, sushi, burgers, specialty coffee — all hip but not obtrusive.

Right next door is the Kapani Market (Vlali), a covered bazaar-like market that is even more authentic: locals shop here, and the prices are lower. Together, Modiano and Kapani form the culinary heart of Thessaloniki.

Mon–Sat 7 am–3 pm (Modiano), Kapani partly until 6 pm. Closed on Sundays. Most authentic early in the morning — that's when the fishermen deliver their catch.

The former oil merchants' district (ladi = oil) west of Aristotelous Square was a rundown warehouse district until the 1990s. Today, Ladadika is Thessaloniki's number one nightlife district — a labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with restored neoclassical warehouses converted into restaurants, bars, and clubs.

During the day, Ladadika is a pleasant district for strolling, with some good restaurants (especially seafood) and cafes with terraces. But the real magic begins after 10 pm: Then the streets turn into one big party. The bars range from chic cocktail bars to rustic ouzeries to clubs with live Rembetiko or Greek rock.

On Friday night, Ladadika is the fullest — and the best. Greeks go out late (dinner at 10 pm, first bar at midnight, club from 2 am) and party until dawn. The Greek word for it: Kefi — a mix of joie de vivre, exuberance, and the feeling that the night should never end.

One of the most important museums in Greece — and the one with probably the most spectacular single exhibition in the country. The museum houses finds from all over Macedonia, from the Bronze Age to the Roman period, but the absolute star is the Vergina exhibition.

In 1977, archaeologist Manolis Andronikos discovered an unlooted royal tomb in Vergina (60 km southwest) — the tomb of Philip II of Macedonia, the father of Alexander the Great. The finds are sensational: a golden larnax (sarcophagus) with the Macedonian star, a golden oak wreath of breathtaking delicacy, armor, weapons, ivory miniatures, and silver drinking vessels.

Other highlights: the Derveni Krater (a 4th century BC bronze vessel of incredible craftsmanship — one of the masterpieces of ancient metalwork worldwide), golden masks from Sindos, and an extensive sculpture collection.

Admission: 8€ (adults), free under 25 and on the first Sunday of the month Nov–March. Daily 8:00 am–8:00 pm (summer), 8:30 am–3:30 pm (winter). Plan at least 2 hours.

Forget everything you think you know about Greek food. Thessaloniki is not just good — Thessaloniki is the undisputed culinary capital of Greece. The city has a unique gastronomic DNA: Byzantine cooking tradition, Ottoman influences (spices, sweets, street food), Sephardic Jewish recipes, Asia Minor flavors from the refugees of Smyrna 1922, and a vibrant modern food scene.

The result is a cuisine that is richer, spicier, and more diverse than in Athens or on the islands. Here are the dishes you must not miss:

Bougatsa — The breakfast of champions. Phyllo pastry filled with semolina cream (the sweet variant) or cheese/minced meat (the savory). Made fresh and served sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon. The line at Bougatsa Bantis (since 1969) is already 20 meters long at 8 am — and it's worth it.

Gyros — Thessaloniki's gyros is different from the rest of Greece. Here it traditionally comes from the pork spit (not chicken), is juicier, more seasoned, and wrapped in thicker pita. The secret: the long grilling process and the spice mix. Best gyros: Derlicatessen in Toumba or Savvikos.

Seafood — The Thermaic Gulf provides fresh fish, squid, mussels, and shrimp. In the taverns at the harbor, you get grilled fish for a fraction of the island prices.

Meze culture — Thessaloniki lives the meze culture like no other Greek city. An evening begins with ouzo or tsipouro and a dozen small plates: tzatziki, taramosalata, grilled octopus, fava, saganaki, stuffed peppers, seafood croquettes... The round continues until the table is full and the ouzo is empty.

Sweets — Thessaloniki is the center of Greek patisserie, heavily influenced by Ottoman and Sephardic traditions: Trigona Panoramatos (triangular phyllo pastries with cream), Tsoureki (sweet Easter bread, available year-round here), Kataifi, Baklava, Galaktoboureko.

€ Budget (main course under 10€)

Bougatsa Bantis · Tsimiski 19 & Komninon
The legendary bougatsa institution since 1969. Sweet bougatsa with semolina cream (2.50€) or savory with cheese (3€). Fresh from the oven, crispy, buttery, heavenly. Worth standing in line in the morning.
2–5€ · Daily 6:30 am–10:00 pm

To Full tou Meze · Katouni 3, Ladadika
Tiny ouzerie with a big heart. A dozen meze plates for two people cost 15–20€ here. Everything fresh, everything delicious: grilled octopus, fava, saganaki, eggplant salad. Full of locals at lunchtime — always a good sign.
3–8€ per meze · Mon–Sat 12 pm–12 am

Derlicatessen · Karaoli & Dimitriou 7, Toumba
Thessaloniki's most famous gyros. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, in thick pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki. Gyros pita 3.50€. Short line is normal.
3–6€ · Daily 11 am–1 am

€€ Mid-range (main course 10–22€)

Ergon Agora · Pavlou Mela 42
Food market meets restaurant. On the ground floor, a delicatessen market with Greek products (olive oil, cheese, sausages), on the upper floor a restaurant that transforms these products into creative dishes. Excellent breakfast (avocado toast with feta, Eggs Benedict Greek style). In the evening: grilled lamb, seafood risotto, truffle tagliatelle.
12–22€ · Daily 8 am–12 am · ★★

Ouzou Melathron · Katouni 21, Ladadika
The institution for ouzo and meze in Thessaloniki. Over 40 different ouzo varieties and matching meze: mussels in wine sauce, braised octopus, shrimp saganaki, zucchini keftedes. The two-story neoclassical building is beautiful. Reservation is mandatory on Friday evening.
15–25€ (with ouzo & meze) · Daily 1 pm–1 am · ★★

Zythos Dore · Tsimiski 7
Brewery atmosphere with a Greek twist. Own beers, plus hearty Greek cuisine: moussaka, stifado, lamb kleftiko. Large portions, fair prices. Ideal for lunch.
10–18€ · Daily 11 am–1 am

€€€ High-end (main course 22€+)

Extravaganza · Olympou 2
Thessaloniki's fine dining flagship. Modern Greek cuisine at the highest level: tasting menu (7 courses, 65€) with dishes like sea bass ceviche with pomegranate, lamb with eggplant mousse, mastiha panna cotta. Excellent wine list with northern Greek rarities (Xinomavro, Assyrtiko). Reservation recommended.
30–65€ · Tue–Sat 7 pm–12 am · ★★★

Nolan · Proxenou Koromila 10
Japanese-Greek fusion by young star chef Sotiris Kontizas. Miso eggplant, tuna tataki with feta cream, gyoza with lamb and mint. Modern, surprising, bold. One of the most innovative chefs in Greece.
25–40€ · Tue–Sat 1 pm–12 am · ★★★

Thessaloniki has one of the most intense nightlife scenes in Greece — fueled by 150,000 students and a culture where "going home early" means leaving at 3 am. Nightlife starts late (first bar from 11 pm, clubs from 1–2 am) and ends at breakfast.

Valaoritou Street

The coolest mile in the city. The formerly rundown street in the center has become the axis of the alternative scene: craft cocktail bars in former workshops, hidden speakeasies behind inconspicuous doors, vinyl bars, and small live music clubs. Highlights: Coo Coo (cocktails), Berlin (indie/electronic), Gorilla (rock/alternative).

Ladadika

More touristy than Valaoritou, but a safe bet for a good evening. The cobblestone streets are full of bars and taverns. Ideal for starting: first meze and ouzo in an ouzerie, then move on. Barrique (wine bar), Tribeca (cocktails), Aigli (live music).

Waterfront Bars (Nea Paralia)

In summer, nightlife shifts to the water. Along the waterfront promenade and especially in the Thermi/Kalamaria area east of the city, there are beach bars and open-air clubs with DJ sets, cocktails, and views of the Thermaic Gulf in the moonlight.

Bouzoukia

The ultra-Greek experience. In the Bouzoukia (Greek music clubs), live bands play Laika and Skyladika (Greek pop/schlager), the audience throws carnations on stage, dances on tables, and smashes plates. Completely over the top and absolutely unforgettable. Best-known Bouzoukia: Vogue, Fix. Admission includes a bottle of whiskey or champagne (from 80€ for the group). Only Friday/Saturday.

€ Budget (under 60€/night)

Little Big House · Mpotsari 25
Stylish boutique hostel in a renovated old building in the center. Bright dorms (from 18€) and private rooms (from 45€) with modern design. Great communal kitchen, rooftop terrace with city views. 5 min walk to Aristotelous Square.

Colors Central Ladadika · Katouni 6
Central in the Ladadika district. Clean, colorful rooms with private bathrooms. Double room from 50€. Breakfast 5€ extra. Ideal as a base for nightlife — everything is within walking distance.

€€ Mid-range (60–150€/night)

Electra Palace Thessaloniki · Aristotelous Sq. 9
Right on the legendary Aristotelous Square with sea views. Neoclassical facade, elegantly renovated rooms. The rooftop pool with panoramic views of the gulf is the best in the city. Double room from 100€, sea view from 130€. Breakfast excellent.
★★★ Location

Daios Luxury Living · Nikis Ave. 59
Right on the waterfront promenade. Minimalist-elegant design, marble bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows with sea views. Double room from 120€. The ground floor restaurant is worth a visit even without a hotel stay.

€€€ Luxury (150€+/night)

Makedonia Palace · Megalou Alexandrou 2
The Grande Dame among Thessaloniki's hotels. Opened in 1972, since then a meeting place for the Greek elite. Right by the sea, pool with sea view, several restaurants, legendary afternoon tea. Rooms classically elegant, some with balconies to the gulf. Double room from 170€, suite from 350€.

Excelsior Hotel · Komninon 10 & Mitropoleos 23
Boutique luxury in the heart of the city. Art Deco elements, individually designed rooms, first-class restaurant. Double room from 160€. Perfect location between Aristotelous Square and Ladadika.

The largest, oldest, and highest monastery (613 m) was founded around 1340 by Saint Athanasios, who was the first hermit to climb the rocks. The current buildings mostly date from the 14th–16th centuries. Inside: a magnificent church (Katholikon) with 16th-century frescoes depicting the martyrdom of saints in dramatic detail — severed heads, burning bodies, boiling oil. Not for the faint-hearted, but art-historically fascinating.

The attached museum displays an impressive collection of icons, manuscripts, and liturgical vestments. Particularly impressive: the old lift tower with the original winch and nets used for centuries to hoist people and goods up. The view from the terrace over the plain and surrounding rocks is breathtaking.

The ascent to Mega Meteoron requires about 300 stone steps — a moderate effort that takes about 15–20 minutes. Once you reach the top, you forget all the effort.

Entrance: €3. April–October: 9:00–15:00. Closed: Tuesday (summer) or Tue + Wed (winter). Plan for about 1–1.5 hours.

The second-largest monastery and for many the most impressive — not because of its size, but because of the ascent. A narrow bridge leads over a dizzying chasm to the entrance, and the view back to the rock you're standing on is pure madness. Founded in 1518 by brothers Theophanes and Nektarios, who took 22 years to bring all the building materials up by winch.

The Church of All Saints has some of the best-preserved frescoes in Meteora (1548, by Frangos Katelanos), including a dramatic depiction of the Apocalypse. The old barrel vault served as a wine cellar — the monks were remarkably good vintners. Be sure to see: the historic lift tower with the net basket and wooden treadwheel, which was in use until 1963.

Entrance: €3. April–October: Sat–Thu 9:00–16:00. Closed: Friday. Plan for about 1 hour.

The most easily accessible monastery — the only one where you don't have to climb steps, but walk over a flat bridge directly from the parking lot. Ideal for older visitors or families with small children. Since 1961 an active nunnery, and the nuns keep the premises immaculate.

The old church (14th century) was unfortunately heavily damaged by German troops in World War II, but the new Church of Saint Charalambos (18th century) houses a revered reliquary. The view from the terrace south over the entire Thessalian plain is one of the widest in Meteora. In the monastery garden, the nuns sell homemade jam, herbal teas, and icons.

Entrance: €3. April–October: Tue–Sun 9:00–13:30 & 15:30–17:30. Closed: Monday. About 30–45 min.

Attention James Bond fans: You know this monastery. In "For Your Eyes Only" (1981), Roger Moore climbs the rock face to the Holy Trinity — one of the series' most iconic scenes. The rock was also used for the thriller "The Serpent's Lair." In reality, 140 steep, rock-cut steps lead up — the most strenuous of all Meteora monasteries, but also the most dramatic.

At the top awaits one of the most intimate monasteries: small, quiet, often deserted (most tourists shy away from the steps). The 15th-century church has noteworthy frescoes, and the terrace offers a unique view of the opposite Roussanou Monastery on its narrow rock pillar.

Entrance: €3. April–October: Fri–Wed 9:00–17:00. Closed: Thursday. About 45–60 min. (including ascent).

The most photogenic monastery in Meteora — and perhaps the entire Greek mainland landscape. Roussanou perches on a narrow, cylindrical rock pillar that drops steeply on all sides. The monastery seems to float, as if someone balanced it on a needle. In fog or morning light, when wisps of clouds drift around the rock, the sight is unrealistically beautiful.

Since 1988 an active nunnery. The Church of the Transfiguration (16th century) has well-preserved frescoes and a courtyard full of flowers. Access via a modern bridge and a few steps is relatively easy. But the highlight is the view from the terrace — you stand on a rock barely wider than the monastery itself, looking into the abyss in all directions.

Entrance: €3. April–October: Thu–Mon 9:00–14:00. Closed: Wednesday. About 30 min.

The smallest of the six monasteries, but with a hidden treasure: frescoes by the Cretan painter Theophanes Strelitzas (1527), one of the most important Byzantine painters. The frescoes in the tiny church are of exceptional quality — especially the scenes from the life of Nicholas and the depictions of saints.

Agios Nikolaos is the first monastery you reach from Kastraki, and the ascent is moderate (approx. 80 steps). Since it is small and most tourists continue to the larger monasteries, it is often pleasantly quiet here.

Entrance: €3. April–October: Sat–Thu 9:00–15:30. Closed: Friday. About 20–30 min.

The two base locations for Meteora lie directly at the foot of the rocks and could hardly be more different:

Kalambaka

The larger town (12,000 inhabitants) with a train station, bus station, and a main street full of restaurants and souvenir shops. Practical, but not particularly charming. Highlight: the Byzantine Church of the Assumption (11th century) with rare frescoes and an ancient pulpit on columns of an early Christian basilica (free). The restaurants on the main street are touristy — divert to the side streets.

Kastraki

The prettier of the two villages (1,000 inhabitants), 2 km west of Kalambaka, nestled directly among the rocks. Traditional stone houses, fewer tourists, more authentic taverns. Anyone who has breakfast on their terrace in the morning and sees the monasteries above them on the rocks immediately understands why Kastraki is the better choice.

Hotels

Budget: Alsos House (Kastraki, double room from €40, family-run, garden with rock view) | Meteora Central Hostel (Kalambaka, dorm from €15)

Mid-range: Hotel Meteoritis (Kastraki, double room from €65, pool, panorama restaurant, ★★) | Divani Meteora (Kalambaka, double room from €80, largest hotel, spa)

Luxury: Pyrgos Adrachti (Kastraki, double room from €110, boutique hotel in renovated stone house, fantastic terrace with rock view, ★★★)

Food

Taverna Gardenia (Kalambaka, €) — Family-run since 1960. Moussaka, lamb kleftiko, grilled feta. Cheap and hearty, €6–10.

Taverna Panellinion (Kalambaka, €€) — Best to order the lamb: slow-cooked for hours, falls off the bone. €10–15.

Batalogianni Restaurant (Kastraki, €€) — Traditional cuisine with a terrace overlooking the rocks. Trout from the Pinios River, game from the mountains, local wine. €12–18.

The sunset in Meteora is one of the most spectacular in all of Greece. When the sun sets behind the Pindos mountains, the sandstone rocks turn into glowing monoliths — from gold to orange to deep red. The monasteries on their peaks become black silhouettes against the burning sky.

The best sunset spot is the Observation Deck at Kastraki — a natural viewpoint on the road between Kastraki and Mega Meteoron (Google Maps: "Meteora Sunset Rock"). Arrive 45 minutes before sunset, the best spots are in demand. No entrance fee, no fence — just rock and sky.

Alternative: The Psaropetra Rock above Kastraki offers an even higher viewpoint, but requires a short climb over rocks (10 min, be sure-footed). For that, you're often alone here.

After sunset, stop by one of the taverns in Kastraki and let the day end with a carafe of house wine — perfect.

Getting There

• Train: Direct train Athens → Kalambaka (4.5 hrs, from €18). Thessaloniki → Kalambaka (3 hrs, from €15, change in Paleofarsalos). Kalambaka station is 1 km from the center.
• Bus: KTEL bus Athens → Trikala → Kalambaka (approx. 5 hrs, €28). Thessaloniki → Kalambaka (3.5 hrs, €22). Buses depart from KTEL bus station.
• Car: From Athens: E75 → Lamia → Trikala → Kalambaka (approx. 4 hrs). From Thessaloniki: E75 → Larissa → Trikala → Kalambaka (approx. 3 hrs). Toll fees approx. €15–20.

Between the Monasteries

Rental car or scooter is the most convenient option. The monasteries are scattered over an area of about 5 km — walking between the monasteries is possible but strenuous (lots of uphill/downhill). A local bus runs twice daily (9:00 and 13:00) from Kalambaka to the monasteries and back — enough for an overview, but not for all six.

Taxi: Half-day tour (3 monasteries, 3–4 hrs) approx. €60–80 from Kalambaka. Full-day tour approx. €120. Negotiate the price beforehand.

Dress Code

Knees and shoulders must be covered — in all six monasteries. For women in trousers, free wrap skirts are provided at the entrance. Sleeveless shirts are not accepted. In summer, a light scarf to wrap around is recommended.

Best Order

From Kastraki clockwise: Agios Nikolaos → Roussanou → Varlaam → Mega Meteoron → Agia Triada → Agios Stefanos. This way, you avoid oncoming traffic on the narrow roads.

The westernmost and most touristy finger of Chalkidiki. Kassandra is the most developed: large hotel resorts, holiday complexes, beach bars, water parks, and a well-developed road that circles the peninsula. The Greek middle class has their holiday homes here, and in August everything bursts at the seams.

Doesn't sound appealing? Partly true — the west coast of Kassandra is concreted in some places. But the east coast still has some gems: the beach of Possidi with its sand cape, Kallithea with its ruins and beach clubs, and the southern tip Kanistro with crystal clear water.

Highlights

Kallithea — Kassandra's party center. During the day, a beautiful beach with a Blue Flag and the ruins of an Ammon Zeus temple (4th century BC). At night, the beach bars turn into open-air clubs. Not everyone's cup of tea, but for a night of authentic Greek nightlife.

Possidi — Long sandy beach with a distinctive promontory. Quieter than Kallithea, popular with families. Good fish restaurants right on the beach.

Afytos — The prettiest village in Kassandra. Traditional stone houses on a cliff above the sea, panoramic terraces, a small archaeological museum, and some good taverns. If you're staying on Kassandra, stay here.

Siviri — Quiet place in the northwest. Beautiful beach, festival grounds (Kassandra Festival in July with theater and concerts), family-friendly.

Hotels Kassandra

Budget: Studios Kassandra Bay (Afytos, double room from 45€) | Camping Possidi (pitch from 15€)

Mid-range: Athos Palace (Kallithea, double room from 90€, all-inclusive option, pool) | Blue Bay (Afytos, double room from 75€, sea view)

Luxury: Sani Resort (Sani, double room from 250€, Chalkidiki's luxury flagship, 7 km private beach, restaurants, marina, ★★★)

Sithonia is Chalkidiki's wild middle finger — in the best sense. While Kassandra has succumbed to mass tourism, Sithonia has largely remained undeveloped: dense pine forest right up to the coast, no hotel fortresses, hardly any streetlights, and beaches that make you forget you're in Europe. The water is so clear you can see the fish while swimming, and the sand so white you think of the Caribbean.

The coastal road around Sithonia (approx. 100 km) is one of the most beautiful drives in Northern Greece: again and again, views open up between the pines of secluded bays, turquoise sea, and Mount Athos on the horizon. A rental car is absolutely necessary here — public transport is practically non-existent.

★★★ Kavourotrypes (Orange Beach)

Chalkidiki's most famous beach — and it deserves every star. A series of small coves separated by rocks with the clearest water you've ever seen. The main beach has fine white sand, surrounded by pine forests. The small side coves (accessible via rock paths) offer almost private bathing spots. Until 2019, Kavourotrypes was a nudist/hippie paradise, now more commercial (beach bar, parking fee approx. €5), but still breathtakingly beautiful.

Porto Koufo

The most secure natural harbor in Greece — an almost completely enclosed bay as calm as a lake. Fishing boats bob in the mirror-smooth water, fishermen sit on the quay mending their nets. The fish restaurants at the harbor serve the catch of the day — fresh sea bass, dorado, octopus, and shrimp at prices unthinkable on the islands (fish platter from €15).

Sarti

Sithonia's largest resort, yet still manageable. Long sandy beach with views of Mount Athos, Greek family holiday apartments, taverns with sea views. A good base for exploring Sithonia. Grocery stores, pharmacy, doctor available.

Nikiti

The gateway to Sithonia in the north. Two-part: Nea Nikiti (modern, by the sea, restaurants and hotels) and Palea Nikiti (old town on the hill, 500 m inland). The old town is a labyrinth of stone alleys, blooming bougainvilleas, and decaying mansions — surprisingly charming and completely tourist-free.

Other Beaches

Fava Beach (near Vourvourou) — Long sand spit, shallow water, sheltered from the wind. Ideal with children.

Lagonisi Beach — Double bay with pine forest. Untouched, no service, water sensational.

Armenistis Beach — Campsite beach near Sarti. Large bay, water sports, beach bar. Younger crowd.

Hotels Sithonia

Budget: Camping Armenistis (Sarti, pitch from €12, right on the beach, ★★) | Studios Kalamitsi (double room from €40)

Mid-range: Hotel Athena Pallas Village (Vourvourou, double room from €85, right by the sea, pool) | Anthemus Sea (Nikiti, double room from €95, beach resort)

Luxury: Danai Beach Resort (Nikiti, double room from €300, Chalkidiki's number 1, private beach, 5 restaurants, spa, infinity pool, ★★★)

The easternmost finger of Chalkidiki is not a regular travel destination — but an autonomous monastic republic with its own laws that have been in place for 1,000 years. On the 335 km² peninsula, around 2,000 monks live in 20 monasteries, directly under the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. Mount Athos (2,033 m) rises as the "Holy Mountain" over the peninsula.

The Rules

The most famous prohibition: Women have been forbidden to enter Athos since 1046 — this has been uninterrupted for almost 1,000 years and is enshrined in Greek law. Female animals (except cats and chickens) are also prohibited. Men need a Diamonitirion (residence permit), which must be applied for at the Pilgrims' Office in Thessaloniki — a maximum of 10 non-Orthodox and 100 Orthodox visitors per day. Waiting time: often 2–3 months.

Boat Tour (for everyone)

Anyone who wants to see Athos without a permit — women and men alike — can take a boat tour from Ouranoupoli. The excursion boats sail along the west coast of the peninsula and come within 500 meters of the monasteries. You see the spectacularly cliff-built monasteries from the water — some look like fortresses, others like Mediterranean villages. In the background, Mount Athos looms. An unforgettable tour, even if you can't set foot on land.

Boat tour from Ouranoupoli: 3 hrs, approx. €20–30 per person. Departure at 10:30 am. Daily from May to October. Bring binoculars!

Ouranoupoli

The last town before Athos and the starting point for the boat tours. A pleasant small coastal town with a Byzantine tower (Prosforiou Tower, 14th century), souvenir shops full of icons and prayer beads, and some good fish restaurants. The beach is long and clean — a good base for 1–2 nights.

Here comes the subjective but well-considered Top 10 of Chalkidiki Beaches — tested in clear weather, judged by water quality, sand, landscape, and atmosphere:

1. Kavourotrypes, Sithonia — Turquoise water in rocky coves, white sand, pine forest. Unmatched. ★★★
2. Orange Beach, Sithonia — Neighboring cove of Kavourotrypes, wilder, less visited. ★★★
3. Fava Beach, Vourvourou — Sand tongue into the turquoise sea, shallow, sheltered from the wind. ★★★
4. Sarti Beach, Sithonia — Long sandy beach with Athos panorama. ★★
5. Lagonisi, Sithonia — Untouched double bay, crystal clear. ★★
6. Possidi, Kassandra — Sand cape with beach on both sides. ★★
7. Nikiti Blue Flag Beach — Organized, clean, family-friendly. ★★
8. Armenistis, Sithonia — Large bay, camping atmosphere, younger crowd. ★
9. Kallithea, Kassandra — Beautiful beach plus ancient ruins in the background. ★
10. Afytos Beach, Kassandra — Small, under the village cliff, charming. ★

Conclusion: 7 out of 10 of the best beaches are on Sithonia. If you're looking for beaches, head to Sithonia. Period.

The excavation site stretches over a steep slope and is accessed via the Sacred Way (Via Sacra) — the same path that ancient pilgrims took to reach the oracle. Along the way stood hundreds of treasuries and votive offerings from the Greek city-states — a race of piety and wealth.

The Sacred Way & Treasuries

At the entrance, the ascent begins past the foundations of numerous treasuries. The best-preserved is the Treasury of the Athenians (around 490 BC, reconstructed 1903–06) — a small Doric temple commemorating the victory at Marathon. Further up, the Stoa of the Athenians, the Halos (threshing floor where sacred dances were performed), and the remains of the Bouleuterion (council building).

★★★ Temple of Apollo

The heart of Delphi. Here sat the Pythia on her tripod over a chasm from which gases rose (probably ethylene), and pronounced her oracles. Six Doric columns of the temple still stand — enough to imagine its former grandeur. The current building is the third on this site (4th century BC); its predecessors were destroyed by earthquakes and fire. The famous sayings were inscribed on the temple walls: "Know thyself" (Gnothi Seauton) and "Nothing in excess" (Meden Agan).

★★ Theater

Above the Temple of Apollo — one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Greece. 5,000 seats, built in the 4th century BC, with a sensational view over the entire excavation site and the valley of olive trees to the Gulf of Corinth. Here the musical competitions of the Pythian Games took place (every four years, alongside Olympia the most important games of the ancient world).

★★ Stadium

At the very top, another 10 minutes' climb above the theater, lies the best-preserved ancient stadium in Greece (178 m long, 25.5 m wide). Here the athletes ran during the Pythian Games. The stone seats for 6,500 spectators are largely preserved. The climb is worth it — not just for the stadium, but for the panorama.

★ Tholos of Athena Pronaia

200 m east of the main site lies the most photographed building of Delphi: a round temple (Tholos) from the 4th century BC with three re-erected Doric columns. The purpose of the building is still disputed. Access is free and leads through an olive grove — a beautiful walk.

Archaeological site: 12€ (combined ticket with museum), 6€ (site only). April–October: daily 8:00 am–8:00 pm. November–March: 8:30 am–3:30 pm. Free on the first Sunday Nov–March and on certain holidays. Plan at least 2 hours (with stadium 3 hours).

One of the best museums in Greece — and a must-see after visiting the excavation site. The museum houses all the significant finds from Delphi that didn't end up in the National Museum in Athens. Three highlights stand out:

The Charioteer of Delphi (474 BC) — one of the most famous ancient bronze statues ever. Life-sized, remarkably well-preserved, with inlaid glass eyes that gaze directly at the viewer over 2,500 years. A masterpiece of the severe style, exuding both power and tranquility.

The Sphinx of the Naxians (560 BC) — a 2.3 m high marble sphinx that once watched over the sanctuary from a 10 m high column. Mysteriously smiling, Egyptian-inspired, Greek-executed.

The Silver Bull (6th century BC) — from the hoard of a treasure found during the excavations. Also: golden ivory statues, metopes from the Athenian Treasury (Heracles' deeds, Amazon battle), an extensive pottery collection, and inscriptions explaining the oracle's operation.

Included in the combo ticket (€12) or individually €6. Same opening hours as the site. Plan for 1–1.5 hours. Audioguide recommended (€3).

10 km east of Delphi lies one of the most charming mountain villages in Greece. Arachova (950 m) clings to a steep slope of Mount Parnassus and is often referred to as "the Greek St. Moritz" — and that's not far off. In winter, Arachova is the après-ski center for the nearby Parnassos ski resort (1,600–2,260 m, 23 slopes), in summer a delightful place to catch your breath.

The main street winds through the village: boutiques with local wool and handwoven carpets (Arachova carpets are famous), delicatessens with Formaela cheese (only made here, spicy and firm), honey from Mount Parnassus, and Trahanas (fermented grain soup). In the cafes and bars on the main square, the Athenian weekend bohemians mingle with the locals.

For dinner, try Karahounta (€€, stone terrace with mountain view, lamb on the spit, local wine, €12–20) or Kaplanis (€€€, modern Greek cuisine, tasting menu €35).

From Delphi: 10 min by car (or 25 min uphill on foot). Athens–Delphi bus connection also stops in Arachova.

The classic Northern Greece route that connects antiquity, nature, and spiritual sites. Ideal with a rental car, doable in 3–5 days:

Day 1: Athens → Delphi (180 km, 2.5 hrs)

Leave Athens in the morning via the national road towards Thebes and Livadia. Optional en route: Monastery of Osios Loukas (UNESCO, near Distomo — one of the most beautiful Byzantine buildings in Greece, golden mosaics, often deserted, €6). Visit Delphi in the afternoon (fewer buses!). Overnight in Delphi or Arachova.

Day 2: Delphi → Meteora (230 km, 3 hrs)

Visit the Delphi museum in the morning, then head via Lamia and Trikala to Kalambaka/Kastraki. The route passes through central mountain land — switchbacks, gorges, mountain villages. In the afternoon, already 1–2 monasteries possible. Sunset from the observation deck!

Day 3: Meteora (full day)

Visit the remaining monasteries (start in the morning!). Lunch break in Kastraki. In the afternoon, the smaller monasteries and hiking trails.

Day 4 (optional): Meteora → Thessaloniki (230 km, 3 hrs)

Continue to Thessaloniki via Larissa. Or head south back to Athens (350 km, 4 hrs).

Costs: Rental car from Athens approx. €30–45/day (small car). Toll approx. €15 per route. Fuel approx. €30 for the entire route. Hotels: €50–120/night depending on standard.

The highest mountain in Greece (2,917 m, Mytikas peak) was in antiquity the seat of the twelve Olympian gods — and when you see it for the first time, you'll understand why. Olympus is not a single peak, but a massive mountain massif with 52 peaks over 2,000 m, deep gorges, glacial lakes, and unique flora (1,700 plant species, 23 found only here).

The standard ascent to the Mytikas peak (2,917 m) is a demanding but technically feasible two-day tour:

• Day 1: Prionia (1,100 m) → Spilios Agapitos mountain hut (2,100 m). 3–4 hours ascent through pine and beech forest. The hut has 80 beds, food, and drinks. Reservation in summer is mandatory (bed from 15€, half-board 30€).
• Day 2: Hut → Skala (2,866 m) → Mytikas (2,917 m) → Descent. The last section to Mytikas is a light climbing passage (I–II UIAA) over rock — be surefooted and free from vertigo! Alternatively: only up to Skala (easier peak, panorama almost as good). Total time Day 2: 6–8 hours.

If you don't want to climb the peak: There are numerous easier hikes in the lower areas. The Enipeas Gorge (from Litochoro, 4 hours round trip) is spectacular and requires no mountaineering equipment.

Litochoro (300 m), the base town at the foot of Olympus, is a pleasant mountain town with hotels, restaurants, and the national park information center.

Getting there: Litochoro is on the E75 between Thessaloniki (92 km) and Larissa (65 km). Bus from Thessaloniki 1.5 hours (12€). Taxi to the trailhead Prionia about 25€.

The Vikos Gorge in Epirus, in northwestern Greece, holds a surprising Guinness World Record: deepest gorge in the world in relation to its width (900 m deep at only 1,100 m wide). The Grand Canyon is absolutely deeper, but the Vikos Gorge has the more extreme profile. Whether world record or not — the gorge is breathtaking.

12 km long, up to 900 m deep, with vertical limestone walls, turquoise river at the bottom, and vultures circling over the cliffs. The classic traverse from Monodendri to Vikos village takes 6–7 hours and is one of the best day hikes in Europe — challenging but without technical difficulties. The descent and later ascent (total about 1,000 meters of elevation) require stamina.

The gorge is located in the Zagori — a region that seems to have fallen out of time. 46 stone villages (Zagorochoria), connected by centuries-old stone arch bridges over wild rivers, nestled in dense forests and mountain meadows. No mass tourism, no hotel fortresses — just guesthouses in restored mansions, taverns with local cuisine, and a silence that has become rare in Greece.

The Most Beautiful Zagori Villages

Monodendri — Starting point for the Vikos Gorge. From the Agia Paraskevi Monastery (right on the gorge edge), you have the most spectacular view into the abyss. Few but good guesthouses.

Papigo (Megalo & Mikro) — Two picture-perfect stone villages at the foot of the Astraka Towers. Natural pools (Ovires) with ice-cold turquoise water. Best guesthouse: Saxonis Houses (double room from 70€, ★★★).

Kipi — Famous for its three Ottoman stone bridges in a valley. Photogenic and quiet.

Dilofo — Perhaps the most beautiful Zagori village. Cobblestone streets, a plane tree in the village square, absolute silence. Guesthouse: Hotel Archontiko Dilofo (double room from 60€).

Practical Information

Getting there: Ioannina (capital of Epirus) is the starting point. Bus Thessaloniki → Ioannina (3.5 hours, 25€), Athens → Ioannina (5.5 hours, 35€). From Ioannina, a rental car is needed — there is no public transport to the Zagori villages. Drive Ioannina → Monodendri: 40 min.

Best time: May–June (wildflowers, snowmelt fills the pools) and September–October (warm days, clear air). July/August hot, but doable. Winter: snow, many guesthouses closed.

In the far northwest of Greece, on the border with Albania and North Macedonia, lie the Prespa Lakes — two lakes (Megali Prespa and Mikri Prespa) that are among the oldest and ecologically most significant bodies of water in Europe. Since 2000 a transboundary national park, awarded as a European Diploma area in 2022.

The Prespa Lakes are above all a paradise for birdwatchers: The largest colony of Dalmatian pelicans in the world breeds here (up to 1,500 pairs), along with cormorants, herons, ospreys, and over 260 other bird species. In spring (April–May), the spectacle is greatest.

Besides nature, on the small island of Agios Achillios (in Mikri Prespa, accessible via a floating bridge), there are the ruins of a Byzantine basilica from the 10th century — built by Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria. The atmosphere on the tiny island is magical: silence, water, ruins, pelicans.

Prespa is slow travel at its purest. No clubs, no souvenir shops, hardly any hotels. Instead: nature, tranquility, and the feeling of being at the end of the world.

Getting there: From Ioannina or Kastoria (each about 2 hours by car). No public transport. Accommodation: few guesthouses in Agios Germanos (double room from 40€). Restaurant Sintrivani (€, local cuisine, trout from the lake).