How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki has so much to offer that you could spend days just exploring its streets, flavors, and stories. But one of the city’s biggest advantages is its location. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, and surrounded by history and nature, Thessaloniki is the perfect base for unforgettable day trips. Thessaloniki is uniquely positioned. In under two hours, you can be swimming in crystal-clear waters, climbing to a castle in the mountains, or wandering through ancient ruins.
First, decide what kind of day you’re looking for:
- Craving a beach day? Head to Halkidiki
It’s no secret that Halkidiki is Thessaloniki’s go-to beach escape. The famous three-pronged peninsula, just an hour’s drive from the city, offers beaches so blue they almost look unreal. Whether you want organized beach bars and water sports or hidden coves where it’s just you and the sea, Halkidiki delivers.
Kassandra, the first “leg,” is buzzing in summer—ideal if you’re after lively vibes, cocktails on the sand, and golden sunsets. Sithonia, the second, is all about laid-back charm, pine-fringed beaches, and turquoise waters lapping at white-sand bays like Kavourotrypes and Vourvourou. Mount Athos, the third “finger,” is a spiritual and natural marvel, although entry is restricted to male visitors with special permits—but you can cruise along its coastline and admire its mystical monasteries from the sea.
And the best part? The sea stays swimmable from late spring to early autumn, and even in the cooler months, the scenery is worth the trip.
- Fascinated by ancient history? Explore Vergina or Pella
Step into the world of Alexander the Great with a day trip to Pella or Vergina, two ancient cities that once stood at the heart of the Macedonian Kingdom.
Pella, just 45 minutes from Thessaloniki, was Alexander’s birthplace and capital of Ancient Macedonia. Its sprawling archaeological site and modern museum bring to life the grandeur of a city built to impress, from ornate mosaics to royal palaces.
Vergina (also known as Aigai), about an hour away, is nothing short of extraordinary. The Royal Tombs of Aigai—believed to include the tomb of Philip II, Alexander’s father—are set beneath a grassy mound and preserved in a dark, atmospheric museum that feels more like a sacred site than a tourist stop. Golden wreaths, weapons, and the chilling majesty of ancient funeral rites make this a must-visit for anyone drawn to the ancient world.
These aren’t just dry ruins. They’re doorways into a civilization that changed the world.
- Nature lover? Mt. Olympus and its villages await
The mountain of the gods is not just a mythological icon—it’s a real, breathtaking destination waiting to be explored. Rising dramatically from the plains, Mt. Olympus is just 1.5 hours from Thessaloniki and offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.
You don’t have to be a serious hiker to enjoy it. Start in the charming village of Litochoro, nestled at the foot of the mountain, where cobbled streets and old stone houses sit under a backdrop of cloud-kissed peaks. From there, you can take a light hike through the Enipeas Gorge—waterfalls, wooden bridges, and pine forests make every step magical.
Feeling adventurous? More experienced trekkers can head up to the Prionia trailhead and hike higher into the mountain’s heart. Even if you don’t summit Mytikas, the mountain’s highest peak, the alpine landscape and panoramic views are unforgettable.
Come winter, the snowy scenery transforms Mt. Olympus into a peaceful, storybook-like retreat.
- Hungry for wine and food? Naoussa or Epanomi will spoil you
When the day calls for a slow pace, good company, and even better food and wine, Thessaloniki’s surrounding wine regions are ready to indulge you.
Naoussa, set in the foothills of the Vermio Mountains, is known for its rich Xinomavro red wines and beautiful vineyards that glow golden in autumn. Many wineries here offer tastings and tours, where you can sip full-bodied reds while taking in views of rolling hills and crisp mountain air. The town itself is a hidden gem—with stone mansions, local tavernas, and a palpable sense of tradition.
If you’re looking for something closer to the coast, head to Epanomi, just 30 minutes from Thessaloniki. Here, sandy stretches meet boutique wineries like Ktima Gerovassiliou, where you can enjoy award-winning whites and rosés in a modern setting surrounded by vines. Pair it with fresh seafood from a nearby beachside taverna, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect afternoon.
These day trips are more than escapes—they’re experiences filled with authenticity, beauty, and the kind of soul that stays with you long after you’ve returned to the city. Whether you’re chasing the sun, following in the footsteps of kings, or sipping wine among the vines, Thessaloniki is your gateway to it all.
