Northern Greece Explorer (5 days)

Ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities.

Summary

Travel through 7,000 years of Greek history and the world of Alexander the Great.

START / FINISH - Athens

Duration: 5 days/4 nights

 

This tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Macedonia, the historic land of Alexander the Great, while journeying through 7,000 years of Greek history and discovering parts of unspoilt, breathtaking Greece.

Your adventure begins in Delphi, perched on a mountainside with stunning panoramic views. Home to the famous Delphic Oracle, Delphi was the most prestigious and authoritative oracle in the ancient world, and the priestess who served there was among the most powerful women of her time. Pilgrims travelled from near and far to seek guidance on life-changing decisions, from matters of love to war and politics.

Next, travel to Kalambaka, the gateway to Meteora, one of Greece’s holiest and most spectacular sites. Here, monasteries cling dramatically to towering granite pillars, rising 400 metres above the ground, offering a profound sense of spiritual devotion and awe-inspiring vistas.

Stand beneath Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest and most iconic mountain, long revered as the home of the twelve Olympian gods. Its imposing peaks and mythological significance make it one of the country’s most legendary natural landmarks.

Thessaloniki, your base for three nights, is Greece’s vibrant second city. During the Byzantine era, it was the “co-reigning” city, second only to Constantinople in population and prestige. Explore some of the oldest and most characteristic churches in the Christian world, and enjoy ample free time to soak up its lively streets, modern shops, cafés, and markets.

Your day exploring historical Macedonia includes Edessa, famed for its cascading waterfalls; Naoussa, where Aristotle taught Alexander the Great; Vergina (ancient Aigai), with the royal tombs of Philip II, Alexander’s father, and other members of the Macedonian dynasty; and Veria, where St. Paul preached, offering a charming stroll through the old Jewish quarter and colourful local markets.

On the journey back to Athens, visit Pella, the capital of Alexander the Great, to admire the exquisite 4th-century B.C. floor mosaics and the newly opened museum, followed by the Archaeological Park of Dion, the sacred city of the Macedonians at the foot of Mount Olympus.

This tour perfectly combines history, mythology, and stunning landscapes, offering an immersive experience of Northern Greece and Macedonia at its finest.

Dates of Operation:

9th May, 23rd May, 13th June, 12th September, 19th September, 26th September

 

Get travel advice from someone who’s been there

Send an enquiry

Gallery

What's included on your Northern Greece Tour:

  • 4 nights in 4* hotels on Half Board
  • Comfortable a/c transport throughout
  • Sightseeing & entry fees for sites listed
  • English-speaking guide / escort throughout

Not included: the New "Climate TAX" for overnights in hotels. This  is to be paid directly to the hotel, prior to check-out . The price depends on the hotel category.

Highlights

Itinerary

Drive through the fertile plains of central Greece en route to Delphi, where you will explore the renowned archaeological site, perched dramatically on a mountainside with sweeping views. Discover the temple ruins, treasuries, and theatre that once drew pilgrims from across the ancient world seeking guidance from the Delphic Oracle.

After lunch, continue north to Kalambaka, a charming town nestled at the foot of Meteora’s soaring rock formations, rising steeply from the Thessaly plain—a truly breathtaking landscape.

Dinner and overnight accommodation in Kalambaka.

    

Visit several of Meteora’s extraordinary monasteries, where centuries of devotion have produced exquisite examples of Byzantine art, including stunning frescoes and intricate icons.

Leave Kalambaka and travel through the fertile Thessaly plain and the scenic Valley of Tempi, enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest and most legendary mountain, long celebrated as the home of the twelve Olympian gods.

Continue to Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city, a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern life.

Dinner and overnight accommodation in Thessaloniki.

In the morning, enjoy a guided visit to Thessaloniki, a city that during the Byzantine era was considered the “co-reigning” city, second in population and prestige only to Constantinople. Explore its remarkable monuments, from majestic Byzantine churches to Ottoman-era landmarks, and experience the city’s rich historical tapestry. Step inside the Museum of Byzantine Culture, awarded the Council of Europe’s Museum Prize in 2005, to admire exceptional collections of icons, frescoes, and artefacts that vividly illustrate Thessaloniki’s glorious past.

The rest of the day is free to discover the lively heart of the city at your own pace. Wander through its bustling streets, browse boutique shops, enjoy the vibrant cafés and tavernas, or stroll along the seafront promenade with stunning views over the Thermaic Gulf. Thessaloniki perfectly blends centuries of history with modern Greek life, offering a dynamic and memorable experience.

Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation in Thessaloniki.

 

 

Depart Thessaloniki in the morning and head to picturesque Edessa, a charming town famed for its cascading waterfalls, which tumble dramatically from the surrounding cliffs into the lush valley below. Take in the tranquil gardens, scenic viewpoints, and the serene beauty that has earned Edessa the nickname “City of Waters.”

Continue to Naoussa, a site of exceptional historical and natural beauty. Here, visit Aristotle’s School, where the great philosopher taught Alexander the Great and the Macedonian youth the doctrines of morals and politics, set amidst a stunning landscape that perfectly complements its historical significance.

Next, drive to Vergina (ancient Aigai), the first capital of Macedonia. Explore the museum within the Great Tumulus, built over the royal tombs, and marvel at the astonishing treasures from the tomb of King Philip II, Alexander’s father, considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.

A short drive brings you to Veria (Biblical Beroea), where you can visit Saint Paul’s Bema and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the old Jewish quarter and the vibrant local market, full of colours, scents, and character.

Return to Thessaloniki in the late afternoon.

Dinner and overnight accommodation in Thessaloniki.

Drive to Pella, the ancient capital of Alexander the Great, and explore the remarkable archaeological site. Admire the exquisite 4th-century B.C. floor mosaics preserved in situ, then visit the new museum, which houses an outstanding collection of artefacts including pottery, jewellery, and sculptures, offering a vivid insight into the life and grandeur of Macedonia’s royal court.

Next, visit the Archaeological Park of Dion, the sacred city of the Macedonians at the foot of Mount Olympus, where kings offered sacrifices and sought divine guidance before going to battle. Wander among the temples, theatres, and sanctuaries, and discover the spiritual and cultural heart of ancient Macedonia.

After the visit, begin your journey south, passing through the fertile plains of Thessaly, the towns of Lamia and Thermopylae, where you can pause to view the iconic Leonidas Monument, and continue on to Thebes.

Conclude your journey with a scenic drive back to Athens, arriving in the late afternoon. Reflect on the rich history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences you’ve enjoyed across Macedonia and Northern Greece.

Flexible Tailor-Made Holidays

  • We believe passionately that no two holidays should be the same.
  • With our flexible tailor-made holiday options you can travel at your own pace.
  • Rediscover a city, a resort or an island in a weekend or longer.
  • Take a small group tour or embark upon a more adventurous trip.

Travel Knowledge

  • We have all travelled extensively and will be happy to share our experiences.
  • Personally-chosen hotels, riads, guest houses & apartments in places we know and love.
  • Individual sightseeing recommendations and route planning.
  • Add excursions, activities and food & wine experiences (one of our passions).

Trusted Service

  • ATOL cover for flight inclusive holidays.
  • One of us at Rediscover the World is very likely to have visited the hotels and travelled along the routes on your itinerary.
  • Dynamic, comprehensive travel app with all your documents, maps and much more.
  • Full financial protection for your holiday (TTA).