Near ancient Thessaloniki there are several unique historical places, known not only throughout Greece, but also in Europe. They are worth visiting for all lovers of archeology, myths, ancient castles and, of course, beautiful nature. Here we present the five most famous ones.
Vergina - underground tombs of ancient kings
Just an hour's drive from Thessaloniki lies Vergina, a site of remarkable historical significance discovered in the last century. Today, it boasts an extraordinary underground museum. At first glance, it may resemble a mere hill or mound. However, inside you will find ancient royal tombs, intricate frescoes and golden artifacts.
Vergina holds a special place in the heart of northern Greece. It was here that the tomb of Philip II, the Macedonian king and father of Alexander the Great, was unearthed. Visitors can enjoy the golden wreath in which the king was laid to rest. Moreover, here you can also visit a marvellous palace that has recently undergone a complete restoration. It is the place where Alexander the Great himself was crowned. This complex features well-preserved columns, sacred sites dedicated to the gods, and sprawling courtyards.
Dion, archaeological park in the foothills of Olympus
Dion, one of the largest archaeological centers in all of Greece, is located near Mount Olympus. It is believed that the city once served as a gathering place for troops before campaigns, and the ancient Greeks revered Dion as a sacred place. Today there is a whole open-air museum here, attracting hundreds of tourists, archaeologists and historians from all over the world every year.
In ancient times, Dion was the sacred site of Zeus's sacrificial altar, now transformed into an archaeological excavation center. Whether you venture here independently or with a guided tour, you can wander amidst the remnants of the Demeter and Isis sanctuary, Roman baths, residential quarters, and the divine palace of Dionysus.
Pella - capital of Ancient Macedonia
Pella, the former capital of Ancient Macedonia and the birthplace of Alexander the Great, lies just a stone's throw away from Thessaloniki, less than an hour's drive by car.
This historical site boasts well-preserved early Hellenistic mosaics, renowned as the epitome of mosaic art. Among the most notable are depictions of lion hunts and the abduction of Helen. Furthermore, visitors can explore the remnants of residential and public buildings, and immerse themselves in the rich collection of ceramics, figurines, and statues housed in the archaeological museum.
Ancient Olynthos, mix of history and golden beaches
Situated on the Halkidiki peninsula, Ancient Olynthos offers a glimpse into the bustling urban life of Ancient Greece. Once a formidable city with remarkably advanced infrastructure including running water and sewerage systems, Olynthos now invites visitors to explore its ancient ruins and marvel at well-preserved floor mosaics.
After a leisurely stroll through history, why not extend your adventure to the nearby seaside? For instance, Nea Moudania with its beaches and charming tavernas, or the Kassandra Peninsula, where picturesque bays, fragrant pine forests, and quaint historical villages await.
Byzantine fortress Platamon
Gracing the eastern slope of Mount Olympus stands the Platamon fortress, a castle constructed in the 10th century AD. It eas named after the grand plane trees that have flourished here for centuries.The fortress boasts medieval walls and towers, offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountain ranges.
Moreover, the area is renowned for its expansive beaches, featuring both sandy stretches and pebbled shores, along with a variety of taverns and bars. Thus, a visit to the medieval castle can seamlessly transition into a seaside getaway.
Checklist before your trip
When planning your trip, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, transportation can be a challenge as public transport options to these sites are limited, with no dedicated bus routes available. Your best options are either joining a guided tour or renting a car to explore at your own pace. We've previously discussed other great day trip ideas from Thessaloniki in another article.
Additionally, if you plan on travelling independently, it's advisable to check the museum schedules beforehand on their respective websites. As a general rule, starting your day early is recommended, as Greece tends to be a morning-oriented country and museums may close as early as 2-3 PM. This leaves the latter part of the day perfect for immersing yourself in the surrounding natural beauty and indulging in the local gastronomy.
