Macedonia region - Greece
Macedonia is a collection of diverse landscapes. As the nature changes from region to region, so do the people, culture and traditions. The city of Thessaloniki is surrounded by beautiful scenery. To the east lies Halkidiki, a seaside paradise made up of heavenly beaches, unspoilt wilderness and the solitary world of Mount Athos. The numerous destinations make up a mosaic of images, aromas and surprises: Serres, Drama, Kavala, Edessa, Kozani, Veria, Katerini and others provide a seemingly endless range of experiences. To the west, the landscape becomes calm and tranquil. You’ll be inspired by the grand mansions and churches of Kastoria. Feel a sense of serenity in the mountainous region of Vitsi and take time to reflect at the lakes of Prespa. In the evocative landscape of Grevena, nature rewards you with a unique feeling of tranquility. Experience the remarkable culture of eastern Macedonia by embracing the customs and traditions of the locals. Here you’ll enjoy 365 days of diverse activities from water sports to skiing, trekking and bird watching. Whether you come for an extended winter, summer holiday or a short weekend getaway with friends and family, Macedonia is one of those destinations you’ll never forget.
One coastline, a thousand and one beaches
Discover beaches where the mountains meet the sea. Trek to the peaks of Mount Olympus or bask in the sun and enjoy a swim in the crystal waters of the Aegean at Platamonas, Leptokarya or Litochoro. Travel further north, where ‘Queen’ Halkidiki awaits you with 550km of golden coastline, crystal-clear waters and trees so close to the water they kiss the waves. Discover the green waters of Sithonia and escape to the beaches of Kavourotripes, Karidi, Sarti, and to the exotic island of Ammouliani. Discover your passion for windsurfing, dance till the sun goes down at beach parties or just sit back and relax with a refreshing cocktail in one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece.
History and civilisation in the land of Alexander the Great
Discover the long and noble history of Thessaloniki. From the White Tower to the Yedi Kule and the Upper Town, you’ll be introduced to the lifeblood of a city through its sights and museums. And don’t forget the yearly International Film Festival. The whole history of northern Greece lies at your feet: Visit important archaeological sites throughout Macedonia, chief among them the Royal Tombs of Vergina, the Ancient Stageira of Halkidiki (birthplace of Aristotle), the archaeological site of Dion in Pieria, Pella (the ancient capital of Macedonia) and ancient Aiani, in Kozani, a treasure from the Bronze Age.
Explore more than 15 arched stone bridges in Grevena, most notable among them, Portitsa and Aziz Aga. In Kastoria, there are magnificent stone-built houses of the villages of Pentalogos and Siatista, the works of the famed Zoupaniotes builders. And, last but not least, there are the beautifully restored mansions of Nymfaio, amongst which you’ll find the imposing Nikeio School.
Notable religious landmarks and the world-renowned Mt Athos
Standing gracefully in the centre of Thessaloniki is the church of Agia Sofia, while throughout the city you’ll find important Byzantine and Muslim landmarks. And, of course, on the Halkidiki peninsula can be found the one and only Mt Athos, a beacon for Eastern Orthodoxy. Renowned for the architecture of its monasteries, and within a setting of natural beauty, you can experience the abstinence and purity of a monk’s life – if you’re a man, that is – and explore the monasteries’ cultural treasures, among them libraries and museums.
