Northern Greece Journey

We begin by driving through the fertile plains of the Boeotia region, passing the towns of Thebes and Levadia. En route, we stop at the charming village of Arachova before arriving in Delphi to explore the Archaeological Site, renowned for its ancient ruins and historical significance. Afterwards, we continue to Kalambaka, a small town nestled at the foot of the remarkable Meteora rock formations—towering pillars rising dramatically from the Thessalian plain. We conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Kalambaka.

After breakfast, we explore Meteora, where ancient monasteries perch atop towering rock formations, offering remarkable examples of Byzantine art. We then depart Kalambaka, driving through the expansive Thessalian plain and the scenic Tempi Valley. Along the way, you will admire Mount Olympus—the highest peak in Greece and famed as the home of the twelve Olympian gods in Greek mythology. We continue to Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

After breakfast, we explore Thessaloniki, a city that was second only to Constantinople in prominence during the Byzantine Empire. We visit key landmarks including the White Tower, Roman Forum, Ottoman Market, St Demetrius’ Church, and the Byzantine Walls. A short walking tour takes us to the ruins of the Palace and Arch of Galerius, followed by a visit to the Rotunda, originally built as a temple and later converted into a church, featuring impressive Early Christian mosaics. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure in the vibrant city centre. We stay overnight in Thessaloniki.

After breakfast, we set off for a distinctive exploration of historical Macedonia. Our first stop is Edessa, known for its striking waterfalls that define the town’s landscape. We then continue to Naoussa to visit Aristotle’s School, a scenic and significant site where the philosopher taught ethics and politics to Alexander the Great and his companions. Next, we drive to Vergina, ancient Aigai, to explore the remarkable Museum housed within the Great Tumulus, which covers the royal tombs of Macedonia. Here, you will see extraordinary artefacts from the tomb of King Philip II, Alexander’s father, representing one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. A short distance away lies Veria, or Biblical Beroea, where we visit Saint Paul’s Bema and take a stroll through the old Jewish quarter and vibrant market area, experiencing a city where history remains vividly alive. We then return to Thessaloniki for the night.

After breakfast, we drive to Pella, the ancient capital of Alexander the Great, where we explore the impressive 4th-century BC floor mosaics both in situ and at the new museum. Next, we visit the Archaeological Park of Dion, a sacred Macedonian city nestled at the foot of Mount Olympus. Following this, we travel south through Thessaly, passing Lamia and Thermopylae, where we stop to see the Leonidas Monument. Continuing via Thebes, we arrive in Athens late in the afternoon.