Elena Mavridis – First Immersion in Greece in 2009 My journey to Greece began with an unexpected gift of fate. As a philology student, I won a grant for a summer language program in Athens. What was planned as a three-month academic adventure completely transformed my life. Stepping onto the land of Hellas, I felt an inexplicable thrill – as if my soul recognized the place where it was destined to flourish. After completing the program, I made an impulsive decision to stay for another six months, working as a translator for a small tourism company. Every weekend, I dedicated to exploring new corners of the country – from the majestic ruins of Peloponnese to the secluded beaches of the Cyclades. For over 16 years now, I've been working as a Greece expert, creating unique journeys that reveal the authentic soul of this ancient land. I live between Athens and the island of Naxos, constantly expanding the map of my Greek discoveries. Greece is an amazing world where myths come alive in every stone, and history breathes in modernity. Greeks are incredibly open people for whom philoxenia (love for guests) is not just a tradition but a way of life. Over these years, I have developed more than a thousand personalized itineraries for travelers from around the world, created a popular podcast about Greece's hidden treasures, published an illustrated guide to Greek regional cuisines, and collaborate with leading travel magazines as an expert on authentic Greek destinations.
Northern Greece with Kids
Northern Greece offers a plethora of historical wonders, natural beauty, and activities suitable for the whole family. This guide will help you navigate the best sights, experiences, and culinary delights to ensure a memorable trip with your kids.
What to See
- Mount Olympus: Encounter the Gods: Located just two hours southwest of Thessaloniki, Mount Olympus stands proudly along the gulf. This mountain, known as the home of the gods in Greek mythology, provides a combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue. At the foot of the mountain lies the ancient city of Dion, where you can explore archaeological excavations including Zeus’s temple, ancient baths, and theaters.
- Vergina: Archeology, Museums, and UNESCO Sites: Vergina, also known as Aigai in ancient times, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The archaeological museum here houses the Great Tomb, which contains the remains of Alexander the Great’s father and son, as well as the Tomb of Persephone. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with ruins of a palace and theater that offer a glimpse into ancient Greek grandeur.
- Thessaloniki: A Fusion of Cultures: Thessaloniki, a city infused with a rich tapestry of historical influences, offers numerous attractions. Visit the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Byzantine Culture. The city’s diverse past, reflected in its architecture and cultural landmarks, makes it a fascinating destination for both adults and kids.
Where to Go
- Seaside Villages: Head to seaside villages such as Agia Triada, Angelohori, Asprovalta, and Galaksis. These locations are perfect for family activities such as diving, swimming, and building sandcastles. The shallow waters are ideal for families with small kids, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Mount Chortiatis: For those seeking a countryside escape, Mount Chortiatis offers a perfect day out. The woods and hills are great for hiking and exploring nature, providing a refreshing break from the coastal areas.
- Meteora: Explore the unique rock formations and monasteries of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The stunning views and serene environment make it a great place for family adventures.
Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires. Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation. During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp. Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation. Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.
What to Eat
- Thessaloniki’s Gastronomy: Thessaloniki’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors from Minor Asia, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean. Enjoy traditional meze (small plates), pita gyros, and the city’s famous bougatsa (a sweet-cream breakfast pastry). For a quaint Greek meal, visit the picturesque Ladadika quarter or explore the vibrant food markets like Athonos Square, Modiano Market, and Kapani.
- Coastal Eateries: In the coastal areas, indulge in fresh seafood at local taverns. Nikolaou Plastira Street in the Arezzous area is lined with cafes and restaurants that offer delicious meals with sea views.
Parks and Attractions for Kids
The beaches of Northern Greece are ideal for families, especially Agia Triada and Asprovalta. These beaches have shallow waters that allow kids to swim safely.
Immerse your kids in the local culture by visiting Thessaloniki’s bustling food markets. These vibrant spots offer a sensory feast with fresh produce, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for GreeceFor adventurous families, there are outdoor activities such as hiking in Mount Olympus, exploring the trails of Mount Chortiatis, or kayaking around picturesque coastal areas. These activities provide endless fun.
The best time to visit Northern Greece is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller during this time. July and August are peak vacation months, so if you plan to visit during this time, make sure to plan well in advance.
An approximate 7-day travel plan for Northern Greece
Day 1: Arrival in Thessaloniki, settle into your accommodation, and explore the local area. Enjoy an evening stroll along the waterfront.
Day 2: Take a Thessaloniki city tour and visit the White Tower, Archaeological Museum, and Museum of Byzantine Culture. Have a meal in the Ladadika quarter.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Vergina, explore the archaeological museum and UNESCO sites, and return to Thessaloniki for dinner.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for GreeceDay 4: Spend the day at Agia Triada or Asprovalta for beach activities and have an overnight stay in a seaside village.
Day 5: Drive to Mount Olympus, hike the trails, and visit the ancient city of Dion. Stay overnight in a nearby town.
Day 6: Explore the monasteries and rock formations of Meteora, and return to Thessaloniki for the night.
Day 7: Relax, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, do some final shopping in Thessaloniki, and depart.
Tips for tourists
- Rent a car for easy exploration, as public transportation between towns is limited. Ensure the rental includes GPS.
- Book family-run hotels in advance, especially in smaller towns, as they often provide a more personalized experience and include breakfast.
- Plan your trip at least one month in advance, and three months ahead if traveling during peak season (July and August).
- Stay informed about the current health situation and travel requirements. Make sure that hotels and restaurants are open and operating during your visit.
- Pack essentials such as comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and any necessary hiking gear. Additionally, bring a small medical kit for minor emergencies.
Northern Greece offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation for families. With this expert guide, you’re well-equipped to create lasting memories with your kids in this enchanting region.
What we propose Emma Heidi Take all the stress out of planning your trip! With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs. We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey. We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients. Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary. A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide. Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars. We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time. Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go. Want to know if it’s really worth it? Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us. Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection. Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever. How it works
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