Macedonia Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and things to do in Macedonia with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Macedonia

Located in Northern Greece, Macedonia is a region and a former kingdom that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant food and wine scene. This region has been inhabited since the prehistoric era, and its past has been influenced by various civilizations, including the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans. Today, Macedonia is an exciting destination that is perfect for history buffs, adventure seekers, and foodies alike. In this travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, activities, and places to stay in Macedonia.

List of Places to Visit in Macedonia

Macedonia is filled with incredible attractions that range from ancient ruins to natural wonders and cosmopolitan cities. Here are the top places to visit in Macedonia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Macedonia is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions, from UNESCO-listed ancient ruins to impressive museums. Here are some of the top places to visit:

  • Philippi Archaeological Site: Located in the east of Macedonia, Philippi was a significant city in ancient Greece, and its well-preserved ruins are a must-visit for history buffs.
  • Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum: This museum houses exhibits from prehistoric to Roman times and is considered one of the best archaeology museums in Greece.
  • Royal Tombs of Vergina: These royal tombs date back to the 4th century BC when the region was dominated by the Macedonian empire.
  • Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art: Located in Thessaloniki, this museum is home to a vast collection of contemporary Greek art.

Natural Attractions of Macedonia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Macedonia’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Here are some of the top natural attractions to explore:

  • Mount Olympus: Known as the home of the gods in ancient Greek mythology, Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
  • Vikos Gorge: Located in the Pindus Mountains, this is one of the deepest gorges in the world and offers stunning views of the Zagori region.
  • Lake Prespa: This stunning lake is shared between Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia and is home to many rare bird species.
  • Meteora: The Meteora Monasteries perched atop towering rock formations make for some of the most unique and beautiful sights in the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Macedonia

Macedonia’s stunning natural beauty and fantastic outdoor activities are a hiker’s paradise. There are many excellent hiking and biking routes to explore, ranging from easy to challenging. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Mount Olympus (16km): The hike starts in the town of Litochoro and takes you through beautiful forests, rocky terrain, and stunning views to the summit of Mount Olympus.
  • Vikos Gorge to Mount Drakolimni (28km): A challenging hike that offers some of the best views in the Pindus Mountains, including the stunning Mount Drakolimni lake.
  • Valia Calda National Park to Vasilitsa Ski Resort (18 km): This hike passes through the beautiful Valia Calda National Park before taking you to Vasilitsa Ski Resort.
  • Lefka Ori Circular Hike (12 km): Located in the Dikti mountain range of Crete, this circular hike takes you through stunning alpine scenery and beautiful Greek villages.

Best Things to Do in Macedonia: Activities and Tours

Macedonia is home to a diverse range of activities, ranging from historical city tours to wine tasting and outdoor adventures like kayaking and rock climbing. Here are some of the best things to do in Macedonia:

  • Explore Thessaloniki: This lively city is a must-visit, with its ancient ruins, museums, and delicious food scene.
  • Wine Tasting in Naoussa: This region is known for producing some of the best wines in Greece and offers many excellent wine tours.
  • Kayaking in Lake Kerkini: This stunning lake is perfect for kayaking, with its calm waters and beautiful scenery.
  • Rock Climbing in Meteora: The towering rock formations of Meteora provide an excellent opportunity for rock climbing, with different levels of difficulty available.

Week-Long Itinerary for Macedonia

Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Macedonia:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Thessaloniki’s Old Town
Day 2 Visit Philippi Archaeological Site
Day 3 Hike Mount Olympus
Day 4 Wine Tasting in Naoussa or Edessa
Day 5 Paddle in Lake Kerkini
Day 6 Explore Meteora’s Monasteries
Day 7 Relax on Halkidiki’s Beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Macedonia

Macedonia is a food lover’s paradise, with its rich culinary traditions, diverse flavors, and fresh ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Moussaka: A classic Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, potato, and minced meat.
  • Souvlaki: A popular Greek street food made with marinated meat skewered and grilled to perfection.
  • Saganaki: A fried cheese dish often served with a squeeze of lemon.
  • Tzatziki: A cucumber and yogurt dip that is delicious eaten as a sauce or as a side dish.

Local Beverages

  • Tsipouro: A traditional Greek spirit made from distilled grapes.
  • Retsina: A white wine made with a touch of pine resin that has a distinct taste.
  • Ouzo: A licorice-flavored spirit that is the national drink of Greece.

Where to Stay in Macedonia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Macedonia has a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Macedonia:

  • The Met Hotel: A luxurious hotel in the heart of Thessaloniki that offers stunning views of the city.
  • Hotel Philippion: A hotel located on the outskirts of Thessaloniki that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a large outdoor pool.
  • Archontiko Naoumidi: A traditional guesthouse located in the picturesque town of Naoussa that offers excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Kerkini Lake Resort: A beautiful resort located on the banks of Lake Kerkini that offers stunning views and outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Macedonia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to buy from Macedonia:

  • Handcrafted pottery: Made from locally sourced materials, this pottery is known for its unique designs and vibrant colors.
  • Honey: Macedonia is known for producing high-quality honey, which is sold in local markets.
  • Komboloi: A string of beads that are popular among Greek men as an anxiety-relief toy.
  • Olive Oil: Greece is known for producing some of the world’s best olive oil, and Macedonia is no exception.

Local Culture and Customs of Macedonia

Macedonia has a unique culture that is shaped by its history, religion, and traditions. Here are some aspects of local culture and customs to keep in mind when visiting Macedonia:

  • Religion: The majority of the locals are Greek Orthodox, and there are many beautiful churches and monasteries to visit.
  • Language: Greek is the official language of Macedonia, and it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with some basic Greek phrases.
  • Greetings: Greeks are known for being warm and welcoming, and it’s customary to greet people with a friendly “Yassou” (hello) or “Kalimera” (good morning).
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Macedonia, but it’s a nice way to show appreciation for good service.

Best Time to Visit Macedonia

The best time to visit Macedonia is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). This is when the weather is mild, and there tend to be fewer crowds. If you’re planning to visit in the summer (July to August), be prepared for high temperatures and bigger crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Macedonia

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries.
  • Carry cash as not all restaurants and shops accept credit cards.
  • Try to learn some basic Greek phrases, as it will help when interacting with locals.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful towards local customs and traditions.
  • Be overly loud or rowdy, as it’s considered impolite in Macedonia.
  • Worry about being lost, as locals are friendly and will be happy to help with directions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Macedonia

Macedonia is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and staying alert when walking alone at night.

Health in Macedonia

There are currently no specific health concerns when visiting Macedonia. However, it’s always a good idea to be up to date on routine vaccinations like measles, mumps, and rubella. Make sure to also bring any necessary medication with you and get medical insurance before traveling.

Getting to Macedonia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to consider before traveling to Macedonia:

  • Flight: Macedonia has several major airports, including Skopje International Airport and Thessaloniki International Airport.
  • Train: Train travel is available in Macedonia, and there are frequent connections between major cities.
  • Bus: Buses are a popular way to travel in Macedonia, and there are many connections between smaller towns and villages.
  • Car: If you’re planning to explore the countryside, renting a car is a good option.

Airports Near Macedonia

  • Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG)
  • Alexander the Great Airport, Skopje (SKP)

Bus Stations Near Macedonia

  • Thessaloniki Bus Station (KTEL)
  • Skopje Bus Station

Other Options

  • Ferry: There are regular ferry services between Thessaloniki and nearby islands like Skiathos and Skopelos.

How to Get Around in Macedonia

Getting around in Macedonia is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

  • Bus: Buses are a cheap and reliable way to travel between cities.
  • Train: Train travel is available and is often the most scenic way to travel through the countryside.
  • Car: Renting a car is the best way to explore the countryside and smaller villages.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Macedonia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Macedonia is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in Greece and beyond. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you might want to consider:

  • Halkidiki: A stunning region with beautiful beaches and charming villages.
  • Mount Athos: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its twenty monasteries.
  • Bulgaria: Visit the nearby city of Sofia or the beautiful Rila Monastery.

Conclusion

Macedonia is a destination that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to outdoor adventures and delicious food. Whether you’re planning a week-long trip or just passing through on your way to other parts of Greece, make sure to check out some of the attractions and experiences on this list. With its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fantastic food scene, Macedonia is an unforgettable destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Kavala, fortress, port and old town Kavala, fortress, port and old town The White Tower of Thessaloniki; the city's landmark. The White Tower of Thessaloniki; the city's landmark. The entrance to one of the tombs of Vergina The entrance to one of the tombs of Vergina


    Amphipolis
    Aridea
    Chalkidiki
    Drama
    Edessa
    Olympos National Park
    Pella
    Philippi
    Platamonas
    Prespa
    Serres
    Thessaloniki
    Veria