Edessa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Edessa with this comprehensive travel guide covering all the must-see attractions, best hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Edessa

Edessa is a charming city located in Macedonia, in Northern Greece. This beautiful city is known for its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. Edessa is situated in the foothills of Mount Vermio, and it is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, which attracts many visitors every year. Tourists are also drawn to Edessa for its rich history, including its famous castle and numerous museums.

List of Places to Visit in Edessa

When planning a trip to Edessa, there are plenty of attractions to see and activities to enjoy. Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Edessa.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Castle of Edessa: This iconic landmark has been standing for centuries and provides visitors with a glimpse of the city’s rich history. The castle is located on a hilltop and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. It is open to visitors all year round.

  • The Archaeological Museum of Edessa: This museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts dating back to the ancient Macedonian period. The museum provides visitors with an educational experience and insight into the city’s history.

Natural Attractions of Edessa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Edessa Waterfalls: This attraction is one of the tallest waterfalls in Greece, measuring up to 70 meters. It is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible to visitors. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.

  • Mount Vermio: This mountain range is located in the heart of Edessa and provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing (during the winter months). There are numerous trails for beginners and advanced hikers, and the views from the top are breathtaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Edessa

Edessa offers visitors some of the best hiking and biking routes in Greece. Here are a few of the most popular trails:

  • Mount Vermio Hiking Trails: These trails offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Edessa. The trails vary in length, difficulty level, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

  • Vrimokarditsa Hiking Trail: This trail is a 2-hour hike that starts from the base of the Edessa Waterfall and leads to Vrimokarditsa. It is considered one of the most beautiful trails in Edessa, and it provides hikers with stunning views of the waterfall.

Best Things to Do in Edessa: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to choose from when visiting Edessa. Here are some of the best things to do in Edessa:

  • Waterfall Boat Tours: Visitors can take a boat tour of the waterfall, providing them with a unique perspective of the attraction and insight into the city’s history.

  • Winery Tours: Edessa is known for its vineyards, and visitors can take a tour of the wineries and learn about the city’s wine history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Edessa

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Edessa, here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the city- visit the Castle of Edessa and the Archaeological Museum of Edessa.

Day 2: Go on a hiking trail in Mount Vermio.

Day 3: Visit the Edessa Waterfalls.

Day 4: Take a winery tour and sample some of the local wines.

Day 5: Explore the city’s local markets and try some traditional cuisine.

Day 6: Visit nearby villages and explore their cultural heritage.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Edessa.

Food and Drink Scene of Edessa

Edessa is home to a unique food and drink scene, where visitors can try out some traditional dishes and local wines.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tsoureki: This traditional sweet bread is a staple in Edessa and can be found in bakeries throughout the city.

  • Sarmades: These stuffed grape leaves are a popular dish in Edessa and are usually served as an appetizer.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Edessa is known for its vineyards, and visitors can sample some of the best local wines at the city’s wineries.

  • Rakomelo: This traditional drink is a blend of raki, honey, and spices. It is often served hot during the winter months.

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

Edessa offers a variety of accommodations for visitors. Here are some of the best places to stay in Edessa:

  • Kaimak Inn Spa & Resort: This hotel is located on the foothills of Mount Vermio and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It also features a spa and wellness center.

  • Varosi Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the heart of Edessa and offers visitors a chance to experience the city’s traditional architecture and culture.

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

When visiting Edessa, visitors have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to buying souvenirs or local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Edessa:

  • Handmade Leather Goods: Edessa has a long tradition of handmade leather products, and visitors can find everything from bags to shoes.

  • Wines: Edessa is known for its vineyards and wineries, so visitors can bring home some wine as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Edessa

Edessa has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should take some time to learn about the local customs and traditions. The people of Edessa are known for their hospitality, and visitors can expect a warm welcome.

Best Time to Visit Edessa

The best time to visit Edessa is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, visitors can still enjoy the city’s attractions during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Edessa

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Edessa:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wines.

  • Learn about the city’s culture and history.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Edessa is a safe city for visitors, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Safety in Edessa

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

  • Keep your valuables secure.

  • Use common sense when using public transportation.

Health in Edessa

  • The water in Edessa is safe to drink, but it may be best to stick to bottled water.

  • Visitors should take precautions against mosquitos, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Edessa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can get to Edessa through various transportation options. The nearest airport is Thessaloniki International Airport, which is approximately 90 km away. From there, visitors can take a bus or rent a car to get to Edessa.

Airports Near Edessa

  • Thessaloniki International Airport: This airport offers direct flights to many international destinations, and visitors can take a bus or rent a car to get to Edessa.

Bus Stations Near Edessa

  • KTEL Edesssa: This bus station offers daily services to various cities in Greece.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car at Thessaloniki International Airport and drive to Edessa.

How to Get Around in Edessa

Visitors can get around Edessa through various transportation options. Here are a few ways to get around in Edessa:

  • Walking: Many of the attractions in Edessa are within walking distance.

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Edessa.

  • Buses: The city also has a bus system that connects to nearby villages.

Where to Go Next from Edessa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Edessa is located close to many other attractions, making it a great starting point for other trips in Northern Greece. Here are a few nearby destinations:

  • Vergina: This ancient city was once the capital of the Macedonian Empire and is home to many historical landmarks.

  • Pella: This ancient city was also the capital of the Macedonian Empire and is home to many fascinating historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Edessa has something to offer for everyone. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, visitors will have an unforgettable experience exploring this charming city. Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or just want to relax and enjoy the local cuisine, Edessa is the perfect destination for your next vacation.