Magnesia Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Magnesia in Greece, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and more.


Introduction to Magnesia

Magnesia is a dream getaway for travelers hunting for unspoiled nature, exciting outdoor adventures, and a rich cultural heritage. Perched in the heart of Thessaly, in Greece, this hidden gem boasts a diverse landscape ranging from dramatic mountain ranges, palm-fringed beaches, bucolic villages, and lush green forests to mythical caves, hot springs, and glistening lakes. Magnesia is an excellent base for hikers, nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and even adrenaline seekers who wish to explore one of the most stunning regions of Greece.

List of Places to Visit in Magnesia

Magnesia offers an impressive list of places to visit, from ancient Greek and Roman ruins to unblemished natural sites that leave you in awe. Here are some not-to-be-missed attractions to include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ancient Theatre of Demetrias: A well-preserved ancient Greek theater that can accommodate up to 6,000 spectators.
  • Archaeological Museum of Volos: A valuable collection of artifacts of the Greek Bronze age and Hellenistic period.
  • Pelion Railway Museum: A picturesque museum that showcases a century-old steam railway and station.
  • The House of Trikoupis: A museum of the famous Greek statesman/prime minister, Charilaos Trikoupis.

Natural Attractions of Magnesia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Pelion: A lush mountain range where you can explore hiking trails, quaint villages, and ski slopes.
  • Meteora: A must-visit site famous for its unique rock formations, UNESCO world heritage monastery complex, and breathtaking views.
  • Sporades Islands: An archipelago of 24 islands, boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
  • Plastira Lake: A serene lake surrounded by dense forests and hills, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Magnesia

Magnesia is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The region is ideal for hiking, trekking, cycling, and bird watching, with trails of varying levels of difficulty and stunning scenery in every direction. Here are some popular hiking and cycling routes to consider:

  • The Centaur’s Path: A 30km trail that crosses the lush forests of Pelion, perfect for walking, hiking, and cycling.
  • Milies to Tsagarada Trail: A moderate trail that connects two traditional Pelion villages, offering a scenic route through chestnut forests, cobbled paths, and streams.
  • Agrafa Mountain Range Trail: An exhilarating trail through the mountains of Agrafa, leading to Megalo Horio village. This trail is suitable for experienced hikers.

Best Things to Do in Magnesia: Activities and Tours

Magnesia is a playground for nature enthusiasts and those who want to indulge in cultural exploration. Here are some of the best things to do while in Magnesia:

  • Explore the ancient ruins at Demetrias and the historic Venetian castle.
  • Take a scenic train ride on Pelion Railway and visit the Railway museum.
  • Go skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing during winter at the resort of Agriolefkes.
  • Take a boat tour to the enchanting island of Skiathos and explore its magnificent beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Magnesia

Magnesia is a region that requires more than just a day trip, and there’s no shortage of things to explore. Here is a week-long itinerary that offers an excellent mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

Day Activity
1 Explore Volos, including the Archaeological Museum and the port area.
2 Take the Centaur’s Path hiking trail in Pelion, passing through hidden waterfalls, quaint villages, and scenic viewpoints.
3 Visit the ancient theater of Demetrias and the historic Venetian Castle.
4 Take a boat tour to the idyllic Sporades Islands and explore the beaches and coastal villages.
5 Explore the mountain villages of Makrinitsa, Portaria, and Milies, and visit the Pelion steam railway museum.
6 Visit the impressive Meteora Monastery complex and admire the breathtaking views.
7 Relax by the Plastira lake, take a boat ride, or hike around the lake’s area.

Food and Drink Scene of Magnesia

Discover the delicious cuisine and local drinks of Magnesia, a region whose gastronomy often blends traditional dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tiropita: a savory pie that usually contains feta cheese and filo pastry.
  • Boureki: a courgette, egg, and feta cheese pie baked in the oven.
  • Spetsofai: A local sausage dish cooked in tomato sauce and peppers.
  • Fasolada: A traditional Greek soup made with beans, assorted vegetables, and sometimes with meat.

Local Beverages

  • Tsipouro: An unaged spirit that often accompanies a meze platter.
  • Retsina: A Greek wine flavored with pine resin, which gives it a unique aroma and taste.
  • Cafe Frappe: A refreshing iced coffee popular all over Greece.

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

Magnesia offers a wide array of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to apartments, hostels, and guesthouses, depending on your budget and what you’re looking for. Some of the most popular accommodation options in Magnesia include:

  • Anovolios Boutique Hotel: A charming hotel in the heart of Pelion, boasting traditional architecture, excellent service, and breathtaking views.
  • Kala Nera beach hotel: A luxurious hotel on the famous beach of Kala Nera, with excellent amenities, and a relaxing ambiance.
  • Archontiko Naoumidi: A beautiful, family-run guesthouse in the historic village of Portaria, offering panoramic views and traditional decoration.

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

Magnesia is known for its traditional crafts and locally-sourced products that make unique gifts or souvenirs to take home. Some popular local products to bring home include:

  • Olive oil: Made from the region’s olive groves, Magnesia olive oil is renowned for its flavor and quality.
  • Honey: The region’s honey is known for being pure and unprocessed, and often considered one of the best in Greece.
  • Tsipouro: The local spirit produced from the region’s grapes.

Local Culture and Customs of Magnesia

Magnesia has a vibrant cultural heritage, with many traditions still passed down from generation to generation. When visiting Magnesia, keep in mind some of the customs and social norms to avoid any misunderstandings or faux pas:

  • Greet locals and use please or thank you in Greek if possible.
  • Dress modestly when entering monasteries or churches.
  • Avoid unnecessary waste and littering in natural areas.

Best Time to Visit Magnesia

The best time to visit Magnesia is during spring and autumn when temperatures are mild, rainfall is low, and nature is at its best. However, each of the seasons brings its unique charm to the area, with wildflowers in spring, hot summer months perfect for the beach, and skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Magnesia

To make the most of your trip to Magnesia, keep in mind these dos and don’ts:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Take advantage of the natural surroundings and explore the hiking trails, monasteries, and beaches.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural sites.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Show disrespect to locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Magnesia is considered a safe region for visitors. However, as with other travel destinations, some precautions are always necessary to ensure a safe and healthy stay.

Safety in Magnesia

  • Be careful when hiking and mountaineering. Conditions can be challenging and demanding.
  • Watch out for sea urchins if you are swimming in the sea.
  • Always lock your valuables in the hotel or in a safe.

Health in Magnesia

  • Take personal precautions in terms of sun and insect protection, especially during summer months.
  • Always drink bottled or filtered water.
  • Bring any necessary medication with you for any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to Magnesia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Magnesia is accessible by several means of transportation, offering visitors a hassle-free transfer from anywhere in Greece or Europe.

Airports Near Magnesia

The nearest airports to Magnesia are:

  • Volos Nea Achialos National Airport (VOL)
  • Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG)

Bus Stations Near Magnesia

Buses from Athens, Thessaloniki, and surrounding places arrive at the Volos bus station, KTEL.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, car rentals are available at each of the airports, and the drive time ranges between two and four hours, depending on your starting point.

How to Get Around in Magnesia

Magnesia is a small region and, depending on where you are staying and your preferred activity, there are several ways to travel around. Car rental is a popular choice for those who want freedom and flexibility, while public transport is a cost-effective option to visit the nearby towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from Magnesia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore after visiting Magnesia, there are several nearby destinations and excursions you can enjoy.

  • Athens: The vibrant capital of Greece, with ancient temples, beautiful museums, and a thriving nightlife.
  • Metsovo: A picturesque mountain village offering stunning views, unique architecture, and delicious local cuisine.
  • Skiathos: A beautiful island known for its vibrant nightlife, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches.

Conclusion

Magnesia is a destination that offers visitors a complete package of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a wealth of experiences. Whether it’s hiking through mountain ranges, exploring ancient ruins, or relaxing on a sandy beach, there’s always something to do in Magnesia. With a mix of traditional flavors, warm hospitality, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Magnesia is an ideal place to visit and explore.



    Agria
    Almyros
    Amaliapolis
    Ano Volos
    Kanalia
    Keramidi
    Mount Pelion
    Nees Pagases
    Pteleos