Which places to visit when you are in Northern Greece
WHICH PLACES TO VISIT WHEN YOU ARE IN NORTHERN GREECE
Everybody knows the Greek islands, the Acropolis in Athens, the Peloponnese perhaps but how much is known about Northern Greece? This article is about to help you realize how amazing, in every level, is this part of the country.
This is a list of places you should definitely visit.
1. Vergina.
I start with number 1 must go place to visit. A place that you shouldn’t visit for nothing. This is where in the 70s it was discovered the grave of Philip the 2nd the father of Alexander the Great! And also of the son of Alexander, Alexander the 4th. But what is the incredible in this case. The tombs were discovered unsealed. All the treasures were found inside!!! Weapons, armors, personal items and their own ashes in golden larnax urns!!! The museum is just perfect! Put it on your list for sure!
2. Thessaloniki.
I will take aside the history, the museums and the beautiful neighborhoods that are really really nice! I will just say 1 word. Food. Thessaloniki is the gastronomical capital of Greece, except of the 2nd biggest city. So if you like food please go. If you find a bad place to eat, and for sure there are, sorry but you are very unlucky cause they are really few.
3. Ancient Stageira.
This archeological site, except of being an ideal place full of nature, amazing view of the sea and a super nice beach next to it, to swim, is the homeland of one of the greatest minds of humanity, Aristotle!! And guess what, in 2016 it was finally concluded that a tomb they found there, it’s actually his!! Destroyed and without the urn with his ashes, but still! If you are a student of philosophy or if you like to give your respect, Ancient Stageira is waiting to surprise you!
4. Mount Athos.
Now that is a very very tricky place. Why? Cause the women are not allowed to enter! Yes you heard well. Let’s clear things up. Mount Athos is a whole peninsula that has a very unique status. Even though it is Greek sovereignty land, it is self govern. It is a religious place, the cradle of the Orthodox Church actually, where there are 20 big monasteries and many smaller ones. If you are man think it very well to visit this unique place for every single reason, nature, art, thinking of life. For the women the only option is a cruise around the peninsula. I know it is not the same and really frustrating that women are forbidden but still worth the trip.
5. Pella.
This is mainly for historical reasons but still. Pella is the place where Alexander the Great was born. If you are an Alexander’s fun, then this is a place not to miss. You can actually see the ruins of the palace where he was born, raised and tamed his famous horse, Voukefalas. The museum is quite nice by the way!
6. Mt Olympus.
Oh yes, Mt Olympus of the Olympian Gods. It is not a myth, it is a real place and actually an amazingly beautiful place. It is a definitely must for every single reason. Its nature full of small lakes, waterfalls, forests and rare flowers, its history, there is a fantastic archeological site there, called Dion and for the Greek Mythology of course. If you are a fan of Zeus and his gang, this is your place!!
7. Halkidiki.
I left this for end maybe on purpose. Northern Greece doesn’t have many big islands like Southern Greece does. Basically it has two Thasos and Samothraki. But it is ok. Cause it has something equally good if not for many locals better. Halkidiki! This part of Greece can be proud of having some of the most majestic waters and beaches all around the country. You will not believe the color of the sea water until you see it. I would definitely recommend discovering not only the places by the sea but also on the mainland or the mountains! Pure nature with beautiful landscapes.
In conclusion, like in every other country, also in Greece, sometimes the best places are the ones that are less known. Enjoy your trip!!