When thinking of Thessaloniki, many tend to think of a vibrant city filled with restaurants, bars, clubs, university students, families, the list goes on. It is totally understandable that someone would like to take a break from this lively city, and perhaps find something more quiet and peaceful. There are in fact places nearby that are an hour away at most that would fit the criteria. Having visited these areas for myself, I can share with you my thought on them, and explain what makes them desirable getaways for the day. Following along and enjoy!
Mount Olympus is a popular day getaway if you are looking to get physically active or try something new. It will take more than a day to climb the entire mountain, but many, such as myself, do not. Not to exclude the idea from those interested in climbing, but for an afternoon one can hike up to a certain point and enjoy the food venues in the local town. Many mimic what I did (hike for an hour or two then eat at a restaurant nearby) and it is well worth it. The nearby town, or Litochoro, has fascinating architecture and reminds me of a stereotypical cosy, remote village in the mountains. With little to no distractions from the noises of busses, busy sidewalks, crowded stores, a trip just to walk around Litochoro and climb part of Mount Olympus is a must. Transportation is easy, as there is a bus that makes trips every day a couple of times, but renting a car is cheap and easy too. With a drive of only 2.5-3 hours one can leave early in the morning and come back later in the day to make this trip doable.
Limni Koroneia is a park open to the public that will give you a different perspective of Greek nature. It is a vast, open space with lots of greenery and has a lake for one to see. Trails for hiking and lakeside picnics are popular activities here. Although not the most energetic and developed place to visit, it has been untouched. This is perfect for someone looking to take a short 45 minute ride from the city center of Thessaloniki to escape to. I always enjoy seeing wildlife, specifically the birds, that gather at the lake. Fresh air with a cool breeze on any afternoon cannot be topped at Limni Koroneia.
The beach scene is what Greece is best known for internationally, and Potamos beach being 45 minutes away by car (a little over an hour by bus) makes this the closest beach to Thessaloniki, and one with the trip. Great beachside restaurants, bars with a great vibe (perfect mix between great drinks, friendly scene, and not too obnoxiously loud music) make up the entertainment scene. The beach itself is very clean, no garbage, crystal clear water, and a smooth sandy beach with chairs to rent allow one to best enjoy the city’s closest beach getaway. Potamos is never overpacked with people, so getting a chair to rent is easy, and one can enjoy sitting on the beach without feeling like they’re being stacked next to each other. I love going here as many University students from the City of Thessaloniki’s institutions make trips here primarily on the weekends. But one does not have to be a young adult to enjoy this scene, as the beaches in Greece are appreciated by those of all ages in the world. I highly recommend Potamos if you are looking to sit by the water without making an overnight trip.
There are many more local destinations for one to visit outside of Thessaloniki if looking for a quiet, peaceful escape. I highlighted a few different venues to cover a variety of interests (beach, outdoors/hiking, wildlife/nature lovers) and based off these ideas one can look for more for their own preferences if not satisfied. These three destinations are highly reviewed positively by all those, including myself, who have visited them. Come to Greece and visit Thessaloniki this summer and check out these places if looking to get away for the day. Kalo mina – Καλο μηνα, or “Good Month”, this is said at the beginning of each month in Greece to ensure good luck with whatever you are doing. Enjoy your March 1st and I look forward to seeing and hearing from some of you this summer in Greece.
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