Central Macedonia: what to see and do
Thessaloniki serves as the capital of Central Macedonia, a region covering about 18,811 km². Along its southern coast, the region meets the waters of the Thermaic, Toroneos, Singitic and Strymonic gulfs.
Thessaloniki tours and history
People have lived in Thessaloniki since prehistory, and its history spans 23 centuries. Founded around 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedon, the city takes its name from Thessalonike of Macedon, a half sister of Alexander the Great. UNESCO protection covers 15 of its monuments from the Paleochristian and Byzantine periods.
The White Tower rises about 34 m (33.9 m). Inside is a museum devoted to the history of Thessaloniki. Among the city's Roman monuments is the Rotunda of Galerius, built in the fourth century AD. Thessaloniki held the title of European Capital of Culture in 1997.
Chalkidiki
East of Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki projects into the Aegean Sea in a shape compared to the trident of Poseidon. Its golden sandy shores have pines growing down to the water. Kassandra has sandy beaches and resorts, while Sithonia has secluded coves and landscapes covered in pines. At Ancient Olynthus, the remains reveal how a classical city was planned and laid out. Aristotle was born in Stagira, and Petralona Cave came to light by chance in 1959.
The private tour to the Chalkidiki peninsula from Thessaloniki lasts 8 hours and includes a private vehicle with air conditioning, a driver who speaks English, an adaptable itinerary and transport between stops.
Central Macedonia in Greece
The regional units making up Central Macedonia are Chalkidiki, Imathia, Kilkis, Pella, Pieria, Serres and Thessaloniki. Its neighbours are Western Macedonia on the western side, Thessaly to the south, and Eastern Macedonia and Thrace on the eastern side. Serres occupies the centre of its namesake plain in northern Greece, northeast of Thessaloniki. Kilkis lies between Thessaloniki and the North Macedonia border, also in northern Greece.
Vergina, Pella and Veroia
The Royal Tombs are at Vergina, which is also known as Aigai. Pella served as the capital of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon and is known for floors made with pebble mosaics. In Veroia, 48 Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches survive alongside the Jewish neighbourhood of Barbouta.
The guided tour of Vergina, Meteora and Ancient Olympia takes 2 days and includes transport, a professional guide discussing history and mythology, entry to the Royal Tombs at Vergina, visits to Thermopylae and Dion, a guided visit to the Meteora monasteries, a visit to the sanctuary at Ancient Olympia, a guided waterfall hike and lake access.
The full day tour to Meteora and Vergina from Athens lasts 14 hours and includes guiding throughout, transport in a Mercedes E Class sedan, bottled water, snacks, a souvenir for each traveller and WiFi in the vehicle.
Olympus and wetlands
Dion sits at the base of Mount Olympus, 17 km from Katerini. Olympus became a national park in 1938 and also holds World Biosphere Reserve status. Greek mythology places the home of the gods on Olympus. More than 270 bird species have been recorded at Lake Kerkini. The Axios Delta National Park is home to about 300 bird species.
Frequently asked questions
What is the capital of Central Macedonia?
Thessaloniki serves as the capital of Central Macedonia, a region covering about 18,811 km².
What is inside the White Tower?
Inside is a museum devoted to the history of Thessaloniki.
What landscapes does Chalkidiki have?
Its golden sandy shores have pines growing down to the water.
Where are the Royal Tombs?
The Royal Tombs are at Vergina, which is also known as Aigai.
What birdlife is recorded at Lake Kerkini?
More than 270 bird species have been recorded at Lake Kerkini. The Axios Delta National Park is home to about 300 bird species.
