If you’re on the hunt for quick and easy escapes from Thessaloniki, Pieria should be at the top of your list. Just a short drive away, this region sits at the foot of Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece and home of the ancient gods. Whether you’re into chill day trips or spontaneous weekend adventures, Pieria has that perfect mix of mountain vibes and seaside serenity. Keep reading to discover some of the coolest spots where nature, history, and good energy come together.
Litochoro
First up, there’s Litochoro, a charming traditional village nestled at the foot of Mount Olympus.It’s a popular starting point for hikes up to the mountain’s summit, Mytikas, and a great spot to soak in both nature and culture. Think stone-built houses, the local War Museum, and a scenic stream lined with cozy cafés. And of course, you’ll find plenty of tavernas serving delicious traditional Greek food. But that’s not all — just a few minutes away, you’ll hit the coast! Plaka Litochoro beach is right around the corner, with chill beach bars and a laid-back vibe. Plus, the region’s full of stunning seaside spots like Panteleimon Beach and the popular Beach of Platamonas —perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just unwinding with a cocktail by the sea.
Castle of Platamonas
No trip to Pieria is complete without a stop at the iconic Castle of Platamonas. Perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, this medieval fortress offers stunning views. Built by Crusaders in the 13th century, it once guarded the key route between Macedonia and Thessaly. Today, you can wander through its stone walls, climb the central tower, and imagine life as a knight. And as we already mentioned, it is pretty close to gorgeous beaches with amazing vibes.
Dion Archaeological Site and Orlias Stream (Rema Orlia)
If you like ancient history, you have to visit the Archaeological Site of Dion. It was a city of ancient Macedonias and took its name from Zeus (the name Dion comes from Dias, the Greek word for Zeus). You’ll find ruins of temples, a Roman theater, baths with stunning mosaics, and even a preserved ancient street network. Pretty close to this is the Orlias Stream, where you can combine your trip with pure nature. This hidden gem has natural waterfalls, crystal-clear pools and lush greenery.
Climbing Mount Olympus- Reaching Mytikas, the throne of the Gods
Last but not least, if you like hiking, Mount Olympus would be an unforgettable experience. Starting from the village of Litochoro, many climbers follow the famous E4 trail through the lush Enipeas Gorge, gradually ascending toward the mountain refuges. Also, the more adventurous have to visit Mytikas, the highest peak in Greece at 2,918 meters, which is known as the throne of Zeus. It’s a challenging final climb that requires scrambling and effort. Just make sure that you are well-prepared and invite a local guide to come with you, because it’s dangerous.
