Thessaloniki: Aristotles Birthplace and Mt. Athos Cruise

Discover the rich historical and natural treasures of Thessaloniki on this captivating tour. Explore the ancient site of Stageira, the birthplace of the renowned philosopher Aristotle, and embark on a scenic cruise showcasing the magnificent monasteries of Mount Athos. With free time in the charming town of Ouranoupolis, this immersive experience offers a perfect blend of culture and leisure. Uncover the secrets of this captivating region – what hidden gems await?

Key Points

• Explore the birthplace of Aristotle in Ancient Stagera and discover the villages, landscapes, and lakes of Halkidiki.
• Take a boat cruise to view the famous monasteries of Mt. Athos from the water.
• Enjoy free time in Ouranoupolis for shopping and dining as part of the comprehensive 11-hour tour.
• Tour includes live English-speaking guide, bus transportation with pick-up and drop-off, and is rated 4.6/5 stars by 26 reviews.
• Unaccompanied minors are not permitted, and participant information is required for tour management and a smooth experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour "Thessaloniki: Aristotle’s Birthplace and Mt. Athos Cruise" costs from $75.36 per person and lasts 11 hours.

Discover Aristotle’s birthplace and sail around Mount Athos on this 11-hour tour from Thessaloniki for $75.36 per person.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve your spot without immediate payment.

The tour takes you to discover villages, landscapes, and lakes of Halkidiki, see famous monasteries of Mt. Athos from the water, and visit the birthplace of philosopher Aristotle in Ancient Stagera.

Transportation includes pick-up and drop-off from select locations in Thessaloniki.

The tour features an English-speaking guide, a boat cruise, and bus transportation, but lunch isn’t included.

Itinerary Highlights

Offering a chance to discover the villages, landscapes, and lakes of Halkidiki, the tour provides a glimpse of the famous monasteries of Mt. Athos from the water.

Along the way, visitors will:

1. Visit the birthplace of the renowned philosopher Aristotle in Ancient Stagera.

2. Stop in Ouranoupolis for shopping and lunch.

3. Enjoy transportation with pick-up and drop-off from specific locations in Thessaloniki.

The comprehensive itinerary showcases the natural beauty and historic sites of the region, creating an immersive experience for participants.

Tour Features and Inclusions

This tour includes a live English-speaking guide who accompanies participants throughout the experience.

A boat cruise is also included, allowing visitors to see the famous monasteries of Mt. Athos from the water.

Transportation is provided by bus, with pick-up and drop-off from select locations in Thessaloniki.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour allows for free time in Ouranoupolis for shopping and dining.

Tips and personal expenses are optional.

Unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed, and all participants must provide their surname, name, gender, date of birth, and nationality.

Participant Information and Requirements

Unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed on this tour, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Participants must provide the following information:

1. Surname

2. Name

3. Gender, date of birth, and nationality

This is required for all tour members. The tour operator needs this information to properly manage the tour and ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

Ensuring the safety and security of all participants is a top priority. With these simple requirements, guests can look forward to an engaging and memorable journey exploring Thessaloniki and the monasteries of Mt. Athos.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars for this tour, based on 26 reviews.

The guide received a 4.3 rating, while the transportation scored a high 4.8. Reviewers praised the engaging and knowledgeable guide, Dimitra.

Some suggestions for improvement include cautious driving and better passenger list verification. Despite these minor issues, the tour is generally recommended for its value for money.

Participants commended the highlights, such as visiting Aristotle’s birthplace and the monasteries of Mt. Athos, as well as the convenient pickup and drop-off locations in Thessaloniki.

Discovering the Birthplace of Aristotle

Although the cruise portion of the tour allows participants to admire the stunning monasteries of Mount Athos from the water, a highlight of this experience is the opportunity to discover the birthplace of the renowned philosopher Aristotle.

Visitors will:

1. Explore the ancient ruins of Stagira, Aristotle’s hometown, and learn about his life and legacy.

2. Visit the Aristotle Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits that provide insight into the philosopher’s formative years.

3. Appreciate the scenic natural surroundings that influenced Aristotle’s philosophical development.

This unique aspect of the tour offers a deeper understanding of one of history’s most influential thinkers.

Navigating the Monasteries of Mount Athos

The boat cruise portion of the tour allows visitors to admire the famous monasteries of Mount Athos from the water.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to 20 Orthodox monasteries and thousands of monks. During the cruise, guests can view the monasteries’ striking architecture and dramatic cliffside locations.

The tour guide provides commentary on the history and significance of this sacred place. Although visitors can’t disembark on Mount Athos, the cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness its remarkable religious heritage.

This scenic excursion complements the tour’s exploration of Aristotle’s birthplace, providing a well-rounded experience.

Exploring the Charming Town of Ouranoupolis

After the tranquil cruise along the coastline, the tour makes a stop in the charming town of Ouranoupolis.

This picturesque town offers several highlights:

1. Explore the quaint shops and boutiques lining the streets, offering authentic Greek handicrafts, clothing, and local delicacies.

2. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the waterfront tavernas, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties.

3. Wander the seaside promenade, taking in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the Mount Athos peninsula in the distance.

The stop in Ouranoupolis provides a delightful respite before continuing the journey back to Thessaloniki.

Since You Asked

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Monasteries?

No, photography is generally not allowed inside the monasteries of Mount Athos. Visitors should respect the religious nature of these sites and follow the rules and guidelines set by the monasteries.

Is There a Dress Code for the Monastery Visit?

There’s a modest dress code for visiting the monasteries on the Mt. Athos Cruise. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees, and women must wear long skirts or dresses. Proper attire is required to enter the sacred sites.

What Types of Food Options Are Available for Lunch?

The tour doesn’t include lunch, so participants can choose from various dining options in Ouranoupolis, the scheduled stop for shopping and a break. Local Greek cuisine, seafood, and casual eateries are available to satisfy different tastes and dietary needs.

Can I Extend My Stay in Thessaloniki After the Tour?

The tour does not include extending your stay in Thessaloniki. However, you can plan to stay longer on your own after the tour ends. The tour operator only provides transportation and the scheduled activities within the 11-hour tour duration.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. Pricing is fixed at $75.36 per person regardless of age or student status. Interested parties should book the tour directly through the operator’s website or by contacting them directly.

Final Words

This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Thessaloniki’s rich history and natural beauty. From visiting Aristotle’s birthplace to cruising along the stunning Mt. Athos monasteries, the experience is both culturally enriching and visually captivating. With free time in the charming town of Ouranoupolis, travelers can indulge in shopping and dining, making this tour a well-rounded and memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: