Thessaloniki: Mount Olympus & Ancient Dion Private Day Trip

Embark on an unforgettable private day trip from Thessaloniki to Mount Olympus and the ancient site of Dion. This 7-hour tour immerses you in rich cultural heritage, where history and natural beauty intertwine. Explore impressive ruins, hike breathtaking gorges, and savor authentic Macedonian cuisine – all while discovering the wonders that lie beyond the bustling city. With hotel pickup, an English-speaking driver, and optional guided tour, this excursion promises an unparalleled experience. What secrets will you uncover on this extraordinary journey?

Key Points

• A private day trip from Thessaloniki to explore the ancient site of Dion and the slopes of Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the Greek gods.
• Opportunity to visit the impressive ruins, Temple of Zeus, and ancient theatre at the Dion Archaeological Park.
• Tour includes a stop at the New Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus, set amidst the lush Enipeas Gorge.
• Hiking through the Enipeas Gorge to witness stunning waterfalls and immerse in the serene natural surroundings.
• Exploration of the charming village of Litochoro, featuring traditional architecture and an opportunity to experience authentic Macedonian cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This private day trip from Thessaloniki takes visitors to the iconic Mount Olympus and the ancient site of Dion.

The tour costs from €180.00 per person and lasts 7 hours. Pickup is provided from Thessaloniki, and the flexible booking allows you to reserve your spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and basic travel insurance. A licensed guide for the Dion archaeological park is available upon request.

Visitors have the freedom to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The highlights include exploring Dion, hiking in Enipeas Gorge, and visiting a historic Macedonian village.

Exploring Dion, Pieria

As the first stop on the itinerary, the tour visits the Archaeological Park of Dion, an important site dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Entrance fees are €8 for full admission and €4 for reduced admission, payable on-site.

Visitors can explore:

Visitors can explore impressive ruins, the Temple of Zeus, a well-preserved ancient theatre, and other remnants from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

1. Impressive ruins and remnants from the ancient city.

2. The Temple of Zeus and other religious structures.

3. A well-preserved ancient theatre and stadium.

The Park offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of Dion, an essential part of the Mount Olympus and Ancient Dion private day trip.

Visiting the New Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus

Next, the tour takes visitors to the New Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus. Located at an altitude of 850 meters in the Enipeas gorge, the original monastery was established in 1542 but was destroyed in 1943. Visitors can spend around 30 minutes exploring the monastery’s grounds and architecture.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Location | Enipeas gorge, altitude 850 m |

| History | Original monastery established in 1542, destroyed in 1943 |

| Architectural Style | Traditional Greek Orthodox monastery design |

| Surrounding Landscape | Lush, mountainous environment with views of Olympus |

| Visit Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |

The monastery offers a peaceful respite and a chance to learn about the region’s religious heritage.

Hiking Enipeas Gorge

After visiting the New Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus, the tour continues with a 1-hour hike through the Enipeas Gorge.

This lush, verdant gorge offers a peaceful respite from the day’s activities. Hikers can expect to:

1. Admire the stunning waterfalls cascading through the gorge.

2. Immerse themselves in the serene natural surroundings.

3. Spot diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species.

The hike through Enipeas Gorge provides a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the region and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Mount Olympus.

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Discovering Litochoro Village

Following the hike through the Enipeas Gorge, the tour proceeds to the charming village of Litochoro.

Nestled at the base of Mount Olympus, this authentic Macedonian settlement dates back to the 14th century. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the traditional architecture and seeing the local culture.

Nestled at the base of Mount Olympus, this 14th-century Macedonian settlement invites visitors to stroll its quaint streets and immerse in local culture.

The tour includes a stop for lunch, allowing travelers to savor authentic Macedonian cuisine and experience the hospitality of the villagers.

With its rich history and stunning natural surroundings, Litochoro offers a delightful complement to the day’s exploration of ancient Dion and the grandeur of Mount Olympus.

Included Services

The included services for this Mount Olympus & Ancient Dion Private Day Trip cover the essentials for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

This tour includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your day.

2. An English-speaking driver who can provide insights and recommendations throughout the journey.

3. Basic travel insurance, offering peace of mind during your exploration.

While the tour guide to Dion is available upon request, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included in the package price.

With these core services covered, you can focus on enjoying the rich history and natural beauty of this captivating region.

Customer Reviews and Important Information

Travelers who’ve experienced this Mount Olympus & Ancient Dion Private Day Trip have left overwhelmingly positive reviews.

The tour boasts an impressive 5/5 rating based on 5 reviews. Customers praised the friendly and knowledgeable driver, as well as the guide’s adaptability and expertise. The overall experience was highlighted as a key strength.

For the best visit, travelers are advised to wear hiking shoes and consider booking a licensed guide, as the archaeological park is closed on Tuesdays.

With flexible booking and free cancellation, this day trip offers a well-reviewed way to explore ancient Dion and the scenic Enipeas Gorge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to provide your own sustenance during the day.

Is There Any Opportunity for Swimming During the Hike?

The itinerary does not mention any opportunities for swimming during the hike through Enipeas Gorge. The focus appears to be on sightseeing and exploration of the natural scenery rather than swimming activities.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Exploring the Archaeological Site?

The itinerary allows 1 hour to explore the Archaeological Park of Dion, an important Hellenistic and Roman site. Entrance fees are €8 for full admission and €4 for reduced admission, payable on-site.

Is the Guide Able to Provide Translation Services in Multiple Languages?

The guide can provide translation services in multiple languages, including English, to enhance the tour experience. This allows guests to fully understand the history and significance of the archaeological site at Dion.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Itinerary?

The trip itinerary doesn’t mention any additional fees or costs besides the entrance fees to the Archaeological Park of Dion. However, gratuities for the driver and guide are not included in the listed price.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Thessaloniki to Mount Olympus and the ancient site of Dion promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the impressive ruins of the Archaeological Park, hike through the breathtaking Enipeas Gorge, and savor authentic Macedonian cuisine in the charming village of Litochoro, all while immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the region. With hotel pickup, an English-speaking driver, and the option of a licensed guide, this tour offers a seamless and enriching journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: