Thessaloniki Cruise Tips, Activities, and Overview
Don't Miss in Thessaloniki
Mount Olympus (Litochoro) and Dion: About one hour from Thessaloniki is the archaeological park of Dion, known as the sanctuary for ancient deities -- namely, Zeus ("Dios"). Its location is based on proximity to Mount Olympus, where Greeks believed the gods to live. An unassuming museum with a staggering collection is located on the way in; it's often used as a restroom break. (Beware the squat toilets.)
A visit to the ancient ruins of Dion is often paired with free time in Litochoro, the village located at the foot of Mount Olympus. (We recommend lunch at a traditional taverna.) While the area -- teeming with kiwi farms and vineyards -- is charming, it's important to note that you won't set foot on the mountain unless you've arranged some kind of guided hike or private tour.
Royal Tombs of Vergina: Uncovered only a few decades ago, the intact tombs of the royal Macedonian family are just an hour away from Thessaloniki in the city of Aigai, capital of Macedonia until 5th century BC, when Pella was built. The tombs -- including that of Philip II (Alexander the Great's father), assassinated in 336 BC -- as well as a museum are on the grounds, and the artifacts are considered some of the most treasured anywhere in Macedonia.
Pella: Travelers interested in ancient ruins should visit Pella, the second capital of Macedonia and birthplace of Alexander the Great. Just 45 minutes away from the port of Thessaloniki, this archeological site and museum traces the ruins of the ancient and important city, including floor mosaics that date back from the 4th century BC. While findings are thousands of years old, the museum building is rather modern.
Ghettos of Jewish Thessaloniki: At one time, one-third of the population of Thessaloniki was Jewish -- a number that was tragically wiped out during the German occupation of the city during WWII. An estimated 50,000 Sephardic Jews called the city home, following expulsion from Spain under decree in 1492. Take a walking tour of the Jewish history of Thessaloniki to learn more about what brought the Jewish people to Greece, along with a look at the harrowing ghettos, which were located near the cruise port at the old train station.