From Thessaloniki: Day Trip to Dion and Mount Olympus Park
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
History
Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest peak at 2,918 m, was the celestial throne of the 12 Olympian gods in ancient mythology. At its base, the sacred city of Dion—named for Zeus (Dios)—served as the religious heart of the Macedonian kingdom, hosting grand festivals and Alexander the Great’s pre-campaign sacrifices.
Founded in the 5th century BCE, Dion flourished under Philip II and Rome, its temples, theaters, and baths buried by earthquakes and floods until excavations began in 1928. Today, it stands as a UNESCO-recognized gateway to myth and nature.
Highlights
- Trek the easy Agia Kori trail through lush forests to a sparkling waterfall
- Swim in the emerald natural pools beneath Mount Olympus
- Explore Dion’s ancient sanctuaries, Roman baths, and Hellenistic theater
- Visit the Olympus National Park Information Center with interactive exhibits
- Wander the charming mountain village of Litochoro with traditional cafés
- Travel with an archaeologist-historian guide in a small group
Full Description
Depart Thessaloniki on an air-conditioned coach and ascend toward the legendary Mount Olympus. After a scenic drive, embark on a gentle 75-minute hike along the red-marked Agia Kori trail—suitable for all fitness levels—through pine forests to a cascading waterfall. Cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear natural pools.
Continue to the Archaeological Park of Dion, where your expert guide reveals Zeus’s sanctuaries, Isis cult temples, and a 2nd-century Roman villa with stunning mosaics. A short stop at the Park Information Center showcases the region’s biodiversity and climbing routes.
End in picturesque Litochoro, nestled at the mountain’s foot. Enjoy 90 minutes to savor local trout, browse handicrafts, or relax in a shaded square. The return journey offers final views of the Pierian plains.
Why Choose This Experience?
This full-day adventure blends myth, archaeology, and nature in one seamless journey from Thessaloniki. The easy trail and swim make it accessible yet immersive, while the archaeologist guide brings ancient Dion to life with insider stories.
Perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone seeking a refreshing escape into Greece’s most legendary landscape—without the strain of hardcore hiking.
What’s Included
- Round-trip air-conditioned coach from Thessaloniki
- English-speaking archaeologist-historian guide
- Guided visit to Dion Archaeological Park
- Entry to Olympus National Park Information Center
- 75-minute Agia Kori trail hike with waterfall swim
- Free time in Litochoro village
- Free Wi-Fi and USB charging on coach
- Bottled water and trail snack
- Baby seat (on request)
- Basic travel insurance
- Digital photo stops and trail map
Itinerary
- Meet at Aristotelous Square & Egnatia Street (Venizelos Statue) – 08:00 AM
- Coach departure to Mount Olympus (75 min)
- Agia Kori trail: Guided hike & waterfall swim (75 min)
- Transfer to Dion (20 min)
- Archaeological Park of Dion: Guided tour (1.5 hours)
- Short drive to Information Center (15 min)
- Olympus National Park Info Center visit (30 min)
- Transfer to Litochoro (20 min)
- Litochoro: Lunch & free time (1.5 hours)
- Return to Thessaloniki (1.5 hours)
- Drop-off at starting point (~6:00 PM)
Pricing
From $57 per person
Meeting Point
Aristotelous Square & Egnatia Street, next to the Venizelos Statue. Look for the Ammom Bus with company signage. Arrive by 7:50 AM for check-in.
How to get there
- Walk from Thessaloniki city center (5–10 min from most hotels)
- Taxi to Aristotelous Square (5 min)
- Metro Line 1 to “Venizelos” station (2 min walk)
- Public bus #8 or #10 to square
Good to Know
What to bring
- Sports shoes with good grip (trail)
- Swimwear and quick-dry towel
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen and reusable water bottle
- Light long pants (for trail)
- Snacks (lunch self-paid)
- Camera or waterproof phone case
- Small backpack
Know before you go
- Dion entry: €8 (full) / €4 (reduced) / free for EU under 25 & non-EU under 18
- No reduced senior tickets June–Oct
- Trail is easy (red-marked, 2 km round trip) – not suitable for mobility issues
- Swim in natural pools – water is cold year-round
- Lunch in Litochoro (~€12–18) – trout, pies, coffee
- Toilets at Dion, Info Center, and Litochoro
- Weather may alter schedule (winter) – swim replaced with extra site time
Reviews
- Fantastic, well-organized day! The waterfall swim was magical, Dion’s ruins stunning. Guide was brilliant—great value!
- Loved the easy hike and emerald pools. Dion was fascinating, just wish we’d swum at the end when warmer. Still a lovely trip!
- Perfect from start to finish! Driver and archaeologist guide were excellent. Learned so much about Olympus and Dion. 100% recommend!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
Is the hike difficult or suitable for beginners?
No, the Agia Kori trail is an easy, well-marked red path (2 km round trip, ~75 minutes) with gentle inclines and wooden bridges. It’s designed for all ages and fitness levels—no technical skills needed. Sports shoes with grip are sufficient. The guide sets a relaxed pace with photo stops. Not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or severe mobility issues due to natural terrain. Pregnant women and infants should avoid the trail. Alternative flat paths near the waterfall are available for non-hikers.
Are entrance fees to Dion included in the price?
No, the €57 covers transport, guide, and activities only. Dion Archaeological Park entry is paid onsite: €8 full price (June–Oct), €4 reduced (Nov–May for EU seniors 65+ with ID). Free for EU citizens under 25 and non-EU under 18 (show passport/ID). The guide handles group tickets to skip lines. The site includes the museum, sanctuaries, and theater. Cash or card accepted.
Can I swim in the waterfall pools year-round?
Yes, the natural pools at Agia Kori are accessible whenever the trail is open (typically April–November), but water is mountain-spring cold (~10–15°C) even in summer. Swimming is optional and refreshing. In winter or bad weather, the swim is replaced with extra time at Dion or the Info Center. Bring a quick-dry towel and water shoes—rocks can be slippery. The guide monitors safety and designates safe areas.
What food options are available in Litochoro?
You’ll have 1.5 hours in Litochoro—plenty for a sit-down lunch at traditional tavernas serving local trout, wild greens pies (hortopita), grilled meats, and Macedonian wine (€12–18). Cafés offer coffee, loukoumades, and ice cream. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are common. Most places accept cards; smaller cafés prefer cash. The guide recommends spots and can reserve tables. Bring snacks if you prefer lighter fare.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in light rain with provided ponchos and adjusted indoor time (more at Dion museum). Heavy rain, snow, or high winds may cancel the hike—replaced with extended visits to Dion and the Info Center. Full refunds are issued only if the entire tour is canceled (rare). You’ll be notified by 7:00 AM via SMS/email. Winter itineraries (Dec–Mar) often skip the swim. The coach is always comfortable and safe. Check the forecast and dress in layers.
