Northern Greece: Along The Via Egnatia
Northern Greece: Along The Via Egnatia
Northern Greece: Along The Via Egnatia
10 Days Starting and ending in THESSALONIKI
Visiting: Greece
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GRE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
Tour Overview
Following in the footsteps of Alexander the Great, the Apostle Paul, Caesar, Brutus, poets, traders and crusader knights we'll take an epic journey through Northern Greece: along the "Via Egnatia".
The Via Egnatia was a Roman road that ran from Rome to Istanbul, thus connecting the Eastern and the Western part of the holy Roman Empire. It crossed Illyricum, Macedonia, and Thrace, running through territory that is now part of modern Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, and European Turkey. You could say that it was both the continuation of the Silk Road, to the west and the Via Appia, to the east.
As such this offbeat region of northern Greece offers not only spectacular scenery, it is also home to an extraordinarily rich cultural heritage, spectacular gastronomy – boasting flavours from Asia Minor, and Constantinople as well as Arab and Armenian influences – and a charming independent people. Away from the busy islands in the south, in the hidden north you’ll find a Greece full of charm, history and few other travellers.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tour Starts In Thessaloniki
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Modern Revival Luxury Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Having met at our city centre hotel and had a light lunch and an introductory briefing from our tour leader, we will start our walking tour of Thessaloniki, a city with over 2,500 years of history. On the course of the tour we will visit such highlights as Aristotelous Square, the White Tower – probably the most iconic building in the city – the 4th century AD Rotonda and the Arch of Galerius. After returning to our hotel for a rest and change we’ll head out to a restaurant for both dinner and live music.
Day 2: Thessaloniki - Meteora
Accommodation Name: Meteora Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we take a tour back in history as we take in two of the most important archaeological sites of northern Greece - Pella, the glorious kingdom of ancient Macedonia, and Vergina, the ancient first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia. We depart first for the village of Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, and visit the archaeological site and the museum. The excavations have brought to light the interesting findings of the ancient city, exhibited at the local museum. Here we'll marvel at the mosaic floors that used to decorate the city's grand mansions – the most famous are the ones depicting the Abduction of Helen, Rapture, the Amazonomachy (the battle of Amazons), and the Deer Hunt. From here we head to Vergina, the ancient capital of the Macedonian Kingdom, which is now home to one of the most impressive museums of Greece. We'll visit the museum, which contains the royal tomb of King Phillip II, Alexander the Great’s father, along with other artefacts of an incredible beauty and value. From here we will head on to one of the highlights of the tour, the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Meteora.
Day 3: Hike To Visit The Unesco Byzantine Monasteries Of Meteora
Accommodation Name: Meteora Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning after breakfast we will hike the trails with our local guide, see several monasteries and experience the most captivating views from the summit of this famous landmark. Following in the footsteps of the first monks who arrived here more than 15 centuries ago, the walk offers a grand way of seeing the unique rock formations and to learn the history of the region. Having visited various monasteries, we’ll walk down the old footpath back into town and take lunch in a small tavern. The afternoon will be free to enjoy the region on your own, Dinner, although not included, will be at a local restaurant with spectacular views of Meteora.
Total distance 5kms, 320m ascent / 380m descent. Approx 4hrs
Day 4: Meteora - Metsovo
Accommodation Name: Aroma Dryos Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we will leave Meteora and drive into the Pindos Mountains to the village of Metsovo, a town famous for its agriculture and artisan products such as wine and cheese. From here we will do a beautiful circular walk along the Ursa Trail through stunning natural landscapes. After our walk we will head to the Katogi winery for a wine tasting tour paired with cheese and pie platters and will then have the rest of the afternoon at leisure, where you can explore the cobblestone alleys of Metsovo.
Total distance 8km, 430m ascent / 430 descend. Approx 3hrs
Day 5: Metsovo - Kastoria
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse Vissinokipos or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast today, we will begin our journey to the pretty lakeside town of Kastoria, a place famous for both its wildlife and it Byzantine churches and one that has been inhabited for nearly 2,000 years. Here we will take a wander through the village to visit some of the 11th, 12th and 13th century churches and well as along the lakeshore to spot some of the region's many birds, which include pygmy cormorants, pelicans and herons. The walk will finish with a tasting of many local delicacies and liqueurs. After lunch we will walk via the Dragon's cave and on to the monastery of Virgin Mary Mauriotissa (3km walk). Dinner will be at a small local restaurant.
Day 6: Kastoria – Prespa Lakes - Kastoria
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse Vissinokipos or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will discover Prespa Lakes, which are situated right on the Via Egnatia! We will start the day with a hike around the traditional town of Agios Germanos enjoying the narrow cobbled alleyways, 1000 year old church and fully restored watermill (3.5km trail). We will then move on to our next trail the Agios Achillios, this hike loops around the island of Agios Achillios which is famed for its basilica built in 10th century AD (5km trail). This afternoon we will then head to Psarades to enjoy a boat trip on the Megali Prespa lake. Here you can expect to encounter giant pelicans and post-Byzantine frescos on the rocks. We will then head back to Kastoria for dinner with live traditional music.
Day 7: Kastoria – Edessa
Accommodation Name: Aigai Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we head off on another adventure, driving around 2 hours from Kastoria to Edessa. Along the way we stop at Nimfeo Bear Sanctuary, a shelter for orphaned and rescued bears where we support the conservation efforts for the brown bear, and here we can spend an hour being shown around. Next, we move on to Edessa, which holds a special place in the history of the Greek world as it was founded during the Hellenistic period and continued as capital of the Roman province of Osroene. Under the Byzantine Empire, Edessa benefited from its strategic location, controlling the Via Egnatia as it enters the Pindus mountains, and the town became a centre of medieval Greek culture, famed for its strong walls and fortifications. On the outskirts of Edessa we visit the Archaeological site of Longos before exploring the rich cultural and industrial heritage of the town by taking a stroll through the traditional quarter of Varosi with its Macedonian architecture and the remains of its acropolis. After lunch there's a chance to visit Greece's highest waterfalls at Edessa before we check in to our hotel for some free time before dinner.
Day 8: Edessa - Lake Kerkini National Park – Kavala
Accommodation Name: Egnatia City Hotel & Spa or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we drive to Lake Kerkini - home to more than 300 bird species including the Dalmatian Pelican, Great White Pelican and Pygmy Cormorant. We take a boat tour out on the calm waters to view some of the birdlife and enjoy the dramatic landscape of the surrounding mountains. To make most of our time we eat our picnic lunch on the water before continuing our drive to visit one of the most impressive caves in Europe. According to Greek mythology, the Sphinx made her appearance at the Gorge of Aggites that traverses the Alistratis Cave area. Myth also mentions Pluto, the god of the Underworld, bringing the kidnapped Persephone, the daughter of goddess Demeter, to this natural ravine where a Gate to the Underworld existed. Our final journey of the day is on to the sea at Kavala to check-in to our hotel for the final two nights. Approx. 5.5 hours driving
Day 9: Kavala - Philippi - Kavala
Accommodation Name: Egnatia City Hotel & Spa or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we visit the famous archaeological UNESCO World Heritage site of Philippi. Founded in 356 BC by the Macedonian King Philip II, the city developed as a “small Rome” following the Battle of Philippi, in 42 BC and the succession of Rome. The vibrant Hellenistic city of Philip II, of which the walls and their gates, the theatre and the funerary temple are still to be seen, was supplemented with Roman public buildings such as the Forum and a monumental terrace with temples to its north. Following the visit of the Apostle Paul in 49-50 AD, the city became a centre of the Christian faith and the remains of its basilicas constitute an exceptional testimony to the early establishment of Christianity. We return to Kavala so you can enjoy some free time for personal exploration and lunch. You may, depending on the season, choose to visit the nearby beach for a swim in the azure blue waters or enjoy a Hammam or massage treatment at Imaret. Alternatively, you may want to wander through the old town and soak up the traditional atmosphere whilst enjoying the city’s highlights such as the Castle, Acropolis and the Old Lighthouse. This evening we will have our farewell dinner in a Greek tavern overlooking the Mediterranean sea.
Day 10: Kavala - Thessaloniki Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we will transfer to Thessaloniki Airport to arrive in time for the suggested group flights.
What's Included
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MEALS
9 x Breakfasts8 x Lunches8 x Dinners
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TRANSPORT
On this tour we will use a minibus/bus (depending on the final group size) and a couple of boats.
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GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to climate and community projects for all bookings
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EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
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ACCOMMODATION
All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary
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ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
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FITNESS RATING
Moderate
What's Not Included
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We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tourationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatoryTips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documentsInternational .Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UKAirport .Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
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ExcludedItem
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.
As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Visas
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Greece.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, however, please note there are a few walks, which for full enjoyment of the trip, should be taken.
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Travelling Solo
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Insurance
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the maximum group size?
12
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Greece.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.