Mount Olympus, the home of the gods in Greek myth, is Greece's highest mountain and an easy day trip from Thessaloniki. This coach tour combines the foothills with the archaeological park of Dion, a sanctuary and city at the base of the mountain, so you get both the myth and the history. The itinerary stops at Agia Kori, the Dion archaeological park, the Olympus National Park information centre and the mountain village of Litochoro. It is a day of short walks rather than hiking, so it suits travellers who want the scenery without a mountain climb. An archaeologist-historian trip attendant speaks English and provides a guided visit at Dion. The trip is long, about ten hours, and the weather in the mountains can change quickly, but on a clear day the views and the sense of place make it one of the most memorable excursions from the city.
How it works
The bus leaves at 8:00 in the morning from a meeting point at the Eleftherios Venizelos statue on Egnatia Street, near Aristotelous Square, and returns there at the end of the day. The booking page shows strong ratings from past guests. Included are air-conditioned transport, an English-speaking attendant, basic insurance during transport and a guide for the Dion site and museum. Not included are food and the entrance fee for Dion, which the page gives as about ten euros. The page gives free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What to expect
Stops of between thirty minutes and two hours, with free time at Agia Kori and in Litochoro for lunch. The pace is relaxed and the walks are short, though paths and archaeological ground can be wet or muddy, so wear shoes with grip. Mountain weather changes quickly, and the booking page notes that the schedule may change because of weather, mostly in winter. In winter expect cool temperatures, early snow on the high peaks and fewer people.
Making the most of it
Bring layers, a rain jacket and a bottle of water, and carry cash for lunch and the Dion ticket. If you want to hike properly, look for a different guided hike rather than this coach trip, since the information centre stop is only a short visit. Check the forecast the day before, and ask the operator whether the stops still run if it is wet.
What to expect
The experience
A guided coach day trip to Agia Kori, the Dion archaeological park, the Olympus National Park information centre and Litochoro.
Best time
A clear day with a good forecast, since mountain views are the highlight.
How long
About ten hours, leaving at 8:00 in the morning.
Tips
Pack layers and shoes with grip, and carry cash for lunch and the Dion entrance fee.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want mountain scenery and ancient history without a hike.
- Families
- Good for children who enjoy short walks, though the day is long, so bring snacks.
- Couples
- A scenic day out with lunch in a mountain village.
- Pair with
- The Vergina and Pella day trip on a different day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What does the trip include?+
It includes air-conditioned coach transport, an English-speaking attendant, basic insurance during transport and a guide at the Dion site and museum. Food and the Dion entrance fee are not included.
Where does the trip stop?+
It stops at Agia Kori, the Dion archaeological park, the Olympus National Park information centre and Litochoro. Time at each stop ranges from about half an hour to over two hours.
Do I have to hike?+
No, the day is made up of short walks and visits rather than a mountain hike. If you want a proper hike, look for a guided mountain trek instead.
Does it run in winter?+
Departures can run in winter, but the booking page says the schedule may change because of weather. Check the forecast and the status of your departure the day before.
Where does it start?+
It starts at 8:00 in the morning at a meeting point on Egnatia Street near Aristotelous Square, and returns there at the end of the day.
