Greece has proven to be one of the favorite travel destinations in the world and is one of the most beautiful countries in the world almost every year according to relevant surveys. Greece has remained in the subconscious of everyone as a country that is definitely worth a visit in the summer because of the countless beautiful islands and beaches it has to offer.
No one disagrees that all of this is true. However, Greece is not only about islands and beaches. Northern Greece proves it as it has so many beautiful places to demostrate. This particular part of the country is blessed with boundless natural beauty, spectacular ruins that travel people to ancient times, innumerable sights and, of course, towns and villages that guarantee to learn you how to live like a local. As soon as you arrive, you will immediately see why the area deserves a little more recognition and attention and at the same time you will understand why the Greeks have kept this gem for themselves!
So, here’s a look at some great places in northern Greece that are definitely worth a visit:
Mount Olympus: Where the 12 ancient Gods reside
Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece at an altitude of 2,918 meters, is well known because in Greek mythology it was considered as the supreme sanctuary and place of worship. The 12 Olympian Gods were believed to reside here and at the peak of Olympus, Mytikas, there was the throne of Zeus. The surrounding area is rich in flora and fauna, as you will find wildlife and many rare plant species. There are, also, many small and large rivers and endless natural hiking and mountain biking trails. In short, it is a paradise for those who like alternative tourism.
In Vergina discover the archaeologist inside you
Indulge yourself in the ancient world of Vergina, which undoubtedly hosts one of the best and most important archaeological sites in Greece. Vergina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves royal tombs and parts of an ancient city, Aegae, the former capital of the Macedonian kingdom. This is the place where Philip II was assassinated in the year 336 BC. and Alexander the Great was crowned his successor.
There are underground tombs preserved in that place. The most typical and memorable examples are the tomb of Philip II, the graves of several of his wives, and the tomb of Alexander the Great’s son Alexander II, who was poisoned. Most of the graves are in good condition, as gold relics and other treasures are preserved. It’s definitely an experience you should not miss.
The monasteries in Meteora that touch God
It is quite possible that the monks, when they built these monasteries, thought that the higher the rock is, the closer they would be to God. In any case, this is truly a miracle of nature when someone considers that the monasteries are entirely built on huge rocks, extending to the area called Meteora. It is one of those things that if someone doesn’t see, he doesn’t believe their existence!
The ascetics and monks first came to these rocks and caves in the 9th century to live in solitude and serenity. The monasteries were built in the 14th century to avoid Turkish invasions. At that time, the monks had to climb stairs made of rope, but the monasteries are now accessible through stone steps, which were built back in the distant 1920s. Some of the monasteries still operate with a total of 56 monks and nuns live in separate locations.
Visit the breathtaking Vikos Gorge
The incredibly beautiful Vikos Gorge is located in the mountains of Pindos, deep in the Vikos-Aoos National Park, is 20 km long and in some places is 490 meters deep and 400 meters wide. The gorge as a whole is extremely impressive , as the view it offers is unparalleled and the experience of exploring it is unique. It is a natural landscape, where it’s 100% worth of your time and be sure that you will be rewarded.
Rent your car from Alpha Drive Rent a Car and you are ready to explore all the beautiful places in northern Greece.