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 Historical & cultural tour in Northern Greece. For lovers of Greek mythology. Take a tour of some of Greece's finest culture while exploring some of the most famous sites and monuments in Greece. You'll get to travel to the ancient birthplaces of Greek culture from Thessaloniki to Kastoria and back while exploring some of the greatest architectural sites in Greece.
Greece has something even more important to offer to gay travelers: a distinctive and unique gay scene and mentality, which is different to every other country around the world.
Other island silhouettes on the horizon, a transparent sea lapping a sand or pebble shore, a congenial beach bar a few steps away... for many visitors, these are the essentials of a holiday in the Greek islands. Venture further inland, however, and you will find atmospheric villages and monasteries, world-class museums and a laid-back lifestyle pursued mostly in public.
Day 1 - Thessaloniki, Greece
Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Airport, you will be greeted by an OUTstanding Travel Representative, who will assist with your luggage and escort you to your hotel Thessaloniki.
Day 2 - Thessaloniki, Greece
After your delicious breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for your Thessaloniki tour, and today you can get acquainted with the city of Cassander, brother-in-law of Alexander the Great, which was built in 315 B.C. and named after his wife, the sister of Alexander; Thessaloniki. Drive around the center of Thessaloniki to see some of the most famous monuments of the city, like the White Tower, the Arch of Galerius, the area of the Acropolis with the Byzantine Walls and others. You will visit the Archaeological Museum, to see the treasures from the excavations in Northern Greece, and one of the majestic early Christian churches of Thessaloniki, the Basilica of St Demetrius (5th c. A.C.). The afternoon is free and you can explore more of the ancient or classical sites of the city.
Day 3 - Thessaloniki – Veria & Vergina
Today you leave Thessaloniki to drive to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and second capital of the ancient Macedonian kingdom, where you can admire in the Museum and at the excavation site, the fantastic Hellenistic mosaic floors made from natural pebbles. From Pella you continue to Lefkadia, where you will get a first taste of the impressive Macedonian tombs and then you continue on to Vergina (ancient Aiges), the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia. Here you see the tombs of Vergina and the breathtaking collection of golden artifacts, which were found inside these two unplundered tombs of Philip of Macedon and the Young Prince. Return back to Thessaloniki for overnight.
Day 4 - Thessaloniki – Dion & Litochoro
This morning drive south to the area of Olympus, the legendary mountain of the Twelve Gods of the ancient Greeks. On the northern foothills of Olympus, you find the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians, Dion, where they worshipped Olympian Zeus and the other gods. The impressive ruins include the Theater, the public Baths, the Villa of Dionysus, a number of Sanctuaries, like these of Demeterand Isis; as well as two early Christian Basilicas and much more. Findings from these places are on display in the interesting small Museum of Dion. After the visit, drive to Litochoro a little town in the shadow of Olympus and get a taste of this beautiful mountain village. Return back to Thessaloniki for overnight.
Day 5 - Kastoria, Greece
Today continue your journey to the land of Alexander the Great with a drive through the country-side of Western Macedonia. You will be amazed with the natural beauty of the places you’ll visit, the picturesque towns, the high mountains and of course, the numerous monuments you’ll find around you, most of which date back to the Byzantine era. Drive first to the popular town of Kozani, which flourished during the Ottoman period and visit the newly excavated site of Aiani, one of the principal cities of ancient Macedonia. Then follow the new Egnatia Highway and arrive at Kastoria, one of the most attractive towns in Greece, located on a small peninsula surrounded by a lake.
Overnight in Kastoria.
Day 6 - Kastoria, Greece
You spend the morning exploring the town of Kastoria, its Byzantine Museum and numerous Churches. You will also visit the lovely Monastery of Mavriotissa located next to the Lake of Kastoria. In the afternoon, you will travel to the area of the Prespes Lakes, near the borders between Greece, Albania and Bulgaria. This is a must see area of unbelievable natural beauty and serenity. You will have dinner and overnight in this breathtaking area. Return back to Kastoria for overnight.
Day 7 - Prespes Lake / Edessa/ Thessaloniki
Today you will enjoy a tranquil boat-trip in one of the Prespes Lake and watch the pelicans, cormorants and other birds that live near it. Also see the Christian Paintings and deserted Chapels near the lake. You then depart for Thessaloniki, passing through the towns of Florina and Edessa, both known for their traditional architecture, natural charm and fertile environment. In Edessa you visit the famous Waterfalls and then return to Thessaloniki for overnight.
Day 8 - Thessaloniki - Philippi
Today you explore Eastern Macedonia and especially, the ancient cities of Amphipolis and Philippi, both of them associated with the royal dynasty of Philip II and his son Alexander the Great. Follow Via Egnatia, the Roman highway and arrive at Amphipolis, where you visit the lovely small Museum, the Lion of Amphipolis and the excavations. Continue to Philippi, the city that was named after Philip of Macedonia. See the Forum, the Christian Basilicas, the Theater and the Acropolis; before you head back to Thessaloniki for overnight.
Day 9 - Thessaloniki - Chalkidiki
This morning you drive to a well-known region of ancient Macedonia, the region of Chalkidiki, a peninsula of a very distinctive shape, which is famous nowadays as a resort area. In the center of Chalkidiki you find the remains of Olynthos, a city destroyed by Philip, with some of the best-preserved Hellenistic houses in the world. Also, you can visit the area of ancient Stageira, the birthplace of the philosopher Aristotle, who was the tutor of Alexander the Great for three years. Return to Thessaloniki for overnight.
Day 10 - Thessaloniki – Departure Flight
Toady you bid farewell to the homeland of Alexander the Great and fly back home, full of wonderful memories from an elucidating journey. Goodbye and Antío and see you soon :)
Mediterranean Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki
  Strategically positioned in the heart of the commercial and business centre of Thessaloniki, Mediterranean Palace provides 5-star accommodation with magnificent views of the Thermaikos Gulf.
The Mediterranean Palace Hotel has 111 rooms and 7 suites, finely equipped with en suite bathroom with toiletries, satellite TV and air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available in all rooms and public areas of the hotel.
 Fine dishes from the Greek and International cuisine are available in Diplomatico Restaurant. A variety of snacks, coffees and drinks are served in the bar The Hours.
The hotel is located next to the famous historical area of Ladadika within easy access to the shopping centre of Thessaloniki. Nearby attractions include the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum and the Byzantine churches of the city.
Europa Hotel, Kastoria
  Europa Hotel is located in the centre of Kastoria, very close to all the shops and businesses. Lake Orestiada is just 100 metres from the hotel, as are many restaurants. Guests will find the Petrified Forest Museum of Nostimo just 1.9 km away and it is 4 km to the Dragon Cave, 5.5 km to Grammos, 6 km to the prehistoric lake settlement and 19 km to Thessaloniki.
Luxury is combined with warm colours and comfort and guests can choose from a total of 36 rooms. Facilities on offer to guests at this air-conditioned establishment include a lobby area with a 24-hour reception and check-out service, a hotel safe, lift access and a games room.
 There is a TV lounge, a café, a bar and a restaurant and guests will appreciate the conference facilities for business meeting. They can also take advantage of the room service and free wireless Internet access. All rooms are spacious and feature charming interiors and a tranquil atmosphere.
All come with a private bathroom with a shower/bathtub and a hairdryer. They are equipped with a direct dial telephone, satellite TV, free Internet access, a safe and a mini fridge. Furthermore, heating and individually regulated air conditioning and either a balcony or terrace are provided in all accommodation as standard. Special massage and spa treatments are offered (an extra charge may apply) and sports enthusiasts may enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym. Guests can also enjoy a relaxing spell in the hot tub, steam room or sauna. Guests may select their continental breakfast from a buffet.
Mediterranean Palace Hotel in Thessaloniki (Deluxe room), Europa Hotel in Kastoria (Standard room)
Double Occupancy: from €3,370 EUR per person
Private Single Room: from €5,950 EUR
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