DAY 1 ARRIVAL (transfer 20mins)
Transfer and installation in the center of Thessaloniki. The atmosphere of the hotel is contemporary and well-designed, like the city’s young and dynamic center.
STEP ONE: THESSALONIKI, AT THE CROSSROADS OF EAST AND WEST
Activities and options:
- Meal in a tavern – depending on the restaurant’s program, possibility of traditional music during the meal
- Cultural events – festivals, concerts, free seaside cruise
- Informal tour of the city by a local
- In the morning, visit Thessaloniki with a professional tour guide (different languages offered). Duration 4 hours, coffee break & “bougatsa” (local pastry) included
- BIKE RIDE along the coast or in town, for an alternative discovery of Thessaloniki, with guide & coffee break included
- BOAT RIDE along the city on the Thermaïque golf course, 30 minutes, cost of consumption on boat only
- PRIVATE GREEK COOKING CLASS with a local chef, in a friendly setting and professional cuisine (price depending on the number of participants and the duration of the course), then meal
- Visit the covered market of Kapani in the heart of the city, with or without a guide. It is a good starting point to understand the multicultural nature of Thessaloniki, and to stop there for a Greek coffee accompanied by a “Koulouri” (typical sesame bread) in a small traditional cafe
> Departure for the Chalkidiki peninsula, with an optional lunch break in a wine estate – visit to the estate and the cellars possible.
STEP TWO: THE CRYSTALLINE WATERS OF DIASPOROS ISLANDS
After lunch, drive to your accommodation and check-in
Activities and options:
- Departure for the village of Vourvourou, 10 minutes from the hotel, for a “sunset and local wines” sea kayak trip (duration of 3 hours, from 4.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., in English). Description:“The sunset in Chalkidiki can be a magical experience! Wine tasting at Halkidiki, popular with wine lovers, is also a memorable experience! If you dream of paddling with a colorful sunset in the background, tasting local wine and cheeses, we are waiting for you!
We start our excursion by paddling in the beautiful calm waters of the bay of Vourvourou, towards the island of Diaporos. Once relaxed in the tranquility of Diaporos Island, we take a break on the beach to enjoy a glass of local wine and some local Greek cheese specialties, as well as fresh fruit.
Throughout the excursion, your local guide will be there to provide you with valuable information about the cultural traditions and natural treasures of the region. Therefore, all skill levels can be accommodated, whether you are a beginner or experienced. ”
- HIKING AT MOUNT ITHAMOS, AT THE TOP OF THE PENINSULA (40 minutes transfer) Hike to Mount Ithamos, panoramic views and local folklore (average level, about 3 hours of walking)
- YOGA, private session
- SUP – paddle, private session
- SAILING CRUISE: Private cruise on a sailboat around the peninsula: culture breaks, swimming, snacks of fresh and local products on the boat (fruits, yogurts, cookies, juices, etc.).
- Small motor boats (no license needed), for private excursions to the islets
- Ferry cruise on Mount Athos coastline (not private), with audio guide
STEP THREE: IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ARISTOTLE
> Drive from Sithonia to the sea-side village of Olympiada
Activities and options:
- Fish tavern on a “secret” beach
- Visit of Ouranopolis, village at the foot of Mount Athos
- Visit of an olive grove, oil factory and olive tasting
- After a short walk (around 20 minutes), you can access the former Stagire or city of the philosopher Aristotle, facing the sea. Down from the site, there are several small beaches inviting you for a swim
- DEMONSTRATION OF LOCAL GASTRONOMIC CUISINE WITH YOUR HOST (free, to be reserved in advance)
- In the evening, come from 7:30 p.m. to the hotel’s restaurant by the sea, to enjoy a gourmet meal at sunset
- Vineyards visits and wine tastings
> At the end of the stay, self-drive to Thessaloniki airport and return of the car rental