Road trips from Thessaloniki: 12 getaways with estimated time and cost

Thessaloniki is perhaps Greece's luckiest city when it comes to nearby getaways: within two hours, you can find thermal baths, lakes with pelicans, Mount Olympus, Chalkidiki, and stone-built villages in Western Macedonia. And the tolls are significantly less than in Athens.

This guide starts with a summary table of distances and then details each destination, including accommodation suggestions.

Summary table: distances, times and costs

Before we delve into the details, here's a summary of what each destination means in terms of kilometres, hours, and euros. This table will help you quickly choose based on your time and budget.

Destination	Distance	Driving time	Tolls (one-way)	Return journey cost*
Loutra Pozar	110 km	1 hr 35 min	2.40 €	35 €
Edessa	90 km	1 hr 10 min	2.40 €	29 €
Lake Kerkini	100 km	1 hr 20 min	1.60 €	30 €
Ouranoupoli	120 km	1 hr 40 min	—	32 €
Litochoro	90 km	1 hr 5 min	3.60 €	31 €
Platamona	105 km	1 hr 15 min	3.60 €	35 €
Kavala	165 km	1 hr 50 min	5.60 €	55 €
Nymfaio	175 km	2 hr 15 min	4.20 €	55 €
Kastoria	215 km	2 hr 30 min	5.00 €	68 €
Prespes	230 km	2 hr 50 min	5.00 €	72 €
Xanthi	215 km	2 hr 20 min	7.20 €	72 €
Paralia Katerinis	80 km	1 hr	2.40 €	27 €

*Estimate based on petrol at 1.92 €/litre, consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, and return tolls. Toll and fuel prices change — use these figures as a guide.

The destinations one by one

1. Loutra Pozar — 110 km, 1 hr 35 min

The first destination we recommend is Loutra Pozar. The distance from Thessaloniki is 110 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 35 min, with 2.40 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 35 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Natural hot springs inside the gorge
• Waterfalls and hiking trails
• Close to Edessa and Kaimaktsalan

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: charcoal-grilled meats and local Goumenissa wines. Ideal for a winter weekend with thermal baths. Tip: go early in the morning or late at night — Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes can have queues.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Pozar Salt Cave Hotel Spa, Thermes Pozar Resort, 4 Epoxes Hotel Spa. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Loutra Pozar.

2. Edessa — 90 km, 1 hr 10 min

If you're looking for something that works all year round, put Edessa on your list. The distance from Thessaloniki is 90 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 10 min, with 2.40 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 29 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• The waterfalls within the city
• Varosi, the old quarter with its stone houses
• The aquarium and the cave behind the waterfall

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: local wines and Florina peppers. Ideal for a family day trip. Tip: combine it with Loutra Pozar, which is just 40 minutes away.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Hagiati Guesthouse - Edessa Cozy Mountain Retreat, Varosi 4 Seasons, Hotel Elena. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Edessa.

3. Lake Kerkini — 100 km, 1 hr 20 min

One of the most reliable choices is Lake Kerkini. The distance from Thessaloniki is 100 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 20 min, with 1.60 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 30 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Boat trips amidst water lilies and pelicans
• Buffalos on the banks
• Mount Belles for hiking

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: buffalo meat and local dairy products. Ideal for a day trip in nature with children. Tip: book a boat in advance, especially in spring when migratory birds arrive.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Guesthouse Kerkinits, Mansion of Kerkini powered by hotel Oikoperiigitis, Siris Hotel. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Lake Kerkini.

4. Ouranoupoli — 120 km, 1 hr 40 min

A little further, but perfectly feasible, is Ouranoupoli. The distance from Thessaloniki is 120 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 40 min, with no tolls. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 32 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• The Tower of Prosforio and the beach
• Starting point for a cruise to Mount Athos
• Nearby islands of Ammouliani and Drenia

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: fresh fish on the promenade. Ideal for a peaceful family holiday. Tip: the cruise around Mount Athos is the only way for female visitors to see it.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Pyrgos Hotel, Hotel Akti Ouranoupoli Beach Resort, Avaton Luxury Beach Resort - Relais & Chateaux. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Ouranoupoli.

5. Litochoro — 90 km, 1 hr 5 min

For something different, try Litochoro. The distance from Thessaloniki is 90 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 5 min, with 3.60 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 31 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Starting point for the trails of Mount Olympus
• The Enipeas gorge and Loutres (baths)
• 10 minutes from Plaka Litochorou beach

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: meats and cooked dishes with views of Mount Olympus. Ideal for a mountain and sea weekend. Tip: for the refuges, booking is required, especially in July and August.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Robolo Boutique Hotel by H&T, Hotel Mirto, Palio Litochoro The Countryside Lodge. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Litochoro.

6. Platamona — 105 km, 1 hr 15 min

Among our favourite destinations is also Platamona. The distance from Thessaloniki is 105 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 15 min, with 3.60 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 35 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• The Byzantine castle above the sea
• Long organised beach
• Base for Olympus and Thessaloniki

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: fish tavernas on the beachfront. Ideal for a family holiday with easy access. Tip: the castle is lit up at night and the view from above is worth a stop.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Cronwell Platamon Resort All-Inclusive, Olympus Thea Boutique Hotel, Hotel Morfeas. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Platamona.

7. Kavala — 165 km, 1 hr 50 min

It's also worth considering Kavala. The distance from Thessaloniki is 165 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 50 min, with 5.60 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 55 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Panagia, the old town above the port
• The Kamares aqueduct
• Starting point for Thassos with a 40-minute ferry

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: mussels, fresh fish, and 'kourmpanakia'. Ideal for a seaside city break. Tip: cars cross to Thassos from Keramoti, 40 minutes east of Kavala.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are UrbanBay Hotel & Spa, Myra Hotel, EPICURE SUITES. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Kavala.

8. Nymfaio — 175 km, 2 hr 15 min

We conclude our suggestions with Nymfaio. The distance from Thessaloniki is 175 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 15 min, with 4.20 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 55 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• One of Greece's most beautiful stone-built villages
• The 'Arcturos' bear sanctuary
• Beech trees and forests around the village

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: local cheeses, pies, and Amyntaio wine. Ideal for a winter weekend by the fireplace. Tip: the last few kilometres are uphill — in winter, be careful of ice.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Guesthouse Enterne, Casa Mare, Manis Hotel. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Nymfaio.

9. Kastoria — 215 km, 2 hr 30 min

The first destination we recommend is Kastoria. The distance from Thessaloniki is 215 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 30 min, with 5.00 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 68 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Lake Orestiada with its walking tour
• Byzantine churches and Doltso mansions
• Dragon's Cave

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: lake fish, pies, and wine. Ideal for a romantic winter weekend. Tip: the lake circuit is 9 km — rent bicycles instead of driving.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Hotel Orestion - Bike and motorcycle friendly hotel, Paraliako Κaterina Lakefront - Biker Friendly Hotel, Hotel Kastoria in Kastoria City. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Kastoria.

10. Prespes — 230 km, 2 hr 50 min

If you're looking for something that works all year round, put Prespes on your list. The distance from Thessaloniki is 230 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 50 min, with 5.00 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 72 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Small and Large Prespa lakes with their pelicans
• Agios Achilleios island with its basilica
• Virgin nature and birdwatching

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: Prespes beans and lake fish. Ideal for a peaceful nature getaway. Tip: bring binoculars — birdwatching is the main reason to visit.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Archontiko, Guesthouse Ariadne, Panorama Prespes. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Prespes.

11. Xanthi — 215 km, 2 hr 20 min

One of the most reliable choices is Xanthi. The distance from Thessaloniki is 215 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 20 min, with 7.20 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 72 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• The old town with its tobacco warehouses and mansions
• The market and multicultural cafes
• Nestos Gorge and cycling routes

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: salep, patisseries, and meze with ouzo. Ideal for a weekend of history and gastronomy. Tip: for the Xanthi Carnival in February, book months in advance.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Paris Hotel, Xanthia Suites, Hotel Xanthippion. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Xanthi.

12. Paralia Katerinis — 80 km, 1 hr

A little further, but perfectly feasible, is Paralia Katerinis. The distance from Thessaloniki is 80 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr, with 2.40 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total cost for a return journey (petrol and tolls) is around 27 € — an amount easily split among four people.

• Large organised beach with Blue Flag status
• Pedestrian street with cafes and restaurants
• 30 minutes from Olympus and Dion

For food, the local 'rule' is simple: souvlaki, ice cream, and fish tavernas. Ideal for a family weekend with children. Tip: Dion with its archaeological site is an ideal combination for a morning excursion.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Panorama Inn Hotel, Mediterranean Village Hotel & Spa, Lucia Hotel Paralia. For full details on all areas, see our guide where to stay in Paralia Katerinis.

Practical tips for your car trip

Travelling by car from Thessaloniki has a major advantage: freedom. You're not dependent on schedules, you can stop wherever you want, and costs are shared. However, there are a few points worth considering beforehand.

• Tolls: on Greek motorways, you pay per station. For long journeys, we're talking about 10-22 € each way, so double that for a return trip.
• Fuel: with petrol around 1.92 € per litre, an average car spends about 13-14 € per 100 km.
• Times: the times we provide are without stops. Add 20-30 minutes for coffee and petrol, and more on holiday weekends.
• Winter: for mountainous destinations, keep anti-skid chains in the boot and check road conditions before you set off.
• Accommodation: for weekends and long weekends, book your room at least 3-4 weeks in advance — in popular destinations, the best options go first.

Which season suits each destination

The same destination changes character completely depending on the month. Coastal options are at their best from mid-June to mid-September, when the sea is warm and beach bars are open. In spring, the same areas are quieter and much cheaper, ideal for walks and dining without waiting.

Mountain villages work in reverse: from November to March, they have fireplaces, snow, and the highest demand, while in summer they offer coolness, hiking, and significantly lower prices. Autumn is the most underrated season for day trips: the colours in the forests, high water levels in the lakes, and empty roads make every journey more enjoyable.

If you have children, prefer to depart in the morning to avoid traffic and choose destinations within two hours: time in the car is the first thing that tires them out. For couples, mountain two-day trips outside of public holidays offer better prices and a much calmer atmosphere.

How to organise your excursion

Start backwards: first decide how many hours you can tolerate in the car, then choose a destination from the table. This is the surest way to avoid regretting it halfway through the journey. Second step, book accommodation before food and activities: in popular destinations, good accommodation sells out first and prices rise closer to the date.

Third, create a relaxed schedule with two fixed points a day — one attraction and one meal — and leave the rest open. The best moments on these types of getaways often come from spontaneous stops in villages and views you hadn't anticipated. Finally, always check tyres, oil, and pressure before journeys over 200 kilometres.

Frequently asked questions

Which is the closest destination from Thessaloniki on this list?

It's Paralia Katerinis, at 80 km and approximately a 1 hr journey.

How much does the most economical route cost?

The cheapest option is Paralia Katerinis: approximately 27 € for a return journey in petrol and tolls, an amount shared among the car's occupants.

Which destination requires the longest journey?

The furthest is Prespes, with approximately 2 hr 50 min of driving. For this one, we recommend at least an overnight stay.

How much will I pay in tolls in total?

It depends on the destination: in our list, tolls range from zero to 7.20 € per direction. Always calculate double for the return journey.

Which is the best destination for a day trip from Thessaloniki?

Edessa with its waterfalls and Lake Kerkini. Both are under 100 km and can easily fill a day.

Where can I go for snow near Thessaloniki?

To Kaimaktsalan via Loutra Pozar, Seli, and Tria-Pente Pigadia, all within less than two hours.