Where to stay in Makrinitsa Pelion: The best areas and 21 accommodations

Makrinitsa is built 600 metres above the Pagasetic Gulf and is considered one of the most photographed villages in Pelion, perfectly earning its nickname, 'the Balcony of Pelion'. It is approximately 17 km from Volos and 4 km from Portaria, with the two villages also connected by an old forest path.

The village boasts preserved architecture, with stone mansions, cobblestone streets that prohibit car access to the centre, and a square with plane trees and a fountain, considered one of the most beautiful in Pelion. The narrowness of the roads means you typically park at the village entrance and continue on foot.

In this guide, you will discover which areas within and around Makrinitsa suit your needs, as well as specific accommodations with prices and features, to easily organise your stay.

What to see and do in Makrinitsa

Makrinitsa's main square, with its centuries-old plane trees, the stone fountain adorned with lion heads, and the Church of Saint John the Baptist, serves as the central focal point. Here, you'll spend ample time at traditional coffee houses enjoying views towards the Pagasetic Gulf and Volos. From the square, the cobbled alleys lead to old mansions and small churches perched on the slopes, creating a labyrinth worth exploring.

The village's architecture is considered among the best preserved in Pelion, with mansions notable for their stone courtyards and carved wooden ceilings. Many 18th and 19th-century buildings now function as aesthetically pleasing guesthouses. It is well worth visiting the Museum of Byzantine Art, as well as the Museum of Folk Art and History of Pelion in the Topali mansion, which offers a comprehensive insight into the daily life of inhabitants from past centuries.

Gastronomically, the tavernas around the square serve authentic Pelion dishes. Spetzofai with local sausage, braised meat, savoury pies (hortopites), and boiled goat in winter are flavours you must try. The region is also famous for its mountain herbs, fir honey, and local spoon sweets, with chestnut and walnut taking pride of place. Do not forget to take home some traditional pasta made by the village women.

Makrinitsa serves as an ideal base for excursions. The ski centre in Chania is 14 km away, offering the chance to ski with a sea view. Volos is 17 km distant, perfect for an evening out at its famous 'tsipouradika' (tavernas serving tsipouro and meze). For sea lovers, the beaches of eastern Pelion, such as Horefto and Agios Saranta, are approximately 30-35 km away, offering crystal-clear waters amidst a verdant landscape.

One of the most beautiful hiking trails is the path connecting Makrinitsa with Portaria. This 4 km route winds through beech and chestnut forests, offering continuous views of the Pagasetic Gulf. The hike takes about an hour and is relatively easy. Along the way, you will encounter springs with running water and feel the tranquillity offered by the nature of the Centaurs' mountain, far from the noise of the city.

The choice of season depends on your preferred activities. Winter is magical with the village covered in snow, while spring and autumn offer the most beautiful colours in nature. In summer, the altitude ensures a pleasant coolness, making the village a refuge from the heatwave. Access is by road from Volos in 25 minutes, with cars parked in the public car park at the entrance, as vehicle traffic is prohibited within the village centre.

Finally, Makrinitsa combines scenery and culture. In summer, events such as "Maistros" with music evenings are organised in the square. The historical significance of the village, founded in the 13th century, is evident everywhere, from inscriptions in churches to artefacts in museums. A stroll to the highest point of the settlement will reveal its harmonious integration into the natural environment, offering a panoramic view that remains etched in every visitor's memory.

The local community keeps its customs alive, with summer festivals attracting those who wish to experience the authentic side of Magnesia. Staying in one of the village's mansions offers a sense of timelessness, as the environment remains unaltered by modern urban life, allowing you to reconnect with nature and history in one of the most emblematic locations of the Greek countryside.

The best areas for accommodation in Makrinitsa

1. Makrinitsa Centre, Around the historic square, on foot only

The centre of Makrinitsa, around the square with its plane trees and fountain, gathers the most picturesque mansions of the village, many of which now function as accommodation. As the streets here are narrow cobblestone paths without car access, you'll leave your vehicle in a public car park at the village entrance and continue on foot, which enhances the sense of authenticity. This is the best choice for those who want to wake up to views of the Pagasetic Gulf and have everything within easy reach.

Advantages:

• View of the Pagasetic Gulf
• Traditional stone mansions
• Direct access to tavernas

Disadvantages:

• Requires walking with luggage
• Limited parking near the centre

Recommended accommodations:

1. Makrinitsa Village
A complex of traditional houses in the heart of the village, featuring stone architecture and views of the Pagasetic Gulf.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

2. Archontiko Anemos
A stone mansion with traditional décor, wooden ceilings, and a small courtyard, a short distance from the square.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

3. Balcon Makrinitsa
Accommodation with balconies overlooking the Pagasetic Gulf, ideal for sunsets, in a quiet part of the village.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

4. Archontiko Xantha
Traditional mansion with stone walls and carved wooden elements, close to the cobbled streets of the centre.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

5. Archontiko Melanthi
A small mansion with comfortable rooms and traditional aesthetics, a short distance from Makrinitsa square.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

6. Makrinitsa Alonia
Accommodation in a quiet part of the village, with simple rooms and mountain or sea views depending on the room.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

7. Charis Guesthouse
A small family-run accommodation with friendly service, suitable for a short stay in the village centre.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

2. Apartments and studios around the centre, For greater autonomy and lower cost

Around the historic centre, there are also some simpler apartments and studios, offering more autonomy with a kitchen and usually at a lower price compared to the traditional mansions. The distance from the square is short, typically up to a 10-minute walk, which makes them convenient without losing access to the village centre.

Advantages:

• Lower cost
• Option for self-catering
• Close to the centre

Disadvantages:

• Less traditional aesthetic
• Simpler amenities

Recommended accommodations:

8. Apartment Angeliki
A simple apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, suitable for couples who want autonomy during their stay.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

9. To Giouli
A small accommodation with traditional décor and a quiet environment, close to the village centre.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

10. Hotel Adam
A family-run hotel with simple rooms and direct access to the cobbled streets of Makrinitsa.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

11. Archontika Karamarlis
A complex of traditional stone-faced residences, suitable for families who need more space.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

3. Portaria, a neighbouring village, An alternative base 4 km from Makrinitsa

Portaria, just 4 km from Makrinitsa, has more accommodation options, tavernas, and easy car access, elements that make it a practical base for those who want to visit both villages. The journey between them takes about 8 minutes by car or an hour via the forest path that connects them.

Advantages:

• More accommodation options
• Easy parking
• Close to the ski centre

Disadvantages:

• Requires travel to reach Makrinitsa
• Less picturesque than Makrinitsa

Recommended accommodations:

12. Aurora-Inn
Hotel with simple rooms and mountain views, a short distance from Portaria square.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

13. Volos Inn Hotel
Hotel with basic amenities, convenient for those who want easy access to Volos and Makrinitsa.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

14. Valeni Boutique Hotel & Spa
A boutique hotel with a spa and rooms featuring fireplaces, in a quiet location in Portaria.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

15. 1910 Lifestyle Hotel
A renovated mansion with modern décor and rooms featuring fireplaces, close to the centre of Portaria.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

16. Magnes Hotel
A small hotel with a tranquil environment and comfortable rooms, suitable for couples.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

17. Erofili Hotel & Suites
A hotel with suites and views of the Pagasetic Gulf, in a quiet location in Portaria.

• Average cost: approximately 105€ per night

4. Volos and coastal area, For those who want a combination of mountain and city

Volos, approximately 17 km from Makrinitsa, offers more accommodation choices, restaurants along the waterfront, and easy access to the airport and railway station. It suits those who want to combine the mountainous experience of Pelion with strolls around the city and port, without extensive travel, as the journey takes about 25 minutes.

Advantages:

• More accommodation and dining options
• Close to airport and train station
• Easy access to all of Pelion

Disadvantages:

• Further from the mountain villages
• Less picturesque environment

Recommended accommodations:

18. Azur Hotel Volos by GHH
A modern hotel in Volos, near the waterfront, with comfortable rooms and easy access to the entire city.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

19. Hotel Admitos
A hotel in the centre of Volos, close to shops and restaurants, with basic amenities.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

20. Volos Palace
A larger hotel in Volos with full amenities, suitable for families and business trips.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

21. Aegli Hotel Volos
A hotel near the Volos waterfront, with comfortable rooms and easy access to the port and train station.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

Practical tips before you book

• Park at the village entrance. The centre of Makrinitsa is a pedestrian zone with cobbled streets, so cars are left in a dedicated car park.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The cobbled streets can be slippery, especially when wet, and the routes involve significant uphill sections.
• Visit the village early in the morning on weekends. The square fills up with day-trippers from Volos during the day.
• Try the walnut spoon sweet. It's a local speciality you'll find in many coffee houses around the square.
• Combine your stay with Portaria. It's just 4 km away and offers more dining and accommodation options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Makrinitsa from Volos?

Approximately 17 km, a journey of around 25 minutes by car via a provincial road.

Can I drive into the centre of Makrinitsa?

No, the historic centre is a pedestrian zone with cobbled streets. You park in a designated car park at the village entrance and continue on foot.

What is the best time to stay in Makrinitsa?

Winter for snow, spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer offers a cool alternative to the heat of Volos.

How far is Makrinitsa from Portaria?

Approximately 4 km by car, or an hour's walk via the forest path that connects the two villages.

Are there beaches near Makrinitsa?

The nearest beaches, such as Horefto, are about 30 km away, approximately 40 to 45 minutes by car.

Do I need a car to stay in Makrinitsa?

Not within the village itself, but for trips to Volos, beaches, or other Pelion villages, a car is essential.

The conclusion

Makrinitsa is one of the most impressive villages in Pelion, with views, architecture, and an atmosphere that justify its nickname, 'the Balcony of Pelion'. If you wish to stay within the historic centre, the stone mansions around the square are the best choice, while for more amenities and options, you can consider nearby Portaria or Volos. Regardless of where you stay, distances in Pelion are short, so you can easily explore the entire region with Makrinitsa as your base.

Also see our guides on where to stay in Nidri and where to stay in Portaria.