Where to stay in Naoussa, Imathia: The best areas and 16 accommodations

Naoussa, Imathia, is one of the most picturesque towns in Macedonia, built at the foothills of Mount Vermio, with abundant water, 19th-century mansions, and a reputation based on wine, fruit, and winter tourism. It is approximately 100 km from Thessaloniki and serves as an easy base for both a weekend trip and a longer stay.

The choice of area depends on what you are looking for. The historic centre boasts the most mansions and the widest selection of dining options, 3-5 Pigadia is the wooded hill above the town offering views and coolness in summer, Agios Nikolaos is the neighbourhood with streams and old watermills, while the area towards the Seli ski centre is a distinct choice in winter.

In this article, you will find a detailed overview of the main areas around Naoussa, the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to help you plan your stay.

What to see and do in Naoussa, Imathia

Naoussa is located on the northeastern foothills of Mount Vermio, at an altitude of approximately 350 metres, which gives it a cool climate in summer and plenty of snow in winter. It is about 100 km from Thessaloniki, a journey of around 75 minutes by car via the national road, and approximately 18 km from Veria, the capital of the Imathia prefecture. There is no airport or railway station in the town itself, so access is primarily by road, with Thessaloniki's Macedonia Airport being the closest.

The town acquired its current name from Naoussa on Paros, as local tradition holds that Parian sailors settled the area, although the site's history is much older, with traces of habitation from the Byzantine era. The town experienced a significant economic boom in the 19th century thanks to the textile industry, which harnessed the abundant water power of the streams flowing through the town. Today, many of the old industrial buildings remain, some converted into museums, such as the Water Power Museum.

A characteristic feature of Naoussa is its abundant running water, which originates from Vermio and flows through the town via canals and small waterfalls, especially in the Agios Nikolaos area. There you will see old watermills and small bridges, while the Agios Nikolaos park is a popular spot for a stroll, particularly in summer due to its coolness.

The 3-5 Pigadia area, at an altitude of approximately 1000 metres and about 6 km from Naoussa's centre, is a wooded hill with plane trees and springs, known for decades as a summer resort for the town's residents. In winter, the same route leads, with a greater ascent, towards the Seli ski centre, approximately 18 km from the town, offering slopes for various skill levels.

In terms of food and wine, Naoussa is one of Greece's most important wine-producing regions, primarily known for Xinomavro, a red grape variety with intense acidity and tannins. Several wineries around the town welcome visitors for tastings, while the area also produces large quantities of peaches and cherries, products that support a significant part of the local economy.

Naoussa's seasonality is dual, something rare compared to most Greek destinations. In summer, it attracts visitors for its coolness, 3-5 Pigadia, and wine excursions, while in winter, the town fills up due to the ski centre and its carnival, known for the 'Genitsari and Boules', one of Greece's most recognisable carnival traditions.

It is also worth taking a stroll through the town's historic centre, where mansions from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, such as the Ermeidis Saatsoglou mansion, are preserved and now open to visitors. The town's central square, with its cafes and trees, is a meeting point for residents and visitors throughout the year.

The distance from Naoussa to Veria is approximately 18 km, while to Edessa, known for its waterfalls, it is estimated to be around 55 km, a route that many visitors combine into a day trip. The town itself is small in area but densely built, so movement within the centre is easily done on foot.

The best areas to stay in Naoussa, Imathia

Historic Centre

Naoussa's historic centre concentrates most of the mansions, the main square, and the majority of dining and cafe options. It is the most practical spot for those who wish to get around on foot.

It makes a good base for those visiting Naoussa for culture, gastronomy, and excursions to nearby wineries.

Advantages:

• Central location with everything within walking distance
• Many mansions and historic buildings
• Wide variety of restaurants and cafes

Disadvantages:

• Limited parking on some streets
• Less greenery compared to 3-5 Pigadia

Recommended accommodations:

1. Hagiati Anastasiou Hotel & Spa
Hotel with a spa in the centre of Naoussa, built with traditional architecture and comfortable rooms.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

2. Palea Poli Boutique Hotel
Boutique hotel in a renovated building in the old settlement, with carefully chosen decor.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

3. Hotel Asteras
Hotel at the entrance of the town, with simple rooms and easy access to the road for Veria.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

4. Hippocampos
Small accommodation with a practical location near the centre, suitable for a short stay.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

5. Alpha Studios
Apartments with basic kitchen equipment, a good choice for those seeking greater independence.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

6. Joseph Studios
Studios in the Piperi area, near the centre, with a simple but functional layout.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

7. Chalet Parea
Chalet-style accommodation, suitable for groups, with comfortable communal areas.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

3-5 Pigadia

3-5 Pigadia is the well-known wooded hill above Naoussa, a destination for excursions and accommodation in summer due to its coolness, while in winter it serves as the first step towards the Seli ski centre.

It is a good choice for those who want to combine nature, peaceful accommodation, and easy access to the town with just a few minutes' drive.

Advantages:

• Coolness and greenery, ideal in summer
• Close to the ski centre in winter
• Quiet atmosphere away from the town's hustle and bustle

Disadvantages:

• Car needed for transport to town
• Fewer dining options in winter outside of weekends

Recommended accommodations:

8. Villa Liolios
Villa in a natural setting, suitable for families or groups seeking quiet forest accommodation.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

9. Villa Vadola
Accommodation with traditional decor, near the forest complex, with peaceful outdoor spaces.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

10. Paros Comfy Suites
Suites in the Xifara area, near 3-5 Pigadia, with comfortable living spaces.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

11. Angels Villas - Prime Concept
Modern villas with refined aesthetics, suitable for couples or small groups.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

Agios Nikolaos

The Agios Nikolaos area is known for its park, streams, and old watermills, elements that recall Naoussa's industrial history. It is very close to the town centre.

It is a good choice for those who want peaceful accommodation close to nature but without straying too far from the centre.

Advantages:

• Close to the centre but a quieter area
• Greenery and running water
• Good base for walks and photographs

Disadvantages:

• Fewer accommodations compared to the centre
• Limited nightlife in the neighbourhood itself

Recommended accommodations:

12. To Nisi tis Margaritas
Hotel near Agios Nikolaos, with a peaceful environment and access to the area's park.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

13. Xenonas Niaousta
Traditional guesthouse between Agios Nikolaos and 3-5 Pigadia, with friendly family management.

• Average cost: approximately 63€ per night

14. Xenonas Militsa
Guesthouse in the Militsa area, near the main square, with good visitor reviews.

• Average cost: approximately 62€ per night

15. Archontiko Agonari
Old mansion converted into accommodation, featuring traditional architectural elements.

• Average cost: approximately 78€ per night

16. Stravos Platanos Apartment
Apartment with basic amenities, near the park area, suitable for a short stay.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for the carnival. Naoussa's carnival with the 'Genitsari and Boules' attracts many people and accommodations fill up months in advance.
• Combine your stay with a visit to a winery. Many wineries around Naoussa welcome visitors by appointment for Xinomavro tastings.
• Bring warm clothes in winter. The altitude makes a difference, especially if you go up towards 3-5 Pigadia or the ski centre.
• Try local fruits in season. The peaches and cherries of the area are at their best quality from late May to August.
• Rent a car if you want to explore surrounding areas. Edessa and Veria are a few tens of kilometres away and are worth a day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Naoussa, Imathia, from Thessaloniki?

Approximately 100 km, a journey of around 75 minutes by car.

Do I need a car in Naoussa?

Not necessarily in the centre, but for 3-5 Pigadia, the ski centre, or the wineries, it is very useful.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer for coolness and excursions, winter for skiing and the town's famous carnival.

Is there a ski resort near Naoussa?

Yes, the Seli ski centre, approximately 18 km from the town.

Is Naoussa worth visiting for wine tourism?

Yes, it is one of the most important Xinomavro production areas in Greece, with several wineries around the town.

Which area is best for families?

The historic centre or Agios Nikolaos, due to the park, easy access, and nearby dining options.

Conclusion

Naoussa, Imathia, combines history, nature, and gastronomy within a short distance, making it an easy choice for either a weekend or a longer stay. The historic centre caters to those who want to get around on foot, while 3-5 Pigadia offers coolness and tranquillity.

Whichever area you choose, the distances within the town and to the surrounding attractions are small, so you can easily combine staying in one spot with daily excursions to wineries, trails, and nearby towns.

See also our guides on where to stay in Paleokastritsa and where to stay in Perdika, Thesprotia.