Where to stay in Platamonas , Platamonas, Nei Pori, Palios Panteleimonas & Skotina

If you're looking for where to stay in Platamonas, the short answer is it depends on what you're after: a lively coastal atmosphere with rented rooms and hotels next to the castle, a quiet family stay in Nei Pori, traditional stone accommodation in the mountain village of Palios Panteleimonas, or a more secluded, natural option in Skotina, nestled at the foot of Mount Olympus. Platamonas is located in the south of Pieria, approximately 90 km south of Thessaloniki and 100 km north of Larissa, with access from the Old National Road Athens-Thessaloniki and from the A1 motorway via the Leptokarya-Platamonas exit. In this guide, we analyse the four areas, suggest over a dozen reviewed accommodations and answer the most frequent questions from those planning holidays here.

Geography, distance and access

Platamonas is Pieria's first major coastal settlement as one descends from Thessaloniki towards Mount Olympus, built at the foothills of the mountain and next to the imposing Byzantine castle that dominates the beach. The distance from Thessaloniki is approximately 90 km (50-60 minutes by car via the A1), from Katerini just 20 km, and from Macedonia Airport about 100 km. The area is also served by rail, with a station in Platamonas connecting to Thessaloniki and Larissa, which is rare for a coastal destination in Greece. South of Platamonas, at a distance of 3-4 km, lie Nei Pori, a quieter seaside neighbourhood with a long sandy beach and shallow waters that make it popular with families with young children. Heading up towards the foothills of Mount Olympus, about 5 km from the beach and at an altitude of around 500 metres, is Palios Panteleimonas, one of Macedonia's most photographed traditional villages, with stone houses, cobbled alleys, and panoramic views as far as the Thermaic Gulf. Further south, on the border of Pieria with Larissa, Skotina offers a more secluded beach experience, with a pine forest reaching almost to the sand and less tourist infrastructure. Historically, the area has deep roots: Platamonas Castle was built in the 13th century by the Franks on the site of an ancient fort that controlled the pass between Macedonia and Thessaly, while Palios Panteleimonas was the seat of the municipality before its inhabitants moved to the coast in the 20th century, leaving behind a village that remained almost untouched and today is a popular destination for day trips and overnight stays. The natural landscape is dominated by Mount Olympus, which rises immediately behind the settlements, offering opportunities for hiking, while the coastline alternates between sandy beaches, pebbly coves, and pine forests. What to see in the area includes Platamonas Castle with its central tower and walls, the picturesque village of Palios Panteleimonas with its traditional tavernas and coffee shops, the Olympus National Park with trails starting from Prionia and Litochoro, as well as the beaches of Skotina and Nei Pori which remain less crowded than others in Pieria.

Platamonas: beach, castle and lively atmosphere

The settlement of Platamonas attracts the most tourist activity in the area, with a promenade full of hotels, rented rooms, tavernas, and bars. It is the best base for those who want everything within easy reach: beach, nightlife, easy access to the castle, and the train station. The beach is sandy with a gradual slope, ideal for swimming, while the seabed near the castle also offers opportunities for light diving tourism. Here you will find the widest variety of accommodations, from three-star family hotels to all-inclusive resorts.

Nei Pori: quiet family beach

Nei Pori is the choice for those who want less hustle and bustle without straying too far from amenities. The beach stretches for a long distance, with shallow waters making it particularly recommended for families with small children. The infrastructure here is on a smaller scale: rented rooms, small hotels, and apartments, with a few restaurants and tavernas by the sea. The distance from Platamonas is just a 10-15 minute walk along the coast or a 5-minute drive.

Palios Panteleimonas: traditional mountain accommodation

For a completely different experience, Palios Panteleimonas offers overnight stays in stone guesthouses with views of the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus. The village is popular for evening outings to traditional tavernas, however, accommodations are limited in number, so early booking is recommended, especially on weekends. It is an ideal base for those who want to combine sea in the morning and mountain coolness in the afternoon, as the distance from the beach is only 5-6 kilometres by car.

Skotina: nature and tranquillity

Skotina, on the southern borders of Pieria, is the most 'remote' accommodation option in the area, with a beach bordering a dense pine forest. Tourist infrastructure is limited to rented rooms and small accommodations, which makes it attractive to those seeking tranquillity away from the bustling Platamonas. Although it does not have the nightlife of other beaches, nature lovers and hikers towards Mount Olympus consider it an ideal starting point.

Accommodation in Platamonas

1. Cronwell Platamon Resort All-Inclusive
Located directly on the beach, a large all-inclusive resort with sports facilities and a children's play area. Suitable for families who want comfortable holidays without having to travel around.

• Average cost: 140-220€ per night

2. Olympus Thea Boutique Hotel
A small boutique hotel on the Old National Road, with views towards the sea and Mount Olympus. Suitable for couples seeking a quieter, well-cared-for stay.

• Average cost: 100-150€ per night

3. Hotel Morfeas
A hotel next to the beach, with very high ratings in reviews. A good choice for those who want easy access to the sand and the centre of Platamonas.

• Average cost: 90-130€ per night

4. Sun Beach Hotel
A beachfront hotel with a private beach, ideal for families who want direct access to the water without crossing a road.

• Average cost: 95-140€ per night

5. Platamon Centrale
A central hotel with very good reviews, within walking distance of Platamonas beach and shops. Suitable for couples and families.

• Average cost: 90-135€ per night

6. Hotel Alkyonis
A beachfront hotel, on Kastro Street, with simple but clean rooms. Good value for money for small families.

• Average cost: 75-110€ per night

7. Zeus Hotel
A family hotel in Platamonas offering simple, functional accommodation and good access to the beach. An economical choice for basic holidays.

• Average cost: 70-100€ per night

8. Evriali Seaside Rooms
Rented rooms directly on the seafront, with very high guest ratings. Suitable for couples who want independent studio-style accommodation.

• Average cost: 80-115€ per night

9. Kronos Hotel
A small hotel in Platamonas with simple accommodation, good for those looking for an economical base near the beach and the train station.

• Average cost: 65-95€ per night

Accommodation in Nei Pori

10. Manolas
An apartment hotel in Nei Pori, ideal for families who want a self-contained space with a kitchen, close to the quiet beach.

• Average cost: 80-120€ per night

11. Hotel Alexandros
A family hotel in Nei Pori with good access to the beach, suitable for peaceful holidays away from the hustle and bustle of Platamonas.

• Average cost: 70-105€ per night

Accommodation in Palios Panteleimonas

12. Enastron Guesthouse
A stone guesthouse within the traditional village, with an excellent rating and views towards the Thermaic Gulf. Suitable for couples who want a romantic, quiet stay.

• Average cost: 90-130€ per night

13. San Panteleimon
A hotel near the beach of Neos Panteleimonas, bridging the mountain village and the coast, with very good location reviews.

• Average cost: 85-120€ per night

Accommodation in Skotina

14. Priona Rooms
Rented apartments on Skotina beach, with excellent guest ratings. Ideal for those who want tranquillity and direct access to the sand, away from the bustling Platamonas.

• Average cost: 75-110€ per night

Which area to choose

If you're seeking a lively coastal atmosphere with dining, drinks, and easy access to the castle, Platamonas is the obvious choice. For families with small children who want shallow waters and peace, Nei Pori is a better fit. Couples looking for romance and tradition will prefer Palios Panteleimonas, while Skotina appeals to those who want to completely avoid tourist crowds. If you are planning a broader tour of Pieria, it's worth checking out our guide Where to stay in Paralia Katerinis, which covers the neighbouring beaches to the north. Many visitors combine their stay in Platamonas with a stop in Litochoro for a climb up Mount Olympus; if you are looking for options there, take a look at our guide Where to stay in Litochoro. For those planning a trip further south, to the Thessalian coast, the guide Where to stay in Lake Plastiras for a mountain getaway is also useful, while those heading north towards Halkidiki can consult the guide Where to stay in Sithonia, Halkidiki. Finally, for a comparison with another popular destination in Thessaly-Macedonia, see also the guide Where to stay in Thessaloniki, as many Platamonas visitors pass through there before or after their holidays.

When to visit Platamonas

The best period for holidays is from mid-May to the end of September, with July and August being peak season, when accommodation prices rise and booking at least 4-6 weeks in advance is recommended. June and September offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and better prices, ideal for those who want to combine beach time with hiking on Mount Olympus. Spring and autumn are also suitable for visitors primarily interested in Palios Panteleimonas and the mountain trails, as temperatures are more favourable for walking.

Practical travel tips

• By car from Thessaloniki: A1 motorway until the Leptokarya-Platamonas exit, approximately 55-60 minutes.
• By train: Platamonas station is served by Thessaloniki-Larissa-Athens routes.
• Travel Platamonas-Nei Pori: 5 minutes by car, 15-20 minutes on foot along the beach.
• Travel Platamonas-Palios Panteleimonas: 8-10 minutes by car on an uphill road.
• Travel Platamonas-Skotina: approximately 15-20 minutes south via the old national road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I stay in Platamonas if I have children?

Nei Pori is the most suitable option for families, thanks to its shallow waters and large sandy beach. Alternatively, an all-inclusive resort in Platamonas, such as the Cronwell Platamon Resort, caters to dining and entertainment needs without requiring travel.

How far is Platamonas from Thessaloniki?

The distance is approximately 90 kilometres, with a journey time of 50-60 minutes via the A1 motorway, depending on traffic.

Is it worth staying in Palios Panteleimonas instead of by the beach?

If your priority is tradition, a quiet atmosphere, and views, then yes. However, you will need a car to drive down to the beach daily, as the distance is approximately 5-6 kilometres on an uphill road.

What is the best time to holiday in Platamonas?

From mid-May to the end of September, with June and September offering better value for money and fewer crowds compared to the high season of July-August.

Are there cheap accommodations in Skotina and Nei Pori?

Yes, both areas mainly have rented rooms and small hotels with prices usually lower than the large resorts in Platamonas, around 70-110€ per night in mid-season.

Can I visit Mount Olympus while staying in Platamonas?

Yes, Platamonas is a good base for day trips to the Olympus National Park, with Litochoro and the starting point of the trails in Prionia being approximately 25-30 minutes away by car.