The best , non-touristy , places to visit in Northern Greece!

Most people know Greece through its well-known and popular tourist destinations, as well as its amazing islands!

However, the winter destinations our country has to offer, especially in Northern Greece, are countless and overflowing with beauty!

Let's explore with Travelo 3 non-touristy destinations in Northern Greece that you simply must visit!

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Nymfaio

Nymfaio is located at an altitude of 1,500 metres on Mount Vernon and is a traditional stone-built settlement with guesthouses and tourist facilities.

The area is surrounded by a magnificent beech forest that astonishes every visitor!

Nymfaio is approximately 2 hours away from Thessaloniki and is an all-time classic destination for Northern Greeks.

The village's history is impressive and fascinating: from the late 17^th century for approximately 300 years, the area was one of the largest silversmithing and goldsmithing centres in the Balkans!

The legacy is evident even today in the settlement with its impressive stone mansions, the Historical and Folklore Museum, and the charming alleys of the village.

The Arcturos bear sanctuary is also located in the area – just 2 km from Nymfaio.

There, you can observe rare bears protected by the organisation.

In winter, the bears are in hibernation, while for most months, the scenery resembles an alpine landscape with snow and fog!

Regarding the local cuisine, you will enjoy traditional dishes from the area's tavernas, such as finely chopped pork, carp (river fish caught from nearby lakes), and traditional melted cheeses.

Finally, in Nymfaio and the wider region, you will find more than 40 wineries that you can visit to sample local wine and mezes.

[ Find hotels in Nymfaio! ]

 

Grevena

Southwest of Nymfaio, and continuing further south, you will find Grevena – known as “the city of mushrooms”.

Over 1,300 species of fungi grow in the area, some of which are so rare they only grow there!

Beyond mushrooms, however, Grevena is famous for its impressive landscapes, mountains, forests, streams, and stunning natural stone bridges, as well as traditional churches.

In Milia, a very nearby village that you absolutely must visit, you will enjoy the Natural History Museum, which still houses the largest tusks ever discovered – they even hold a Guinness World Record!

For extreme sports enthusiasts, there are many dirt roads for 4x4 vehicles or quad bikes.

Ski and snowboard lovers can head to the nearby Vasilitsa ski centre, about 38 km from Grevena town, deep in the heart of the Pindus mountain range.

If you are in the area, don't miss visiting Valia Calda, also known as the “Pindus National Forest” – a virgin forest just outside Grevena, bordering Ioannina!

[ Find hotels in Grevena! ]

 

Lake Kerkini

Lake Kerkini is located northeast of Serres, 40 km from the city centre and approximately 90 km from Thessaloniki.

The lake is the ideal spot for bird photographers, as many rare bird species live in this area.

The best times to visit Lake Kerkini are autumn and spring, when there are over 300 bird species in the lake, including the Dalmatian Pelican and the Pygmy Cormorant.

Apart from birds, the area is home to approximately 700 water buffalo, 10 amphibian species, 5 snail species, and 19 reptile species.

There is also a huge variety of fish in the lake, many of which you can enjoy fresh and well-cooked in the local tavernas!

You can reach Kerkini by road via the Egnatia Odos, heading towards Serres.

[ Find hotels in the area ]

 

Our country has amazing destinations to offer us, both for summer and winter.

Whether you prefer mountains, lakes or the sea, Greece's natural beauty can offer you everything!

Search and book cheap flights to Thessaloniki and enjoy the magnificent landscapes that Northern Greece has to offer!