Pieria – The Ultimate Summer Destination Between Mountain and Sea
A short and comprehensive travel guide to Pieria – perfect for summer!
Pieria – The Ultimate Summer Destination Between Mountain and Sea.
Pieria is a magical place where the mythical Mountain of the Gods meets the endless coastline of the Thermaic Gulf. Located in Macedonia, northern Greece, it is an ideal destination for travelers seeking diverse landscapes, traditional villages, culture, history, great food, and relaxation.
With Mount Olympus towering in the background and the sea taking center stage, Pieria generously offers experiences that balance nature and culture.
How to Get There
Pieria is located approximately:
• 70 km from Thessaloniki
• 80 km from Larissa
• 420 km from Athens
You can reach Pieria:
• By car via the Athens–Thessaloniki National Highway (E75)
• By train (OSE) – with frequent routes to Katerini and nearby stations
• By plane via Thessaloniki’s “Makedonia” Airport
Beaches: The Summer Map
Pieria’s coastline stretches over 70 kilometers, offering beaches for every taste: family-friendly, organized, secluded, natural, or with beach bars.
Popular Beaches:
• Olympic Beach – organized, with beach bars, Blue Flag awarded
• Paralia Katerinis – well-developed, ideal for families
• Leptokarya – clear waters, activities, views of Olympus
• Platamonas – combines sea and castle, with a variety of options
• Skotina & Neos Panteleimonas – quieter beaches with Olympus as a backdrop
• Makrygialos – an up-and-coming spot with natural beauty and clean shores
Mount Olympus – The Mountain of the Gods
Pieria is the gateway to Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece (2,918 m) and one of the most iconic in European mountaineering.
Things to Do:
• Hike from Litochoro to the “Spilios Agapitos” refuge
• Climb with a certified guide
• Capture breathtaking landscapes through photography
• Visit the Enipeas Gorge – ideal for nature lovers
Culture & History
Pieria has deep roots in antiquity and Greek culture.
Must-See Attractions:
• Dion – the sacred city of ancient Macedonia at the foot of Olympus, with a museum and open-air theater
• Archaeological Museum of Dion – unique exhibits from the Classical, Roman, and Hellenistic periods
• Castle of Platamonas – a well-preserved medieval castle overlooking the Aegean
• Ancient Pydna – an important archaeological site with ancient fortifications
Traditional Villages
For those who love authenticity:
• Paleos Panteleimonas – a preserved traditional village with cobbled streets, stone houses, and quaint cafés
• Litochoro – lively, with traditional architecture, and a starting point for Mount Olympus ascents
• Agios Dimitrios & Ritini – quieter villages rich in natural beauty
Activities
• Water sports at organized beaches
• Mountain biking and hiking on Mount Olympus trails
• Rafting & canyoning in gorges
• Horseback riding and nature exploration
• Local festivals – e.g., Olympus Festival, featuring ancient drama, music, and theater performances
Local Gastronomy
Pieria’s cuisine is rich and diverse, blending mountain and sea flavors.
What to Try:
• Fresh fish and seafood in seaside tavernas
• Traditional pies (handmade with greens or cheese)
• Local cheeses and yogurt
• Meat and sausages from the mountainous areas
• Tsipouro & wine from local distilleries
• Spoon sweets & jams made by local producers
Accommodation
Pieria offers a wide range of options:
• Luxury hotels & resorts
• Family apartments, studios, and rental rooms
• Traditional guesthouses in Paleos Panteleimonas & Litochoro
• Camping sites for nature lovers
Tips
• Visit in early June or early September for a quieter, more authentic experience
• Combine seaside accommodation with day trips to Mount Olympus
• Ask the locals – they always know the “hidden” spots worth discovering
