5 + 1 Winter destinations close to Thessaloniki!

There are countless reasons to love Thessaloniki, particularly in the winter. A trip to the capital city is essential if what you need is a quick break from everyday life. After all, there are so many lovely winter destinations from Thessaloniki. Visit the cosmopolitan city, and take the chance to use magical routes to reach additional nearby locations. Choose Let's Drive for a car rental in Thessaloniki and accelerate to the most well-liked ski resorts that are close by. Are you eager to learn more about Northern Greece's history, cuisine and vibrant culture?

Arnea: Discover the mountainous side of Halkidiki

The village of Arnea in Halkidiki
The village of Arnea in Halkidiki

The myth that Halkidiki is only a summer destination is debunked by this hidden village. From Thessaloniki, Let's Drive will transport you to secluded winter destinations with experience and dependability in car rentalsLet's Drive with experience and reliability in car rentals, takes you to secret nearby winter destinations from Thessaloniki. A few walks are necessary to fully explore Arnea, which is only 1.5 hours from Thessaloniki and rich in imagery, nature and tradition. The natural surrounding, restored mansions, and the reputation of its products work together to create a stunning landscape that stands out. Additionally, it didn't escape the attention of CNN's American producers that it was chosen as one of Greece's most picturesque villages for 2019. Explore the Weaving Museum and the Historical and Folklore Museum of Arnea to learn more about the region's history. Try the renowned local goods before you leave, such as honey, tea, cheese and mushrooms.

Pozar Thermal Baths: Relaxation and Well-being

The Pozzar Thermal Baths, Loutraki Aridaia
The Pozzar Thermal Baths, Loutraki Aridaia

Don't omit this location from your travel itinerary if you're thinking about traveling up north during the winter. You can find nature's thermal gift at the foothills of Kaimaktsalan, just 100 km from Thessaloniki. The thermal waters, natural swimming holes, and waterfalls blend in beautifully with the lush winter landscape. Apart from the thermal waters, the natural landscape and the wild forest, the Baths offer the perfect setting for complete relaxation and rejuvenation. Nearby destinations from Thessaloniki are calling you! Enter Let's Drive, choose the ideal vehicle and get ready for a relaxing getaway in a heavenly landscape.

Lake Kerkini: A Hidden Aquatic Treasure in Serres

Lake Kerkini, photo by Kyriakos-apollon
Lake Kerkini, photo by Kyriakos-apollon

There is a special wetland in the Serres prefecture, just a short distance from Thessaloniki. With a distance of 35 km from Thessaloniki and the fact that Kerkini is an artificial lake made possible by the Struma River dam in 1932, it is understandably a very alluring option for a day trip. The village of Kerkini is a great option for your trip's base or starting point. The lake information center and offices, which offer a thorough tour of the wetland, are located in the village. Lithotopos is yet another incredibly lovely and developed tourist community with a stunning view of the lake. Take a stroll through Ano and Kato Poroia, which have quaint alleys and adorable little traditional coffee shops, if you have the chance. With Let's Drive, the most reliable car rental company, you safely reach unique destinations.

Olympus: The Mountain of the Gods

It is hard to conquer it, but it will easily take your breath away. With its incredibly diverse flora and intriguing fauna, the journey to Mount Olympus is a magical one. If you are among the bold, you ought to ascend Mytikas as soon as you get to Olympus. If mountain climbing is not your thing, you can choose to stay in one of the lovely mountain villages on Mount Olympus, such as Kalyvia, Pythio and other communities primarily on the western side of the mountain. The Greeks' "holy mountain" is adorned by the surrounding villages of Olympus. The most dreamy winter destinations close to Thessaloniki are waiting for you to discover them. With the help of Let's Drive, drive through tiny, uninhabited settlements hidden in lush slopes and breathtaking paths.

Kastoria: Mountains, caves and lakes

Panoramic view of Kastoria
Panoramic view of Kastoria

Kastoria is one of the top winter destinations near Thessaloniki. However, no matter how many days you have available, they will not be sufficient to "saturate" the lovely natural scenery that has been given to it so generously! This beautiful region of Western Macedonia is a year-round tourist destination thanks to Lake Orestiada, its recognizable landmark. The lake, which is a part of the Natura 2000 network, is among the most picturesque in the Balkans. The narrow road through beech and plane trees that circles the tranquil lake seems almost fantastical in comparison. Visit the Dragon's Cave in Kastoria, one of the most fascinating sights in all of Europe, which is "hidden" on the lakeside road about 4 km from the center. You will be astounded by the rich, decorative design of the stalactites, stalagmites, and pools after a 300-meter walk and the incredible, breathtaking view.

Xanthi: The “Lady of Thrace”!

The enchanting Xanthi
The enchanting Xanthi

Only a small portion of what the "Lady of Thrace" represents is shown in the carnival of Xanthi, which is second to the carnival of Patras in terms of popularity in Greece. Beautiful old-town strolls, breathtaking views of the outdoors from Nestos, and mouthwatering culinary adventures that will never be forgotten. On a walk beginning from the main square, all you can see is the Municipal Market, which has been designated a listed monument, and the neighborhood with the impressive tobacco warehouse complex. The region is perfect for exploring nature, stretching from the river Nestos to the Rhodope’s mountain range, which is split in two by the valley of Echinos, where to the west is the dense Drymos (Haidou) forest, and to the east Pomakochoria.

 There are so many places worth visiting. Of course, you can stay in the city for a few days to visit the famous landmarks of Thessaloniki. With Let's Drive, you can rent a car from Thessaloniki Airport and through advanced services and affordable prices, you can embark on the most enjoyable winter getaways from Thessaloniki!

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