Macedonia is the largest and second-most-populous Greek region and is a historical area of the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe.
Greece’s northern region offers up a far more broader option when it comes to experiences catering for beach lovers, history buffs, honeymooners and road-trippers without the heaving tourists.
Despite all its hedonistic adventures found here, the region is also a nod to its fascinating past, with an ancient history similar to Athens.
Think dramatic landscapes, stunning coastlines and the world’s most extensive span of olive groves and you’ll get an idea of the beauty that is Macedonia.
In fact, this Greek region is so lovely it’s where the Greeks themselves like to holiday, according to Travel + Leisure.
When thinking of Greek getaways most are inclined to think of the country’s more popular spots as Mykonos, Santorini or Athens.
But this region of northern Greece has so much to offer with fewer tourists, milder climates and affordable prices.
The region of Macedonia is geographically divided into three smaller areas, including Central, East and West Macedonia.
The region borders the mythological home of Zeus, Mount Olympus, and the famous cave of Petralona in Halkidiki.
In Halkidiki, the earliest remains of inhabitants of Greece were found dating back to a staggering 700,000 years ago.
The stunning area of Halkidiki is another must-visit spot and resembles the “three fingers” in the middle of northern Greece with pristine beaches making it the ideal spot for a sun-drenched getaway.
But it’s not all ancient history here in Macedonia, with the city of Thessaloniki having been named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and is also Greece’s second largest city and trade junction.
This 2,300-year-old city can be easily explored on foot, serving up mouth-watering dishes, historical sites and a bustling nightlife.
Thessaloniki is home to 15 Byzantine UNESCO monuments where visitors can explore the catacombs at the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist near the sixth-century Hagia Sophia, the seventh-century Church of Hagios Demetrios and an array of museums including the Archaeological Museum, Byzantine Museum, and the White Tower Museum.
Other noteworthy spots found in Macedonia include one of the best-preserved moments in archeological history found in Vergina, the charming 14th-century traditional village in Litochoro that sits at the foothills of Mount Olympus and the stunning Halkidi peninsula.
Mount Athos is another must-visit spot in Macedonia which is home to 12 fully autonomous 1,000-year-old Byzantine monasteries.
Macedonia has been described as being a region that’s the cradle of culture, steeped in natural beauty and historical treasures.
With its mountainous forests, aqua blue sea waters and dramatic coastlines, it well deserves a spot on your next Greek adventure list.