It stretches up the mountainside of Olympus’ highest peak (Mytikas, 2,918 m.), yet Litochoro is only a few kilometres away from the sea and that makes it the perfect tourist destination any time of the year! It is a well-structured tourist resort with quality hotel facilities and services and the favourite point of departure for mountaineering trips up the abode of the Olympian gods. The settlement dates back to the 14th century. Start your tour at the old traditional quarter of the town, along narrow lanes and past houses built in the typical macedonian style. You will see small squares called bairia in between old houses. Take a walk through the pine-covered Katounia park (at the town entrance) and visit the sports and cultural centre, as well as the Maritime Museum which showcases the area’s rich maritime tradition. Litochoro has always been connected with outings to Mt Olympus, the mountain of ancient Greek myth. A scenic route begins at Myloi location, in the town borders, and goes through the ravine of Enipeas river. The Olympus National Park encompasses areas of breathtaking beauty. It was the first National Park of Greece to be named so in 1938 and it covers an area of 45 km2 of oak, black pine, beech, white pine, alpine vegetation, an overall 1,700 species of flora (23 of which are endemic). The recorded fauna includes 32 mammal species, 108 species of birds among which are rare vultures, many reptiles, insects and butterflies. Mt Olympus was declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1981. In local restaurants, tavernas and ouzo bars you will taste the macedonian cuisine which is mostly about meat, cheese products and pies. Enjoy yourselves in the local cafés and bars.

Where to head next?

Keep exploring the best of Greece! After Litochoro, the top destinations to visit are Thessaloniki, and Larisa.