DION – PLATAMONAS TOUR
Duration: 6–7 hours
Start Time: 8:30 a.m. (Saturday & Sunday only)
Experience a unique journey that combines history, nature, and exploration at the foothills of Mount Olympus.
The tour begins at the impressive Archaeological Site of Dion, the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians, dedicated to Zeus. Walk among ancient theaters, temples, and baths, surrounded by a lush natural landscape.
Next, we head to the majestic Platamon Castle, one of the most important medieval castles in Greece, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
The experience concludes with a special hiking route along the old railway line (Galeria), passing through tunnels and natural scenery, offering a truly authentic sense of exploration.
FULL DESCRIPTION
We begin our tour with a comfortable, air-conditioned private van heading to the Archaeological Site of Dion, the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians, dedicated to Zeus. Explore ancient theaters, temples, and sanctuaries within a green natural environment filled with rich vegetation, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
We then continue to the impressive Platamon Castle, one of the most important medieval castles in Greece. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea while exploring a site full of history and unique energy.
The experience continues with a special hike along the old railway line (Galeria), passing through tunnels and scenic landscapes, offering a truly authentic exploration experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Stunning views of the Aegean Sea
• Historical insights and storytelling
• Relaxed, stress-free program
• Hidden natural spots, including the tunnel hike
INCLUDED
✔ English & Greek-speaking guide/driver
✔ Historical guided tour (English, German & Greek)
✔ Entrance fees to archaeological sites
✔ Hotel pickup & drop-off
✔ Transportation with air-conditioned van
✔ Liability insurance
✔ Coffee / Water / Snacks
✔ All taxes & tolls (Maut)
✔ Hiking poles
✔ First aid kit
✔ Child seats (upon request)
✘ Tips (optional)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Easy difficulty level
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Suitable for ages 4 to 85
• Hiking shoes recommended
• Sunglasses, hat & sunscreen recommended
• Not suitable for pregnant women
• Not suitable for people with heart conditions
For availability, please contact us.
LEARN MORE
Dion Archaeological Park
The most important archaeological site of Mount Olympus, located in Dion. The area includes sanctuaries from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, highlighting the historical importance of ancient Dion in Pieria. Once located just seven stadia from the Thermaic Gulf, Dion was the sacred city of the Macedonians. It flourished during both the Hellenistic and Roman periods and became one of the earliest Roman colonies in the region. Despite its significance, it remained a relatively small city. Today, the site is well organized, offering visitors clear paths to explore the monuments.
Platamon Castle
A Frankish-era castle built on the site of an earlier Byzantine fortified city, located southeast of Mount Olympus near the modern village of Platamonas. It held a strategic position controlling the route between Macedonia and southern Greece. It is the best-preserved castle in northern-central Greece, featuring an impressive central tower overlooking the national highway.
Gallaria – Railway Tunnel
The old railway tunnel was constructed in 1915 by a French company to connect liberated Macedonia with the rest of Greece. In 2004, a new high-speed railway line was built, passing through a 4 km tunnel in the area, leading to the abandonment of the old line between Platamonas and Pantaleimon. In 2005, the old railway line (2.876 km) was officially designated as a historical site due to its technical and historical significance. At the entrance of the tunnel stands a stone tower that served as a military outpost in 1940, guarding the railway passage.