Thessaloniki: Dion Ruins & Mt Olympus Day Trip with Swim

Summary

Ancient Dion ruins, Olympus legends, mountain village life and a cool waterfall swim

You’ll walk ancient paths at Dion, hear stories of Olympian gods from a real archaeologist-guide, dip your toes (or whole self) in Agia Kori’s icy stream beneath Mount Olympus, and relax in Litochoro village before heading back to Thessaloniki. This day trip mixes history with nature in a way that stays with you long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the sound of gravel crunching under our shoes when we first stepped off the bus near Mount Olympus — it was early but already warm, and someone nearby was peeling an orange, so the air smelled sweet and sharp. Our guide, Maria (she’s actually an archaeologist, which I didn’t expect), started telling us about how people used to believe the gods lived right above us. It felt kind of surreal looking up at those peaks while she talked about Zeus like he might just stroll down the path any minute. The trail to Agia Kori waterfall wasn’t hard — honestly more like a long walk than a hike — but you could hear water before you saw it. Cold, clear, and green as glass. A few of us braved a swim; I mostly just dangled my feet in because wow, that water wakes you up fast.

Later on we wandered through Dion’s ruins. There’s this old mosaic floor that’s half shaded by fig trees now — birds everywhere and cicadas going wild. Maria pointed out where the ancient theater would’ve been packed with people cheering for plays or whatever passed for entertainment back then (I tried to imagine it but mostly just kept thinking about how old everything is). She told us stories about rituals to Zeus that happened right here, which made me look at all those toppled columns differently. Honestly, I got lost for a second just staring at some carved stone lion head poking out of the grass.

The last stop was Litochoro village. I grabbed a coffee in one of those little squares where everyone seems to know each other — there was a guy selling honey who waved at us like we were regulars. The houses are painted pale blue and white, laundry flapping between balconies. We had some time to wander before heading back to Thessaloniki (the bus has Wi-Fi but I barely touched my phone). On the ride home, I kept thinking about how close all these places are — ancient ruins, mountain trails, waterfalls — but also how different they feel from city life. I guess that’s what sticks with me most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Mount Olympus and nearby sites

• Trek Agia Kori Waterfall trail
• Swim in emerald waterfall waters
• Hear tales of Olympian gods
• Visit ancient city of Dion ruins
• Explore temples, theaters, public buildings
• Visit Olympus National Park Information Center
• See interactive exhibits on biodiversity
• Wander Litochoro village alleys and squares
• Admire traditional Macedonian architecture

Top questions

Is pickup included for this day trip from Thessaloniki?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from Aristotle’s Square & Egnatia Street (Venizelos Statue).

How difficult is the walk to Agia Kori waterfall?

The trail is easy and accessible for most people; it’s not considered a hike.

Can you swim during this tour?

Yes, there is time to swim or wade at Agia Kori’s stream if you want.

Who leads the tour?

An English-speaking attendant who is also an archaeologist-historian guides the tour.

Are meals or drinks included?

No meals are included; you can buy food or drinks in Litochoro village or bring your own snacks.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if you want to swim, water, and sunscreen.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?

The route is easy but not suitable for infants or travelers with mobility issues; baby seats available on request.

Does the itinerary change if weather is bad?

The schedule may be modified in case of unfavorable weather conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes bus transportation between Thessaloniki and all stops—Dion ruins, Mount Olympus trails, Agia Kori waterfall and Litochoro village—with pickup from Aristotle’s Square & Egnatia Street (Venizelos Statue). You’ll have an English-speaking archaeologist-historian as your guide throughout plus free Wi-Fi on board and basic travel insurance during transport; baby seats are available if requested in advance.