Thessaloniki: Pozar Thermal Baths & Edessa Waterfalls Day Trip

Summary

Thermal pools under Mount Voras, Edessa’s rushing falls, village lunch

You’ll soak in natural thermal pools at Pozar beneath Mount Voras, share a traditional Greek lunch in a nearby village (don’t skip the bread), then wander Edessa’s roaring waterfalls with time for photos or just standing still in the mist. A local guide keeps things relaxed — but it’s those tiny moments between stops that might stick with you most.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so calm before we even reached the Pozar Thermal Baths — maybe it was the way the road curled through green fields north of Thessaloniki, or just that sleepy bus chatter with strangers you’ll probably never see again. Our guide, Eleni, pointed out the first wisps of steam rising above the rocks as we pulled up. She grinned and said something about “the hot river” (Toplitsa), and I could smell that faint mineral tang in the air before I even got off the bus. The water was warm — not scalding, just enough to make my skin tingle — and honestly, I lost track of time floating there while snowmelt from Mount Voras trickled somewhere nearby. The only sound was water against stone and a couple of older locals chatting quietly in Greek. I tried to eavesdrop but mostly just let myself drift.

Afterwards, towel-wrapped and a little pink-cheeked, we wandered over to a small village for lunch. There were grilled meats on smoky skewers and bread that tasted like it had just left someone’s oven — I still think about that bread sometimes. Eleni laughed when I tried to order in Greek (I definitely butchered it). There was a market too, with olives and honey jars lined up on crooked tables. We had a bit of time to poke around before heading on to Edessa.

The city felt different — louder somehow, with water everywhere. The waterfalls are impossible to ignore; you hear them before you see them, crashing down past mossy rocks right at the edge of town. Eleni told us how Edessa means “tower into the water,” which made sense once I saw how everything seemed built around these falls. We followed her through narrow streets in Varosi where old houses lean together like they’re swapping secrets. Some people went off to find coffee or take more photos; I just stood near the spray for a while, letting it cool my face after all that heat earlier at Pozar.

The ride back was quiet — everyone sort of sunk into their seats, sleepy from sun and steam and food. It’s funny how quickly a day trip can blur into memory except for these odd sharp bits: mineral water on my skin, laughter over lunch, thunder of water in Edessa. If you’re thinking about this day trip from Thessaloniki, bring your swimsuit but also be ready for those small surprises you can’t really pack for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa visit

• Depart Thessaloniki to Pozar Baths
• Relax in Pozar hot springs
• Admire the Toplitsa river gorge
• Enjoy lunch in nearby village
• Visit local market
• Travel to Edessa city
• Free time at Edessa waterfalls
• Optional walking tour or museum visit
• Return to Thessaloniki

Top questions

How far are Pozar Thermal Baths from Thessaloniki?

The distance is about 110 km and takes approximately 1½ hours by bus.

Is entry to Pozar Thermal Baths included?

No, entrance fees are paid separately at the baths: €3–5 per person depending on pool size.

Can children join this day trip?

Yes, children are welcome; under 4s enter free at Pozar with parental consent signed onsite.

What should I bring for the thermal baths?

Bring swimwear and a towel or bathrobe; towels can also be rented onsite for €3–4 plus deposit.

Are there changing rooms at Pozar?

Yes, there are numerous changing rooms available as well as lockers for personal belongings.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No set lunch is included but there is free time to enjoy traditional food at a local village restaurant near Pozar.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, pregnant travelers are not allowed to enter the hot springs according to local regulations.

Will there be an English-speaking guide?

Yes, an English-speaking tour escort accompanies your group throughout the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transport from Thessaloniki by air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking escort who shares stories along the way; all basic travel insurance is covered too. Entrance fees for thermal baths are paid locally depending on your choice of pool size and duration. Lunch isn’t fixed but you’ll have time to eat at a traditional village taverna near Pozar before exploring Edessa’s waterfalls together.