Thessaloniki: Small Group Day Trip to Siatista & Kastoria

Explore Two Historic Macedonian Towns in One Day

This small group day trip from Thessaloniki offers a full day of discovering Siatista and Kastoria, two of West Macedonia’s most captivating destinations. The tour lasts 10 to 11 hours and includes transportation, guiding, and options for wine tasting. With a rating of 5 out of 5 based on 12 reviews, this experience is ideal for those eager to explore Greece’s lesser-known towns with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of beautiful architecture, natural scenery, and cultural insights. The tour departs with multiple pickup points in Thessaloniki, then takes you on a comfortable journey through stunning landscapes. The guide’s friendly demeanor and local knowledge shine through, ensuring you gain meaningful context at each stop.

While the tour is well-loved for its flexibility and engaging guides, it’s important to note that it is not suitable for wheelchair users. The day is packed with visits, and some walking is involved, especially in the towns’ cobbled streets. This tour offers a well-organized, enriching experience for those interested in authentic Greek towns away from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Visit Siatista and Kastoria, two picturesque towns of West Macedonia
• Includes transportation, guiding, and optional wine tasting at a local winery
• Duration of 10-11 hours, with flexible stops and free time
• Highlights include Lake Kastoria, traditional architecture, and ancient remains
• Small group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace
• Not suitable for wheelchair users, due to terrain and walking

From Thessaloniki to Siatista’s Ottoman Heritage and Local Wines

The tour begins with a pickup from five convenient locations in Thessaloniki, including the IKEA Thessaloniki and the KTEL bus station. After a roughly 1.5-hour van ride, the first stop is Siatista, a town famous for its traditional architecture and historic churches. The town’s origins date to the Ottoman period, and it played a significant role during the Macedonian struggle for independence.

In Siatista, visitors have the choice to explore the town square, relax in a traditional cafe, visit the mansion of Poulko’s, or join the wine tasting at Dio Filoi winery. The wine tasting experience allows guests to sample local Greek wines, adding a flavorful dimension to the visit. Alternatively, travelers can enjoy a walk through the streets to appreciate the authentic small-town atmosphere.

The duration at Siatista is around two hours, providing enough time for both sightseeing and leisure. The optional visits allow for a flexible experience based on personal interests. This stop offers a glimpse into local life and history that’s often overlooked by mainstream travelers.

Scenic Drive to Kastoria on the Shores of Lake Orestiada

Following Siatista, the tour continues with a 40-minute van transfer to Kastoria, a larger town built on a peninsula on Lake Orestiada’s western edge. Surrounded by the Vitsi mountain range, Kastoria is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and well-preserved Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

The town has roots extending back to the Neolithic era, reflecting its long-standing importance in the region’s cultural development. Today, Kastoria is celebrated for its picturesque neighborhoods, museums, and a traditional fur industry that adds an authentic touch to its charm.

Visitors can opt for a bike ride near the lake, enjoy a leisurely walk through narrow, cobbled streets, or relax in the numerous cafes and restaurants overlooking the water. The visit also includes a stop at the ancient remains of the Dolco settlement, offering a tangible link to the area’s prehistoric past.

This three-hour window of free time in Kastoria provides ample opportunity to explore at your own pace, whether shopping, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

Walk Through Kastoria’s Majestic Mansions and Historic Neighborhoods

Kastoria’s residential areas feature some of the most picturesque houses in Macedonia. The majestic mansions and narrow cobbled streets reflect the city’s glorious past, with many structures dating back centuries. Walking through these neighborhoods gives a real sense of the regional history and architecture.

The tour guide leads you through the city’s neighborhoods, highlighting historical sites and local stories. This allows for an immersive experience beyond just visiting the main attractions, capturing the authentic atmosphere of Kastoria.

The visit concludes with approximately three hours to shop, explore, or relax before the two-hour return journey to Thessaloniki. The transfer is by comfortable van, ensuring you arrive back in the city with plenty of time to unwind or continue your adventure.

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Visit the Ancient and Cultural Sites with a Skilled Guide

Throughout the trip, the guide’s expertise and friendly approach are highly praised. The guide provides clear explanations and local insights, enriching the experience at each stop. Several reviews highlight how guides like Stefanos and Panos make the day particularly enjoyable through their knowledge and personable style.

The tour also offers flexibility, with options for those not interested in wine tasting or specific sites. The small group setting ensures that travelers receive personalized attention, making the experience more engaging and relaxed.

Plus, the guide’s willingness to adapt the itinerary or share local stories adds a special touch, making the journey memorable even for seasoned travelers.

Logistics and Practical Details of the Tour

The meeting points are conveniently located in Thessaloniki, including places like IKEA, the Church of Panagia Chalkeon, and the KTEL bus station. The pickup times are flexible, and travelers are advised to wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before departure.

The transport is provided by a comfortable van, and the group size is small or private options are available, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is led by Greek and English-speaking drivers and guides, making communication easy.

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option provides flexibility for planning. It is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and walking requirements.

The Unique Charm of Siatista and Kastoria

This trip stands out because of its focus on two authentic towns that are often less traveled by international travelers. Siatista’s traditional architecture and wine tasting, coupled with Kastoria’s natural beauty and historical architecture, create a diverse and enriching day.

The balance of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore Greece’s regional depth. The expert guide and flexible options, such as wine tasting or a walk in the town squares, add to the overall appeal.

While the day is busy, the relaxed pace and small group format help ensure that visitors can enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. This tour offers authentic insights into the Macedonian region, making it a worthwhile addition to a Greek travel itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 10 to 11 hours.

Are there options for those not interested in wine tasting?
Yes, at the winery in Siatista, there are options to skip the tasting and enjoy a walk or visit other sites.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport is provided by van from Thessaloniki to Siatista and Kastoria, with round-trip transfers.

How many stops are there during the tour?
There are two main stops: Siatista and Kastoria, with additional visits to sites like the Dolio settlement.

Is the tour suitable for children or the elderly?
While suitable for most, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users, and some walking on cobbled streets might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is conducted in Greek and English.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, guiding, and optional wine tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at one of five pickup locations in Thessaloniki and ends at the same points, making logistics simple.

Would this tour suit someone interested in history and architecture?
Absolutely. The stops highlight traditional architecture, historic sites, and ancient remains, perfect for history buffs.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby