From Thessaloniki: Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa Day Trip

The From Thessaloniki: Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa Day Trip offers an engaging mix of relaxation, nature, and history. For $56 per person, this 10-hour tour leads you from the heart of Thessaloniki to the scenic landscapes of Central Macedonia. You’ll enjoy a soak in the healing waters of Pozar Thermal Baths, visit the spectacular waterfalls of Edessa, and have time to explore local markets and villages. The tour is praised for its professional guides, well-organized itinerary, and affordable price point.

While the trip is packed with activities, it also offers enough flexibility to linger at the attractions. The only notable consideration is the entry fee for thermal baths (3 euros) and the need to bring or rent a towel. This tour suits visitors seeking a day of relaxation combined with scenic sightseeing and an authentic taste of local Greek flavors.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, and basic travel insurance.
• Visit Pozar Thermal Baths to relax in naturally heated waters at 37°C.
• Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in a picturesque village near the baths.
• Explore Edessa’s famous waterfalls, considered among the largest in the Balkans.
• Tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with flexible free time at key stops.
• Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

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Departing from Thessaloniki for Natural Hot Springs

The tour begins at Aristotelous Square or Egnatia Street (Venizelos Statue) in Thessaloniki at 08:00 AM. From there, a comfortable bus takes you on a scenic 2-hour journey toward the natural wonder of Pozar Thermal Baths. This early start allows you to arrive before the crowds, ensuring a peaceful experience at the hot springs.

The transportation is included, and the group is led by an English-speaking guide who provides insights along the way. The ride offers a chance to appreciate the landscape of Central Macedonia and get excited for the day ahead. Once at Pozar, you’ll have approximately 2 hours to enjoy the thermal pools and explore the area.

Relaxing in Pozar Thermal Baths’s Healing Waters

The highlight for many is the Pozar Thermal Baths, which boast water naturally heated to 37°C. The thermal waters are reputed for their healing properties, especially for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, skin issues, poor circulation, respiratory problems, and kidney stones.

You can choose to soak in the natural pools or the more artificial one, which offers more space and less crowding, as recommended by experienced visitors. Entry to the baths costs 3 euros per person, and towels can be rented for 2 euros if you don’t bring your own. The baths are located outdoors, with Mount Voras providing a striking backdrop.

The pools are open-air, making it ideal for enjoying nature’s tranquility. The surrounding area offers a short trail for exploration, which some adventurers enjoy for an added touch of activity. The guide advises arriving early to avoid peak crowds and to get the most relaxing experience.

Tasting Traditional Greek Flavors in Orma Village

After relaxing in the thermal waters, the tour continues with a lunch break at a charming village called Orma, located next to Pozar. Here, traditional Greek dishes are served in a cozy local restaurant, with delicious food praised by previous visitors. The restaurant offers authentic flavors at reasonable prices, although some note it may be slightly more expensive than dining in Thessaloniki.

You’ll have about 75 minutes to enjoy your meal and explore the village. Many take this opportunity to stroll through the local market, where vendors sell regional products, crafts, and souvenirs. This part of the tour offers a chance to soak in local village life and appreciate the simple charm of rural Greece.

Exploring Edessa’s Spectacular Waterfalls

Next, the journey takes you to Edessa, known as the first capital of the ancient Macedon kingdom. This city is famed for its large waterfalls, regarded as some of the biggest in the Balkans. You are given about 1 hour to visit and photograph these natural wonders.

The waterfalls are easily accessible and provide great photo opportunities. The area around Edessa is lush and scenic, perfect for a short walk and some fresh air. Visitors appreciate the well-organized stop for its breathtaking views and the chance to witness one of Greece’s most beautiful waterfalls.

Some reviews mention that the waterfalls are particularly stunning in the autumn, with vibrant foliage enhancing the scenery. The guide provides insights into the local history and geology, making the stop both relaxing and educational.

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Comfortable Transport and Group Dynamics

The entire day is spent traveling in a large, clean bus with an efficient driver and a knowledgeable tour escort. The coach ride between stops varies from 50 minutes to 2 hours, giving ample time to relax and enjoy the landscape.

The guides are praised for their expertise and friendliness, with some reviewers noting their ability to answer questions thoroughly. The group size is manageable, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and smooth logistics.

If you opt for the private option, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience even more convenient. The tour is suitable for travelers who enjoy organized day trips with a balance of relaxation and sightseeing.

Tips for a Smooth Experience at Pozar Baths

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own towel or bathrobe or rent one at the baths. The locker situation can be tight during busy times, so it’s wise to bring minimal valuables or store them in the bus.

The pools are outdoors, so dressing appropriately for the weather is recommended. If you are pregnant or under 15, entry to the baths is not permitted. The tour runs rain or shine, and the pools are heated to around 30°C in cooler weather, making them a warm refuge even on windier days.

The Day’s Pacing and Overall Timing

The itinerary is carefully arranged to give you ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The total duration of 10 hours includes transportation, breaks, and sightseeing. The early start allows you to maximize your experience, arriving at Pozar before it gets crowded.

Lunch at Orma is a relaxed 75-minute break, and the free time at Edessa offers a chance for personal exploration. The overall flow keeps the group moving smoothly, thanks to the attentive guide and efficient transportation.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour

This trip is ideal for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural insight. The thermal baths appeal to anyone wanting to unwind in healing waters, and the waterfalls attract nature lovers.

It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions with knowledgeable guides and affordable prices. Keep in mind that physical mobility may be required for walking around the waterfalls and exploring the village. The tour caters well to adult groups, with minors needing adult supervision and pregnant women advised against bathing.

The Sum Up: A Well-Organized Day of Relaxation and Scenic Sights

The Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa Waterfalls tour offers a satisfying mix of thermal relaxation, scenic waterfalls, and local culture. For just $56, the experience provides value for money, especially with included transportation, a guide, and a flexible cancellation policy.

While the thermal baths can get crowded later in the day, arriving early ensures a peaceful soak in the healing waters. The stops at Orma Village and Edessa add cultural and visual richness to the day.

This tour suits adventurers, nature lovers, and those looking to unwind in a beautiful natural setting. It’s a reliable choice for a full-day escape from Thessaloniki that combines relaxation with sightseeing, all managed smoothly by experienced guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included, and it takes about 2 hours to reach Pozar from Thessaloniki.

How much does entry to the thermal baths cost?
Entry costs 3 euros per person. Towels can be rented for 2 euros if you do not bring your own.

Can children participate in the thermal baths?
Entry is not permitted for pregnant women, and children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for the bath experience?
Bringing your own towel or bathrobe is recommended; towels can also be rented at the baths.

How long is the free time at Edessa?
You get about 1 hour to enjoy the waterfalls and explore the area.

Is it possible to book a private transfer?
Yes, private options include hotel pickup and drop-off, providing extra convenience.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of natural hot springs, scenic waterfalls, and authentic Greek lunch makes it a balanced and memorable day trip.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Some walking is involved at the waterfalls and village areas, so mobility should be considered.

What is the best time of year to take this trip?
Autumn is especially beautiful at Edessa, but the pools are comfortable in warmer weather. The tour runs rain or shine.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

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