Take the ultimate road trip unveiling Greeces best kept secrets.
Northern Greece is also easier and more affordable to navigate independently than elsewhere in the country.
Locals, known as Hellenes, will tell you this is where the Greek coffee culture originated.
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The citys extensive makeup of working professionals and university students provides a nonstop street party atmosphere.
Stay away from the crowds at the artfully-decoratedElisabeth Boutique Hotel, located in a historic building.
TryFrutti de Marefor seafood,Rootsfor vegan Mediterranean, andOval Bistronomyfor modern Greek with a view of the tower.
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Entry tickets are half-price between November and March.
Sithonia Peninsula
Head east of Thessaloniki toward three legs of the Halkidi peninsula.
Each has a different vibe, focusing on hiking, beaches, and religion.
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Climb to the top of Mount Itamos for a coffee and panoramic peninsula views.
There are 12 fully autonomous 1,000-year-old Byzantine monasteries currently operational on the peninsula.
While the holy mountain is visible from many spots in Greek Macedonia, it is not easily accessible.
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From the water, anyone can enjoy thepristine natural beautyand grandeur of the monasteries' architecture.
Drive to the village of Ouranoupolis and embark on a three-hour cruise withAthos Sea Cruisesto sail along the peninsula.
Sucheta Rawal/Travel + Leisure
Sucheta Rawal/Travel + Leisure
