Discover Vergina and Pella: Day Trip to Macedonian Kingdom
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get to know the imperial capital, the ancient city where Alexander the Great was born and raised and where the great philosopher and tutor Aristoteles was invited to educate him. The archaeological treasures of the glorious Macedonian Kingdom of Alexander the Great and his father Phillip II, as detailed by Herodotus, invite you to a unique roadtrip to history. The excursion travels you to the ancient greek, byzantine and modern history bringing back in light the lost prestige of Aigai, the first city of the Macedonians. Discover the museum of Aigai; a World Heritage site of UNESCO, against the natural beauty of the area and the view of the Macedonian plain that travels our eye till the end of the horizon.
Available options
Winter Season
Winter Season
Summer Season
Summer Season
Full Day Trip to Vergina and Pella from Thessaloniki
What's included
Transportation to and from the Museum of Vergina and Pella.
Basic travel insurance (during transportation)
English-speaking trip attendant.
Detailed itinerary
1
Embark on a journey to Pella with Ammon Express at 8:00 from Aristotelous Square & Egnatia Street (at the white Statue of Venizelos). The distance of 50km takes about 45 minutes to reach. Once in Pella, discover the new and modern museum, as well as the archaeological site boasting unique mosaics. Delight in the "Abduction of Helen" and "Amazonomachy" mosaics in the ancient market, and see artifacts from the daily lives of the people that illustrate the lifestyle during ancient times.
2
Next, we reach Vergina where we visit the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai, situated in the borders of the village. The characteristic Golden Larnax (funerary casket), an urn with the cremated remains of Phillip II is marked with a 16-rayed sun, the symbol of Macedonia. The Sun of Vergina (or Star of Vergina), which is characteristic symbol of the Argead Dynasty (of the King Phillip II and Alexander the Great) was found together with the excavations that brought back to light his father’s Royal Tomb. 4 of the sun rays represent of the 4 classical elements and the other 12 sun rays represent the 12 Olympian Gods. Admire the golden oak wreath that Phillip II had during his funeral pyre, military armors.
Later, we enjoy our lunch break in a restaurant with greek traditional flavours.
Last stop before our departure is at the grand New Museum of Aigai, hosting findings and artifacts unearthed from the soil of the old capital;
What's not included
The cost of the lunch at the restaurant
Guided tour inside the monasteries and museums
Tips
archaeological site of Pella
Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai (Vergina)
Polycentric Museum of Aigai
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
93 reviews
5★
75
4★
16
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
84 reviews
5★
65
4★
12
3★
3
2★
4
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Our trip attendant shall wear clothing with the AMMON Express marking so that he will be recognisable easily.
You should be at the departure points 10' before the time indicated in the schedule. The bus cannot remain at designated stops, except for boarding.
Free entry to the Museum of Vergina is available to the students of Universities, Technological Educational Institutes or equivalent institutes of EU countries by showing their student ID, and to young people up to the age of 19 by showing their ID card
Reduced entry to the Museum of Vergina (€ 6) is available to all citizens of the EU aged over 65, by showing their ID card or passport, as well as students from countries outside the EU.
Free entry to the Museum of Pella is available to the students of Universities, Technological Educational Institutes or equivalent institutes of EU countries by showing their student ID, and to young people up to the age of 18 by showing their ID card.
We wish you a pleasant excursion and have fun!
Meeting point
Aristotelous square and Egnatia square in front of Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos at 08:00
About Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city and a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history dating back to ancient times. Known for its Byzantine monuments, Ottoman architecture, and lively food scene, it offers a unique blend of old and new.
Top Attractions
White Tower
The iconic White Tower is a symbol of Thessaloniki and offers panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf.
Historical
1-2 hours
€8
Rotunda
A historic monument that has served as a Roman temple, church, and mosque. It is now a museum.
Historical
1 hour
€4
Aristotelous Square
A beautiful square by the sea, lined with cafes and restaurants, and a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Landmark
1-2 hours
Free
Church of Saint Demetrios
A significant Byzantine church dedicated to the city's patron saint, Saint Demetrios.
Religious
1 hour
Free
Waterfront Promenade
A scenic promenade along the Thermaic Gulf, perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying a meal with a view.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bougatsa
A sweet or savory pie filled with custard or cheese, often served for breakfast.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available
Souvlaki
Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with chicken, pork, or lamb
Greek Salad
A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mount Olympus
Water sports in Chalkidiki
Sunbathing at the beaches
Enjoying a meal at a waterfront restaurant
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Swimming
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Thessaloniki for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Thessaloniki is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Macedonia International Airport • 13 km from the city center
By train
Thessaloniki Railway Station
By bus
Thessaloniki Central Bus Station (KTEL)
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network covers most of the city and is affordable. Buses are the most common form of public transport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat, Taxibeat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ladadika
Ano Poli
Modiano Market
Day trips
Mount Olympus
100 km • Full day
The highest mountain in Greece, known for its mythological significance and stunning views.
Vergina
70 km • Half day
An ancient city known for its archaeological sites, including the royal tombs of the Macedonian kings.
Chalkidiki
100 km • Full day or overnight
A beautiful peninsula with stunning beaches, clear waters, and picturesque villages.
Festivals
International Thessaloniki Film Festival • November
Dionysia Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the White Tower at sunset for the best views
- Try the local delicacy, bougatsa, at a historic cafe
- Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in the Ladadika district
- Take a day trip to the beautiful beaches of Chalkidiki
- Use the city's extensive bus network to get around
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
