Oh, Greek food, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. From the tangy feta cheese to the succulent gyro meat, Greek cuisine is a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance the sirtaki. But let’s not forget about the healthy Mediterranean staples like juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and heart-healthy olive oil that make Greek food not only delicious but also nutritious. And don’t even get me started on the joy of dipping warm pita bread into a creamy tzatziki sauce or the satisfaction of biting into a perfectly grilled souvlaki skewer.
It’s no wonder that Zeus himself was said to feast on Greek delicacies.
So, if you’re looking for a foodie adventure that’s both satisfying and sophisticated, look no further than the wonders of Greek cuisine. Opa! And don’t savor these meals without sampling the incredible varieties of Greek wine.
Here is a great itinerary for a couple that loves great food set in Northern Greece:
Day 1 :: Thessaloniki
Start your trip in the vibrant city of Thessaloniki. Explore the city’s markets and street food vendors, such as Modiano Market, and try some of the local specialties like bougatsa, a phyllo pastry filled with cheese or cream, and koulouri, a sesame-covered bread ring. Visit the White Tower, the iconic city symbol, and end the day at a traditional taverna enjoying mezedes, small dishes similar to Spanish tapas.
Day 2 :: Mount Olympus
Take a day trip to Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the gods. Hike one of the trails and enjoy the stunning views. For lunch, stop at one of the traditional mountain villages, like Litochoro or Palaios Panteleimonas, and try local dishes such as wild boar stew and trachanas, a type of Greek pasta.
Day 3 :: Edessa
Visit the picturesque town of Edessa, known for its beautiful waterfalls and natural springs. Enjoy lunch at a local tavern, and try the town’s famous kokoretsi, a spit-roasted lamb offal dish. After lunch, visit the town’s archaeological and folklore museums.
Day 4 :: Kastoria
Drive to the beautiful lakeside town of Kastoria, known for its fur industry and Byzantine churches. Walk around the town’s cobbled streets and try local specialties like smoked trout and pies filled with local cheeses. Visit the Furrier Museum to learn about the town’s fur industry and see some of the exquisite furs made in Kastoria.
Day 5 :: Meteora
Drive to the stunning rock formations of Meteora, home to some of the most important Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece. Visit one or two of the monasteries and enjoy the breathtaking views. Stop at a local tavern for lunch and try the region’s famous lamb dishes.
Day 6 :: Ioannina
Visit the beautiful city of Ioannina, located on the shores of Lake Pamvotida. Explore the city’s historic old town, and try local specialties like the savory pies called kourabiedes and the local wine, called tsipouro. Visit the famous lakeside tavernas for lunch and try the region’s famous frog legs.
Day 7 :: Zagorohoria
Drive to the picturesque villages of Zagorohoria, located in the Pindus Mountains. Hike one of the many trails in the region and enjoy the stunning views. For lunch, stop at one of the local tavernas and try the region’s famous cheese pies and beef stew. End the day with a visit to one of the region’s traditional cheese makers.
This itinerary will give you a taste of the diverse and delicious cuisine of Northern Greece, as well as the beautiful landscapes and rich history of the region.
Remember that these are just possible itineraries, and there are many more places to explore in Northern Greece, depending on your taste buds and food preferences.
Let’s chat about your interests and preferences and all the possibilities!
