Thessaloniki: Small Group Day Trip to Siatista & Kastoria

Exploring West Macedonia: A Day Trip to Siatista & Kastoria

This small-group tour from Thessaloniki offers a well-rounded taste of West Macedonia’s scenic beauty, traditional architecture, and local culture. It’s an 11-hour journey designed for travelers who want a mix of picturesque towns, authentic experiences, and expert guides without the hassle of planning everything themselves.

What we love about this experience is how it balances culture with relaxed sightseeing—visiting two very different but equally captivating towns, each brimming with history and charm. The opportunity to sample local wines, walk through preserved neighborhoods, and enjoy breathtaking lake views makes it a worthwhile day out.

The only consideration? The tour’s length and schedule might be a challenge if you prefer more flexibility or a shorter escape. However, if you’re keen to see some of Greece’s lesser-known spots with a knowledgeable guide, this experience will fit perfectly. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local encounters and don’t mind a full day on the road.

Key Points

• Authentic small-group experience with personalized attention from friendly guides.
• Beautiful towns: Siatista with its charming Ottoman-era architecture, and Kastoria, famous for its lakeside scenery and Byzantine buildings.
• Cultural highlights: Wine tasting at Dio Filoi winery, and exploring traditional mansions in Kastoria.
• Flexible options: Walk around quaint squares, visit local museums, or enjoy a coffee at traditional cafes.
• Long but rewarding: The total duration is about 11 hours, including travel, which allows for comprehensive exploration.
• Authentic encounters: Guided by knowledgeable locals who share stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: Thessaloniki Pickup & Journey

The tour kicks off with convenient pickup options from central Thessaloniki, including popular spots like IKEA Thessaloniki, the KTEL bus station, and notable churches. From there, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in a comfortable minivan, giving you time to relax and start soaking in the scenery. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the driver/guide, who speaks both Greek and English, is there to answer questions and share local tidbits.

First Stop: Siatista

After a scenic drive, you arrive in Siatista, a small but historically significant town perched in the mountains. Known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, Siatista feels like stepping back in time. You can stroll through cobbled streets lined with traditional houses, admire centuries-old churches, and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Here, there’s an optional visit to the Dio Filoi winery—a chance to taste some excellent Greek wines. The winery is authentic, family-run, and provides insights into local wine-making traditions. For those not interested in wine tasting, options include a leisurely walk around the town square, enjoying a coffee in a traditional cafe, or visiting the Poulko mansion, a classic example of regional architecture. The optional €5 entrance fee for Poulko’s offers a glimpse into local aristocratic life.

As one reviewer put it, the guide, Stefanos, was “a great person, guide, and driver,” making sure everyone enjoyed their time and felt immersed in the local scene.

Continuing to Kastoria

After about two hours in Siatista, the journey continues with a 40-minute drive to Kastoria, a larger town set on a peninsula by Lake Orestiada. This place is a visual treat—surrounded by mountains and famous for its picturesque neighborhoods, Byzantine churches, and historic mansions.

Kastoria’s long-standing fur industry adds a layer of economic history, but today it’s best known for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful lakeside atmosphere. You can choose to stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets, visit museums, or relax at a lakeside cafe while watching the sunset over the water.

Highlights in Kastoria

The most talked-about feature is the area of Dolco, a neighborhood where traditional homes and charming cafes line the streets. Walking here offers a vivid snapshot of the town’s glorious past. Many visitors—like the reviewer who called it “one of the most picturesque residential complexes in Macedonia”—find the architecture captivating.

You’ll also have about three hours to explore, shop, or simply soak in the views. For active travelers, a bike ride near the lake could be a highlight, while others might prefer a leisurely walk through the historic core.

Optional Stops & Extra Experiences

Beyond the main itinerary, there are optional visits such as the Neolithic Settlement of Dispilio or the Cave of Drakos, with entrance fees between €5-€6. These are perfect for history buffs wanting to deepen their understanding of the region’s ancient roots, although they are not included in the standard price.

The Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing, the group heads back to Thessaloniki in a comfortable van, making several drop-off stops at the starting points. The 11-hour total duration makes this a long but rewarding day, capped with plenty of opportunities for photos, stories, and authentic encounters.

Why This Tour Works

The value of this trip lies in the balance of guided insights and free time. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, and the guides—particularly Stefanos—are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The stops at wine tastings and historic neighborhoods are genuine highlights that add depth beyond just sightseeing.

The tour’s price point of $474 per group (up to 8 people) reflects the exclusivity and personalized experience offered. For travelers looking to explore less touristy parts of Greece without the hassle of self-organization, this adventure offers great convenience and value.

Authenticity and Highlights

These towns are not just pretty places—they’re layered with stories and traditions. The Ottoman architecture in Siatista and the Byzantine relics in Kastoria give insight into Greece’s layered history. The lake views in Kastoria are especially stunning and offer perfect photo opportunities.

Practical Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the locations and walking involved. Starting times vary, so checking availability is essential if you’re on a tight schedule. The pickup and drop-off from central Thessaloniki make it convenient, and the guided commentary ensures you won’t miss the significance of each place.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you enjoy authentic local experiences and want to see some of Greece’s less-traveled but stunning towns, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts, wine lovers, or anyone seeking a relaxed day immersed in scenic beauty and cultural richness. Travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized attention will find this particularly appealing.

It’s also an ideal option for those who prefer a full-day trip that covers a lot of ground without the stress of planning. However, if you prefer shorter tours or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable minivan, with pickup and drop-off options from central Thessaloniki.

Can I visit the winery and mansion house?
Yes, the winery Dio Filoi is optional, with a €10 tasting fee, and Poulko’s mansion has a €5 entrance fee if you choose to visit.

How long do I have in Kastoria?
You’ll have approximately three hours for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing by the lake.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for a private group of up to 8 people, providing a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for non-Greek speakers?
Yes, guides speak both Greek and English, making it accessible for international travelers.

Are there any additional activities included?
Optional activities such as cave visits or archaeological sites require extra fees and are not included in the standard tour.

To sum it up, this small-group day trip from Thessaloniki to Siatista and Kastoria offers a wonderful blend of history, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek culture. It’s ideal for travelers eager to explore off-the-beaten-path towns, enjoy local wine tastings, and capture some memorable vistas— all with the comfort of guided logistics. Whether you’re passionate about architecture, nature, or just want a peaceful escape, this tour promises a genuine slice of Macedonia’s charm.