After the Thessaloniki Marathon: Vergina

The Route: Thessaloniki → Vergina → Thessaloniki Airport Logistics: Car or road transfer, about 1 to 1.5 hours from the city. Public transport to the site needs checking, so a car or a prearranged transfer is the dependable choice. Marathon Month: April Duration: 2 nights

Thessaloniki ──(1-1.5 hrs by car or transfer)──> Vergina (2 nights)
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Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) ◄──(1-1.5 hrs, car/transfer)┘

The Alexander the Great Marathon finishes on the Thessaloniki waterfront on a Sunday in April. The same Macedonian story continues south-west of the race route, at Aigai, the first capital of the kingdom. This itinerary uses one base and one major visit a day, which is about what the legs will allow.

April in Vergina. The foothills are green and cool in April, and rain is possible. Daytime temperatures are usually mild, and the mornings can be cold. A light waterproof is useful. The sites are mostly indoors or on level ground, which is helpful in unsettled weather.

A car gives the most freedom. Collect one in Thessaloniki or at the airport. If you prefer not to drive on tired legs, arrange a transfer for the outward and return journeys. The official tourism pages describe the connection between Aigai and Pella, but they do not confirm current bus services to the site, so check the timetable before relying on public transport.

Nights one and two: Vergina and the region

Choose a base in or near Vergina, or in the larger town of Veria nearby if you want more restaurants. Confirm that your hotel is open and ask about breakfast times. A single base means no repacking.

The royal tombs of Aigai

The Great Tumulus covers the royal tombs found in 1977, including the tomb identified with Philip II, the father of Alexander. The museum is built inside the tumulus, so the visit is underground in a cool, dim gallery with level floors and benches. This is the best visit for the first day, since it needs little walking. The finds include gold work, armour and painted tomb facades. Check the current opening hours and admission before you go, since the schedule changes by season, and ask about step-free access.

The palace and the theatre

The remains of the Palace of Aigai stand on a hillside above the village and involve walking on uneven ground and some steps. This visit is a better choice for the second day, if the legs are willing. The ground is exposed and there is little shade.

Where to eat

Local tavernas serve grilled meat, pies and vegetables. Ask what is cooked that day and book if you want a table at a place that opens only for dinner.

Getting to the airport