Where Greece’s most iconic mountain meets shimmering shores for days, it’s one of the freshest faces on our Jet2holidays map for 2026, the Olympus Riviera!  

You’ll jet into Thessaloniki Airport in Halkidiki, then unlock the wide, sandy beaches, waterside tavernas and hiking trails this ancient region is so famous for. And with buzzy town squares, boat trips and sensational sunset spots also on the agenda, you’ll soon have your days all planned out. But what are the top things to do there? Let’s find out... 

1. Hike up Mount Olympus 

Maybe the most well-known must-do in the Olympus Riviera – you've got to don your hiking boots and head up the mighty Mount Olympus. Why? It’s Greece’s highest summit, for a start. But it’s the so-called home of the gods – not to mention the site of Zeus’ throne, in Greek mythology! So it’s a cool place to be, we reckon – even if it’s just for the vast views, photo opps or I’ve-been-there bragging rights. Start from Litochoro or Prionia, then conquer trails like the Enipeas Gorge. If you want all the best trail info, route maps and more, it’s worth checking out the Olympus National Park Information Centre when you get there too. 

2. Visit the Archaeological Park of Dion 

You’ll instantly feel connected to the stories of the gods when you enter the Archaeological Park of Dion. Old Macedonian tombs, churches and various ruins from bygone times give you a snapshot of the past as you roam around the site. And it’s all set against a backdrop of lush greenery for the most dramatic effect! 

3. Flake out on the local beaches 

More than 70km of captivating coastline makes up the Olympus Riviera. For lively and quiet beaches primed for sunbathing and swimming, we can’t recommend Paralia Katerini, Platamonas and Leptokarya enough. The long Paralia Katerini offers clear shallows to paddle in, sunloungers and parasols to hire, and the sort of atmosphere that you’ll want to linger in. It also has a Blue Flag to its name. And the same goes for relaxed Leptokarya. Golden grains, sunbeds and eateries just behind? You bet. It’s set at the bottom of Mount Olympus too. Meanwhile, Platamonas is a pebbly pick ideal for water sports fans. 

4. Explore Platamonas Castle 

This medieval fortress overlooking the rippling waves and the town of Platamonas makes for a fab trip out. Although there’s evidence to suggest much earlier influence there, the castle that stands currently dates back to the 13th century. And as a hidden bonus, the Church of Agia Paraskevi still exists inside. Does it get more dramatic for your holiday snaps? Nope, we don’t think so either. And depending on when you’re on holiday in the Olympus Riviera, summer concerts and theatre performances held here! 

5. Set sail on a boat trip 

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Greece is on a boat tour. So why not book a half-day or full-day cruise to some idyllic hidden bays? You’ll be able to swim in the water once you’ve docked, experience teeny towns and even just soak up the rays as you glide along. Many boat trips are often available from Platamonas or Paralia Katerinis, so go on – grab your hats and sunnies, and enjoy! 

6. Try the local cuisine 

Pierian food spans fresh fish and seafood, mountain produce like dairy, mushrooms and forest fruits, while being seasoned to perfection with local herbs too. Yum! Mussels and shrimp are particularly delicious around here, along with other grilled treats from the sea. The sweet or savoury pastry bougatsa will get your attention if you’re after an on-the-go morsel, while meze platters with local cheeses and olives are a must. Don’t miss out on ordering kontosouvli (marinated pork on a spit) either. Hazelnuts and honey are also big business too, so expect these for afters – as well as sticky baklava!  

7. Find peace at Agios Dionysios Monastery 

Enjoy a sense of zen and inner calm upon arrival at Agios Dionysios Monastery. Nestled in a forested gorge near Mount Olympus, it’s quite the spectacular sight, yet it provides visitors with a spiritual ambience too. There's an old and a new monastery as part of the complex, and the former is located within a forest, which makes for a scenic walk before visiting.  

8. Shop for souvenirs 

Retail therapy’s all done at a local level when it comes to shopping on the Olympus Riviera. Markets are brimming full of take-me-home knick-knacks – we're talking honey, herbs and handmade jewellery. So yep, you’ll be crowned the ultimate souvenir buyer after holidaying here. You’ll find stalls of this kind all over, but the beachside towns also lay on trendy boutiques, as well as supermarkets for picking up some essentials. Winner! 

9. Go for even more of a stomp 

There are lots of popular hiking and walking trails in the region. For a moderate 9km trek, Litochoro to Prionia is great. You’ll pass through the Enipeas Gorge, seeing wooden bridges and waterfalls as you go. Once in Prionia, you may want to continue or carve out time another day to head to Spilios Agapitos Refuge. There are plenty of tracks to follow around Mount Olympus as well, along with river loops around Karitsa and Koromilia. You could even consider doing some in the afternoon, for a sunset reward at the end.  

10. Have a low-key night out 

Who said nights out have to be loud and bassy? When you’ve got chilled beach bars and tucked-away watering holes in quaint towns, it’s easy to find yourself just sipping tipples as you watch the world go by. After more upbeat vibes? Make a beeline for Katerini and Litochoro. Generally though, the Olympus Riviera is a calm region for nights on the tiles. 

Now, want to know where’s best to stay? Read all about resorts on the Olympus Riviera here.