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Things to do in Ouranoupoli

Our most recommended things to do in Ouranoupoli

Mount Athos Glassbottom Cruise with Ammouliani Island visit

1. Mount Athos Glassbottom Cruise with Ammouliani Island visit

Take part in a guided sightseeing cruise around Mount Athos Bay in Halkidiki to view the imposing western part of the Holy Mountain Athos in a Glassbottom vessel. After getting the chance to see 6 out of 9 of the local monasteries, take some fantastic photos as your boat passes the gorgeous Drenia islets or Donkey Islands as the locals refer to them.  Explore the majestic island of Ammouliani by stopping there for 1.5 hours where you'll have the opportunity for swimming or to have lunch. 

Ouranoupoli: Mount Athos Peninsula Sightseeing Cruise

2. Ouranoupoli: Mount Athos Peninsula Sightseeing Cruise

Board a sightseeing boat cruise and explore the southwest side of the Mount Athos peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and important center of Eastern Orthodox monasticism. Marvel at the rugged landscape and be amazed by the legacy of those who, over a thousand years ago, managed to construct these spectacular buildings. During the cruise, see 8 monasteries from a close distance from the boat, including the Holy Monastery of Dochiariou, the Holy Monastery of Xiropotamou and the Holy Monastery of Panteleimonos, amongst several others. Learn about the history of these religious sites from the onboard commentary. Discover more about the restrictions on entering this sacred area, as well as more information about the monastic lives of its inhabitants If you are lucky, you may also spot some dolphins throughout the cruise. Enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the coastline and the Aegean Sea throughout the journey.

From Ouranoupolis: Cruise to Mount Athos Monasteries

3. From Ouranoupolis: Cruise to Mount Athos Monasteries

Start your journey from the port of Ouranoupoli. View impressive monasteries positioned on the cliffs like Simonopetra and Daphni, as you travel around the coast.  Discover the monastic state that has existed for more than 1000 years in accordance with the lifestyle and religiosity of the Byzantines. Keep an eye out for dolphins that may swim alongside the boat. Take the rare opportunity to see a Mediterranean monk seal in the wild, a critically endangered species. 

Chalkidiki: Lunch Cruise to Blue Lagoon & Vourvourou's Islet

4. Chalkidiki: Lunch Cruise to Blue Lagoon & Vourvourou's Islet

Delight in a fun cruise aboard a glass-bottom boat from Ouranoupoli's port to the famous beaches of Sithonia and the islands of Vourvourou and Diaparos. Enjoy plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, and savor a traditional Greek barbecue meal for lunch. Board a glass-bottom boat from the port of Ouranoupoli and set sail. Pass over the most famous reef of the area and admire the yellow corals. Travel to the second peninsula of Halkidiki, Sithonia, and take some photos of the picture-perfect beaches. Next, stop at the Blue Lagoon for 2 hours. Swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters of the bay at a depth of 2 meters. After swimming and snorkeling, replenish your energy with a barbecue full of traditional Greek flavors, such as souvlaki, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread. Enjoy a glass of wine and beverages for your children with your meal, but inform the local partner a few days in advance if you require a vegetarian meal. Once you've had your lunch, make your way to Alikes beach on Ammouliani. Stop for 1.5 hours for more swimming opportunities at the port of the lagoon, or sip a cocktail at one of the various beach bars. The tour concludes with a return to Ouranoupolis in the evening.

Thessaloniki: Day Trip to Ouranoupoli with Mt. Athos Cruise

5. Thessaloniki: Day Trip to Ouranoupoli with Mt. Athos Cruise

Join a day cruise and discover the beauty of the Athos peninsula and the enchanting island of Ammouliani. See over 20 monasteries and take in the picturesque coastline on an unforgettable journey. Depart to Ouranoupoli with the bus Ammon Express along with our friendly trip attendant-archaeologist, at 07:30 from Aristotelous Square and Egnatia Street (at the statue of Venizelos). The route is 140 km and takes about 2 ½ hours. Begin your journey as you arrive in Ouranoupoli at approximately 10:30 AM. Be greeted by the Byzantine Tower of Prosforion, a trademark of the city. Then, embark on an enchanting cruise around the awe-inspiring Mount Athos, an independent monastic state with a history spanning over 1,100 years. Discover Mount Athos, comprising 20 monasteries, including Russian, Serbian, and Bulgarian monasteries. Experience the unparalleled beauty of the area as you sail along its stunning coastline. Take in incredible views and learn about its fascinating history. Continue, to the enchanting island of Ammouliani on Tuesday, Thursday or Friday, where you will enjoy free time to immerse yourself in the emerald waters and relax on the sandy beaches. This verdant island boasts a picturesque port and traditional alleys, showcasing the typical architecture of Mt. Athos dispersed throughout the island. Take a stroll through the charming village and explore its local shops and tavernas. On Saturday experience a breathtaking cruise around the majestic western region of the Holy Mountain of Athos with the luxurious boat. Immerse yourself in the holy monasteries and be captivated by the stunning natural beauty of the sea. Experience the island’s serene waters, which never fail to amaze every traveler. Take advantage of the opportunity to taste traditional Greek cuisine at one of the island’s many tavernas, and indulge in the flavors of the region. Depart for Thessaloniki at around 17:00 and arrive back after 2 ½ hours, making the same stops where you started from.

Ouranoupoli: Mount Athos Sightseeing Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

6. Ouranoupoli: Mount Athos Sightseeing Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Book a glass-bottom boat tour to Mount Athos and admire the breathtaking view of the monasteries from the water. Enjoy a cruise suitable for women and families who are not allowed to visit Mount Athos for religious reasons. Enjoy a cruise around the imposing western part of the Holy Mountain Athos. Take in views of the breathtaking holy monasteries of Halkidiki and be amazed by the unprecedented natural beauty of the stunning coastline and ocean views on the horizon. Listen to live traditional music when on the boat. Take advantage of the onboard bar, where you can buy food, soft drinks, beer, wine, cocktails, and snacks.

From Thessaloniki: Day Trip with Cruise around Mount Athos

7. From Thessaloniki: Day Trip with Cruise around Mount Athos

Following early morning pick-up from central locations in Thessaloniki, travel by luxury air-conditioned bus to Ormos Panagias in the northeast of the Sithonia Peninsula in Halkidiki. Climb aboard a boat and sail towards the south of the Athos Peninsula, soaring to a maximum altitude of 2,033 meters. Continue north along the western coast and admire the mysterious and miraculous mountain that has been the center of Eastern Orthodox monasticism for centuries.  At the end of an approximately 4-hour cruise, stop in the village of Ouranoupoli. Enjoy some free time to discover the beautiful village at your own pace. Go for a stroll, browse the little shops or eat a traditional meal at one of the best taverns in the village. Return to Ormos Panagias as you are treated to a wonderful program of traditional dances and Greek music. Arrive in Ormos Panagias at around 17:00, where the bus will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Thessaloniki.

From Ouranoupoli: Back to the '80s. VIP Sunset Cruise

8. From Ouranoupoli: Back to the '80s. VIP Sunset Cruise

Let your hair down under the imposing view of Mount Athos as you experience an afternoon cocktail listening to 80's music on board a sunset cruise. Relax in style onboard the VIP deck and experience the illuminated night seabed as you look below the glass bottom boat. Begin with a cruise around the Drenia islets of Ammouliani. Capture a picture with the historic Tower of Ouranoupolis in the background and let yourselves get carried away by the unparalleled beauty of the island complex. Then, watch the sunset over the horizon before the lights go down and the seabed lights turn on. Get into the party spirit as the music gets louder, the rhythm picks up, and you make this celebration one to remember.

Halkidiki: Half Sailing cruise to Sithonia

9. Halkidiki: Half Sailing cruise to Sithonia

Starting from the meeting point in Paliouri, choose either a morning cruise from 10 AM, or an early evening cruise from 4 PM. Meet your skipper and board the luxury yacht fully equipped with all you need for a fabulous time at sea.  Take time to swim, snorkel, in the incredible turquoise waters. Back on board, set sail and marvel at the stunning nature lining the Sithonia coastline. Unlike Kassandra — whose coastline is lined with many resorts — Sithonia’s pristine beauty will amaze you up close or from afar. Watch from the comfort of your yacht how the wooded areas alternate with rock formations and splendid beaches. Then, return back to the starting point of your cruise with your senses well and truly stimulated.

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What people are saying about Ouranoupoli

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 564 reviews

We really enjoyed our trip, seeing different monasteries and spending some time on Ammouliani island (you get about 1,5h to spend here. There is a snackbar on the beach or you can bring some food if your own). Make sure to be on time in the morning so you get a good spot in the boat. Staf is very friendly!

I had a good day. I had a good laugh with the Greek haddock captain and our guide Yianis who was very nice. Yianis was in the biggest checks. a Greek excursions with wonderful landscapes.

Staff very friendly and helpful. The view it’s something fantastic. One of the best choice to do in holiday. Good music, nice view and close friends. I would recommend

Excellent tour, tour guide explain very clearly information. Driver is also good and safe.

Professionally organized Good explanations and friendly staff