The countdown to Christmas holidays have begun and North Greece has already worn its festive “clothes”; every corner is full of lights, colors, festive melodies and smells of delicious pastries, waiting to take you to dreamlike and fairy worlds!

The traditional well-preserved settlement of Palaios Agios Athanasios, perched at the foot of Kaimaktsalan Mountain, surrounded by majestic forests, is one of the ideal choices for the Christmas season. Browse through the cobbled streets, admire the local architecture and enjoy the breathtaking views of Vegoritida Lake! Those looking for adventure, you can choose from numerous activities such as skiing and snowboarding at Voras-Kaimaktsalan ski center, mountain hiking, riding, mountain biking, archery and 4 × 4 car routes.

The stone built Zagorochoria, sprinkled with snow and dipped in paradisiacal landscapes are an equally beautiful choice. These dreamy villages are renowned for their local cuisine; you will never forget it! If you seek adventure and creative expansion, you will have the opportunity to indulge in various activities like hiking or rafting.

Less popular, but equally beautiful is Tzoumerka; a favorite destination for nature lovers. It is a complex of traditional settlements in Epirus, which unfolds in an earthly paradise, with ravines, canyons, lakes, rivers and rugged mountains.

Those who prefer authentic rustic vacations, will love traditional Metsovo; alpine scenery, dark gray clouds which get mixed with the smoke from the fireplaces, trees covered with snow, stone houses and cobbled streets; all these compose a picture that does not need lights and decorations to welcome Christmas... In this unpretentious beautiful village, you will live unforgettable moments of peace, relaxation and contact with nature, enjoying at the same time, a culinary feast with delicious meats baked in the fireplace, traditional sausages, steamy trahana, famous cheeses and plenty of local wine!

In the city of Trikala, the old Matsopoulos Mill is converted to the Mill of Elves, bringing the magic touch of Christmas. Artistic events, show with jugglers, interactive creative workshops and fairy tales’ narrations are just some of the activities that will take you into the world of fantasy and dreams!

Lovers of nature can choose Elati and Pertouli; two small villages spread over a landscape of natural beauty, offering a ski resort to the sports enthusiasts.

Another option for nature lovers is Plastiras Lake. The romantic scene with the snowy fir slopes and the icy waters, the numerous winter activities, the beautiful taverns serving local delicacies and the excellent hotels around the lake are only some of the reasons which make the area ideal for this time of year.

High on the list with the top destinations for Christmas Karpenisi is featured. Whether you are looking for peace and relaxation or action and adventure, Karpenisi will impress you. Enjoy the breathtaking nature, the great food and take the chance to go skiing, hiking and rafting.

More cosmopolitan but equally picturesque, Pelion, this time of the year is dressed in white, with a pervasive smell of smoldering wood from the houses and shops’ fireplaces... Moreover, the ski resort in Hània becomes a reference point, offering the choice of adventurous fun.

A city with the scent of Christmas widespread is Thessaloniki. The Bride of Thermaikos welcomes Christmas with joyous atmosphere, numerous events for the children, such as those organized in the Concert Hall and the YMCA. At the heart of the festive atmosphere, there is Aristotle Square, where a fairytale setting, inspired by the legends of little goblins, will be set up for the feast days, as well as the Asterokosmos (world of stars), which will be set up in the area of Thessaloniki International Fair (D.E.Th.).

Northern Greece has such breathtakingly beautiful places which during this season show their festive faces and wait for you to live your own story! All that's left is to pick a destination and feel the magic of Christmas ...