If you are looking for a peaceful and snowy getaway during the Christmas holidays, you might want to consider some alternative options. Instead of going to the usual destinations, why not explore some hidden gems and places that you have never been to before? They are waiting for you to enjoy some wonderful moments at Christmas. Whether you prefer to stay close to Athens or travel further away, you will find something that suits you. Here are three suggestions for a holiday at the end of 2023.
Christmas photos of old Athens
Three crowd-free destinations for Christmas holidays
Christmas at the city of Xanthi, Thrace
If you want to experience a different winter destination that will charm you from the first moment and leave you with the best impressions, Xanthi is a great choice for Christmas holidays – as long as you have enough days to spare. The city of Xanthi offers you comfortable and affordable accommodation, beautiful attractions and a chance for a culinary journey. Your trip to the city begins from the main square with the old clock. Then you will stop by the Municipal Market, which is a listed monument.
Finally, you will savor traditional, local appetizers and special flavors that will pleasantly surprise you. The old town with its cobblestone streets is perfect for walking, especially if the weather permits. Do not leave the city without visiting the Municipal Art Gallery and the Folklore Museum of Xanthi. The trip to Thrace and more details to plan your trip to Xanthi, will make you want to visit the area as soon as possible.
Christmas holidays at Leonidio, Peloponnese
If you are looking for a safe and good option for a getaway all year round, the Peloponnese has always something to offer. Especially for the Christmas holidays. Leonidio is a great choice if you want to go somewhere close but avoid the crowds. The lovely Leonidio is an ideal place for your stay and even at very reasonable accommodation rental prices.
The traditional settlement of Leonidio is distinguished and captivates you from the start. From the moment you see the sign “Kaur you did” in the Tsakonian dialect. Walking in the village you will admire the scenic and historic mansions and listed buildings. And of course the characteristic “Kokkinovrachos” that stands majestic above the quaint town!
Serres and Lake Kerkini, Central Macedonia
If you are looking for a different way to spend Christmas in nature, you might want to consider Lake Kerkini and the region of Serres in Central Macedonia. This is a place where you can admire the beauty of birds and wildlife throughout the year. You can stay in Serres or in one of the nearby villages, such as Ano Poroia.
You will also experience the charm of the mountains, with gentle tourism and no crowds. And of course, you will taste some delicious local dishes, such as cheese-filled red peppers. You can stop for walks along the scenic routes. If you are lucky, you will see snow-covered landscapes that will make you appreciate the diversity of Greece. A trip to Serres is full of surprises and gifts.
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Read Also:
Serres: The only place in Greece that has fallen meteorite
The monastery that is wedged in the red rock
Xanthi: The Old Town is the jewel of Thrace
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Frequently Asked Questions
The three best crowd-free Christmas destinations in Greece are Xanthi in Thrace, Leonidio in the Peloponnese, and Serres with Lake Kerkini in Central Macedonia. These hidden gem locations offer peaceful getaways with traditional charm, affordable accommodation, and authentic local experiences away from crowded tourist areas.
Xanthi is located 700 kilometers from Athens. You can reach it by car in more than seven hours, or by plane in about one hour to Megas Alexandros airport in Kavala, which is 35 km away from Xanthi. The flight option is recommended for those with limited time.
The main attractions in Xanthi include the famous Bazaar of Xanthi, the old clock tower in the main square, the Municipal Market (a listed monument), the beautiful cobblestone streets of the old town, the Municipal Art Gallery, and the Folklore Museum of Xanthi. You can also enjoy traditional local appetizers and special regional flavors.
Yes, Leonidio is an excellent Christmas destination offering a safe getaway with reasonable accommodation prices and crowd-free experiences. It is located about 210 km from Athens, and the journey by car takes just over 3 hours via the Korinthos-Tripoli-Kalamata route, then continuing toward Nafplio, Argos, and Astros before reaching Leonidio.
Leonidio is unique because of its traditional settlement charm, scenic historic mansions, listed buildings, and the majestic 'Kokkinovrachos' rock formation that stands above the town. The Tsakonian dialect adds cultural authenticity, and the picturesque village offers peaceful walks and beautiful imagery perfect for a relaxing Christmas getaway.
At Lake Kerkini and Serres in Central Macedonia, you can spend Christmas in nature while admiring the beauty of birds and wildlife throughout the year. You can stay in Serres or nearby villages like Ano Poroia, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking a different and peaceful Christmas experience away from crowds.
