Motorcycle routes from Thessaloniki exist for every mood, and most start in the city and need just one day. Here are five day rides: from the forest and villages above the city to the lakes of Mygdonia and the waterfalls of Edessa. Distances and times are approximate, so check the route, the weather and the road conditions before you set off.
1. Panorama, Seich Sou and Chortiatis
This is the closest ride, almost at the edge of the city. You climb towards Panorama and Seich Sou with views over the Thermaic Gulf and continue to Chortiatis, a mountain village with cafes and tavernas. With stops, the loop can be done in one to two hours.
At weekends traffic increases and the road has many bends, so prefer the morning or the early evening. In summer, when the fire risk is high, traffic restrictions may apply in forest areas. Check before you go up and follow the signs.
2. The Thermaic coast: Perea, Nea Michaniona, Epanomi
The ride south of the city is relaxed and flat, ideal for beginners or anyone who wants to eat near the sea. You pass through Perea and Nea Michaniona, with fish tavernas on the coast, and can continue to Epanomi. Allow about 30 km one way.
On weekend afternoons the main coastal roads are busy. Stop for a meal outside peak hours and plan the ride back before dark if you are not experienced at night riding.
3. Langadas, Lake Koroneia and Lake Volvi
You leave Thessaloniki towards Langadas and continue to Lakes Koroneia and Volvi, a landscape of reed beds and many birds. Rentina, about 70 km north-east of the city and close to Volvi, is a Byzantine settlement above a historic pass.
The round trip reaches 140 to 150 km, so it is a full day. Check your fuel before you leave and carry water. Stop for coffee or a meal in Langadas, which has traditional tavernas.
4. The Axios, Loudias and Aliakmon delta
West of the city lies the Axios, Loudias and Aliakmon delta, a large wetland protected as a Ramsar site and important for waterbirds. The road is flat and relatively simple, suitable for anyone who wants calm riding and photos.
Go early in the morning or in the afternoon, when there is more bird activity and less heat. Some roads inside the area may be dirt tracks. Stay on the paved ones unless the motorcycle and the store terms allow otherwise.
5. Pella and Edessa
This is the longest of the five. You follow the old Thessaloniki – Edessa national road, which passes through Pella at about the 35th kilometre, the ancient capital of the Macedonians with its archaeological museum. You continue to Edessa and its waterfalls, about 90 km from Thessaloniki.
The round trip is close to 180 km, a full day with stops. If you want to save time, ask the store and check the rules for motorways, because not every two-wheeler is allowed everywhere. Otherwise keep to the old road and leave time for a meal.
Before you set off: timing, fuel and weather
Start early, especially in summer, and stop for water and shade. Heat tires you more on a motorcycle, even with the right clothing. Fill the tank before leaving the city and do not count on the last fuel in sparsely populated areas.
Check the forecast and avoid rain or strong wind if you lack experience. At the first rain after a dry spell the asphalt is especially slippery. Check brakes, tyres and lights at the pick-up and take the vehicle documents with you.
Which motorcycle suits each route
The first three routes are easy on smaller engines, as long as your licence and the store terms allow it. For the longer ones, such as Volvi and Edessa, a motorcycle with more power and a comfortable riding position tires you less.
If you will have a passenger or luggage, choose a model with suitable space and ask about panniers or a top case. Compare comfort and not only engine size. And always keep in mind the licence each model requires.
Frequently asked questions
Which route is ideal for beginners?
The Thermaic coast and the Axios delta, because they are flat with few bends. Start there before trying Chortiatis or the longer rides.
How much time should I allow?
The two nearby routes take a few hours. Volvi and Edessa are full days. The times are approximate and depend on traffic and your stops.
Is a motorcycle allowed on a motorway?
Not every two-wheeler is allowed on every road. Ask the store and check the rules and signs before entering a motorway.
What is the best season?
Spring and autumn, with mild temperatures. In summer start very early, because the heat is tiring, and avoid peak hours.
Do I need experience for these routes?
The nearby routes can be ridden by beginners with care. For the long routes it helps to already have experience on main roads and longer distances.
Useful destination resources
- Greek National Tourism Organisation · Thessaloniki
- Visit Central Macedonia · Lake Koronia
- Cultural Egnatia · Rentina
- Ramsar · Axios, Loudias, Aliakmon Delta
- Visit Central Macedonia · Archaeological Museum of Pella
These routes are editorial suggestions. Check access, conditions and current opening hours before you travel.