Post-Conference Tours - Saturday, 7 June 2025
(for UFI delegates only)
*included in the registration fee*
Choose your favorite tour:
Tour 1 - Discover Thessaloniki: A One-Day City Tour Through 2,400 Years of History and Culture
Date and time: Saturday, June 7, all day tour
Thessaloniki, Greece's vibrant second-largest city, boasts an extraordinary 2,400-year history, offering a perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern charm. A one-day city tour will take you through centuries of fascinating history, from the Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras to its thriving contemporary culture.
Start your journey with a visit to the White Tower, the city's iconic landmark on the waterfront, followed by a stroll along the bustling Aristotelous Square, the heart of Thessaloniki. As you explore, discover the city’s rich Byzantine past with visits to the Rotunda, the Church of Saint Demetrios, and the stunning Hagia Sophia, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing exquisite mosaics and architectural grandeur.
The tour also includes the Roman Agora and the Arch of Galerius, offering glimpses into Thessaloniki’s Roman era. For art lovers, the Museum of Byzantine Culture provides an in-depth look into the city’s historical role as a center of Byzantine art and religion.
As you walk through Thessaloniki’s lively streets, you’ll experience its 2,400-year-old story—shaped by Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern influences. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning seafront views, Thessaloniki is a city full of energy and stories waiting to be discovered in just one day.
Tour 2 - Experience the Majestic Meteora: A Day Trip to the Monasteries in the Sky
Date and time: Saturday, June 7 all day
Meteora, one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring destinations, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Towering rock formations rise dramatically from the Thessalian plain, crowned by ancient monasteries that seem to float in the sky. A day trip to Meteora provides a unique opportunity to explore these monasteries and experience their serene atmosphere, stunning architecture, and deep-rooted history.
Originally built by monks seeking solitude and spiritual refuge, the monasteries of Meteora date back to the 14th century. Six of them are still active today, preserving centuries-old traditions. As you visit these monasteries, including the Great Meteoron, the largest and oldest, or the Monastery of Varlaam, you’ll marvel at the incredible architecture, rare religious icons, and panoramic views that extend across the landscape.
A day at Meteora also offers an unforgettable spiritual and cultural journey. Walking among the monolithic pillars, you’ll sense the peace and isolation that attracted monks to this remote location. The surrounding nature adds to the tranquillity, making it a perfect escape for those seeking a blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
A visit to Meteora is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects you with Greece’s deep spiritual heritage and some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world.
Tour 3 - Discover the Spiritual Beauty of Mount Athos: A Unique Day Trip Experience
Date and time: Saturday, June 7 all day
Mount Athos, also known as the "Holy Mountain," is a place of profound spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Located on a peninsula in northern Greece, it has been a center of Orthodox Christian monasticism for over a thousand years, home to more than 20 historic monasteries. Although access to the peninsula itself is restricted to women, a cruise around Mount Athos offers a rare opportunity to admire its majestic landscape and the architectural splendor of the monasteries from the sea.
A day cruise around Mount Athos provides visitors with a glimpse into this secluded, sacred world. As you sail along the coastline, you’ll learn about the rich history and traditions of the monasteries while soaking in the stunning views of the rugged cliffs and pristine forests. The serene atmosphere and untouched beauty of the area make this an unforgettable experience for both those seeking spiritual connection and nature lovers alike.
A visit to Mount Athos via a cruise is a truly unique cultural and spiritual journey that transports you back in time, offering insight into one of the most significant religious sites in the world.
Tour 4 - Explore the Ancient Kingdom of Macedon: A Day Trip to Vergina and the Aigai Museums
Date and time: Saturday, June 7 all day
A visit to Vergina, the ancient city of Aigai, offers a captivating journey into the heart of Macedonia's rich history. As the first capital of the ancient Kingdom of Macedon, Aigai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its significant archaeological discoveries, including the royal tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.
The Aigai Museums, located in Vergina, house some of the most remarkable artifacts of ancient Greece, including intricately designed gold treasures, royal armor, and beautifully preserved frescoes. Visitors can explore the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai (Vergina), which is built over the royal tombs and offers a stunning, immersive experience as you walk through the burial chambers of Macedonian royalty.
A day trip to Vergina not only brings you face to face with the ancient glory of Macedonia but also provides insight into the legacy of Alexander the Great and his family. The combination of archaeological splendor, historical significance, and artistic beauty makes this a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and travelers eager to explore Greece’s ancient past.