A 6-Day Catholic Pilgrimage & Mount Athos Cruise Based in Thessaloniki

After a rich buffet breakfast, we drive along the ancient Via Egnatia to Kavala (ancient Neapolis), the port where Paul landed in Europe. We continue to Philippi, the site of Europe’s first Christian community. We visit the ancient forum, theater, and the cell identified as Paul and Silas’s prison. At the open-air Baptistery of St. Lydia along the Zygaktis River, your Spiritual Director will lead a prayer service and renewal of baptismal vows. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional regional tavern. Return to Thessaloniki, dinner at the 4-star hotel, and overnight.

We depart for Veria to pray at St. Paul’s Bema, reflecting on the faithful Bereans who eagerly studied the Word of God (Acts 17:11). We then visit Vergina to admire the Royal Tombs of the Macedonian Kings, gaining historical context prior to Christianity. This is followed by a delicious traditional lunch at a local tavern. Return to Thessaloniki. A venue will be arranged for Holy Mass. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight.

Today we embark on a full-day excursion to Meteora. Upon arriving in Kalambaka, we gaze at the giant rock pillars hosting historic monasteries. We visit these holy sanctuaries, admiring Byzantine frescoes and contemplating the power of silent prayer and monastic devotion. After our spiritual tour, we gather for an authentic lunch at a traditional tavern in Kalambaka. Return to Thessaloniki in the late afternoon. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight.

Today we depart east toward Halkidiki and Ouranoupoli, the gateway to Mount Athos. We embark on a peaceful cruise along the western coast of Mount Athos. From the sea, we gaze upon the awe-inspiring, fortress-like monasteries clinging to the sheer cliffs, contemplating centuries of unbroken monastic prayer, silence, and ascetic dedication. Following our sailing, we return to Ouranoupoli for a hearty traditional lunch featuring fresh seafood at a seaside tavern. Return to Thessaloniki in the late afternoon. Your Spiritual Director will lead a prayer service and celebrate Holy Mass at a quiet venue. In the evening, we gather for a special farewell dinner at the 4-star hotel restaurant, giving thanks for the spiritual graces received.

Following breakfast at the hotel, and depending on your flight schedule, a final traditional lunch will be arranged before departure. Your Mazi coach and driver will transfer your group directly to Thessaloniki International Airport for your return flight home. You return to your parishes renewed in spirit, carrying the light of St. Paul’s preaching from Macedonia.

Today we explore the natural and mythological majesty of Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Greece and legendary residence of the 12 Olympian Gods. We will walk along the scenic, narrow paths of the Enipeas Canyon in the charming village of Litochoro. We will also discover the ancient archaeological park of Dion, a sacred city of the Macedonians situated right at the foothills of the mountain. After a fulfilling lunch at a traditional local restaurant surrounded by nature, we head back to the city. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Enjoy your final Greek breakfast. The morning is yours to relax or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. At the arranged time, you will be transferred to Thessaloniki Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Greece’s history, faith, and beauty.