In short: in Litohoro it is worth seeing the starting point for the climb up Olympus, the Enipeas gorge with its waterfalls, the Monastery of Saint Dionysios from 1542 and the old core with its Macedonian architecture, along with Plaka beach on the coast.
Litohoro is the “city of the gods” at the foot of Olympus — a traditional Macedonian town at about 300 metres above sea level, the main starting point for the ascent of Greece’s highest mountain and a base for hikers from all over the world. It combines mountain and sea: narrow stone streets and old architecture on one side, and Plaka beach and the Aegean Sea on the other. In this guide we go through Olympus, the Enipeas gorge, the monastery and why Litohoro is worth it.
Mount Olympus — the home of the gods
Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, with its highest peak Mytikas at about 2,918 metres, and by myth the dwelling of the Greek gods. Today it is a national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with marked hiking trails — from easy walks to the demanding ascent of the summit itself. Litohoro is the main gateway: most hiking routes set off near the town, and the huts and peaks are reached via Prionia.
The Enipeas gorge with waterfalls
From Litohoro also starts the Enipeas gorge — a walking trail through the canyon of the river Enipeas, with waterfalls, wooden bridges and natural pools in which you cool off in summer. The trail links Litohoro (about 300 m) and Prionia (about 1,100 m), and it is possible to walk only the lower, easier part. It is one of the loveliest natural experiences at the foot of Olympus.
The Monastery of Saint Dionysios
In the Enipeas gorge, high above Litohoro, is the Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus, founded in 1542. It was raised by a hermit who lived in a nearby cave, and through history it served as a shelter in wars. The old monastery is reached by car from Litohoro too, and it is a favourite spot for a rest during the walk through the gorge.
Plaka beach and the sea
Although it is a mountain town, Litohoro also has access to the sea: near the town is Plaka beach, a long sand-and-shingle shore of the Aegean. So in a single day you reach both the peak of myth and the beach — the rare combination of mountain and sea for which the riviera is known.
What to see nearby — Dion and Platamon
At the foot of Olympus, near Litohoro, is ancient Dion — the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians dedicated to Zeus, today an archaeological park with temples, a theatre and a museum. On the coast is Platamon with its medieval castle, and there are also traditional stone villages such as Panteleimon on the mountain slope.
Where to eat in Litohoro
In the old core and on the main square are taverns and cafés with home Macedonian cuisine — grilled meat, mountain teas and Greek specialities, with a view of Olympus. After an ascent or a walk through the gorge, a meal in Litohoro is a fitting end to the day. The rough prices in Greece 2026 help you plan your budget in advance.
How to get to Litohoro from Belgrade
For the Belgrade to Litohoro minibus transfer we drive door to door, departing from Belgrade. Departure is at night (at 21:00h for Greece), so you reach the Greek border when queues are smallest, and Litohoro in the morning. The journey is about 690 km, a drive of 8–9 hours.
The price is fixed and free of hidden costs; see the price for Litohoro, the rest of the Olympic Riviera (Belgrade to Olympic Riviera transfer) or the whole price list. Before the trip, check the border crossings and live cameras too.
Frequently asked questions
What to see in Litohoro?
The starting point for the ascent of Olympus, the Enipeas gorge with waterfalls and natural pools, the Monastery of Saint Dionysios and the old core with Macedonian architecture, along with Plaka beach on the coast.
Where does the ascent of Olympus start?
Litohoro is the main starting point; most routes set off near the town, and the mountain huts and peaks (the highest is Mytikas, about 2,918 m) are reached via Prionia.
What is the Enipeas gorge?
A walking trail through the canyon of the river Enipeas, with waterfalls, bridges and natural pools, linking Litohoro (about 300 m) and Prionia (about 1,100 m). Only the lower, easier part can be walked too.
Does Litohoro have a beach?
It does — near the town is Plaka beach on the Aegean, so mountain and sea are combined in a single day.
How far is Litohoro from Belgrade?
About 690 km, a drive of 8–9 hours. With a night departure from Belgrade (21:00h) you reach the Olympic Riviera in the morning.
