In short: in Paralia it is worth seeing the long sandy beach (about 5 km, Blue Flag) and the lively promenade full of shops and cafés; the resort is just seven kilometres from Katerini, the capital of Pieria.
Paralia (Paralia Katerini) is the liveliest resort on the Olympic Riviera — a long sandy beach, a promenade full of shops, cafés and taverns and a rich choice for going out, all at the foot of mythical Olympus. It lies on the Thermaic Gulf, just fifteen minutes’ drive from Katerini, the capital of Pieria. In this guide we go through the beach, the promenade, the excursions and why Paralia is worth it.
Beaches in Paralia
The main beach of Paralia is about five kilometres long, sandy and with a shallow, calm sea, landscaped and holding a Blue Flag. The gradual entry and the warm, calm water make it safe and suitable for children, and along the shore run sun loungers, parasols and beach bars. Thanks to the length of the beach a quieter corner is easily found, even though Paralia is one of the most visited places on the riviera.
What to see in Paralia and nearby
Paralia combines fun by the sea with the sights at the foot of Olympus within easy reach.
The promenade and evening fun
The hallmark of Paralia is its seaside promenade, along which more than a hundred taverns, bars, cafés and shops are lined up. In the evening the place comes to life — from family dinners by the sea to lively going out, Paralia has the richest offer for a night out on the whole riviera. By the promenade there are also a small amusement park (Luna Park) and facilities for children.
Ancient Dion
At the foot of Olympus, some twenty kilometres from Paralia, is ancient Dion — the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians dedicated to Zeus, today an archaeological park with the remains of temples, a theatre, baths and sanctuaries, along with a museum. It is one of the most important sites in northern Greece and an easy half-day excursion.
Mount Olympus
Above the riviera rises Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece and, by myth, the home of the gods, today a national park with hiking trails and viewpoints. An excursion into nature is easily arranged from Paralia, and the main starting point for the ascent is nearby Litohoro.
Excursions: Katerini, Platamon and Meteora
Near Paralia is Katerini with its pedestrian zone and rich choice of shopping, Platamon (Belgrade to Platamon transfer) with its medieval castle above the sea, and a full-day trip to Meteora is possible too. See also what to see in Platamon and calmer Korinos north of Paralia.
Paralia for families and with children
With its shallow, long beach and gradual entry into the sea, Paralia is suitable for a holiday with children too: there are Luna Park, bike rental and children’s playgrounds, and everything is within reach along the promenade. The rich choice of accommodation and taverns means families easily find both facilities and peace.
Where to eat and evening outings
Along the promenade and in the town are taverns, cafés and bars with Greek cuisine, fresh fish and seafood. The evenings are the liveliest on the whole riviera — from quiet dinners by the sea to going out late. The rough prices in Greece 2026 help you plan your budget in advance.
How to get to Paralia from Belgrade
For the Belgrade to Paralia 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 Paralia in the morning. The journey is about 665 km, a drive of 8–9 hours — the Olympic Riviera is one of the Greek coasts closest to Belgrade.
The price is fixed and free of hidden costs; see the price for Paralia, 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 is the beach in Paralia like?
About five kilometres long, sandy and with a shallow, calm sea, landscaped and with a Blue Flag. The gradual entry makes it suitable for families with children, and its length means a quieter part can be found too.
What can you visit from Paralia?
Ancient Dion and Mount Olympus at the foot of which the riviera lies, the medieval castle in Platamon, the town of Katerini with its pedestrian zone and a full-day trip to Meteora.
Is Paralia good for nightlife?
It is — a promenade with more than a hundred taverns, bars and shops makes Paralia the liveliest resort on the Olympic Riviera, with the richest offer for going out.
Is Paralia suitable for families with children?
It is — a shallow, long beach with a gradual entry, Luna Park, children’s playgrounds and bike rental make it suitable for a holiday with children.
How far is Paralia from Belgrade?
About 665 km, a drive of 8–9 hours. With a night departure from Belgrade (21:00h) you reach the sea in the morning — the Olympic Riviera is one of the closest Greek coasts.
