Known for ancient theatre, archaeological park, archaeological site, museum
The Archaeological Park of Dion, the most important archaeological site at Mount Olympus in Greece, features several notable sanctuaries, including those dedicated to Zeus, Demeter, Artemis, Asklepios, and Isis. The Sanctuary of Demeter is the oldest, dating back to the Archaic period, while the Sanctuary of Zeus was built during the Hellenistic period. The site also includes a theater, which, although rebuilt in wood, was once a venue for concerts and shows.
You understand, it is impossible to see Greece just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Greece in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Dion, along with other Greece' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Dion, or contact us directly for a custom tour in Greece. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!
Other places in Greece that we are familiar with
Acrocorinth - Known for fortress, medieval old town, viewpoint
Aigai (Aegae) - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, museum; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Amphipolis - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological park, monument, museum
Ano Pedina - Known for hiking pass, mountain town, scenic road, viewpoint, Zagori cultural landscape, orthodox monastery; Zagori cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Argos - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, castle, orthodox cathedral; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Arta - Known for bridge, byzantine empire, castle, museum, orthodox cathedral
Aspraggeli - Known for mountain town, scenic road, Zagori cultural landscape, orthodox church; Zagori cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Athens - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site, historical center, museum, sightseeing; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Bassae - Known for archaeological site, viewpoint; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Chalkida - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, marina, museum, viewpoint
Corfu - Known for archaeological site, beach, fortress, historical center, island, marina, medieval old town, museum, promenade, scenic road, sightseeing, viewpoint
Corinth - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site, beach, bridge, coastal town, fortress, landmark, viewpoint
Corinth canal - Known for landmark, sightseeing, viewpoint
Delphi - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site, museum; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Diakopto - Known for coastal town, railroad, scenic road
Dimitsana - Known for bridge, hiking pass, mountain town, scenic road, viewpoint, orthodox monastery
Larissa - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site; ancient theatre is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Livadeia - Known for castle, medieval old town, river, waterfall
Messene - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, landmark, museum, viewpoint; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Mesolongi (Messolonghi) - Known for beach, coastal town, lake, landmark, promenade, wildlife
Meteora - Known for landmark, nature, viewpoint, orthodox monastery; monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Methoni - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, viewpoint; castle is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Metsovo - Known for architecture, mountain town, museum, viewpoint, winery
Monemvasia - Known for ancient settlement, beach, coastal town, hiking pass, island, medieval old town, viewpoint, orthodox church
Monodendri - Known for hiking pass, mountain town, museum, scenic road, sightseeing, viewpoint, Zagori cultural landscape, orthodox church, orthodox monastery; Zagori cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mycenae - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, viewpoint; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mystras - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, viewpoint, orthodox monastery; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Nafpaktos - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, marina, monument, museum, promenade, viewpoint
Nafplio - Known for castle, coastal town, fortified town, fortress, historical center, marina, monument, museum, promenade, viewpoint; fortress is a UNESCO Tentative List Site; castle is a UNESCO Tentative List Site; fortified town is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Oiniadai (Oeniadae) - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, walls; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Olympia - Known for archaeological site, museum; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Palace of Nestor - Known for archaeological site, architecture, landmark
Parga - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, promenade
Patras - Known for archaeological site, castle, coastal town, museum, promenade, seaport, viewpoint, winery, orthodox cathedral
Porto Kagio - Known for beach, coastal town, marina, viewpoint
Preveza - Known for castle, coastal town, marina, museum, seaport
Pylos - Known for beach, bridge, castle, coastal town, fortress, marina, venetian empire, wildlife
Rio - Known for bridge, coastal town, fortress, seaport, viewpoint
Sparta - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site
Vitsa - Known for bridge, hiking pass, mountain town, scenic road, viewpoint, Zagori cultural landscape, orthodox church; Zagori cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Volos - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, beach, coastal town, marina, museum, nature, seaport
Western Thrace - Known for beach, forest, lake, landmark, nature, park, river
Last reviewed: 13 September 2025
Dion description
Dion is an ancient city located at the northeastern foot of Mount Olympus in northern Greece, near the modern town of Dion in Pieria. Its strategic position near the sea and the mythic mountain gave it great religious and military significance in antiquity, allowed Dion to control the narrow defile leading from Macedonia to Thessaly.
Dion was originally a small harbor on the Vaphyras river but was transformed into a sacred city by King Archaelos I at the end of the 5th century BC. Archaelos built a sanctuary to Zeus, and the city became known as Dion, meaning ＂of Zeus＂ in Greek. Over time, additional sanctuaries dedicated to Demeter, Artemis, Asklepios, and Isis were constructed, making Dion a significant religious and cultural site for the Macedonians.
The name ＂Dion＂ derives from Zeus, the chief Greek god, highlighting its importance as a major sanctuary dedicated to him. According to legend, it is also the burial place of Orpheus, the mythical poet and musician.
Dion gained fame as the religious center of the ancient Macedonian kingdom, hosting sacred rituals and athletic competitions that honored Zeus and the Muses, attracting visitors and dignitaries from across the Greek world.
The site played a significant role during the times of Philip II and Alexander the Great. Both Macedonian kings celebrated military victories here, and Alexander famously offered sacrifices at the Temple of Olympian Zeus before commencing his conquest of Asia.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered a large sanctuary complex, with several temples dedicated to gods such as Zeus, Demeter, Isis, and Asclepius. The ruins include grand colonnaded structures and ornate altars revealing the city's religious grandeur.
The Archaeological Park of Dion covers about 150 hectares, with urban areas and sanctuaries containing remains of public buildings, theaters, bathhouses, shops, and residential quarters, giving a vivid glimpse into ancient urban life.
Dion had two ancient theaters: a well-preserved Roman theater from the 2nd century AD still used for cultural events, and an older Hellenistic theater that hosted dramatic performances and religious ceremonies. The city also had luxurious villas adorned with exquisite mosaics, such as the renowned Villa of Dionysus, symbolizing the wealth and artistic achievements of its inhabitants.
The site includes Roman baths and a conservatory, hinting at the sophisticated infrastructure and the social life that thrived in Dion during the Roman period. Later periods saw the construction of Early Christian basilicas, indicating continued occupation and religious transformation into the Byzantine era.
Dion was heavily attacked and destroyed by the Aetolians in 219 BCE but was rebuilt and continued to be inhabited during the Roman and Byzantine periods until it was eventually abandoned following natural disasters.
The modern Archaeological Museum of Dion, located nearby, houses rich artifacts discovered at the site, including statues, pottery, jewelry, and inscriptions that illuminate the cultural and religious history of the city.
Visitors today can explore the archaeological park, walking among temple ruins, theaters, and bathhouses while enjoying spectacular views of Mount Olympus and the surrounding landscape. The park frequently hosts cultural events such as concerts and theatrical performances, connecting the past and present in a vibrant celebration of history and art.
Dion is interesting for tourists due to its rich history and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of historical figures like Alexander the Great, who made sacrifices to Zeus here before his conquests. The site offers a glimpse into ancient Macedonian culture and the blend of Hellenistic and Roman influences. The nearby archaeological museum, which houses many of the artifacts found at the site, adds to the visitor experience.
Dion's historical and archaeological significance, coupled with its scenic setting near Greece's mythic mountain, make it a captivating destination for tourists interested in ancient Greek history and culture.
Although Dion itself is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its profound role in ancient Macedonian history and the cultural treasures it holds continue to draw scholars and visitors alike.
Dion serves as a gateway to exploring the wider Olympus region, combining archaeology, mythology, and natural beauty, appealing to travelers seeking a diverse experience in northern Greece. The ongoing excavations and careful preservation efforts keep Dion vibrant as an educational and touristic highlight, revealing new facets of ancient life with each discovery.
Despite being rediscovered in 1806 and excavated since the 1920s, the site has been left largely unrestored to reflect the passage of time. This approach allows visitors to appreciate the fragility and authenticity of the ancient structures. The best times to visit are June and September, when the landscape is either lush and green or drier, offering different but equally fascinating experiences.
In summary, Dion offers a rich journey through the religious, cultural, and political history of ancient Macedonia with its vast archaeological park, museum, and connection to Greece's legendary past.
Dion related tours
We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Dion during multi-day private car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Dion.
We have developed several private tours that visiting beautiful Dion. But, if you have a special conditions or any from these tours fit you, please do not hesitate to contact us, we can organize a tour exactly as you would like. We charge nothing for develop a custom itinerary. And remember, we have no problems to take you from almost any place where you stay, hotel or private accommodation.
Come with us to discover Central Greece on a 12-day circle tour from Thessaloniki. With this off-season tour, we will visit different attractions of Central Greece, important ones as well as lesser-known ones.
The very first attraction we will visit is town Pella, where we will explore its archaeological site and museum. From Pella we will come to town Edessa, to explore its attractions, small historical center, archaeological site, and the monastery of Holy Trinity. From Edessa, we will visit the area of Mieza, to see its archaeological site, ancient theater, and historical landmarks related to Aristotle.
After Mieza, we will come to see the Byzantine museum in Veria, and see the so-called Podium of Paul the Apostle, the site where he talked with people. Near Veria, we will come to Aegae, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its monumental significance in Western civilization and exceptional architecture. Aegae was the first capital of the Macedonian kingdom and the burial place for their kings, considered to be one of the biggest and most significant places of classical Greece.
From Veria, we will come for an overnight stay in the mountain town Metsovo, known for its wine and cheese. Our next destination is Kalampaka. Here we will climb steps of several Meteora monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage site). We will visit all monasteries that are open during these two days.
After the Meteora monasteries, we will come to town Trikala, see its fortress, and continue our tour toward the coastal town of Volos. Before coming to Volos, we will explore the archaeological site Sesklo, related to the Greek Neolithic Period (ca. 6000-3000 BCE). We will stay again 2 nights in the coastal town of Volos, where we also will visit its archaeological museum to see artifacts from Sesklo. Near Volos is located the mountain monastery of Holy Archangels, which we will see also on the same day.
In Larissa, we will see its archaeological museum and ancient theater. From Larissa, we will come to the area of Mount Olympus and learn how the area was explored over centuries. We also will visit the large archaeological site Dion and see its archaeological museum and ancient theater.
We welcome you to come with us on a 15-day circle tour to explore Central Greece from Thessaloniki. With this off-season tour, we will visit the most important attractions of Central Greece: famous monasteries, important archaeological sites and museums, historical landmarks, fortresses and waterfalls, mountain and coastal towns.
Our tour will start with visiting Pella, where we will explore its archaeological site and museum. From Pella we will come to town Edessa, to explore its attractions, small historical center, archaeological site, and the monastery of Holy Trinity. From Edessa, we will visit the area of Mieza, to see its archaeological site, ancient theater, and historical landmarks related to Aristotle.
After Mieza, we will come to see the Byzantine museum in Veria, and see the so-called Podium of Paul the Apostle, the site where he talked with people. Near Veria, we will come to Aegae, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its monumental significance in Western civilization and exceptional architecture. Aegae was the first capital of the Macedonian kingdom and the burial place for their kings, considered to be one of the biggest and most significant places of classical Greece.
From Veria, we will come for an overnight stay in the mountain town Metsovo, known for its wine and cheese. Our next destination is Ioannina, where we will see its Ottoman fortress and Silversmith Museum of Weapons and Jewelry.
After Ioannina, we will come to Arta to see the archaeological museum and gorgeous Ottoman bridge. On the way to Arta, we plan to visit the famous Paul Vrellis Greek History Museum. We will stay overnight in the coastal town of Preveza.
From Preveza, we will take the road through the undersea tunnel to the coastal town of Lefkada, where the territory of the large Lefkada Island starts. In Lefkada town, we will see Faneromeni monastery, enjoy a drive around Lefkada Lagoon, and on the way to Nafpaktos, we will visit the coastal town of Vonitsa to see its fortress and admire the promenade passing along the sea and to the small islet nearby.
In Nafpaktos, we will see its fortress overlooking the whole bay, walk its historical center with a small port, and say hello to Miguel de Cervantes. On the way to Delphi, we will stop for lunch in the coastal town Galaxidi. In Delphi (UNESCO World Heritage site), famous in ancient times for its Oracle, we will explore its archaeological site and museum.
After Delphi, we will visit King Leonidas in Thermopylae, learn about his legendary battle, and come to Kalampaka. Here we will climb steps of several Meteora monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage site). We will visit all monasteries that are open during these two days.
After the Meteora monasteries, we will come to town Larissa, to see its archaeological museum and ancient theater. From Larissa, we will come to the area of Mount Olympus and learn how the area was explored over centuries. We also will visit the large archaeological site Dion and see its archaeological museum and ancient theater.
Come with us to explore two famous regions of Greece, Macedonia and Thessaly, with our 16-day circle tour from Thessaloniki. With this off-season tour we will see Thasos Island and the most important attractions of both regions, together with a few lesser-known locations.
We will start our tour with discovering Amphipolis, an important ancient Greek polis and later a Roman city, nowadays a large archaeological site with a museum, known from antiquity as a colony of ancient Athenians and the site of the battle between the Spartans and Athenians in 422 BC.
After Thessaloniki, we will come to Kavala to see its historical center and fortress. Near Kavala, we will come to explore the huge and important archaeological site of Philippi, with its exceptional Roman architecture, its urban layout as a smaller reflection of Rome itself, and its importance in Christianity because of several visits to the city by the apostle Paul.
For those who enjoy wine, we will visit two famous wineries in the Kavala region, Biblia Chora winery and Chateau Nico Lazaridi winery, and taste their wines.
From Kavala, after a short drive, we will take a quick ferry to Thasos Island, where we will visit historical landmarks of Thasos town, the Museum of Olive and Olive Oil, the picturesque Kefalogourna waterfalls, the Archangel Michael monastery, the Marble Quarry, and a few other locations.
When we return back from Thasos to the mainland, we will continue our discoveries. On the way to town Serres, we will see the beautiful Alistrati cave, and two important monasteries, the Ascension of the Lord monastery and the Virgin Mary Eikosiphoinissa monastery.
In Serres, we will see its historical attractions and visit one more monastery, the mountainous Saint John the Forerunner monastery. From Serres, we will come to Pella to see its archaeological site and museum.
After walking in Pella, we will come to town Edessa, to explore its attractions, small historical center, archaeological site, and the monastery of Holy Trinity. From Edessa, we will visit the area of Mieza, to see its archaeological site, ancient theater, and historical landmarks related to Aristotle.
We will continue our tour with a visit to the Byzantine museum in Veria, and see the so-called Podium of Paul the Apostle, the site where he talked with people. Near Veria, we will come to Aegae, the first capital of the Macedonian kingdom and the burial place for their kings, considered to be one of the biggest and most significant places of classical Greece. Aegae is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its monumental significance in Western civilization and exceptional architecture.
Our next place to visit is town Kalampaka, known for the famous monasteries of Meteora. We will visit all monasteries that are open during these two days.
After the Meteora monasteries, we will come to town Larissa, to see its archaeological museum and ancient theater. From Larissa, we will come to the area of Mount Olympus and learn how the area was explored over centuries. We also will visit the large archaeological site Dion, and see its archaeological museum and ancient theater.
We welcome you to the 17 days all seasons tour across Southern Balkans. We will explore 3 countries: Montenegro, Albania, Greece.
In Montenegro, we will visit town Kotor (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian period. In coastal town Budva we will walk its narrow streets of historical center and surrounding walls. We also will visit Old Bar, the settlement known from Byzantine Empire ages. On the way to Albania we will visit cave monastery Dajbabe with unique frescoes.
In Albania, we need to see historical center of town Krije and its museum, admire ancient theater in Durres, wonder on beautiful sea on Divjaka beach, and come to sleep in town Berat (UNESCO World Heritage Site), called as town of thousand windows. After Berat, we will visit archaeological site Apollonia (UNESCO Tentative List site), and come to see historical center of town Gjirokaster (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Here in Gjirokaster we will walk in Ottoman fortress and see local museum.
In Greece, we will stay in mainland, and see fortress of Ioannina, together with historical town and Silversmithing museum. We will admire huge amphitheater at Dodoni archaeological site (UNESCO Tentative List site), and arrive at evening to town Kalampaka to see famous complex of monasteries Meteora (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Next, we will see a fortress in Trikala, archaeological site with amphitheater in Larissa, and will come to Litochoro in the area of Olympus mountain. Here we need to see Olympus Park museum, St. Dionysios monastery, reach Zilnia viewpoint, and walk in Dion archaeological site.
Next important place to see is archaeological site Aegae, and historic center of Veria. On the way to Thessaloniki in town Edessa we will see waterfall and local ancient bridge, and visit archaeological site Pella with its museum.
This off-season 17 days tour is interesting for people who would like understand the history of Greece through visit both kind of sites, a well known as UNESCO Word Heritage sites and UNESCO tentative list sites, as well as some non-touristy places, all located on the territory of Central Greece. With this tour you will walk ancient historical places where are roots of the culture of our civilization. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to give you ability to visit the most interesting Central Greece UNESCO places in one tour.
This off-season 18 days tour is good for people who would like to touch the history of Greece through visit UNESCO Word Heritage sites, UNESCO tentative list sites, and some of Greece non-touristy places all around of Central Greece.
With this tour you will walk ancient historical places where are roots of the culture of our civilization. You will visit old fortresses, ancient theaters, sites of few Greece oracles, and of course famous Greece archaeological museums in differ areas.
Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO sites in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most important Central Greece UNESCO sites in one tour.
We welcome you to travel with us on our 20-day Balkans road trip from Zagreb to Thessaloniki. The tour will pass through 5 Balkan countries: Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece. We will pass over the Adriatic coast and Dalmatian Riviera of Croatia, the wonderful hilly nature of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the coastal Venetian towns of Montenegro, the unexpected panoramas and old castles of Albania, and visit famous UNESCO places in Greece.
In each country of this tour, we will visit must-see places, UNESCO sites, and cultural heritage places that will give an understanding and feeling of the country.
In Croatia, we will pass beautiful coastal roads and see the Venetian towns Zadar, Sibenik, Trogir, Split, and their main attractions.
Passing Bosnia-Herzegovina, we will visit towns known from the Ottoman era, beautiful waterfalls, ancient bridges, a famous Orthodox monastery with its own wine cellars, and all that by scenic roads of hilly landscapes.
In Montenegro, we are going to see Venetian fortified towns, breathtaking aqueduct, the remains of an old town destroyed by an earthquake, a cave monastery, and a beautiful coastline.
Traveling Albania, we will visit a few impressive fortresses, two old bazaars still full of locally made goods, a huge archaeological site, and we will admire beautiful nature.
In Greece, we will see the Silversmith Museum located in the Ottoman fortress, the amazing Meteora monasteries sitting on huge stone boulders, and historical museums and archaeological sites in Aegae, Dion, Larissa, and Dodoni. We also will come to admire Mount Olympus and learn how it was explored and discovered during centuries.
This tour will give you an initial understanding of each country. If you wish, you can come with us to explore each country in-depth with the next tours.
This off-season 24 days tour is interesting for people who would like to touch the history of Greece through visit few UNESCO Word Heritage sites, few UNESCO tentative list sites, and some of non-touristy places, all located in Central Greece. With this tour you will walk ancient historical places where are roots of the culture of our civilization. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of Central Greece UNESCO places in one tour.
This off-season tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
November 13, 2025 Ano Pedina, Greece. Ano Pedina is a small traditional village in the region of Central Zagori, first appears in historical records in the mid-14th century. Sitting on the western slopes of Mount Tymfi, it is surrounded by the unique natural beauty and rugged landscapes that characterize the broader Zagori area.
October 26, 2025 Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia in northeastern Spain blends beautifully rich history and innovative modernity. Barcelona boasts 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which seven are Gaudí's architectural wonders.
October 20, 2025 Buitrago de Lozoya, Spain. Buitrago de Lozoya is a captivating small town nestled in the northern part of the Community of Madrid, Spain. Surrounded by mountains and natural beauty, it invites visitors to step back into medieval times, thanks to its well-preserved historic walls and charming streets.
October 11, 2025 Burgos, Spain. Burgos, Founded around 884 AD, located in northern Spain within Castilla y León, is a city rich in history and culture. It lies along the Arlanzón River, offering a blend of scenic river views and historic architecture. Its strategic location made it an important medieval hub, making it a must-visit for travelers.
October 2, 2025 Aspraggeli, Greece. Aspraggeli is a charming mountain village in the heart of the Zagori region in northwestern Greece. It sits at the entrance to the Zagorochoria area, making it the first stop for many exploring this UNESCO-nominated landscape.
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Monterrasol Travel Private tours has implemented health and hygiene protocols. Monterrasol Travel is the Safe Travels company.
