Our Wedding Day

Saint Nicholas Church

Sacrament

Olympos Beach Camping

Reception & After-Party

Our maid of honour: Antigoni TsangopoulouOur best man: Calum Hall

AttireFeel free to dress comfortably, keeping in mind the church setting.For the ladies: arms don’t need to be covered - our priest seemed generally relaxed about attire as long as it’s respectful.We recommend smart summer attire and don’t be shy to bring in colours (and flowers!)!

Our Wedding

We can’t wait to celebrate with you in Leptokarya 🤍Below is a rough guide to how the day will flow, so everyone knows what to expect.As with all Greek weddings, timings may move a little with the atmosphere, but this should help give you a good sense of the plan!

Before the Ceremony

Morning – early afternoonWe’ll be spending the morning and part of lunch together at the hotel we are staying at (Funtuki/ Funtukaki), enjoying a relaxed start to the day. 12:30 / 1:00 PMNibbles and drinks by the pool. 2:00 PM onwardsWe’ll then split and get ready separately before the ceremony. AfternoonGroom’s side: getting readyBride’s side: getting ready 4:00 PMGroom’s room: Ruari’s Shaving tradition (see our Sacrament &amp; Traditions section). 5:00 PMBride’s room: Names on Eleni's shoe and Silvering the Shoe traditions (see our Sacrament &amp; Traditions section). 5:30 PMGuests can begin making their way towards the church. 5:40 – 5:55 PMBefore the ceremony begins, there’ll be a short traditional Greek music moment in the park next to the church, while Ruari patiently waits at the church entrance. 6:00 PMCeremony begins at Saint Nicholas Church, Leptokarya.

After the Ceremony

Around 6:45 PMThe ceremony will finish. Around 7:00 PMBuses will begin leaving from the church to the venue.

Wedding Celebration

7:30 – 8:30 PMWe’ll start the evening in the bar area with a welcome drink, buffet food, mingling and a relaxed summer party atmosphere. 8:30 – 9:00 PMWe’ll then head into the restaurant. Dinner is served.

Speeches, Music & Dancing

Around 09:30 PMOur thank you and best man speeches. Around 09:45 PMA short sea shanty set from some of our friends. Around 10:00 PMFirst DanceWe’ll have our first dance with everyone joining us on the dancefloor as couples, so we can all share the moment together! Straight afterTraditional Greek dancing and party time begins.

Late Night

From 12:00 AM onwardsWe’ll move back to the bar area for the DJ, drinks and more dancing. Around 12:00 AMLate-night food. From 3:30 AM onwardsReturn bus back to Leptokarya.For those who’d prefer to return earlier or later, taxis will also be available.

The Wedding Day

Direct Flights from Bristol & London to Thessaloniki

The closest airport is Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG), which has direct flights from many major European cities and convenient connections from further afield. Bristol → Thessaloniki (SKG) – Jet2 once a week on Tuesdays (recommended if travelling from Plymouth/ Bristol). London Gatwick → Thessaloniki (SKG) – easyJet with multiple weekly departures. London Gatwick → Thessaloniki (SKG) – British Airways with multiple weekly departures. London Stansted → Thessaloniki (SKG) – Ryanair with multiple weekly departures. London Stansted → Thessaloniki (SKG) – Jet2 with 1-2 flights/ week. London Heathrow → Thessaloniki (SKG) – British Airways but seasonal and number of flights depending on timetable.

If you fly to Athens International Airport, there are multiple daily direct flights to Thessaloniki Airport with Aegean Airlines or Sky Express.There is no direct train from Athens to Leptokarya, so if travelling by rail you would need to change in Larisa before continuing to Leptokarya.

Flight Update:easyJet has announced a new direct Bristol → Thessaloniki route starting 20 June, operating every Wednesday and Saturday.This may be a convenient option for anyone planning their return journey after the wedding.

From Thessaloniki to Leptokarya (Approx. 1h30)

If you’d like the most flexibility during your stay, we’d definitely recommend hiring a car, especially if you’re planning to explore beaches, villages, or nearby sights at your own pace.That said, if you’d prefer not to drive, it’s still very easy to enjoy the area using trains, taxis and organised local tours from Leptokarya.

Car RentalThe easiest way to get around and explore is by renting a car from Thessaloniki Airport. Car hire is generally affordable and the roads in northern Greece are easy to navigate.Car Rental Companies at Thessaloniki AirportAvisSixtEuropcarSKG Rent A CarEnterprise Rent-A-CarNational Car HireHertzCentauro Rent a CarPotos Car RentalsHellascar By TrainThere are direct trains from Thessaloniki New Railway Station to Leptokarya Railway Station.This is a very good option if you’d prefer not to drive.Public transport around Leptokarya is more limited, but it is still possible to get around using taxis or organised local tours.You can check timetables and routes on the official <a href="https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hellenic Train website</a>. Tickets can be booked directly at the train station once you arrive.Getting from Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to the Train Station (New Railway Station)1) By BusThe Line 1X (day) / 1N (night) bus connects Thessaloniki Airport with the city centre, including the main train station (stop: New Railway Station).Frequency: Every 30–60 minutesDuration: Approximately 45–60 minutes (depending on traffic)Tickets: €2Tickets are available from the airport ticket booth or the automated machines on the bus.Make sure to select the “Special Bus Routes” ticket.Ticket validity is 70 minutes.2) By TaxiDuration: 25–40 minutes, depending on trafficCost: Around €25–€35Best for: The fastest and most direct option, especially if you have luggage or are travelling in a groupThere is a dedicated taxi rank at the airport, so it’s easiest to head there directly upon arrival. The airport tariff to the city centre (including the train station) is generally fixed, so there is no need to pre-book. Taxis in ThessalonikiMost people in Greece use the FREENOW app to order taxis.That said, you can also simply flag down one of the many blue taxis with white roofs, which is often just as easy and sometimes even slightly cheaper.Taxi drivers are legally required to accept card payments, but in practice this doesn’t always happen, so we’d strongly recommend carrying some cash, just in case. Taxis in LeptokaryaThere isn’t currently a taxi app that reliably serves the Leptokarya area.However, there is usually a taxi rank near St. Nicholas Church, just across the road by the park.Taxis are fairly limited, so it’s best to plan ahead if you think you’ll need one, especially for longer journeys.Fares can also be a little on the expensive side, so if you’re planning to explore beyond the town, we’d recommend either:hiring a car, orsharing lifts with friends or family who will be driving Exploring the Area (Without a Car)If you’d prefer not to drive, there are a number of organised local tours available from Leptokarya, making it easy to explore the region without needing your own car.For more ideas, please see the “Things to Do” section.

Wedding Day Transport

The wedding ceremony will take place at St Nikolas Church, Leptokarya, at 6:00 PM. For guests staying at Funtuki Seaside Apartments, the church is approximately a 10–15 minute walk (less than 1 km) away, so please bear this in mind if you are not driving. Following the ceremony, we will provide two complimentary shuttle buses (capacity up to 100 guests) to transport guests to the reception venue at Olympos Beach Camping, approximately 6 km away (around a 10-minute drive). After the ceremony, you will be guided to the location where the buses will be parked. We will also provide a complimentary return shuttle bus to Leptokarya at a fixed time of approximately 3:30 AM. This bus has a capacity of up to 50 guests and will drop passengers as close as possible to the main hotel area. If you wish to leave earlier (or later!), local taxi drivers Nikos and Giorgos will be available throughout the evening for transfers between the venue and Leptokarya. They alternate throughout the day, meaning one of them is usually available at most times. The fare is approximately €10 per journey, so please have some cash available if you wish to use this service. Taxi Contact: +30 697 742 8666 Το μυστήριο του γάμου θα πραγματοποιηθεί στον Ιερό Ναό Αγίου Νικολάου στη Λεπτοκαρυά στις 18:00. Για όσους διαμένουν στα Funtuki Seaside Apartments, η εκκλησία βρίσκεται σε απόσταση περίπου 10–15 λεπτών με τα πόδια (λιγότερο από 1 χλμ.), οπότε παρακαλούμε να το λάβετε υπόψη αν δεν διαθέτετε αυτοκίνητο. Μετά το μυστήριο, θα διαθέσουμε δύο δωρεάν λεωφορεία (συνολικής χωρητικότητας έως 100 ατόμων) για τη μεταφορά των καλεσμένων στον χώρο της δεξίωσης, στο Olympos Beach Camping, που απέχει περίπου 6 χλμ. (10 λεπτά με το αυτοκίνητο). Μετά την τελετή, θα σας καθοδηγήσουμε προς το σημείο όπου θα βρίσκονται σταθμευμένα τα λεωφορεία. Θα υπάρχει επίσης δωρεάν λεωφορείο επιστροφής προς τη Λεπτοκαρυά σε προκαθορισμένη ώρα, περίπου στις 03:30 π.μ. Το λεωφορείο αυτό έχει χωρητικότητα έως 50 ατόμων και θα σας αφήσει όσο το δυνατόν πιο κοντά στην περιοχή των ξενοδοχείων. Αν επιθυμείτε να αποχωρήσετε νωρίτερα (ή αργότερα!), οι τοπικοί οδηγοί ταξί Νίκος και Γιώργος θα είναι διαθέσιμοι καθ’ όλη τη διάρκεια της βραδιάς για μεταφορές μεταξύ του χώρου της δεξίωσης και της Λεπτοκαρυάς. Οι δύο αδελφοί εναλλάσσονται κατά τη διάρκεια της ημέρας, οπότε συνήθως κάποιος από τους δύο είναι διαθέσιμος ανά πάσα στιγμή. Η χρέωση είναι περίπου 10€ ανά διαδρομή, επομένως καλό θα ήταν να έχετε μαζί σας μετρητά εάν σκοπεύετε να χρησιμοποιήσετε αυτή την υπηρεσία. Τηλέφωνο Ταξί: +30 697 742 8666

Travel

Where Should We Stay?

We recommend staying in Leptokarya.If you would like to stay close to the beach, town centre and church venue, Leptokarya offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. We highly recommend this area for guests who wish to minimise travel and enjoy convenient access to local restaurants, bars and the beach.We will also be staying in Leptokarya. It’s a small town and easily walkable, so wherever you choose to stay, you’ll be close by.

Recommended Accommodation in Leptokarya

Funtuki Seaside Apartments &amp; Funtukaki by the PoolWe will be staying here and have secured a special (non-refundable) rate for our guests.To book:📞 +30 694 644 5830✉️ funtukiapartments@gmail.comPlease contact us directly for the booking code required to receive the agreed rates.Rooms are expected to sell out quickly, so we recommend booking as soon as possible.

Other Recommended Options in Leptokarya

(All within walking distance from our hotel too)CORYLUS Luxury Rooms &amp; Suites – available on booking.comCosta De Luxe Suites – available on booking.comHotel Olympos – available on booking.comSunshine Apartments – available on booking.comAnassa Suites – available on booking.comOlympos Suites Apartments – available on booking.comVila Marmelada – budget-friendly, 📞 +30 698 416 9500Villa Kalli – budget-friendly, 📞 +30 697 200 1691

Mountains & Hiking

For those who love the mountains and plan to hike Mount Olympus, consider staying in Litochoro.Please note that you will need a car to get around if you stay in this area.If you prefer to stay in Leptokarya, there are also guided tours and organised excursions to Mount Olympus departing from Leptokarya.

Accommodation at the Reception Venue

The reception will take place at Olympos Beach Camping.Guests can camp with their own tent or stay in a bungalow with shared showers. The bungalows are ideal if you just need a place to crash overnight. They do not have air conditioning, but in June there is usually a refreshing breeze from the mountains.To book: 📞 +30 23520 22112 📞 +30 697 966 1341

All-Inclusive & Luxury Resorts

We love supporting local family-run businesses, but if you prefer an all-inclusive or luxury stay (also available as part of package holidays), consider the following options:Poseidon PalaceOlympian Bay Grand ResortDion Palace Resort and SpaCavo Olympo Luxury Resort

Accommodation

The Greek Orthodox Wedding Sacrament

In the Greek Orthodox faith, marriage is one of the holiest sacraments - a sacred union blessed by God, joining two souls into one through His grace. The ceremony emphasises love, unity and spiritual harmony and is rich with centuries - old traditions. Every part of the wedding is filled with meaning - from the number three (representing the Holy Trinity), to the crowns of glory, and the circular dance symbolising eternity.

Our Church: Saint Nicholas in Leptokarya

Our sacrament will take place at Saint Nicholas Church in Leptokarya. Eleni’s father was a chanter here, so this church holds a deep emotional connection for our family. As the village has long been home to sailors and fishermen, the church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the protector of seafarers.

English Translation of the Ceremony

For our English-speaking guests, we have provided a translation of the Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony.The document below outlines the key stages of the sacrament on pages 2–4, followed by the full English translation in the remaining pages.You can view or download it here:👉 <a href="https://1drv.ms/b/c/521cb06437179ae9/IQA9nGD-BTAWRLL4Z-JkJ4hPAQcR8CrpZ9dbjsfeNdV_osc?e=cjH7eDb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">English Translation of the Sacrament of Marriage</a>

The Ceremony

The service consists of two parts: The Service of Betrothal and The Service of the Crowning.

1. The Betrothal (The Rings)The ceremony begins with the exchange of rings, symbolising the couple’s promise to share all that life brings - joy and sorrow, strength and weakness - as one. The priest blesses the rings and places them on the couple’s right hands, signifying the strength of faith and unity.

2. The Crowning (The Stefana) The most significant moment is the crowning. The priest places crowns (stefana) on the couple’s heads joined by a ribbon, representing their union as king and queen of their new household and the presence of Christ in their marriage. These crowns also symbolise honour, glory and the spiritual bond the couple now shares.

3. The Common Cup The couple drinks from a shared cup of wine, recalling the wedding at Cana where Christ turned water into wine. This act symbolises their shared life - joy and sorrow, blessings and challenges - and their commitment to face everything together.

4. The Dance of IsaiahThe priest leads the couple around the altar three times in a joyful procession, known as the Dance of Isaiah, symbolising their first steps together as husband and wife, guided by God and surrounded by the prayers of the Church.

5. The Removal of the Crowns Finally, the priest removes the crowns and blesses the couple, praying for a life filled with love, peace and faith.

After the ceremony, guests will celebrate the couple’s new life together by throwing rice as they exit the church, a joyful tradition symbolising prosperity, fertility and blessings. In the past, some local customs included tossing rice during the Dance of Isaiah inside the church, but for practical reasons this celebration now takes place outdoors.

Northern Greek Wedding Traditions

The Bridal Bed

A few days before the wedding, the bride’s family prepares her bed with white sheets, coins, flower petals, koufeta* and rice to symbolize fertility, prosperity and good luck. The sheets are remade by the bride three times, representing overcoming future challenges together. Sometimes a doll is placed on the bed to “predict” the gender of the couple’s first child.*Koufeta are sugar-coated almonds given to guests during weddings. The almonds symbolise fertility, health and the bittersweet nature of life.

Delivery of the Bridal Outfit

A few days before the wedding, relatives of the groom deliver the bride’s gown, shoes, nightwear and personal items to her home. The visit is accompanied by music and dance.

Groom’s Flour Ritual

If the groom appears when he is not supposed to, he may be playfully “floured” for breaking the rules, a practice especially common in Macedonia.

Names on the Bride’s Shoe

The bride writes the names of unmarried female friends under her shoe. The name that wears off by the end of the night is said to belong to the next to marry - a fun tradition.

Silvering the Shoe

The groom’s representative inserts banknotes into one of her shoes for good luck and a prosperous marriage. Guests nearby may decide whether more notes are added, making it a playful ritual.

Shaving the Groom

A few days before the wedding or on the wedding day, it is traditional for the groom to be shaved by male relatives or close friends. This ritual symbolises purification and preparation for his new life as a husband.

Wedding Bread (Kouloura)

Another wedding tradition involves a special bread called kouloura. It symbolises fertility, happiness and a sweet life for the newlyweds.Traditionally, it is prepared by women before the wedding, and the bride cuts it above her head at her new home, sharing pieces with guests. The kouloura is usually sweet, representing the wish for a sweet and joyful married life.

Late Arrival to the Church

The bride traditionally arrives a little late to the church, keeping the groom waiting and adding a touch of playful anticipation - because, as the saying goes, good things come to those who wait.

The Sacrament & Traditions

After the Church

We will start the celebration with a light bite buffet and a glass of Prosecco to toast the day.

Family-Style Greek Feast

In true Greek tradition, our meal will be served family-style, with all dishes shared at the table.Taste a bit of everything and enjoy the feast together! Tzatziki (τζατζίκι)(V)Spicy feta dip (τυροκαυτερή)(V)Roasted aubergine dip (μελιτζανοσαλάτα)(VE)Feta with olive oil &amp; oregano (φέτα με ελαιόλαδο &amp; ρίγανη)(V) Tomato &amp; cucumber salad (αγγουροντομάτα)(VE) Quinoa salad (σαλάτα κινόα)(VE) Oven-roasted potatoes (πατάτες φούρνου)(VE) Pork souvlaki (χοιρινό σουβλάκι)Chicken fillet (φιλέτο κοτόπουλο)Greek pork sausages (λουκάνικα)Beef burger patties (μπιφτέκια μοσχαρίσια) Mushroom risotto (ριζότο με μανιτάρια)(V/VE available) Soft Drinks and House Wine (White &amp; Red) are unlimited, so keep ordering! Dessert buffet to follow.

After Party

We’ll be keeping the celebration going with Ruari himself preparing the late-night snack!Expect gyros pittas, with vegetarian/ vegan options available (though some of our vegetarian friends have promised they won’t be vegetarian for the night if gyros are involved... and we’ve made sure to keep that promise!). There will also be an open bar featuring a selection of spirits and beers to keep the good vibes flowing.

Wedding Day Dining

Explore Northern Greece (Near Leptokarya)

Outdoor Adventures

Mount Olympus National Park – Take a day hike in Mount Olympus National Park, or simply explore the charming mountain villages nearby such as Litochoro or Palaios Panteleimonas (a particularly scenic village in the Pieria region).Many hikes begin at Prionia, located at around 1,100 metres elevation, with routes leading higher into the mountain. For more experienced hikers, it is possible to reach one of Olympus’s three main peaks at around 2,900 metres.Mount Olympus has three principal summits:Mytikas – the highest peak, which requires a short scramble near the topSkala – slightly lower and more accessibleSkolio – another nearby peak with stunning viewsWe recommend undertaking higher-altitude hikes with a guide, especially if you plan to reach the summit areas.Orlias Waterfalls (15-30 min drive from Leptokarya) – An easy, shady hike ending in a natural pool - perfect for a summer dip (but cold!).Old Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus (40 min drive from Leptokarya) – A easy forest walk from the monastery to the Holy Cave of Agios Dionysios.Enipeas Gorge Hike – A longer, stunning trail with wooden bridges and crystal-clear streams.Leptokarya, Plaka and Platamonas Beaches – Long streches of sand and pebbles with sunbeds, beach bars and tavernas right by the sea.

Culture & History

Thessaloniki (1-1.5 hours drive from Leptokarya) – Spend a few days exploring this vibrant city. Wander through the old town (Ano Poli), visit the White Tower and museums and enjoy rooftop bars with stunning sea views.👉 <a href="https://1drv.ms/b/c/521cb06437179ae9/IQA0SBnfAoeeTL9euhKEAzW-AUB7RtFNehBgN6XnQ4j2qXM?e=a7XUhy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">View our Thessaloniki Guide</a>Dion Archaeological Park (20 min drive from Leptokarya) – Explore the ruins of an ancient Macedonian city dedicated to Zeus. One of Ruari's favourite sights.Platamon Castle (10 min drive from Leptokarya) - A medieval fortress with breathtaking views over the Aegean.

Iconic Landmarks

Meteora (2 hr drive from Leptokarya) – Visit the dramatic cliff-top monasteries - one of Greece’s most magical sites.Vergina (1 hr drive from Leptokarya) – See the Royal Tombs of ancient Macedonian kings, including Philip II (Alexander the Great’s father).

Island Getaways (Sporades Islands)

If you have a few extra days, go island hopping:Skopelos – Home to the Mamma Mia! church on the cliff.Alonissos – Quiet and charming with a marine park and hiking trails.Skiathos – The liveliest of the three, with over 60 beaches and a vibrant town. Water Sports &amp; Surfing in the SporadesSkiathos – The best spot for watersports. Try windsurfing, paddleboarding, or stand-up paddleboarding at beaches like Koukounaries and Banana Beach. Small waves occasionally allow light surfing.Skopelos – Calm and scenic, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or windsurfing in open bays. Surfing is limited due to small waves.Alonissos – Perfect for kayaking, sailing and paddleboarding. The sheltered waters are generally too calm for surfing. Without a car: Skiathos is the easiest to access from Leptokarya and has excellent public transport, making it ideal without a car.Take the train from Leptokarya to Larisa, then a bus to Volos port, followed by a ferry to Skiathos.Once there, you can easily book a sailing or boat trip to explore nearby Skopelos and Alonissos.

Local ToursSeveral local tour companies in Leptokarya organise day trips to Mount Olympus, Meteora, the Sporades Islands, and other nearby locations.Longer excursions, such as trips to Athens, are also possible, usually with an early morning departure or as an overnight tour.There is no need to pre-book online. You can simply walk into one of the tour shops in Leptokarya and arrange a trip in person.Most of the tour agencies are located along I. Metaxa Road, as you walk up from the beach — you will find them on the right-hand side of the street.

Argos Orestiko & Kastoria: Eleni's Hometown

Argos Orestiko, Eleni’s hometown, lies in the heart of Western Macedonia. It’s about a 2.5–3-hour drive from Leptokarya (roughly 215 km) and once you arrive, you’ll find an authentic and welcoming town surrounded by mountains and open countryside; the kind of place where time seems to slow down.Just 15 minutes away is Kastoria, one of Greece’s most charming lake cities. Built on a peninsula embraced by Lake Orestiada, Kastoria is famous for its scenic views and stone mansions.

Things to Do & See

In Argos Orestiko:

Ancient Town of Diocletianoupoli – Just outside Argos Orestiko, visit the remains of this Roman and early Byzantine fortified city. Fossil Forest of Nostimo – A short drive away, the village of Nostimo is home to a rare fossilized forest over 15 million years old. Dispilio Neolithic Lake Settlement – Between Argos Orestiko and Kastoria, this reconstructed lakeside village lets you step back 7,000 years to one of Europe’s earliest known settlements. Ammoudara Thermal Baths – The warm mineral waters of Ammoudara village are known for their soothing and therapeutic qualities.Town Square &amp; Cafés – Enjoy a coffee or tsipouro at one of the lively cafés and soak in the local vibe. Local Taverns – Try traditional Macedonian dishes and grilled meats.Tuesday Market – If you’re in town on a Tuesday, visit the local market for fresh produce and local products.

In Kastoria:

Walk Around Lake Orestiada&nbsp;– A must-do! The 9-km lakeside path offers tranquil views and great photo stops.Old Quarter of Doltso&nbsp;– Wander through cobblestone streets lined with 18th-century mansions and Byzantine churches.Folklore &amp; Byzantine Museums&nbsp;– Learn about the city’s long history and artistry.Cave of the Dragon (Spilia tou Drakou)&nbsp;– Explore a fascinating underground cave system filled with stalactites, stalagmites and a small lake.Boat Ride on the Lake&nbsp;– Relax and enjoy Kastoria from a different perspective.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, explore a few of these beautiful spots nearby:Nymfaio Village (1.5 hrs away)&nbsp;– A beautifully preserved mountain village, often listed among Greece’s most picturesque. Don’t miss the&nbsp;Arcturos bear sanctuary.Prespa Lakes National Park (1.5 hrs away)&nbsp;– A serene nature reserve spanning Greece, Albania and North Macedonia - perfect for bird-watching and boat rides.Vitsi &amp; Grammos Mountains&nbsp;– Ideal for scenic drives, short hikes and panoramic views of the region.

Things to Do

Getting Around in Leptokarya & Local Tips

Food & Drink

Zorbas Tavern&nbsp;– Fresh seafood, grilled meat and home-cooked Greek mealsΠαράδεισος (Paradeisos)&nbsp;– One of Eleni’s favourites! Relaxed vibes, a great selection of Greek dishes and live traditional music every Sunday eveningTa Tsilika&nbsp;– Gyros, souvlaki and grilled meats

How we eat in Greece

Instead of everyone ordering their own dish, it’s common to order a selection of plates for the table and share everything family-style. This way you get to taste a little bit of everything.

Local drinks to try

Beers:&nbsp;Mythos, Alfa and Fix are the most popular Greek beersCoffee:&nbsp;Traditional Greek coffee is served hot, but in summer most Greeks prefer frappé (iced instant coffee) or freddo espresso (iced espresso)Spirits: Tsipouro (can be served plain or with anise), ouzo (best enjoyed slowly with ice or water) and retsina (you can have it plain or with coke)

Bakeries

Bakery near the train station – a great option for a wide selection of fresh breads, pastries and savoury snacks.Katelas Bakery – Another local favourite What to try:Tiropita – feta cheese pieSpanakopita – spinach and feta cheese pieBougatsa – a northern Greek classic: flaky pastry filled with custard, cheese, or mince.Custard bougatsa with icing sugar and cinnamon is Ruari’s favourite breakfast when in Greece!Koulouri – the famous Thessaloniki sesame bread ringTsoureki – soft sweet bread

Supermarkets

Zdanis&nbsp;– Local supermarketΓκάνιας&nbsp;– Local supermarketMasoutis&nbsp;– National chainDiscount&nbsp;– National chainLidl&nbsp;– International chain

Shops

Dofundo – A large retail store with just about everything.Tip: For gifts and souvenirs we recommend browsing the smaller local shops for something more unique.

Beach

Leptokarya beach is lined with coffee spots and beach bars. Most places provide free sunbeds and umbrellas as long as you order food or drinks.

Tours & Day Trips

At the top of the main shopping street (I. Metaxa) you’ll find several tour operator offices. From here you can book trips to Mount Olympus, Meteora, the Sporades Islands, Athens and more.

Parking

On-street parking is free, but please make sure you don’t park in disabled spaces.

Money & Payments

You can pay by card almost everywhere in Greece - it’s a legal requirement for businesses to accept them. Most hotels, restaurants and shops take debit and credit cards.Still, it’s smart to carry some euros in cash for buses, taxis, small shops, or local cafés, especially in smaller towns and villages. ATMs are easy to find, but a bit of cash always comes in handy.

Tolls

If you’re driving from Thessaloniki to Leptokarya, note that some highways along the route have toll booths. Tolls can be paid in cash (Euros) or by credit/debit card. If you don't have a contactless card, it’s a good idea to have small change on hand to make the process quick and easy.

Healthcare & Medical Services

Leptokarya has several pharmacies located within the town centre, making it easy to access everyday medications, toiletries and travel essentials during your stay. Greek pharmacies are usually marked with a green cross and pharmacists are often able to provide advice for minor illnesses and common treatments. For urgent but non-emergency medical needs, the nearest public health centre is the Litochoro Health Centre (Κέντρο Υγείας Λιτοχώρου), approximately 10–15 minutes by car from Leptokarya. It provides primary healthcare services, emergency assessment and referrals when required. There are several private medical practices in and around Leptokarya offering consultations, treatment and assistance for visitors. Many doctors speak English and can assist with travel insurance claims if required. Several local medical centres offer extended opening hours and emergency assistance for tourists, and many work directly with European travel insurance providers. For more serious medical treatment, the nearest major public hospital is the General Hospital of Katerini, approximately 30 minutes from Leptokarya by car. Emergency NumbersEuropean Emergency Number: 112Ambulance Service (EKAB): 166Police: 100Fire Service: 199

More Info

Map of St Nicholas Church and Leptokarya Highlights

Map from St Nicholas Church to Olympos Beach (Venue Area)

Map of Olympos Beach in Plaka (Venue Area)

Maps

With so many of you journeying to join us, your presence is the best gift we could hope for!We don’t have a gift list, but if you feel strongly about giving something, a contribution towards our future travel adventures would be gratefully appreciated - though please know there is absolutely no expectation; your presence is more than enough. UK:Account holder name: Eleni KalyvaAccount number: 60895937Sort code: 60-83-71 International:Account holder name: Eleni KalyvaIBAN: GB54SRLG60837160895937BIC: SRLGGB2L Ελλάδα:ALPHA BANKΕΛΕΝΗ ΚΑΛΥΒΑIBAN: GR1701408500850002310029809

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The map below highlights St Nicholas Church, the train station, the main shopping streets and a few of our favourite food spots in Leptokarya.

Beers:&nbsp;Mythos, Alfa and Fix are the most popular Greek beersCoffee:&nbsp;Traditional Greek coffee is served hot, but in summer most Greeks prefer frappé (iced instant coffee) or freddo espresso (iced espresso)

Bakery near the train station&nbsp;– Big selection of breads and pastriesKatelas Bakery&nbsp;– Another local favourite