Origins of Alexander The Great

Trace the roots of the renowned Macedonian king through ancient cities and untouched royal tombs.

Educated by Aristotle and known as one of history’s most successful military strategists, echoes of Alexander the Great can be found across the Thessaloniki region he once ruled over. On this private guided tour, you’ll visit some of the key locations from his life and learn more about who he was and the influence he had on ancient Greece.

In the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in a private car and travel to Pella, Alexander’s birthplace. Destroyed by an earthquake in 90 BCE, it was once one of the largest and wealthiest cities in Macedonia and among the first to have piped water to individual houses. As you stroll around the carefully excavated ruins, your guide will explain how ancient Greek cities functioned and the significance of the buildings.

From there, you’ll drive south to the Royal Tombs of Vergina. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can explore the underground burial place of King Philip II, Alexander’s father, while your guide tells you about the royal court of Macedonia and its importance in shaping the country. A Greek archaeologist discovered these tombs completely intact in 1977, and you can still see all the treasures the monarchs were buried with. Considered some of the most important relics in Greece, these include silver chalices, the king’s shield and weaponry, an ornate gold oak wreath, and the Golden Larnax (chest) embossed with the Sun of Vergina, which contains his bones.

The tour lasts all day and includes free time for lunch before you return to Thessaloniki.