Northern Greece has an exceptional site: Vergina (Aigai or Aigeai) where we see the monumental tombs of the royal family of Macedonia, members of the family of Alexander the Great.
During our last stay in Thessaloniki, we hesitated a bit to go to Vergina (it forced us to rent a car, we wondered if the site was really worth the detour, if it would interest the children, etc). We finally decided to go there for a day. And fortunately. It would have been such a shame to miss this marvel! Vergina is a major site in Greece, and is part of the 20 Unesco world heritage sites in Greece. It is absolutely worth seeing!
Where is Vergina and how do I get there?
Located 70km from Thessaloniki (1 hour by car), Vergina, in Central Macedonia, is the ancient capital of Macedonia.
- It is very easy to get there by car in one day from Thessaloniki. You can rent a car in Thessaloniki, in the city or directly upon arrival at the airport. You will find many offers on the Rental Cars website. It takes about an hour to get there. The site is relatively easy to find. Just follow the brown signs that say “Royal Necropolis” or type in Google Maps “Aigai Royal Tombs Museum “.
- Another option is to choose an organized tour from Thessaloniki. The big advantage is that you don’t have to worry about transportation. You will find different options on the GetYourGuide website. We did not test it but this day trip from Thessaloniki to Vergina and Pella seems interesting because the program is complete and the price is reasonable.
- The site is also accessible by public transport, but it takes time and the connections are not very convenient. There are buses between Vergina and Veroia. And Veroia is accessible from Thessaloniki by bus and train.
Discover the site and the museum of Vergina
The site of Vergina was updated recently, in 1977. Archaeologists have discovered the tomb of King Philip II of Macedonia (the father of Alexander the Great) as well as other royal tombs. A total of 11 tombs were uncovered, including 4 monumental tombs dating from the 4th century B.C. This is a major discovery from an archaeological point of view and for the visitors, Vergina is now a must-see site in Greece.
In addition to the tombs, archaeologists have also discovered many gold objects that are now displayed in the museum of Vergina. This one is located underground, in the reconstructed tumulus that housed the 4 monumental tombs. Its subterranean character and semi-darkness give it a very special atmosphere, a bit mystical. It houses the objects found inside the royal tombs, incredibly well preserved. One can admire, for example, a cuirass and a quiver that belonged to Philip II, crowns and gold jewelry, complete armor, vases and funerary urns, but also objects of daily life, gold and bronze dishes. The state of good preservation is striking. And the museography is really interesting.
The museum appeals to all generations. Adults admire the unique beauty of the exhibits and the richness of this exceptional museum. As for the children, they are amazed by the gold jewelry and armor. It’s very meaningful to them.
The tombs of the kings of Macedonia
The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. With its imposing marble door, columns and frescoes, it is imposing and majestic. The tomb of Prince Alexander IV, son of Alexander the Great, is also sumptuous.
In the museum, models reconstituting the burial chambers allow to better realize their importance. Each tomb had several rooms and was decorated with columns and frescoes.
Vergina in practice
- Opening hours: The Vergina site is open every day except Tuesday from 9am to 5pm in winter (November 1 – March 31) and from 8am to 8pm in summer. However, schedules change regularly, so it is best to check the website a few days before your visit.
- Rates: 8€ in winter (November 1st – March 31st), 15€ in summer. Free for people under 25 years old (for people from EU countries). The ticket gives access to the museum and the royal tombs.
- Possibility of combined ticket with the Byzantine Museum of Veroia and the Archaeological Museum of Veroia
- The site is open to the public free of charge every first Sunday from November 1 to March 31.
- If you want to sleep on site, we recommend the Guesthouse Olympia located 5 minutes walk from the site of Vergina.
To extend the day
You can extend the day by visiting Veroia (pronounced Veria), 12 kilometers from Vergina. The town is not very interesting but it is a nice stop for a lunch break. You can see some beautiful Byzantine churches and old Ottoman houses. An archaeological museum also houses objects from the excavations.
Fans can also visit Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and former capital of the kingdom of Macedonia. A very nice archaeological site with black and white mosaic floors and columns. Its large archaeological museum exhibits funerary treasures.
Laure M.
