The tour gives a fascinating overall impression of the city. It starts by showing you the White Tower - the symbol of the city, followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum to see the unique collection of the Gold of the Macedons and important finds from the Archaic, Classical and Roman period. The tour continues past the International Fair Ground and the University campus, to the Citadel and the old city walls offering panoramic views of the harbour, the city and the Gulf of Thermaikos. It also includes a visit to the Byzantine church of St. Demetrios, as well as the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda Monument.

We will drive through the beautiful countryside of Macedonia to Vergina, where Eges, the capital of ancient Macedonia, was situated. In 1977, the renowned archaeologist Prof. Manolis Andronikos, discovered the famous royal tombs, of which the biggest is claimed to have belonged to King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. Extensive excavations revealed the Citadel, the Palace and the Theatre (where King Phillip II was assassinated in 336 B.C. and Alexander the Great was declared King). A larnax of pure gold and other valuable articles and weapons were found in King Philip's tomb and are now exhibited in the Museum.
Macedonia is one of the main wine-producing regions of Greece and the tour continues with a visit to the Boutaris wineries, where traditional Greek food will be provided after a wine- tasting session and a guided tour of the cellars.

After driving through Halkidiki, you join a cruise boat at the southern point of Mount Athos, Europe's unique self-governing monastic state that has existed for more than one thousand years in accordance with rules of life and religion that have not changed since Byzantine times. The cruise provides an excellent opportunity to photograph the impressive Byzantine monasteries, 20 of which are still inhabited by some 1,700 monks. According to the abaton, which has always applied, no woman may set foot on the colony. The boat will cruise along the west coast to the quaint fishing village of Ouranoupolis for a stop of approximately two hours for lunch. Here traditional methods are still used to make hand-woven carpets.

Topline Travel and Tours has been appointed as the official symposium secretariat, and is able to offer assistance and advice on any aspect of your travel arrangements pertaining to the symposium. Topline can book individual holiday arrangements prior to or after the conference, secure airline seats and hotel accommodation in Athens, the Greek mainland or the Greek islands.