Ouranoupoli is a quiet and welcoming village located at the border between the everyday world and the sacred lands of Mount Athos. Surrounded by calm, clear waters and gentle hills, it serves as a relaxing escape with a rich historical background. The village’s main attraction is the medieval Tower of Prosforios, a stone structure by the sea that reflects its Byzantine past. Narrow streets, family-run tavernas, and small shops selling local products contribute to the warm and authentic atmosphere of Ouranoupoli. Although it is the last stop before entering Mount Athos, accessible only to male pilgrims with special permits, visitors of all kinds come here to enjoy boat cruises along the Athos coastline, peaceful beaches, and a slower pace of life.
Local Numbers in Ouranoupoli & Mount Athos Area
- Port Authority of Ouranoupoli (Mount Athos Entrance Point): +30 23770 71248
- This is crucial for information on ferry schedules to/from Mount Athos and for obtaining the necessary permits.
- Ouranoupoli Police Station (or nearest): +30 23770 71203 (Check locally for the most current number, as smaller stations can change)
- Ouranoupoli Health Center (or nearest available medical facility): +30 23770 21111 (Ierissos Health Center, which serves the broader area)
- KTEL (Public Bus Station) Ouranoupoli: +30 23770 71007
- (For bus connections to Thessaloniki and other parts of Halkidiki)
Mount Athos Specific (Pilgrims/Visitors)
- Mount Athos Pilgrims’ Bureau (Office in Thessaloniki for permits): +30 2310 252578, +30 2310 252575
- This is where male pilgrims must obtain the “diamonitirion” (Mount Athos entry permit) before traveling to Ouranoupoli.
- Karyes Police Station (Mount Athos): +30 23770 23258
- Port Authority of Daphne (Mount Athos): +30 23770 23620
- (Main port on Mount Athos itself)
Other Useful Numbers (Halkidiki / Thessaloniki)
- General Hospital of Halkidiki (Polygyros): +30 23710 20101 or +30 23713 50100
- “Macedonia” Airport of Thessaloniki (SKG): +30 2310 985000
- KTEL Chalkidikis (Thessaloniki Bus Station for intercity travel): +30 2310 316555 / 316565 / 316575
- Pharmacies on Duty / Overnight Hospitals & Clinics: 14944 (This is a general information line for pharmacies/hospitals on duty across Greece).
Important Reminders:
- For serious emergencies, always use 112.
- When dialing from outside Greece, remember to include the +30 country code.
- It’s a good idea to have these numbers saved on your phone.
- Be aware that access to Mount Athos is restricted to males with a special permit (diamonitirion). Women can take boat cruises around the peninsula but cannot set foot on the territory.