The busiest time for Naoussa, Greece, is the carnival period, when the custom of 'Boules' (men dressed in traditional costumes and masks) takes place and the whole city drinks and dances in the streets

If you search the net about Naousa or Naoussa, Greece, you will probably only find information about Naousa in Paros Island. There is, however, another Naoussa: a lovely little town in Imathia, Central Macedonia, the land of the ancient Macedonian Kings.

Naoussa, just 90km of easy road from Thessaloniki, is a great place if you like to blend in with locals and discover the true face of the destinations when you travel:

Head into the town centre and ask for Konaki at 2, Ipapantis Street. It is one of the two workshops that still make the beeswax masks and the costumes for the ‘Boules’ custom. More than just a workshop, it is a place where tradition is kept alive and you can even buy an original, handmade mask.

If you visit Naoussa in autumn, it is worth trying to find a kazani – a small, family distillery that produces tsipouro, a strong, pure drink that is similar to grappa. It is not the drink that is important, but the whole procedure, an all-night-long celebration with music, dance, food and lots of drinking.

If you wish to take something back with you, make a stop at Sintagi tis Giagias (Grandma’s recipe), just 2km after you exit Naoussa toward Thessaloniki. Here, Thodoris collects fruits and vegetables from his farm and produces delicious homemade sweets using old recipes and natural ingredients. To complete your Naoussa tastes experience, you can also find here other local products like cheese and wine.

Continue reading this article on the Odyssey Tours blog