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Thessaloniki

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History of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has many stories to tell, starting by the moment of its foundation in 316/315 B.C. Fortunate to have royal “blood”, since the new city was named after Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Street Food Festival 2024

Thessaloniki Street Food Festival 2024

From Thursday 30 May to Sunday 2 June, the forecourt of TIF Helexpo will be transformed into a huge tasty park with over 30 food kiosks, 2 music s ...

CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL WITH THE STATE ORCHESTRA OF THESSALONIKI AT THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF THESSALONIKI

CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL WITH THE STATE ORCHESTRA OF THESSALONIKI AT THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF THESSALONIKI

Two of the city’s leading cultural organizations, the Thessaloniki State Orchestra and the Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum, organize a Ch ...

Exhibition “Vanitas. Stories from the past”

Exhibition "Vanitas. Stories from the past"

MOMus-Museum of Contemporary Art-Collections of the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art and the State Museum of Contemporary Art (within TIF-Hel ...

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The Intrepid Guide

33 BEST Things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece (The Ultimate Itinerary)

From visiting waterfalls to exploring hilltop castles, here are the top things to do in thessaloniki.

33 Best Things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece - 2023 Guide

Thessaloniki is everything you could want from a European vacation crammed into one city. At a crossroads between east and west, Thessaloniki has been at the heart of great empires for millennia and brims with historic sights. When it comes to the best things to do in Thessaloniki, you’re spoiled for choice.

Thessaloniki is also Greece’s second most populous city: modern, vibrant, and infused with Mediterranean character. It is the capital of culture in Greece and is home to leading festivals and art shows. There are world-class museums and a diverse mix of things to do in Thessaloniki. Many are within walking distance of each other in the charismatic old city.

Completing a dream vacation checklist, the city sits on the beautiful Thermaic Gulf. Summers are hot, but the sea breeze cools the terraces that burst with life every evening.

As vacation destinations go, few Mediterranean cities offer as much variety and character. To help you plot your way through the so-called Nymph of the Thermaic Gulf, here’s my guide to the very best things to do in Thessaloniki.

Before you go, brush up on your Greek with my free Greek travel phrase guide.

Best things to do in Thessaloniki

Here’s a quick list of what to see and do in Thessaloniki:

  • Visit the White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • Statue of Alexander the Great
  • Take a Tour of Pella, Alexander the Great’s birthplace
  • The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
  • Museum of Byzantine Culture
  • Aristotelous Square
  • Orizontes Roof Garden
  • Roman Agora
  • Jewish Museum
  • Agios Dimitrios Basilica
  • Ano Poli (Upper Town)
  • Take a guided tour of Ano Poli
  • Trigonion (Chain) Tower
  • Heptapyrgion (Eptapyrgio) of Thessalonica
  • Thessaloniki Science Centre Technology Museum
  • Rotonda and Arch of Galerius
  • Roman Palace of Galerius
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Ladadika district
  • Take a foodie tour of Thessaloniki
  • Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
  • Chew on a Koulouri
  • Day trip to Orlias waterfalls
  • Day trip to Archaeological Site of Dion
  • Climb Mount Olympus
  • Day trip to Palaios Panteleimonas
  • Platamon Castle
  • Kerkini Lake
  • Visit Meteora rock pillars with monasteries perched on top
  • Take a sunset cruise on a private boat
  • Bathe on beautiful beaches in Halkidiki
  • Visit Edessa, the ancient capital of Macedonia

Map of the best things to do in Thessaloniki

1. visit the landmark white tower of thessaloniki.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Visit the White Tower

The White Tower is a striking landmark on the waterfront. The imposing cylindrical structure stands 112 ft (34m) tall and is one of the most visited monuments in Thessaloniki. It’s a dramatic sight with an even more dramatic history.

The tower was built under Sultan Murad II following his successful capture of Thessaloniki in 1430. The fortification was raised on the site of a Byzantine fort mentioned by archbishop Eustathius of Thessalonica when the Normans sacked the city in 1185.

A sturdy fortification defending the city in the ensuing centuries, the tower was also used as a prison at the center of some of the bloodiest episodes in Thessaloniki’s long and turbulent history.

Under the Ottoman rule, it was a place of torture and mass executions. The most notorious was a massacre of imprisoned Janissaries in 1826. By this time, the tower had earned a new name, the ‘Red Tower’: more vividly, the ‘Tower of Blood.’ Until then, the tower had been known variously as the ‘Fortress of Kalamaria’ and the ‘Janissary Tower.’

Things to do in Thessaloniki - White Tower from Waterfront

Thessaloniki was liberated in 1912 by the Greek army. With a collective sigh of relief, the tower ceased to be a prison. The exterior was whitewashed again, and the interior was remodeled. Although the former ‘Tower of Blood’ featured in one final moment of bloody history when King George I of Greece was assassinated nearby.

It is fair to say the White Tower had an outsized impact on the city. Despite its notorious past, it is the symbol of Thessaloniki. Today, it contains a fascinating museum exploring the gripping history of the Greek city, with emphasis on the Byzantine period. There are a lot of beautiful artifacts that reveal a more benign side to Thessaloniki’s history.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - White Tower Museum - View of City and Coastline

A visit to the White Tower is one of the unmissable things to do in Thessaloniki. If you visit, scan the QR code to obtain the English language guide, as all the exhibits are presented in Greek only. Alternatively, you can download it here.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - White Tower Museum - Exhibit

Worth knowing: The museum is included in the Combined Museum Pass, which costs just €15 for 3 days. Four museums are included in the pass – the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, and the Rotunda. Good value if you plan to visit them all!

  • Where : Along the famous waterfront on Nikis Avenue near the Museum of Byzantine Culture (Thessaloniki 546 21)
  • Car: There is no parking at the museum, which sits directly on the waterfront. The nearest parking is in the basement of the City Hall, about a 10-minute walk away
  • Nearest bus stop: Stratigio – Museum of Byzantine Culture (Lines 3, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 31, 39, 58) More details here
  • When to go: See opening hours, but remember there’s a spectacular view at the top – consider the weather
  • Opening hours: 8 am to 8 pm
  • Price: €8 (Reduced ticket €4)

2. Statue of Alexander the Great

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Alexander the Great statue

A short walk from the White Tower stands an imperious bronze statue of Alexander the Great. Unveiled in 1974, the work by artist Evaggelos Moustakas commemorates the rule of the legendary king born in nearby Pella. The 20 ft (6m) statue depicts Alexander on his faithful warhorse, Bucephalus.

Alexander the Third (aka ‘the Great’) was the father of an empire that stretched across continents. His exploits reverberated throughout history. Perhaps the most famous Greek of all, the statue is a rare modern landmark and the star of many tourist photos.

  • Where : Along the waterfront of Nea Paralia in the Garden of Alexander.
  • Car: No parking at the site. A 10-15 minute walk from the public parking at the City Hall.
  • When to go: Anytime
  • Opening hours: None
  • Price: Free

3. Take a Tour of Pella, Alexander the Great’s birthplace

Alexander the Great’s statue is worth a look, especially as it is close to many other leading things to do in Thessaloniki. But if you want to discover more about his life and background, I recommend touring Pella with a knowledgeable guide.

Pella was once the capital of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon and is just an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki. It is where Aristotle taught the child prodigy and the center of a vast empire that Alexander built one conquest after another.

I recommend going on the aptly named Alexander the Great tour. They pick you up from your hotel and spend time in each of Pella’s archeological sites. The small group tour visits the UNESCO World Heritage Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai, where Alexander the Great’s father, Philip II, is buried. It’s a fascinating 8-hour tour that shines a revealing light on a military genius and giant of history. Check availability and book your tour here.

A decent alternative is this full day trip to Vergina and Pella from Thessaloniki tour . This one crams in a trip to the Royal Tombs of Aigai in Vergina, alongside visiting the archeological sites of Pella. Along the way, you’ll stop for some classic homemade Greek food in Vergina. Everything is arranged by an English-speaking guide, so you can sit back and enjoy the sights. Check availability and book your tour here.

4. Take a selfie at The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos

Things to do in Thessaloniki - The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos

Remarkably, George Zongolopoulos was 92 years old when he unveiled the sculpture. Zongolopoulos had a long and storied career, but umbrellas were his signature: the ones on Thessaloniki are considered the finest example.

In keeping with Zongolopoulos’s ambitions, the umbrellas blend harmoniously into the setting. And despite the rarity of umbrellas in warm and temperate Thessaloniki, it fits neatly onto the eclectic art of the waterfront. Occasionally, they are the focal point for events that play with color and lighting. Most strikingly, they are bathed in pink for breast cancer awareness every October. This is another must-see in an area brimming with some of the best things to do in Thessaloniki.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos - Shadow

Follow the link to learn more about the remarkable life of George Zongolopoulos.

  • Where : Along the waterfront of Nea Paralia
  • Car: Nearest public parking is at 10-12 Evzonon street, about a 10-minute walk to the Umbrellas
  • Buses : 01Χ, 6, 10, 17, 33, 58, 83Β More details here
  • When to go: Sunsets and sunrises are particularly popular, with the sea as a backdrop and the umbrellas casting shadows

5. Explore local history at the Museum of Byzantine Culture

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Museum of Byzantine Culture - Frescos

Spread over 11 permanent exhibitions, the thoughtfully curated museum covers centuries of history. The museum explores themes like the development of the Eastern Roman Empire, the influence of Christianity, the evolution of the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Byzantine legacy.

Due to the epic scope of the museum, the collections are markedly different from room to room. Early pottery, coins, archeological finds, mosaics, and artworks are among the exhibits. Most were recovered in the region around Thessaloniki.

Byzantine history is laden with epochal events, and the museum covers them all. From 330 AD, when Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and set up a new Eastern Roman capital in Byzantium (promptly renaming it Constantinople) through to the Ottoman conquest in 1453.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Museum of Byzantine Culture - Stairs and exhibits

Over the course of the long-lasting empire, Hellenist and Eastern Orthodox Christianity ascended to dominate a culture that was ostensibly Roman.

Much like ancient Rome , Byzantine borders were expanded through conquest. It reached its height during the Macedonian and Komnenian dynasties, when Byzantine power and influence stretched across three continents, covering many parts of the old Roman Empire.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Museum of Byzantine Culture - Temple

In the ensuing centuries, the empire lost territory and influence. Yet throughout its history, art and science flourished. This is brought vividly to life in the museum. With over a millennium of history, the museum can only scratch the surface. But it does the job effectively and is an absorbing way to learn about the Byzantine empire.

  • Where : Leof. Stratou 2, Thessaloniki 546 (near Thessaloniki City Hall)
  • Car: Park in the basement of the City Hall, about a 5-minute walk away
  • Nearest bus stop: Stratigio – Museum of Byzantine Culture (Lines 3, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 31, 39, 58)
  • When to go: See opening hours
  • Price: €8 (Reduced ticket €4) – Included in the €15.00 museum pass

6. Visit the vibrant Aristotelous Square

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Aristotelous Square - Statue of Aristotle

The design and architecture are unusual for Thessaloniki. Following the devastating fire of 1917, the city wanted an impressive public square to rival other European cities. Until then, Thessaloniki had grown haphazardly with a mix of styles through the ages; the fire offered a chance to transform the city.

Ernest Hébrard, the designer, conceived a monumental axis in the heart of Thessaloniki. The architecture would borrow from Byzantine and European designs, ignoring Ottoman styles. The view uphill would sweep towards Ana Poli and the Byzantine walls.

Hébrard’s plans were ultimately scaled down, but the underlying concept was eventually realized in the 1950s. Despite being smaller in scope, the immaculately finished square is an architectural triumph.

Centrally located and overlooking the waterside promenade, many of the principal things to do in Thessaloniki are within walking distance of Aristotelous Square. It is somewhere you inevitably end up passing through and a great place to while away a few hours. There are decent cafes and restaurants around the square and the adjoining streets.

At night, the square is illuminated with street lights. It’s a picturesque setting. After a plate of meze and a cooling sea breeze, you might find yourself returning again and again.

  • Where : On Nikis avenue, in the city center
  • Car: There are many public parking garages near Aristotelous Square. Parking is expensive in the city center, but Parking Plateia at 38 Vasileos Irakleiou is spacious and, relatively, inexpensive
  • Buses: Nearby Via Egnatia is a central route for many buses (lines 2, 2A, 8, 10, 11, 14, 17, 22, 27, 31, 37, 83) More details here
  • When to go: Mornings to admire the architecture, evenings to enjoy the atmosphere

7. Stop for a drink and sea views at Orizontes Roof Garden

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Orizontes Roof Garden - View of Aristotelous Square

The setting is refined, and the drinks are good, especially the punchy Greek coffee. The restaurant menu is a tempting mix of Greek flavors, and the bar is open all day for snacks and drinks. You’re made to feel welcome, even if you‘re just there to slowly sip a cocktail and watch the sunset over the Aegean.

  • Where : Electra Palace hotel, Aristotélous 9, Thessaloniki 546 24
  • When to go: Open all day, but the sunsets are the star. Although the views are impressive any time of the day
  • Opening hours: 12 pm to 12:45 am
  • Price: Cocktails, €11

8. See the ruins of a pre-Byzantine Roman Agora

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Roman Agora - Theatre

The Odeion is the most striking structure. Built in 200 AD, the Odeion was a theater stage for poetry recitals, shows, and musical performances. Small theaters like this were typically decorated with figures of the muses and reserved exclusively for the aristocracy. The seating and stage are so well-preserved that you can imagine them being used today for a show today.

Amazingly, the ruins were only unearthed in the 1960s. They were buried for centuries and only discovered after an aborted plan to build the municipal courthouse, part of Ernest Hébrard’s vision for Aristotelous Square. It makes for an incongruous sight, with millennia-old ruins surrounded by modern shops and apartments.

You can get a good view of the ruins without going in. But it only costs €2 to enter and walk in the footsteps of Roman governors and gladiators. Plus, there’s an underground museum with air-conditioning. Two Euros well spent! Especially as the money will help preserve ancient ruins once nearly buried under a courthouse!

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Roman Agora - Roman Forum

  • Where : A 10-minute walk from Aristotelous Square (Olympou & Philippou Str., Τ.Κ. 54646)
  • Car: There are spaces in the streets around the Roman Forum, and two large parking centers overlooking the square. Payments are made online through THESi
  • Nearest bus stop: Multiple buses converge on nearby Via Egnatia (lines 2, 2A, 8, 10, 11, 14, 17, 22, 27, 31, 37, 83) More details here
  • When to go: Anytime . See opening hours below

9. Visit the inspiring and poignant Jewish Museum

The beautifully presented exhibitions in the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki honor the immense Sephardic contribution to local culture and arts. At times inspiring, and other times moving, it is an absorbing museum.

Thessaloniki was once home to a thriving Jewish community. Many were driven there after being expelled from Spain in 1492. The Jewish influence was felt throughout the city for centuries, although the Great Fire of 1917 prompted many to move out from the center. During World War II, 45,000 Jews were transported to Germany. Few returned. The most harrowing exhibition in the museum is one displaying broken tombstones from the local Jewish cemetery, which were smashed by Nazi supporters. Infamously, some headstones were used to restore the Church of Hagios Demetrios.

The museum is housed in a magnificent home that survived the fire of 1917. It provides an illuminating insight into the rich heritage of a community that once thrived in Thessaloniki.

  • Where : In the city center, a 5-minute walk from Aristotelous Square (11 Agiou Mina Street)
  • Opening hours: 9 am to 2 pm (Monday – Friday). 10 am to 2 pm (Sunday). Closed on Saturdays

10. Visit the Agios Dimitrios Basilica, where Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki was martyred

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Church of St. Demetrios

Somehow, the rebuilt church of 643 AD survived right through to 1917. The 5-aisle church you see today was painstakingly reconstructed to that specification. Sadly, little survived the fire of 1917 except for six colorful mosaics from the early Byzantine period. Depicting Saint Demetrios and church officials who rebuilt the church in 634 AD, they are the highlight of the elegant interior.

The history of the church is just as compelling as the famous mosaics. The church was raised where Saint Demetrius was tortured and executed. A former Roman military officer from a wealthy local family, he is a noted saint in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.

After converting to Christianity, Demetrius was imprisoned by the Roman Emperor Maximian. The Hollywood-esque story tells of Demetrius encouraging a follower, Nestoras, to win a gladiatorial fight. The fight was organized by the Emperor to pit pagans against Christians. When Nestoras won on behalf of Christianity, he was immediately beheaded at the Emperor’s behest. Angry with the role of Demetrius encouraging dissent from this prison, he ordered his murder too.

Demetrius was buried by loyal followers in 306 AD. Centuries later, churchgoers reported the scent of myrrh emanating from the tomb. This led to a new name for Demetrius, the “Myrrh Gusher.” In time, he was recognized as the patron saint of Thessaloniki.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Church of St. Demetrios - Fountain

In one last twist of history, the fire revealed the roman bath where Saint Demetrius was imprisoned and a well where his body was disposed of. Also rediscovered was an intricately crafted crypt that was restored and is now the centerpiece of the church. With a compelling heritage like that, it is no surprise that Agios Dimitrios Basilica is the most famous church in Thessaloniki.

  • Where : About 0.6 miles (1 km) from Aristotelous Square (83 Agiou Dimitriou St., 54633)
  • When to go: See opening hours. If you can, visit on 26 October, Saint Demetrios’s feast day
  • Opening hours: 6am to 10pm

11. Wander around the colorful old streets of Ano Poli (Upper Town)

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Ana Poli

Locals love it there because it feels homely and detached from the main tourist haunts. Yes, there are tourists. But it’s mostly a place where locals hang out in lively tavernas and cute corner cafes. You may even hear traditional rebetiko music in easygoing tavernas.

The winding paved streets are bursting with character, and lazily wandering around the neighborhood is a delight. But there’s also a handful of top-tier sights in Thessaloniki.

As the name suggests, Upper Town overlooks Thessaloniki. The views can be spectacular, especially along the byzantine fortifications ringing Ana Poli. The views from the Trigonion (Chain) Tower are particularly sweeping.

Nestled within the warren of streets in Ano Poli are several paleo-Christian and Byzantine churches and monasteries. They are all protected by UNESCO World Heritage. Highlights include the Holy Church of Hosios David (5th century), Vlatadon Monastery (14th century), the Church of Taxiarches, and the Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos (14th century.)

For me, the standout was the magnificent 14th-century Church of Prophet Elias (Elijah.) The former monastery and mosque is a curious building and one of the prettiest churches in Ano Poli. That said, all the churches are worth a look. Best of all, hunting them down means exploring the labyrinthine streets of Ano Poli, which are endlessly captivating and one of my favorite things to do in Thessaloniki.

Oh, and look out for the childhood home of Kemal Ataturk. The father of the Republic of Turkey, one of the towering figures of the 20th century, was born in Ano Poli. His former house on Apostolou Pavlu Street has been converted into a museum, an intriguing diversion for history buffs.

  • Where : Ano Poli (Upper Town) – North of the city center. Buses 22, 23, and 50 head into Ano Poli More details here
  • When to go: Daytime to explore and see the churches and byzantine fortifications. Evenings to enjoy the down-to-earth and colorful nightlife

12. Take a guided tour of Ano Poli

Fun as it is to wander aimlessly around the Upper Town, you’ll discover more with a passionate local. The Thessaloniki Walking Tour is a 3-hour walking tour infused with local insight to ensure you miss nothing. Check availability and book your tour here.

13. Enjoy a spectacular sunset from the Trigonion (Chain) Tower

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Trigonion Tower at sunset

Thessaloniki is laid out below, with views stretching for miles across the Aegean. My advice, head up there for sunset. Not only can you enjoy views off into the horizon, but as darkness descends the city sparkles below. It’s a long hike to the tower, so consider taking the bus (23) or a taxi. You may also want to time your visit to enter the tower, which is open until 5pm.

  • Where : The fortified wall of Ano Poli (Agios Pavlos 546 34)
  • When to go: Get there for sunset to enjoy spectacular views over the Aegean
  • Opening hours: Enjoy views from the tower 24/7. The interior is open from 10am to 5pm
  • Price: €6 (free for EU citizens under 25)

14. Visit the imposing fort, Heptapyrgion (Eptapyrgio) of Thessalonica

The Heptapyrgion is a Byzantine citadel turned Ottoman fort turned latter-day prison. The earliest structure, an acropolis, dates back to 316 BC. Remarkably, the fort was used as the city’s primary prison until 1989.

The citadel was likely converted in 1431, shortly after the Ottoman conquest. It was modeled on the 7 towers of Yedikule Fortress in Istanbul: Heptapyrgion means the “Fortress of the Seven Towers.” Confusingly, the fortress has 10 towers, although the Ottomans helpfully removed doubt by naming it “Yedi Kule.”

Today, many locals still know the fortress as Yedi Kule. Its role as a prison for political inmates is still fresh in the memory and apparently referenced in many Rebetiko songs.

Since moving the prison out of the city, the fort has been carefully restored and converted into a museum. Work is still ongoing to develop the museum, which is threadbare for such a famous building. But the journey up the hill is worth it, if only to glimpse shadows of history, not least in the eerie prison cells you can access.

As an extra reward, the views from the fort are incredible, just as they must have been when Ottoman troops were garrisoned there. The local neighborhood is fun too, with some enticing restaurants nearby if you’re looking for foodie things to do in Thessaloniki.

  • Where : North of Ano Poli (Eptapirgiou 130.) Although it’s about a 30-40 minute walk to the fort from Ano Poli, it’s a steep hill and a killer in the sun. Buses (22, 23, 50) or taxi is advisable. More details here
  • When to go: See opening hours. I recommend going in the morning when cooler before heading down to the shaded streets of Ano Poli.
  • Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (closed on Tuesdays)

15. Thessaloniki Science Centre Technology Museum

If you fancy a break from exploring ancient sites, the Thessaloniki Science Centre Technology Museum deserves a look. It offers a very different experience from most other things to do in Thessaloniki and good fun for kids (and adults.)

Within the compact museum are a planetarium, a 3D ‘cosmotheater’ with the tallest screen in Greece, and a simulator ride. There are also exhibitions on ancient technology and a classic car show that everybody loves.

The museum is outside the city center, although several buses head there. If you’re in the mood to swap history for science, it’s the best option in Thessaloniki.

  • Where : On the outskirts of the city.
  • Car: There is parking at the museum.
  • Bus: From the park of New Switzerland (end of line 10,) board bus No. 66.From T.S. Voulgari (end of line 31,) catch a 36, 36B, 36E, 36K, 36P, 36Y, 36Z. More details here
  • When to go: See opening hours.
  • Opening hours: Variable ( check official website .)
  • Price: €12 (reduced €8)

16. Visit two neighboring 4th-century monuments, The Rotonda and Arch of Galerius

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Rotonda and Minaret

The Arch of Galerius is decorated with reliefs that celebrate a victory over the Persians by armies led by Galerius. The arch was completed in 303 and became the grand entrance to old Thessaloniki, linking directly to the Rotonda and palace complex. It sits on the ancient thoroughfare Via Egnatia, a road that cut through the Eastern Roman Empire. Today, it is one of the busiest streets in Thessaloniki.

You can still walk under the arch, just as the emperor did. The connecting walls are long gone, but the reliefs are remarkable. And the edifice is an exceptional sight, surrounded by bustling modern Thessaloniki living in its 1,700+ year shadow.

Even more remarkable is the Rotunda, well-preserved and open to the public. The Rotunda, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was completed in 306 AD and was likely the intended burial place for Emperor Galerius. Ultimately, he died from a terrible illness and was buried in modern-day Serbia.

The Rotunda is magnificent inside and out. The domed ceiling has an oculus (open eye) providing light to admire acclaimed mosaics. The rotunda walls are 20ft (6m) thick, which helped the building survive multiple earthquakes and preserve the gorgeous mosaics.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Rotonda mosaics

Today, the Rotonda is officially the Greek Orthodox Church of Agios Georgios. There’s no doubt that the Rotonda is the oldest church in Thessaloniki, and there are claims that it may be the oldest Christian church in the world.

You pay to go inside, but it is worth every cent. The mosaics are fine early examples of Byzantine art, and the cavernous interior is striking. Unofficially, the Rotonda and Arch of Galerius are among the most important attractions and things to do in Thessaloniki.

  • Where : In the center of Thessaloniki, off Via Egnatia and south of Ano Poli
  • Opening hours: (Rotunda entry only) 8am to 8pm
  • Price: €6 (Reduced rate €3) to enter the Rotunda – Included in the €15.00 museum pass

17. Explore the ruins of the Roman Palace of Galerius and enter the preserved Apsidal hall

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Octagon of the Galerian Palace

Long since destroyed by earthquakes, the palace is a set of ruins and an open-air museum. Built during the period when the Eastern Roman Empire was morphing into the Byzantine Empire, the complex is a fascinating reminder of Thessaloniki’s complicated origins.

Within the Galerian Complex are ruins of a palace built for the (at the time) tetrarch Galerius. The layout connected with the Roman thoroughfare Via Egnatia, which stretched 696 miles (1,120 km) through the eastern regions of the Roman Empire.

Still standing are parts of the wall of what must have been a stunning basilica. Some surviving mosaics are exposed, revealing the original splendor of the palace. Completing the set of buildings was a hippodrome (racecourse.) Sadly, the remains are buried, although archeologists have reconstructed the appearance so you can visualize it.

The ruins illustrate how significant the palace was. The complex was intended to be a home worthy of an emperor in a crucial area of the Eastern Roman Empire, Byzantium. The Rotunda was to be the Emperor’s mausoleum. But Galerius was laid to rest in another extraordinary palace he built, Gamzigrad, in his birthplace in Zaječar, modern-day Serbia.

Despite not being used by Galerius, the palace was occasionally revived as a home for Byzantine rulers, with expansions added in the years after Galerius. The most notable is the final addition to the complex, Apsidal Hall.

Apsidal Hall was likely used for banquets, especially when the emperor attended games in the Hippodrome. It was rebuilt in the 5th and early 6th centuries; an additional hall was added to the original. Fragments of ornate decoration survive, showing the walls and floors were once covered in marble.

Today, a section of Apsidal hall hosts visitor information about the complex, including images of how the complex looked. It’s a welcome display to help visualize the grandeur of the palace.

You can walk around the complex and see everything from above or pop into the information center in Apsidal Hall. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, visitors are invited to walk around the complex at ground level.

It doesn’t take long to see everything. Yet the entire Galerian complex is a fascinating relic and one of those essential things to do in Thessaloniki, especially when visiting for the first time.

  • Where : In the center of Thessaloniki – Apsidal Hall, Intersection of D. Gounari and A. Svolou Sts
  • When to go: See the ruins anytime during the day
  • Opening hours: Apsidal Hall – 10 am to 5 pm Complex ruins – Tuesday & Wednesday, 8 am to 3 pm

18. Visit Thessaloniki’s own Hagia Sophia, one of the oldest churches in the world

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Cathedral Church of Agia Sophia of Thessalonica

A church was first raised on the same spot in the 4th century but was likely destroyed by an earthquake. The current structure also suffered disasters, notably citywide fires in 1890 and 1917. Consequently, the dome was only reconstructed in 1980. However, most of the building survived intact for over 1,300 years.

Like all the early Byzantine churches, the Hagia Sophia spent centuries as a mosque under Ottoman rule. Before then, the church had been ordained a cathedral after being captured during the Fourth Crusade (1205 AD.) Like so many other churches in Thessaloniki, the building is a testament to the convoluted history of the Macedon region.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Cathedral Church of Agia Sophia of Thessalonica - Saint Basil the Confessor room

For example, after an earthquake in 1978 damaged the church, restorations revealed the tomb of Saint Basil the Confessor. Saint Basil was born in Athens and, after living as a hermit on Mount Athos, became the Bishop of Thessaloniki. His relics were found in 1981 and moved to a chapel dedicated to the saint.

If you Google him, look for another Basil the Bishop, who lived in Thessaloniki but was not buried there. Apparently, even historians have mixed them up!

There are many other snippets of history associated with the illustrious cathedral. But nothing prepares you for the majesty of the cathedral interior. If you’re looking for inspiring things to do in Thessaloniki, set aside time to enjoy a peaceful moment admiring the breathtaking mosaics.

Top tip : You can find one of the secret things to do in Thessaloniki just a few feet away from the Hagia Sophia under a small church in a sunken garden. It was once part of a monastery dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Make time to pop in, as you can visit ghostly catacombs under the monastery. It’s like a hidden entrance and easy to miss, but you’ll find it near the southeast corner of the cathedral.

  • Where : In the city center, a 10-minute walk from the Arch of Galerius (Agias Sofias, Thessaloniki 546 22)
  • When to go: Go for mass or visit during the opening hours to simply admire the mosaics
  • Cathedral Church of Agia Sophia of Thessalonica: 7 am to 7 pm daily
  • Holy Church of John the Baptist: 7 am to 3 pm (Mon-Fri.) 7 am to 1 pm (Weekends)

19. Head to the Ladadika district for good food and good times

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Ladadika - Nightlifejpg

The Ladadika district leaves an impression. The historic district is bursting with color and life.Cozy taverns and hospitable restaurants make Ladadika a prime destination to sample Greek cuisine. In fact, the area derives its name from the Mediterranean staples of oils and olives that were sold when Ladadika was an Ottoman bazaar.

Having been the city market for centuries, Ladadika was heavily damaged in the 1917 fire. The area fell into disrepair and, at one point, was home to the city’s red-light district. Designated a site of historic interest in the 1980s, the area slowly sprang back to life.

Today, Ladadika is a compact maze of paved streets lined with bars and eateries, many in former olive oil warehouses. At night, it is the liveliest part of Thessaloniki.

There’s food for every taste, from plates of souvlaki and gyros to burgers and fries. Live music regularly starts up in packed taverns. Terraces overlook quaint squares and fountains. In short, it is stimulating to wander around, soaking up the atmosphere. Even better to stop for a plate of meze and watch the world go by.

  • Where : A short distance from the port and Aristotelous Square in the city center. There are two main streets, Katouni and Egiptou.
  • When to go: Evenings are when Ladadika bursts into life, although it’s lively throughout the day

20. Take a foodie tour of Thessaloniki

The taverns and restaurants of Thessaloniki are a delight. There’s delicious Greek food and international flavors around every corner. If you want to know what makes a great plate of meze, the 2.5-hour this Thessaloniki food and culture tour  has the answers. Especially as samples are included in the price!

Alternatively, join this open markets food tasting tour  that takes you around the market and gourmet highlights around Thessaloniki. This tour includes stops at craft stores and promises to supply tips on the hottest tavernas to visit.

21. Stop for skyline vistas and coffee at the OTE Tower

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Sky Tower Bar

The suitably named Skyline bar takes 60 minutes to complete a rotation. Drinks are expensive, but the panoramic views ease the sting. It’s a great spot to gain new perspectives on many of the top things to do in Thessaloniki, which are dotted around the cityscape below.

The Skyline bar was recently renovated, adding a touch of class to the setting. And unlike the Orizontes Roof Garden, you get a roof and air-con. A welcome relief after a day of stomping around tourist sights.There’s live piano music in the evening, making the OTE tower another stellar location to enjoy a cocktail and watch the city below light up as darkness falls.

  • Where : Northeast of the waterfront and Alexander the Great statue (Egnatia 154, Helexpo – TIF, 54621)
  • When to go: The views are special anytime, but seeing the city sparkle at night was spellbinding
  • Opening hours: 10 am to 1am daily (10 am to 2am on Friday and Saturday)

22. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki - Sarcophagus decoration

You should set aside a couple of hours to explore the vast collection. There is so much to see, and it is probably one of the most absorbing things to do in Thessaloniki. Highlights include:

  • The Aravissos Hoard – 6 gold artifacts from the Final Neolithic period (4500-3200 BC)
  • The Petralona Hoard – bronze age tools dated to the 3rd millennium BC
  • A statue of Augustus, the first emperor of Rome.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki - Roman era statues

The museum holds 8 permanent exhibitions, exploring themes on the history of Macedonia and Thessaloniki. Something that caught my interest was how early Macedonians used dates. Their first dating system cited kings to record dates. When the Romans arrived, they came with their Roman calendar. In later years, a third dating system focused on major events, which began from zero after Emperor Octavian’s 31 BC victory in Actium. Buried in the museum al myriad nuggets of history like this. Happily, the exhibition is well-organized, with just about everything translated into English. With so much to see and learn, you might need more than a couple of hours to see it all!

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki - Roman emperor statue

  • Where : Northeast of the Alexander the Great Statue, just off the busy Leof. Stratou (6 Manoli Andronikou Street)
  • Opening hours: 8 am to 8 pm (summer), 9 am to 4 pm (winter)
  • Price: €8.00 (reduced €4.00). Included in the €15.00 museum pass

23. Chew on a Koulouri

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Koulouri

Like a bagel, they are chewy on the outside and soft in the middle. They are a local breakfast favorite, and many vendors disappear in the afternoon. Do like the locals, and grab some eyewatering Greek coffee and a koulouri for a tasty and convenient breakfast on the go.

If you like a crispier version, go for the thin ones. My advice, take both and decide for yourself. They’re cheap and filling.If you miss the street vendors, you can find them in bakeries and pale imitations in supermarkets.

24 Day trip to Orlias waterfalls

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Day trip to Orlias Waterfall

The waterfalls sit in a forested canyon, and fantastic hiking trails lead to the waterfalls. The first waterfall can be reached in just 5 minutes from the main road, although I still recommend taking walking boots with your swimsuit.

Orlias waterfalls sit in an idyllic location, just 60 miles (96km) from Thessaloniki, near Dion on the opposite side of the Thermaic Gulf. If you want to see the Mediterranean countryside and cool off in a beautiful location, it’s got it all.

If you want to up the adrenaline, canyoning through the Orlias waterfalls is sure to thrill . This tour matches you with an expert to navigate the reasonably unchallenging waters. Note that this tour picks up from Dion only.  Check availability and book your tour here.

For a more sedate exploration of the waterfalls, go with the Olympus Lagoons tour . They take the hassle out of everything by transporting you to the canyon and guiding you to the prettiest spots. It’s a small group tour, so a chance to make new friends or just enjoy a trip where everything is taken care of. Pick up from Nei Pori. Check availability and book your tour here.

25. Day trip to the Archaeological Site of Dion

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Day trip to Dion - Roman Road

A Macedonian sanctuary dedicated to Zeus is the star attraction. Dion was first mentioned by the Greek historian Thucydides in the 5th century BC. For centuries, the fabled sanctuary overlooked by Mount Olympus was a pilgrimage site for Macedonian and Roman rulers and generals.

Notably, Phillip II of Macedonia and his son, Alexander the Great, celebrated victories there. After the Romans conquered the city in 169 BC, Dion and the sanctuary retained importance. Roman coins have been found from Dion, and it is said the Romans favored the location due to their respect for the martial exploits of Alexander the Great. The city was still thriving in the 4th and 5th centuries AD but was abandoned after earthquakes and floods ravaged the area in later years.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Day trip to Dion - Thermal Baths

If Mount Olympus is your focus, this tour is super-convenient. Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel are key. But you also get an air-conditioned bus, a licensed guide, and complimentary drinks and snacks. One of the smoothest ways to see Mount Olympus and explore Dion.

  • Where : 11 miles (17 km) south of Katerini in Dion, Pieria (601 00).
  • Car: There is a parking lot at the Archaeological Park of Dion.
  • Guided tour:
  • Opening hours: 8am to 8pm, 16 April – 31 October. Winter closing times vary according to when the sun sets.
  • Price: €8.00 (reduced €4.00)

26. Climb Mount Olympus, an icon of Greek mythology

It looks dizzyingly high, but the fabled Mount Olympus can be climbed in a day. At 9,600 feet (2,918m,) it is the highest peak in Greece. The surest way to the summit is in the company of climbing pros.

This Olympus Private Mountain Guiding tour can help. They’ll pick you up from your hotel, guide you to the summit, and get you back in around 12 hours. You can hire equipment from them if needed. Check availability and book your tour here.

Another option is this less expensive Olympus Climbing Experience tour. The group is bigger, but you’ll reach the summit and enjoy the same views. Again, essential equipment can be hired. Check availability and book your tour here.

27. Day trip to Palaios Panteleimonas

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Day trip to Palaios Panteleimonas - Cat crossing road

The village enjoys exceptional views over the Aegean and up to the snowy summit of Mount Olympus. But even without the views, Palaios Panteleimonas is a delight. The village was settled in the 1700s, and the homes are a charming jumble of bricks and timber. In the summer, the streets burst with colorful flowers. It’s a dreamy setting. The atmospheric cobbled streets can be explored in an afternoon. But there are several traditional taverns with welcoming terraces that invite you to linger.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Day trip to Palaios Panteleimonas - Laneway

It’s not quite a secret, but you won’t see many mentions of Palaios Panteleimonas in guides to the best things to do in Thessaloniki. Sure, it takes about an hour and a half to drive there. But it is an idyllic escape with an altogether different pace of life to Greece’s second-largest city. If you’re looking for something different to do on your Thessaloniki vacation, Palaios Panteleimonas might just fit the bill.

  • Where : Old Panteleimonas, Pieria. 24 miles (38km) south of Katerini.
  • When to go: Daytime, to savor the views and cold ouzo on the tavern terraces.

28. Visit the crusader castle at Platamonas

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Byzantine Castle of Platamon overlooking sea

The imposing fort sits on a hill overlooking the Aegean. It was built to protect the entrance to the Temple Valley, a trade route between Macedonia and Greece. The construction is distinctively medieval European and quite different from the Hellenistic and Byzantine structures you commonly see in the region.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Byzantine Castle of Platamon - Entrance

Sections of the castle are in ruins, but the imposing donjon still stands tall. Unfortunately, the tower is closed. However, you can explore the rest of the fort and walk sections of the wall.

The Platamonas caste would be a wonder in any other location. Around Mount Olympus, the castle barely registers on tourist itineraries. Accordingly, the site is rarely busy. If you make your way out to Pieria or Mount Olympus, the impressive fort and the views from within are worth the detour.

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Byzantine Castle of Platamon - Main tower

If you’re around in July and August, the location is used to host concerts during the Olympus Festival. I wasn’t lucky enough to catch one, but I can easily imagine how magical it would be. Check online for details.

  • Where : 22 miles (35km) south of Katerini. Platamonas, Pieria, 60065
  • Car: Parking at the bottom of the hill.
  • Opening hours: 8.30am to 3.30pm
  • Price: €3 (reduced €2)

29. Take a trip to the biodiverse wetlands of Kerkini Lake

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Lake Kerkini - Buffalo

30. See the stunning Meteora rock pillars with monasteries perched on top

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Meteora

This Meteora Tour from Thessaloniki by Train’ makes it happen by using Greece’s slick rail services. The tour takes you to see three monasteries in the sky and includes lunch. Not to mention an expert guide who knows the history. And how to read a train timetable in Greek! Check availability and book your tour here.

If the idea of seeing Greece flash by from a train window doesn’t appeal, choose this tour by minibus . The inexpensive day tour picks you up from Thessaloniki and transports you to two Meteora monasteries, including a stop for lunch (your expense) in Kalampaka. An English-speaking guide keeps things interesting en route and you’ll be back in Thessaloniki before the taverns close. Check availability and book your tour here.

31. Take a sunset cruise on a private boat

Things to do in Thessaloniki - White Tower Promenade

The Thessaloniki: Sunset Cruise tour is a small private boat that tours the bay as the sun goes down. Champagne and fruit platters are supplied, which is always a winning way to watch a sunset. Don’t forget your swimsuit, there’s even a chance to dive into the sea. Check availability and book your tour here.

32. Bathe on beautiful beaches in Halkidiki

Swimming options around Thessaloniki are limited, with most beaches outside the town. Halkidiki is known for stunning white sandy beaches and turquoise waters around its pointed peninsulas. And Halkidiki is just an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki. If you don’t have a hire car, take this private Thessaloniki to Halkidiki day trip to Kassandra .

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off and takes you to one of the prettiest peninsulas, Kassandra. You’ll visit Hanioti Beach before dropping into Afitos, a quaint village in Halkidiki. If you crave a day at the beaches in another stunning part of Greece, this could be the tour for you. Check availability and book your tour here.

33. Bathes in thermal springs and visit Edessa, the ancient capital of Macedonia

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Pozar Thermal Baths

An air-conditioned bus will pick you up from your hotel. And an English-speaking guide is on hand to talk you through a remarkable period of history. It sounds like both a dreamy escape and an opportunity to learn more about the region’s pre-Roman history. The perfect bolt-on to all the other wonderful things to do in Thessaloniki.  Check availability and book your tour here.

A short history of Thessaloniki

Things to do in Thessaloniki - White Tower waterfront - Sunrise

Located directly on Via Egnatia, the crucial Roman road connecting a string of cities, the city became an important trading hub in both the Roman and ensuing Byzantine Empire. Many of the famous sights of Thessaloniki are located close to the ancient street, reflecting how vital it was to Thessaloniki’s early development.

By 330 AD, the Roman Empire had fragmented and ushered in the eastern Byzantine Empire. Thessaloniki emerged as a leading city in the Byzantine Empire, second only to Constantinople (Istanbul.)

The Byzantine Empire lasted until 1453. In the intervening years, Thessaloniki grew in wealth, power, and cultural influence. You can see that reflected in many of the most famous buildings and things to do in Thessaloniki. The city’s Hellenistic and Roman roots profoundly shaped Byzantine culture.

Thessaloniki was at the center of conflicts throughout the Byzantine age. Slavic invaders and crusaders fought battles there. Yet the city flourished as a melting pot of different cultures and an established economic hub.

In 1430, everything changed again when the Ottomans under Sultan Murad II captured Thessaloniki. The city was sacked, and citizens were enslaved. Yet, despite the shock of 1430, centuries of relative calm followed.

Islamic influence increased, yet citizens were allowed to practice their religion in peace. This meant the city became a refuge for Sephardic Jews after they were expelled from the Iberian Peninsula in 1492.

Inevitably, the Greek War of Independence in 1821 rippled through the city. Yet the most notorious incident of that era happened in 1826. Known as The Auspicious Incident, 10,000 Janissaries — elite guards of the sultan — were massacred. Once again, peace quickly returned, and the city experienced an unprecedented economic expansion in the 1800s.

The 20th century profoundly changed Thessaloniki. The city was a hotbed of political activism. It was a powder keg city, symbolized by the 1913 assassination of King George I of Greece in the city center.

As the war in the Balkans broke out, Thessaloniki was embroiled in a political conflict between Greece, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria (who also laid claim to the city.) Hellenistic at heart, the city was ultimately transferred peacefully to Greece in 1912.

Thessaloniki was a flashpoint in the First World War. But the city’s biggest catastrophe occurred in 1917 when a kitchen fire sparked a conflagration that swept through the metropolis. The fire rendered a quarter of the city homeless and destroyed many landmarks. The scars of the fire are still visible today, as you’ll notice across many entries in my guide to things to do in Thessaloniki.

The last great tragedy to befall Thessaloniki occurred when it was the first city in Greece occupied by Nazi Germany. Over 45,000 Jews were deported to concentration camps. Only 4% survived.

Despite the long and complicated history of Thessaloniki, the city once again flourished after the war. In 1997, Thessaloniki was named the European Capital of Culture. It is easy to see why. The imprint of several empires bridging Europe and Asia is visible throughout the city. It is a remarkable history that infuses the city with a singular character unlike any in Greece.

Why is it called Thessaloniki’?

Things to do in Thessaloniki - Trigonion Tower view

The story behind the name offers a telling insight into Thessaloniki’s origins. The city was likely named after princess Thessalonike of Macedon, the daughter of Philip II and half-sister to Alexander the Great. More pertinently, she was the wife of Cassander, the Macedonian king who founded Thessaloniki.

Thessalonike means ‘Thessalian victory,’ a reference to the Macedonian victory at the Battle of Crocus Field in 352 BC. Over time, minor variants of Thessaloniki appeared in different languages. The most common was Thessalonica and the Greek name, Saloníki (Salonika in English.)

When the city was absorbed into Greece in 1912, local authorities officially clarified that it should be called Thessaloniki. It took a few years, but Thessaloniki is now widely used in the English-speaking world.

You will find the name adapted in various languages, albeit just about recognizable. For example, in Italian, it is Salonicco . In Turkey, the city is called Selânik . When a city has so many variations on its name, you know it is a place with a long and winding history!

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Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is easy to fall in love with – it has beauty, chaos, history and culture, a remarkable cuisine and wonderful, vast sea views. This is Greece’s second city, which, like the rest of the country, has suffered the hit of the economic crisis, but the streets remain full of life and vibrancy.

Best Things to Do

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

thessaloniki tourist guide

Archaeological Museum

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thessaloniki tourist guide

Church of Agios Dimitrios

This enormous 7th-century basilica honours Thessaloniki’s patron saint. A Roman soldier, Dimitrios was killed around AD 306 at this former Roman bath site…

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Museum of Byzantine Culture

This fascinating museum has plenty of treasures to please Byzantine buffs, plus simple explanations to introduce this long-lived empire and its culture to…

Church of Osios David

Church of Osios David

This serene little 5th-century church, once the katholikon (major church) of the Monastery of Saviour Christ of Latomos, is one of the most significant…

Greece, Thessaloniki, The White Tower

White Tower

Thessaloniki's iconic landmark, the 34m-high White Tower has a harrowing history as a prison and place of execution. Built by the Ottomans in the 15th…

View of the Umbrellas sculpture created in 1997 by the sculptor Georgios Zongolopoulos, located at the seafront of Thessaloniki.

New Waterfront

Thessaloniki's New Waterfront is evidence that architecture can improve urban life through intelligent redesign of the space in which it is lived…

The monastery of Vlatadon in Thessaloniki.

Monastery of Vlatadon

Believed to have been founded around 1351 on the place where Paul preached in Thessaloniki, this secluded monastery blends fascinating history with some…

Concert hall of Thessaloniki designed by the Japanese architect Arata Isozaki.

Thessaloniki Concert Hall

Japanese architect Arata Isozaki created the M2, one of two waterfront buildings that house Thessaloniki's high-brow music scene. It's a strikingly…

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Welcome to Thessaloniki

We welcome you warmly to the epic and charming city of Thessaloniki!

Thessaloniki is the Greek capital of Balkans, and the country’s gastronomic and cultural capital. The co-capital of the Byzantine Empire and the modern Hellenic Republic, today Thessaloniki continues to be a major center of Orthodox Christianity.

With her countless Byzantine churches and grand cathedrals, with her beautiful monasteries and Mount Athos close by, Thessaloniki is love at first sight.

Is one of the largest student centers in South-Eastern Europe while 15th of its monuments are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List when there are around 800 in the whole world!

Whether you‘re coming for a weekend, a week, as a student, or stay forever, our travel guide brings together the best of everything the city has to offer. Our mobile friendly website designed, to help you visit a clutch of sights in a sort space of time. Add inspiring photography, and the best suggestions of the locals, and you have the best travel companion for an unforgettable vacation.

Discover the homeland of Saints, Apostles, heroes, leaders, and philosophers. Discover the city which is justifiably considered as an open-air museum of Byzantine art. Discover Thessaloniki.

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Top 10 attractions of Thessaloniki

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Phillip II of Macedon the monument of Alexander the Great father

in Monuments

Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

Church of osios david (catholicon of the latomos monastery).

in Art & Architecture

Railway Museum of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki international trade fair, nea paralia - seaside promenade, church of hagia aikaterini.

in UNESCO World Heritage

Casts Museum of the Faculty of Philosophy

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  • Monasteries
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THESSALONIKI

The charming Beach Promenade of the city

The old neighbourhood of Ano Poli in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Greece: The Beach Promenade and the White Tower

The roman Rotonda monument

Thessaloniki: The picturesque neighbourhood of Ano Poli

TRENDING IN THESSALONIKI

How to get there?

Tours & Activities

Things to Do

Selection of Restaurants

thessaloniki tourist guide

TRAVEL GUIDE TO THESSALONIKI

With a waterfront location at the Thermaic Gulf of Macedonia region, Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece after Athens. The city has a rich history and culture. In addition to being a great base for exploring northern Greece, it also functions as a commercial, business and transportation hub for this side of the country. It is one of the liveliest places to visit, with all kinds of facilities and a lovely seaside promenade.

Our travel guide provides everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip in Thessaloniki, including its landmarks , neighbourhoods , hotels and restaurants , things to do as well as a selection of organized tours & activities . Also, don't miss our photo collection from the city!

The city has an international airport with daily flights from Athens and some European capitals. It has a port with ferries to the Sporades islands but can also be reached by car, bus or train.

Thessaloniki is too good to miss!

How to get there?

Hotels & Accommodations

Hotels & Accommodations

Things To Do (11)

Things To Do

Where to Swim?

Where to Swim?

Sightseeing (26)

Sightseeing

Where to Eat & Drink?

Where to Eat & Drink?

OUR TRAVEL SERVICES IN THESSALONIKI

Book your trip in Thessaloniki with Greeka! We help thousands of people every year to plan beautiful and trouble-free holidays. From tours to hotels and car rentals, we provide all the essential services to make your trip to Greece the most epic and smooth one. Our services are rated . Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) of the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . Read reviews about our services.

Accommodations

MORE ABOUT THESSALONIKI GREECE

Thessaloniki in Greece lies in the Macedonia region and is the second-largest city in the country, after Athens! Immediately upon arriving there, you’ll realize that this city has an enduring history and rich culture ! Wandering around the town, you’ll come across many monuments mostly dating back to the Roman and Byzantine eras. The most important signature landmark is hands down the White Tower . Located at the porti, the White Tower is the most photographed tourist site. Another popular site is Kamara , an arch constructed by the Roman general Galerius in the 3rd century AD. Other interesting places to visit in the city center of Thessaloniki are the Roman Agora , a beautiful ancient theater , the palace of Galerius , a vestige of the Roman era, as well as the World Heritage-listed Byzantine churches .

Sightseeing is not the only thing to do there! Endless strolls and city exploration are a must! Walk along the beachfront promenade , have a cup of coffee at one of the coffeeshops of Aristotle Square, taste the local delicacies at Ladadika and time travel to the past in the Old Town!

The convenient location of Thessaloniki makes it a perfect base for excursions in the entire northern and central Greece and most particularly Halkidiki . This city should be in your Greek holiday destinations bucket list!

PHOTOS OF THESSALONIKI / SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES

Explore Thessaloniki Greece through the lens of the talented members on Greeka community . Share your experience with us or tag us #greekacom on your favorite social media.

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

As the second biggest city in Greece, Thessaloniki offers a wide variety of amazing hotels for all needs and preferences that are mainly located around Aristotelous Square or near the sea. In the center of the city, you will find modern hotels that provide excellent rooms and suites, as well as luxurious facilities. Hotels in the area of Thermi or Agia Triada beach also feature large swimming pools. Some of the most popular hotels are Electra Palace , The Met Hotel , The Modernist , Colours , Daios Luxury Living and more.

HOW TO GET THERE & MOVE AROUND?

The city of Thessaloniki has an international airport with flights from Athens and some European cities. It can also be reached from Athens by car/bus and train. During the summer, it is connected by ferry to the island of Skiathos, in the Sporades.

HIGHLIGHTS: BEST OF THESSALONIKI

Discover the highlights of Thessaloniki to experience during your holiday! From sightseeing to activities and from tours to restaurants, here are the best suggestions for the ultimate experience! View All Things to Do

White Tower

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Continue your trip to the best Greece destinations!

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Visit Thessaloniki: Top 12 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in thessaloniki: the 12 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Thessaloniki during your next trip to Greece ?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have created this guide of the 12 best things to do in Thessaloniki , the 2nd biggest city in Greece. You will discover all the best points of interest and must-see attractions!

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Thessaloniki in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thessaloniki? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The White Tower

2. thessaloniki waterfront, 3. the archaeological sites, 4. thessaloniki’s museums, 5. thessaloniki’s churches, 6. ana poli: thessaloniki’s old town, 7. thessaloniki’s markets, 8. shopping in thessaloniki, 9. thessaloniki’s nightlife, 11. vergina, 12. the chalkidiki peninsula, how many days to visit thessaloniki , 1 day in thessaloniki, 2 days in thessaloniki, 3 days in thessaloniki, where to stay in thessaloniki, where to eat in thessaloniki, how to get to thessaloniki, tourist map of thessaloniki, cyclades (greek islands), visit thessaloniki: the 12 must-see attractions.

Let’s start this guide of Thessaloniki with the White tower , the most iconic monument of the city.

Considered as the city’s landmark, the White Tower is clearly one of the best places to see in Thessaloniki.

Built in 1535, the tower was originally surrounded by heavy walls, as it was used as a prison during the Ottoman occupation of Greece. There, many prisoners were tortured and executed, and the Tower acquired its nickname: “The Tower of Blood” , or “The Red Tower”.

It was renamed “the White Tower” in 1890, after a prisoner entirely repainted it in white in exchange of his liberty. Another version of the story says that it was renamed by the Greeks in 1913, 1 year after they reconquered the city.

The 34-meter high tower is now hosting the White Tower Museum, dedicated to Thessaloniki’s History from the Roman Era to the present day.

During your visit, you should also go to the tower’s top floor. There, you will admire a beautiful 360° view of the city, the sea and even Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest summit.

If you want to discover the best of Thessaloniki with a guide , you should opt for a private tour with a local . You can choose a 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 hour tour with a fully customizable itinerary according to your desires.

Simply click on the button below to book it:

Thessaloniki

If you’re spending a few days in the city, then you should definitely take a stroll along its waterfront. It’s one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki.

There, you can walk on a 5-km long promenade on the seaside. This promenade was completely renovated a few years ago and connects the Photography Museum , the White Tower and Thessaloniki Concert Hall.

On the seaside, you will find many bars and restaurants frequented by locals and tourists alike: the place is really vibrant ! It feels a bit like the Greek version of the “Croisette”, in Cannes , or the “Promenade des Anglais” in Nice.

Don’t miss “The Umbrellas” , a modern sculpture located in the park, about 500m away from the White Tower.

During your walk, on the seaside, you will also discover beautiful thematic gardens:

  • Alexander the Great Garden
  • The Garden of the Afternoon Sun
  • The Garden of the Sand
  • The Garden of Mediterranean
  • The Garden of Sculptors, Sound, Water and more!

There are more than a dozen thematic gardens in Thessaloniki. If you’re traveling with children, it’s a great place to take a break and let them enjoy one of the playgrounds.

You can also ride a bike on the bicycle path along the waterfront. There are many bicycle rentals shops nearby, you can’t miss them.

It’s clearly one of the best places to visit in Thessaloniki, especially during the evening, when the weather is cooler!

Thessaloniki Waterfront

If you’re a History and Archaeology lover, then you should visit Thessaloniki’s most famous ancient sites:

  • The Ancient Agora: the former social and religious city centre during the Greek and Roman periods.
  • The Arch of Galerius, also named “Kamara”. It was built in 305 A.D to celebrate a victory over the Persians. The only remains still standing are 2 original pillars and an arch, decorated with battle scenes.
  • The Rotunda of Galerius was built as a Mausoleum for the Emperor. Then, it became a church and later a Mosque. It’s one of Thessaloniki’s oldest monuments.
  • The Galerius Palace is a ancient Roman palace. Located on Navarinou Square, it was part of a huge complex, with the Arch and the Rotunda I mentioned above. There isn’t much left of it.

Rotunda Galerius

Let’s continue this Thessaloniki travel guide with a bit of cultural tourism.

The city has many museums , and here are the best ones:

  • The Archaeological Museum showcases a collection of remains found around Thessaloniki and in Greek Macedonia
  • The Museum of Byzantine Culture houses more than 3000 artefacts, jewelry and mosaics from the Byzantine Empire
  • The Jewish Museum: there, you will learn more about the Jewish community in Thessaloniki and its History, especially during Word War 2.
  • The Photography Museum, to discover ancient and modern Greek photographs.
  • The Olympic Museum , if you want to know everything about the Olympic Games History, from the Ancient Times to the present day.
  • The Museum of Cinema, if you want to know more about Greek cinema and how movies are made.
  • The Contemporary Art Center of Thessaloniki
  • The War Museum and its collection of Greek weapons, medals and uniforms.
  • Thessaloniki museum of illusions.

Museum Thessaloniki

If you’re out of things to do in Thessaloniki, then you should take a look at the city’s many beautiful churches.

The best churches to see or visit in Thessaloniki are:

  • Agios Dimitros, Thessaloniki’s most famous church, is dedicated to Saint Dimitri, the holy patron of the city. Its relics are kept inside the crypt.
  • Panagia Achiropiitos, a Byzantine church built in the 5th century, with beautiful frescoes.
  • Agia Sofia, built in the 8th century and based on the Hagia Sofia of Constantinople (nowaday’s city name is Istanbul, in Turkey). One of Thessaloniki’s most impressive Byzantine church!
  • Nikolaos Orfanos, a small Byzantine Church built in the 14th century.
  • Ossios David, erected in the 5th century. You will enjoy beautiful and well-preserved mosaics.
  • Agios Pavlos, located on a hill. It’s, in my opinion, the most beautiful church of the city.

You’re going to Thessaloniki?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Thessaloniki on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Thessaloniki.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Thessaloniki, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Thessaloniki!

Church-Agios-Pavlos-Thessaloniki

During your stay in Thessaloniki, you really should take a stroll in the old town.

Located in Thessaloniki’s upper city, Ana Poli district is considered as the historical centre. A great fire destroyed most of the city in 1917 , and Ana poli was the only surviving neighborhood !

Surrounded by heavy Byzantine walls, Ana Poli was Thessaloniki’s citadel (Kastro) during the Byzantine and Ottoman occupation. Get around the neighborhood on foot to discover its beautiful narrow paved alleys, typical architecture and a unique atmosphere!

Ana Poli’s main points of interest are:

  • Trigoniou Tower . Built during the Venetian occupation, it was mostly used as an armory and artillery tower.
  • The Portara Gate, in the walls’ northern part. Well-decorated with ceramics and carved marble inscriptions.
  • The Eptapirgion, an ancient fortress and prison with 7 towers
  • The Monastery of Vlatadon , built in 1351. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the monastery, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful view over the city
  • The churches of Agios Nikolaos, Saint Catherine, and Ossios David I already mentioned above

old town Thessalonique

You’re spending a few days in Thessaloniki, and you want to buy the best local products?

Then, you should definitely go to Modiano and Kapani markets!

Thessaloniki’s 2 biggest markets are both located close to Ermou Street, right next to each other.

There, you will find the best local products in the city: olives, spices, herbs, traditional Greek cheeses, and even meat or fish. It’s also the perfect place to have your lunch, as there are many typical Greek taverns.

The 2 markets are open everyday except Sundays. Modiano Market is also closed in the afternoon, between 14h and 17h.

If you’re a food lover, you should book a culinary tour of Thessaloniki’s traditional markets . It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the Greek culture and taste the numerous local specialties!

You need to book it here:

Greek Gastronomy

You’ have already seen all the best places to visit in Thessaloniki? Then, you should take some time go shopping in the city.

And you will find everything you need!

If you enjoy luxury boutiques, go to Proxenou and Mitropoleos streets , and the perpendicular Morgenthau, Lassani or Chrysostomou streets.

You will find all the classic and international brands on Tsimiki, Ermou and Egnatia streets.

Finally, for a more vintage style, go to the city centre’s narrow alleys: Agias Theodoras, Issavron and Zefxidos.

Shopping Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is one of the best places in Greece to go out at night!

This university city has a young population and offers an amazing nightlife.

All week long, you can go out and have a drink in one of Thessaloniki’s many bars. Ladadika and Valaoritou districts are the most lively.

There are many hip bars, night clubs or live music bars: you will always find a place to party all night long!

For a slightly more chic and romantic atmosphere, you should go to the Skyline Bar . It’s located at the top of the OTE tower and offers a very nice 360° view over the whole city thanks to its rotating platform.

It’s probably the best places in the city to have a drink while admiring the sunset!

To enjoy a romantic meal with live music while admiring the view, you must book in advance by clicking on the button below:

The 3 best things to do around Thessaloniki

You’re having a few days in Thessaloniki , and you have seen most of the city? Then, you should really explore the city’s surroundings. You can discover great ancient sites and beautiful beaches.

Here are  the best places to visit around Thessaloniki:

The Archaeological site of Pella is located a 50-minute drive from Thessaloniki.

Pella was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia (don’t confuse it with today’s Republic of Macedonia) and Alexander the Great’s birthplace. On the site, the archaeological excavations have revealed a 70,000 square meters Agora with many sanctuaries, shops and mansions.

The most well-preserved mansion is the House of Dionysus. There, you will find a large yard surrounded by columns and an impressive pebble mosaic floor . You will also enjoy beautiful mosaics in the House of the Abduction of Helen.

You can admire all the ancient objects and vestiges found in Pella in the Archaeological Museum located on the site. You should definitely visit this museum to help you picture what the city looked like, and discover its rich History.   You will learn more about Pella’s ancient religion, crafts and political life.

The 8€ entrance ticket includes the archaeological site and the museum. Pella is open everyday (except Mondays) from 9h.

If you’re a History lover, it’s clearly one of the major points of interest around Thessaloniki!

Pella mosaics

Together with Pella, Vergina is the other must-see archaeological site around Thessaloniki. It’s located 1 hour away from the city.

The city of Aigai (or Vergina, in modern Greek) was the 1st capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia , before Pella. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The archaeological excavations in Vergina helped to understand the ancient Macedonians’ culture and History.

You will discover many remains on the site:

  • The Monumental Palace, with the royal apartments
  • The Aigai Theatre, where Philip II was assassinated
  • The fortified walls
  • The Royal Necropolis: there, you will admire the tomb of Philip II , Alexander the Great’s father.

You can also visit the Museum of Royal Tombs of Aigai. If you go underground to the royal tombs’ entrance, you will discover this unique museum, built directly under the tumulus !

There, you will admire magnificent mural paintings and funerary obje cts. The most impressive pieces exposed are Philip II’s shield, armor, golden crown and a chest found in his tomb.

What are the best places to go to the beach around Thessaloniki?

The closest and most beautiful beaches around Thessaloniki are located in Chalkidiki Peninsula. This peninsula regroups, in fact, 3 peninsulas located Southeast of Thessaloniki.

  • Kassandra peninsula
  • Sithonia peninsula
  • Mount Athos peninsula

The first two peninsulas are famous for their beautiful beaches with turquoise waters. There are public as well as private beaches where you can rent deckchairs and umbrellas.

These 2 peninsulas are also well-known for their many seaside resorts and luxury hotels. There are also Spas, casinos and golf courts. It’s the perfect place if you want to enjoy a chic and trendy atmosphere.

Mount Athos Peninsula is the farthest from Thessaloniki. There are more than 2,000 monks living here, in the Monastic State of Agion Oros. The access is highly regulated: only men have the right to enter, and you must ask at least 6 months in advance for  a special permit  to go there.

If you can’t obtain a permit, or for women, there are cruises going around the peninsula. They allow you to get a glimpse of some of the Monasteries.

You can also choose a full-day tour from Thessaloniki. During this day, you will take the bus to reach Uranupolis, then do a cruise around Mount Athos, with some time to relax and take a dip at one of Chalkidiki’s beaches. You need to book it here.

Mount Athos

You should spend 2 days in Thessaloniki. You will have enough time to discover Greece’s 2nd largest city.

In fact, 1 day is enough to discover Thessaloniki’s main points of interest. It’s easy to get around the city on foot, as most tourist sites are close to each other.

If you want to visit a few museums, then you should spend 2 days in the city.

If you’re staying in Thessaloniki for 3 days or more, you can also visit the city’s surroundings.

If you only have 1 day to get around Thessaloniki on foot, here is my recommended itinerary:

  • Start your day at Modiano Market, to discover the best local products
  • Take a stroll in Egnatia Street and enjoy its many shops
  • Go to the Roman Agora
  • Visit the Church of Agios Dimitros
  • Walk up to Ana Poli district to see the Church of Ossios David and the Monastery of Vlatadon.
  • Walk along the fortified walls to reach Trigoniou Tower.
  • Go to the Church of Agios Pavlos, overlooking the city
  • Relax at Pasha’s Gardens
  • Walk down Elenis Zogafrou Street, and make a small detour to see the Church of Nikolas Orfanos
  • Walk by the Rotunda, the Arch, and the Palace of Galerius
  • Discover Thessaloniki’s most iconic monument: the White Tower
  • Enjoy a nice walk along Thessaloniki’s Waterfront.
  • And if you want to go out at night, you can go to the Ladadika and Valaoritou districts.

If you don’t want to visit Thessaloniki on foot, you can take the Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus.

It’s the easiest way to discover the city’s main monuments! It costs 10€ per person, English audio guide included. You can book it right here.

Church-Panagia-Chalkeon

If you have 2 days in Thessaloniki , in addition to the first day described above, you can visit some museums, depending on what you’re interested in!

You can also add 1 or 2 museums to your first day’s program. Then, finish your tour on the 2nd day and visit other museums.

You can combine your visits depending on where you are:

Close to the White Tower , you will find:

  • The Archaeological Museum
  • The Museum of Byzantine Culture
  • The War Museum
  • The Olympic Museum

And if you’re on the docks, close to Ladadika district, you can visit:

  • The Museum of Cinema
  • The Photography Museum

Another option for 2 days in Thessaloniki is to do a day trip around the city . I am listing them below, in the “3 days in Thessaloniki ” section.

If you’re spending 3 days in Thessaloniki, you should explore the city’s surroundings.

As I said earlier, it’s easy to reach the archaeological sites of Pella and Vergina as well as the Chalkidiki Peninsula by car.

If you don’t have a car, you should choose a day-trip from Thessaloniki:

  • Vergina & Pella: Day trip to the Greek Kingdom of Macedonia : During the day, explore the 2 ancient capitals of the Ancient kingdom of Macedonia: the archaeological sites of Pella and Vergina. Discover the beautiful mosaics and the royal tombs. The price includes the transfer from Thessaloniki.
  • Day trip to Uranupolis with Mount Athos cruise: From Thessaloniki, you will take the bus to Uranupolis, then do a boat trip around Mount Athos. During your cruise, you will admire the Monasteries and end your day relaxing at one of Chalkidiki’s beaches.
  • From Thessaloniki: Full-Day bus trip to Meteora: Discover the impressive Meteora Monasteries, built on top of huge rocks. It was literally my biggest crush during my trip to Greece , it’s really beautiful! This tour includes the transfer from Thessaloniki and the visit of 2 Monasteries.
  • Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon cruise with lunch : After picking you up at your hotel, the bus will drive you to the cruise’s port of departure. During your boat trip, you will see the islands of Drenia, Ammouliani and Diaporos, in Chalkidiki Peninsula. You will of course have some time to take a dip!
  • Excursion to Dion and Mount Olympus – During this day trip, you will visit the archaeological site of Dion, where you will discover the villa of Dionysus, famous for its magnificent mosaics. Then, you will head to Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece, known in Greek mythology as the domain of the gods.
  • Excursion to Pozar and Edessa – First, you will go to the hot springs and thermal baths of Pozar to enjoy a swim in the middle of nature. Then, you will head to the beautiful town of Edessa and its impressive waterfall.

For a more VIP experience , you can also opt for a small group cruise (max 10 people).

During this boat trip, you will discover the most beautiful beaches of the surroundings and swim and snorkel in Shipwreck Bay . You will also enjoy a typical Greek meal made of fresh products and cooked by the captain!

Simply click on the button below to book your cruise from Thessaloniki:

  • Stay Hybrid Hostel:   This youth hostel is located around Ladadika and Valaoritou districts. Dormitory rooms starting from 10€ per night only! Strong points: the price, the modern rooms, the ideal location to go out at night, the rooftop.
  • Plaza Hotel, Philian Hotels and Resorts:  Located in Ladadika district, only 50 meters from the seaside. The warm double rooms, with comfortable beds are starting from 60€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the ideal location, if you want to get around Thessaloniki on foot, the great breakfast, the kind staff.  A great choice in Thessaloniki for its exceptional value for money!
  • Astoria:   Located 300 meters from the port and 500 meters from Modiano market. The double rooms, with a balcony for some of them, are starting for 100€ per night, with a 10€ breakfast. Strong points: the location, the good breakfast, the kind staff.
  • Electra Palace Thessaloniki:   This 5-star hotel is located on Aristotelous Square, in the heart of the city. You will love its large rooms with a classical decoration and wooden furniture! The price starts at 200€ per night, including breakfast. What I loved: the swimming pool and the restaurant on the roof, with a great panoramic view, the location in the city centre, the hotel services.  The best choice for a luxury stay in Thessaloniki!

boat Thessaloniki

  • Faidimos: Located in Valaoritou district, this restaurant offers a typical Greek cuisine served in a modern setting. You will love the warm welcome and friendly atmosphere.
  • Tripia Potiria: Located close to Agios Dimitros Church, in the flea market. You will enjoy copious and tasty dishes, made with fresh products. The staff is really kind and the prices are reasonable.
  • Rouga:  Located right next to Ermou Street and the Jewish Museum. There, you can share many starters and main courses. It’s ideal if you want to discover Greek gastronomy for a really reasonable price!

There are many great restaurants and taverns in Thessaloniki, and most of them are quite inexpensive.

If you don’t want to eat in a restaurant, you can also try the Gyros, a typical Greek Sandwich made with pork or chicken. It’s really easy to find one in Thessaloniki!

Thessaloniki has an international airport. It’s easy to get there from nearly anywhere in Europe.

You can also fly to Athens , then take a national flight from Athens to Thessaloniki.

If you choose to rent a car in Greece, you have to know that Thessaloniki is 500 km away from Athens. It takes 5h15 to connect Greece’s 2 main cities!

If you decide to drive from Athens to Thessaloniki, you should take some time to discover 2 beautiful points of interest: the ancient site of Delphi (2h25 from Athens), and the Meteora (3h15 from Delphi and 2h40 from Thessaloniki).

Spend a night on each site to get some rest.

I have created for you a  tourist map of Thessaloniki, with all the best things to do in and around the city I have talked about in this article. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow on it.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your stay in Thessaloniki?

Greece travel guides

  • Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

  • The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
  • The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
  • Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
  • Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini !
  • Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
  • Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
  • Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
  • Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
  • Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
  • Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
  • Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
  • The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
  • Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
  • Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
  • Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
  • Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
  • Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
  • Naxos: Top 10 things to do
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Discussion 4 comments.

Parminder

I don’t often send comments but am coming end sep and this has been very helpful and useful information

Will try most things as will be around for 7 days but deciding if t8 hire a car on the island or not

Vincent

Enjoy your trip to Thessaloniki and Greece!

Maria

Hello Vincent! Congratulations for the excellent work! The contact form is not available. How can we contact ?

Hello Maria,

Thank you! I am glad that my guide to Thessaloniki helps you to prepare your visit.

You can ask all your questions about your trip in Greece here. See you soon,

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High Heels & a Backpack

Things to do in Thessaloniki Greece: A Comprehensive First Timer’s Guide

thessaloniki tourist guide

There are enough things to do in Thessaloniki to warrant you spending a long weekend in Greece’s second city. Thessaloniki may not have the same concentration of ruins and archaeological sites as Athens, or the idyllic beaches and coastlines of the Greek islands . However, the city has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. 

Best Things to do in Thessaloniki

Peraia Beach town

Despite its size, Thessaloniki has an air of small-town charm about it. The city’s location also makes it a perfect jumping-off point for visiting Halkidiki or embarking on a wider Greece itinerary. 

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Try the World Famous Bougatsa at Bougatsa Bantis

Things to do in Thessaloniki: Try Thessaloniki bougatsa at Bougatsa Bantis

Bougatsa is a beloved Greek breakfast pastry that originated in Thessaloniki. The traditional version of the pastry is sweet. It consists of a generous portion of semolina custard, wrapped in layers of crispy handmade filo pastry. 

Sweet bougatsa is then topped with a sprinkling of icing sugar and cinnamon. Savoury bougatsa is also available and is prepared with minced meat and cheese. 

You can find bougatsa at bakeries and coffee shops across the country. Some places have open kitchens where you can see the pastry chefs at work, twirling the phyllo pastry around above their heads. 

For the very best bougatsa experience though, you should try it where it originated – here in Thessaloniki. The family-owned Bougatsa Bantis bakery has been in operation since 1969. 

People have travelled across the world to sample the treats prepared by Phillipos Bandis, the third-generation pastry chef. This place is a local favourite. 

Sip Pina Coladas on Thessaloniki’s Floating Reggae Bar 

View of Thessaloniki from the reggae bar on the water

You will find that several themed floating bars depart from the area around the White Tower during the summer months. One of these is a wonderful wooden reggae bar. 

Cocktails here are served in tiki cups, and the decor transports you to the Carribean. The floating bar sails in a circuit around the Thermaic Gulf coastline. 

There is no fee for boarding the boat. You just need to purchase a drink. If you wish to stay on the boat longer, you can continue to hang out and order drinks even when it is stationary. 

Take the Sea Taxi to Peraia 

Peraia

Peraia is a coastal area on the outskirts of Thessaloniki . This is the closest beach to downtown Thessaloniki. 

A sea taxi runs several times a day between the months of June and September. It departs from both Thessaloniki port and the White Tower. 

The long stretch of whitesand beach that makes up Peraia is divided into Agia Triada beach, and Peraia beach. The seafront promenades that run parallel to both beaches are lined with a plethora of tavernas, bars, and coffee shops. 

Agia Triada beach is predominantly serviced. You can rent a sunbed and an umbrella for the day from one of the coastal beach bars, provided you meet their minimum spend (usually just €3 or so). 

Peraia beach is narrower. However it is a nice area for laying down your beach towel and packing a picnic to enjoy with friends and family. 

The sea taxi costs just €5 each way. You can purchase your tickets online before departure to save time. 

Browse the Stalls at Modiano Market 

An early morning at Modiano market

Modiano market is one of Thessaliniki’s oldest traditional markets. It has been a part of local life for more than 80 years, and is still in operation today. 

Thessaloniki residents come to the covered market to purchase fresh fish, meat, and locally-grown fruits and vegetables. The market is named after the Architect that completed it – Eli Modiano.

Hang Out in the Upscale Kalamaria Province 

Chic Kalamaria is one of the most upscale areas in Thessaloniki. Named after Princess Mara Brankovic, it is also one of the most beautiful. 

The name “Kalamaria” means “beautiful Maria” in Ancient Greek, and “good Maria” in modern Greek. There is a beautiful harbour in this area, in addition to a selection of sophisticated coffee shops and restaurants. You could easily while away a pleasant day in Kalamaria. 

Stroll Along the Waterfront Promenade 

There are dozens of lovely bars and coffee shops that extend along Thessaloniki’s waterfront. The promenade runs all the way from the old port to the White Tower, and then onwards towards Kalamaria.

Sit inside one of the cute establishments here and people watch with a Greek coffee . Elyti Cafe is a cute place to pass the time.

All of the coffee places here position their chairs to face out to the water. As such, you can take in the sweeping sea views over the Thermaic Gulf. 

Admire the Frescoes of Beautiful Orthodox Churches  

Things to do in Thessaloniki: Visit the churches

Greece is an Orthodox country. It is no secret that the culture has strong roots in religion.

My friends and I have often joked that churches in Greek towns and cities are like Starbucks in America and the UK – there is one on every corner! Thessaloniki is no different in that regard. 

Even if you are not a religious person, you can still appreciate the spiritual, almost ethereal ambiance of Thessaloniki’s churches, their ornate interiors, and their vibrant frescoes. Each Orthodox church that you stumble open is seemingly more beautiful than the last. You can wander inside most churches that you pass in Thessaloniki with no admission fee. 

Notable Churches in Thessaloniki

The Church of Agia Sophia is one of the oldest religious sites in Thessaloniki, as well as a UNESCO world heritage site. Even after venturing inside countless churches around Greece, you will find something special about this one. It is altogether more dark and gothic in design than most Orthodox churches.  

The Church of Panagia Chalkeon is another particularly special structure. The Byzantine church is encompassed by beautiful verdant gardens where dozens of stray cats play and stretch out beneath the sun. 

Take a Brutal History Lesson at the Abandoned Heptapyrgion Fortress

While the Parthenon watches protectively over downtown Athens, Thessaloniki has a more sinister structure that looms on the hills above it – the abandoned fortress and prison complex of Heptapyrgion . A fortress has existed on this site in some form or another for thousands of years.

The Heptapyrgion fortress site that stands today was rebuilt by the Ottoman Turks. This eerily abandoned fortress is synonymous with the idea of torture and executions.

Prisoners have been held and executed here for centuries. Over the course of the last century, those held include captured Nazis during World War II and political prisoners. Heptapyrgion was infamous for the poor treatment and abuse of captives. 

As you enter the prison site today and roam around its narrow corridors, you get the creepy feeling that the former inmates are still trapped here somehow. Towering, thick stone walls prevent any light and sounds from the outside wall getting into the prison.

The solitary confinement wing with its rusted metal cell doors is particularly eerie. Did you hear chains rattling and doors clanging in the distance or was it just your imagination?  

Get a Bird’s Eye View from the White Tower 

Things to do in Thessaloniki: Visit the White Tower

The White Tower of Thessaloniki is undoubtedly the city’s most iconic landmark. The tower was erected in the 15th century on top of an old Byzantine fortification. It was built so as to improve Thessaloniki’s defenses, particularly along the coast. 

Over the centuries, the tower has served several different purposes. It was originally built as a garrison. However, the tower became a prison during the Ottoman rule in Greece.

During the Ottoman era, Thessaloniki’s White Tower was nicknamed “the tower of blood” on account of the tortures and executions that took place there. It was not painted white until 1891. At this time, it received its current label as being Thessaloniki’s “White Tower”.

Today, the White Tower is a mini-museum that contains exhibits about the history and culture of Thessaloniki. From the top level, you can enjoy excellent panoramas of Thessaloniki’s port area. This is particularly breathtaking at night when the sky is illuminated with pink and orange hues. 

Uncover the Remnants of the City’s Ottoman Past 

Bey Hammam is a glimpse into Thessaloniki's Ottoman past

Thessaloniki, like the rest of Greece, was once under the control of the Ottoman empire. The Turks left their mark on the city by constructing mosques and hammams around the city.

Several of these structures still stand today. Unfortunately, not all of these buildings can be accessed. Building and maintenance work has been underway on some of the hammams for years. However, these sites are worth making a note of so that you can check them out when you pass by. 

Two ancient hammams (traditional Turkish bathhouses) still stand in Thessaloniki. These are the Yahudi Hammam, and Bey Hammam.

Both hammams are no longer functional. However, they date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

It is possible to enter both sites. Bey Hammam is particularly interesting and its interiors are filled with grand decorations and exquisite paintings.

Keep an eye out also for the Hamza Bey mosque. This is a 16th-century Ottoman mosque in the beating heart of downtown Thessaloniki.

Explore the Coastal Areas Around Thessaloniki 

Watching a beautiful sunset in Nea Iraklia

Many of those that want to visit the beach during their Greek trip use Thessaloniki as a jumping-off point for Halkidiki . However, if you are limited on time, it’s quite a trek to reach the peninsulas of this coastal area.

Lesser known to international tourists is the town of Nea Iraklia. Don’t expect the beaches here to be completely crowd-free – they are very popular among locals on account of their proximity to the city centre.

That said, they certainly provide an easy respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, along with a more “local” experience. Several beach bars are scattered along the coast. They provide refreshments and amenities during the day, and often host parties, and events when the sun goes down. 

Wander the Quaint Narrow Streets of Ano Poli 

thessaloniki tourist guide

Ano Poli is one of the most quaint and colourful neighbourhoods in Thessaloniki . Here, eclectic boutique store, old tavernas, and traditional Ottoman line the cobbled streets.

Ano Poli (meaning “upper town”) is just a short walk from the centre of Thessaloniki . However the ambiance here makes it feel like you have been transported to a different city entirely.  

Browse the Exhibits at the Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum 

The Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum is one of the largest museums in Greece. It is a must-see for anyone interested in history. It is situated just a short walk away from the White Tower. 

The permanent exhibits that are held here focus on the Central Macedonia region of Greece (where Thessaloniki sits). The artifacts date back as far as 200,000 years. Displays here range from pre-historic Macedonia to the Iron Age and Late Antiquity period. 

Visit the Monastery of Vlatadon 

There are many churches and monasteries throughout Thessaloniki. However, the Monastery of Vlatadon is considered to be the most important.

This grand Byzantine structure is UNESCO protected and dates back to 1350 AD. It is believed that Hesychasm was practiced here – a controversial and alternative form of Orthodox prayer. 

Hang Out with the Thessaloniki Couchsurfing Community

If you are travelling alone (or you’re not and you just want to meet some locals), Couchsurfing is a great way to do that.

Thessaloniki has a great community of Greeks, travellers, and ex-pats and you can meet some wonderful new friends by popping along to one of the meetings or organising one of your own. I hosted several dinner events while I was in Thessaloniki and made some great friends doing so. 

Visit a Bouzoukia in Ladadika 

Things to do in Thessalonki: Don't miss the city's Ladadika district

Ladadika is to Thessaloniki what Gazi is to Athens . This is the city’s nightlife and student district and the streets are packed full of bars, clubs, tavernas, and souvlaki joints.

While you will not be short of options here for socialising with new friends until the sun comes up, check out a bouzoukia for a quintessential Greek experience.  

Bouzoukias are live music places where you can listen to traditional Greek folk music while eating and drinking ouzo and tsipouro. When the food is gone, it’s customary for people to sing, dance, and join in from their tables.

Bouzoukias vary from small scale tavernas with live bands, to huge music halls. In Ladadika, you can check out Caramelo and Αβανταζ live stage. 

Learn Why Thessaloniki is Considered Greece’s “Foodie capital”

Ladadika, Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is quite the gourmad. Indeed, you will find sumptuous cuisine all over Greece. However, there are few places where as many regional and international specialty restaurants are concentrated as Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki restaurants offer something for every taste. For creative Mediterranean dishes, head to Μαιτρ & Μαργαρίτα.

Meanwhile, Ergon Agora offers one of the most unique dining experiences in town. Here, you can dine in a traditional Greek covered market. The dishes prepared use only the finest ingredients sourced from Northern Greece.

Enjoy a Coffee Break in Navarino Square 

Sitting outside in a crowded piazza and drinking coffee is essentially the national pastime of Greece. Indeed in Thessaloniki, there are plenty of excellent places where you can participate in the sport.

Ladadika , Menemeni square, and Kalamaria are all beloved local spots for enjoying a lazy afternoon beneath the sun drinking coffee. For the definitive Thessaloniki experience though, head to Navarino Square.  

Navarino Square oozes trendy bohemian vibes. Centered around the crumbling remnants of an old Roman palace, the square is filled with creperies, coffee shops, and tavernas. The square attracts a young, lively crowd on account of its proximity to the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. 

Indulge in some R&R at a Traditional Turkish Hammam 

While it’s unfortunate that the Bey and Yahudi Hammams are now just historical sites, there are several hammam facilities in Thessaloniki that recreate the traditional bathing experience. Two local spas with excellent reputations are the Polis Hammam in Kalamaria and the Hammam Baths at Makedonia Palace Hotel. 

Hammam treatments start from just 15 euros. However, booking a treatment package is an indulgent and enjoyable experience. Sweat it out in the steam room and then opt for a full-body scrub and massage to feel completely rejuvenated.  

How Long to Spend in Thessaloniki 

Aristotelous Square, Thessaloniki

One or two days is plenty of time to spend in Thessaloniki. Most of the sights contained within this post can be seen in a day.

The neighbourhoods that extend out of the centre of Thessaloniki do have their own personalities and charm. However, they have been hit hard by the Greek economic crisis. Most Thessaloniki attractions and points of interest are situated in the city centre. 

How to Get to Thessaloniki from the Airport 

Modiano Market, Thessaloniki

From Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia (SKG), hop on board the X1 bus to Thessaloniki centre. Signs in the arrivals area indicate where you need to go to board a bus and tickets to the centre can be purchased from the kiosk for just 2 euros. 

Thessaloniki X1 Airport Bus

The X1 bus stops at all important points throughout the city – including the White Tower area and Aristotelous square. The route ends at Macedonia bus station in Menemeni. The LED displays on the bus are in English so it’s fairly easy to see where you are going. 

Cabs and Transfers from Thessaloniki Airport

If you prefer to take a cab to get into the city, you can hail one outside the airport or use the BEAT taxi app (Greece’s answer to Uber). A cab should cost you no more than around 25-30 euros depending on the traffic. 

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki 

It is advisable to find a Thessaloniki hotel that is close to the White Tower or the Arch of Galerius. This way, you are within walking distance to the city’s main points of interest.

A number of excellent Thessaloniki hotels that suit a variety of budgets are detailed below for your reference. It is better to avoid the area around the train station where possible.

You may find many low cost accommodation options around the train station area. However, you need to be careful walking in this part of town at night – especially if you are travelling alone.

Electra Palace Thessaloniki 

Electra Palace Thessaloniki is one of the most luxurious properties in town. The hotel boasts plush, spacious rooms, a chic rooftop bar, and sweeping views across the sea from its balconies and terraces.

What better way to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing than by hanging out in one of the hotel’s two pools? Rooms start from €120 per night. Browse the latest availability and rates here . 

The Met Hotel Thessaloniki 

With a sleek and contemporary design, the Met Hotel is one of the best choices for boutique accommodation in Thessaloniki. The rooms and communal areas are decorated with crisp, clean monochrome colours. Stunning, thought-provoking art installations are present throughout the premises.

Rooms here start at €90 per night. Browse the latest availability and rates here . 

Colors Thessaloniki Living

This hip retro design hotel markets itself as being a “budget luxury hotel”. That might sound like something of an oxymoron. However, the hotel’s brand message is pretty much spot on.

Colors Thessaloniki Living combines plush colourful rooms with an affordable price tag. Pops of colour and pop art style graffiti add personality and artistic flair to this central Thessaloniki hotel.

Rooms at Colors Thessaloniki Living start from €70 per night. Browse the latest availability and rates here .

Parting Words

Do you have any further questions about things to do in Thessaloniki or travelling to Greece in general? I have been living in Greece for over three years now. I have spent months based in Thessaloniki and have gotten to know the city pretty well,

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a purchase through any of the links contained on this page, I may obtain a small amount of commission which is charged at no extra cost to you. Thanks for understanding. 

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Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Once the biggest port of the Balkans, Thessaloniki is a city that has been conquered by many empires, with each one leaving its mark. One can find Ancient Greek, Roman and Ottoman buildings all throughout the city.

During the Ottoman years a sizeable Jewish community formed in the city, giving it the name 'The Jerusalem of the Balkans'. Muslims, Jews and Christians lived together in Thessaloniki for over 400 years. During the 1923 Greco-Turkish population exchange hundreds of thousands of Christians arrived from Asia Minor and most of the Muslims moved to Turkey. The 55,000 strong Jewish community was eradicated during the 1941-1945 German occupation, with 2,000 remaining after the war.

Orientation [ edit ]

thessaloniki tourist guide

Thessaloniki lies on the northern fringe of the Thermaic Gulf on its eastern coast and is bound by Mount Chortiatis on its southeast. The metropolitan area, with population of about 1 million, can be divided roughly in 3 parts: The northwestern, the central and the southeastern.

The central part, corresponding to the region that used to be inside the Byzantine walls and can in turn be divided in the "Ano Poli" (Upper City) region which lies on the hillside that is actually the southwest end of Chortiatis, and the part of the city located between the Upper City and the sea.

The later is the "center" of Thessaloniki, as most commercial, entertainment and educational facilities can be found here, while this part of the city remains a dense populated residential area. It is the area surrounded by the seafront to the southwest, Olibiados street to the northeast, Dimokratias square to the northwest and the University campus and the facilities of Thessaloniki International Fair to the southeast. Most places with tourist interest are either in the center or very close to it.

Most roads in the center are either parallel or perpendicular to the coastline. A simple rule that helps the visitor is that if the a street goes downhill, then following it will lead you to the sea. The biggest parallel streets to the sea starting from the sea are Leoforos Nikis, Tsimiski Ioanni, Egnatia, Agiou Dimitriou and Kassandrou. The main vertical to the sea streets, starting from northwest, are Dragoumi Ionos, Venizelou Eleftheriou, Aristotelous, Agias Sofias and Ethinikis Aminis.

Tourist information [ edit ]

There are tourist info and ticket booths at the central bus stations. You can get a free bus line chart there. The tourist information office is at Tsimiski 136 , a few minutes from the White Tower. It is open M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa 09:30-16:00 in winter and 08:00-20:00 in summer, Su closed. If you find it closed, walk up to Aristotelous and buy a map from Iannos bookshop. You can also visit the OASTH website .

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

Thessaloniki is an important rail hub within Greece and it is quite easy to travel here by passenger trains. TrainOSE ( ΤραινΟΣΕ ) operates up to six daily trains from Athens via Larissa , with the journey taking four hours. Further works are underway which are expected to reduce the trip time to 3:15. Additionally, there are trains from Alexandroupoli via Komotini , Xanthi and Serres in Western Thrace region. Regional trains connect with Florina , Kilkis , Kalampaka and several other cities in Northern Greece .

For international connections, there are daily services from Belgrade and Sofia .

There are normally staff at all major stations to facilitate transportation of disabled persons.

  • 40.634628 22.943186 2 TrainOSE travel service ( Thessaloniki TrainOSE travel service No. 4 ), 18 Aristotelous Str. , ☏ +30 2130 121532 , [email protected] . M W 09:00-18:00, Tu Th F 09:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-15:00, Su closed . Recorded information about train departures are provided by TrainOSE, call 1440 for domestic departures from Thessaloniki. ( updated Jan 2020 )

Discounts [ edit ]

Ask for these discounts even if the TrainOSE employee does not mention them:

  • Children (ages 4-12) get a 50% discount.
  • Youth under 26 and elderly over 65 get a 25% discount (not on ICE).
  • Disabled people and their escort get a 50% discount.
  • Groups get a 30-50% discount.
  • Two-way trips also get a discount.

By bus [ edit ]

Thessaloniki is connected via the intercity KTEL bus network with every corner of Greece.

  • 40.65445 22.9023 3 Macedonia Intercity Bus Station ( Υπεραστικού Σταθμού ΚΤΕΛ Μακεδονία ), Giannitson 244 ( In the westside of the city ), ☏ +30 231 059 5400 , fax : +30 231 054 4633 , [email protected] .  
  • 40.57529 22.98412 4 Halkidiki Bus Station ( Σταθμού ΚΤΕΛ Χαλκιδικής ). Terminal station for buses from Chalkidiki (Halkidiki). Located on the east side district of Pylaia. The station is served by bus line 45, which links the station with the Makedonia Bus Station and line 36, which links it with the Voulgari Bus Terminal. To reach the station from the airport, take bus 79 to IKEA, which is a major center for bus line transfers. Next, take bus 36, which passes by the Cosmos Mall and Balkan Center before reaching the KTEL Halkidiki bus station. Taxi service is available at the bus station. A ride into the town center (Arch of Galerius on Egnatia Road) should cost approximately €15. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Prominent long-distance bus connections [ edit ]

  • Athens / Volos – KTEL [dead link] Buses from/to Athens and Volos make the trip from/to Thessaloniki in about 6 hr 30 min and 2 hr 30 min, respectively, the former including a 20-min stop at a roadside restaurant, usually near Lamia, with toilet facilities. Buses are air-conditioned, and some offer WiFi internet access.
  • Belgrade – There are a number of weekly departures to Belgrade (Serbia) from Thessaloniki and Athens, in the arrangement of the Greek and Serbian Agency. Ticket price in one direction from Thessaloniki to Belgrade is about €45.
  • Istanbul – Regular buses between Istanbul and Athens also call in Thessaloniki.
  • Skopje – A number of local travel agencies in Skopje also arrange transport to Thessaloniki daily by car or minibus. These generally leave around 05:00, and cost around €25 for a day return (returning at 17:00) or a single (i.e. €50 if you want to come back on a different day from when you leave) The travel agent at the back of the shopping mall by the Central Square arranges this departing from beside the Holiday Inn. Others depart from the bus station, or other locations around the city. Simeonidis tours , N⁰ 14, 26th October St. There is one bus daily departing for Thessaloniki from the central bus station in Skopje and it takes about 5 hr to Thessaloniki. It departs at 06:00. Reservations are recommended.
  • Sofia – There are at least four daily buses from Sofia, Bulgaria which pass through Thessaloniki, plus several non-daily. Prices are generally around 50 Bulgarian leva . See here for more info.
  • Tirana – There are a number of buses to Thessaloniki and Athens every day, departing from most major Albanian cities. You can catch a bus from Tirana or Shkodra and travel all the way south, making stops in most major Albanian and Greek cities. Since buses stop to pick up and drop passengers in most major cities, you can catch the bus at those cities en route.

thessaloniki tourist guide

By plane [ edit ]

The domestic flight network is quite extensive, with most flights provided by either Aegean Airlines or its regional subsidiary Olympic Air , an operator of subsidized public-service-obligation flights to less frequently served destinations. Domestic connections are also partially seasonal and encompass a range of Greek Islands.

Apart from those, the majority of flights are charter and seasonal flights by holiday specialists. There is also substantial low-fare traffic by pretty much all major low-fare carriers in Europe, with Ryanair having a base at the airport and the largest number of connections out of those. When it comes to traditional international airlines, the airport is mainly served by those belonging to the Star Alliance, which also includes Aegean and Olympic, such as Austrian, Turkish and Swiss.

The airport is not as well served as the Athens airport, to which it is connected by multiple daily flights taking around 50 min, provided by multiple airlines. Aegean's frequent shuttle flights are of particular interest, as they can be booked on a common ticket with an Aegean or other Star Alliance flight to other destinations in Europe and beyond.

If you are departing from SKG on an international flight taking you out of the Schengen zone, there are only four passport control booths (with one dedicated solely to EU citizens), so the queues to access the extra-Schengen gates (12 through 19) even when they are all operating can exceed 40 min at peak times, and it is 40 min of shoving and aggravation. Once you are through passport control, facilities are limited, so if you plan to eat, fill a drinking water bottle, or use toilets without queuing, do this before passport control.

A luggage storage room is available on the arrival floor. As of 2016, fees start from €3 (storing a small bag for 6 hr). However, the storage seems only operative during high season when there are people using it.

Getting there/away [ edit ]

thessaloniki tourist guide

The airport is 15 km south of the city centre.

  • By bus – The public transit connection is provided by bus line 01X , a 24/7 service between the airport, the New Railway Station, and the Macedonia InterCity Bus Terminal. Frequency is between 15 min and 30 min during the day. At night, the bus number changes to 01N and runs every 30 min. A ticket costs €2 for one trip (see Get around / By bus ). Tickets can be bought at a vending booth at the airport bus stop or at ticket machines on the buses. However, for these exact change is needed. The ride from the airport to the city centre takes around 40 min. Buses can get very packed so do not expect a very comfortable ride.
  • By taxi – A ride from the city centre costs about €15-20. It's hard to find one during peak hours (07:00-08:00, 14:00-16:00 and 19:00-21:00), so plan early. Taxi can be prearranged through travel apps like Booking.com as well as ordered on demand through FreeNow or Uber .
  • On foot – If you'd like a panoramic trail , after or between your flights, you can spend this time on a fairly pleasant river and sea-side trail. It starts about 600 m from the terminal, where the 40.528 22.984528 1 airport's main access road crosses a small river . From there, a trail follows the river's right (NE) bank toward the north-west for about 1 km, until the river enters the sea; watch for water birds. From the river's mouth, the trail follows the sea coast to the NE and N for about 1 km, until it reaches the mouth of another little river. While not an official beach, swimming in the sea is possible. From that point, one can continue east for about 500 m along a small residential street named Floridas, until reaching the main highway (Leoforos Georgikis Scholis) just south of the 40.546181 22.983472 2 Lidl store . From there, two shopping centers, Hondos Center and IKEA (both with air conditioning, soft chairs, food, and free Wi-Fi) are within walking distance. From the 40.548139 22.984056 3 IKEA bus terminal you can take one of the bus lines to the city center (e.g. bus number 2) paying the standard one journey ticket price which is cheaper than taking the bus 01X/01N directly from the airport (see Get around / By bus ). The trail takes about 1 hr one-way and of course can be done in the other direction if you are arriving from the city center at the IKEA bus terminal and have some time to kill before your flight.

By car [ edit ]

  • Athens about 5 hr (Highway A1, E75)
  • Belgrade in Serbia about 7 hr (A1, E75)
  • Istanbul in Turkey about 8 hr (A2, E90)
  • Tirana in Northeastern Albania about 6 hr (Α29 and Α2)
  • Sofia in Northwest Bulgaria about 4 hr (Α25, Ε79)
  • Constanta in Romania about 8 hr.

Finding parking is difficult: be prepared to spend a lot of time looking for a place or to pay for space in the parking lot (starting from €4 for 3 hr). Don't assume you're safe from paying a fine just because locals flagrantly flout parking laws. Traffic congestion is a problem, largely due to double-parked cars, but generally fellow drivers and passers-by are helpful in showing you the way if you're lost.

Map

Get around [ edit ]

Map

The city's bus company is called OASTH and runs a total of 80 different bus lines, which are the only public transportation within the city. Maps of the bus routes are available on OASTH's website . Moovit or Rome2Rio mobile apps can be used to plan the journey and check the schedule on the go. Bus services usually operate from 05:00 until just after midnight.

Bus number 50 ("cultural line") follows a figure-of-8 route past all the major tourist sights. There is an English speaking guide aboard, who provides you with maps and information. The whole route takes 50 min, and it departs every hour on the hour from the White Tower. The connection to the airport is provided by bus 01X , which runs as 01N in the night (the only night bus line in the city).

The 01N night bus runs from 22:00-05:00 every 30 minutes on average. Being the only public transportation option after 00:00 it is usually packed with people, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, so don't count on it if you have a late night flight to catch.

This being Greece, the bus drivers go on strike occasionally. Notices about strikes may appear (in Greek only, naturally) at the bus stops information panels.

Tickets [ edit ]

thessaloniki tourist guide

Tickets can be bought at OASTH's ticket outlets and at machines on the buses. Certain types of tickets (see below) are also available at various other sales points. There are five types of tickets available:

  • One journey ticket : €0.9; valid for one journey on all lines except 50, 01X and 01N.
  • Two journey ticket : €1.10; valid for two journeys on all lines except 50, 01X and 01N, the second journey starting within 70 min of the first.
  • Three journey ticket : €1.30 from OASTH's ticket outlets or on the bus; valid for three journeys on all lines except 50, 01X and 01N, the third journey starting within 90 min of the first.
  • Four journey ticket : €1.90 from OASTH's ticket outlets or on the bus; valid for four journeys on all lines except 50, 01X and 01N, the fourth journey starting within 120 min of the first.
  • Airport line (01X/01N) / Cultural line (50) ticket : €1.8 from OASTH's ticket outlets or on the bus; valid only on these lines.

Students, persons aged over 65, and persons with over 67% disability get a 50% discount if they have the documents required by OASTH to prove it. Accompanied children under the age of six ride for free.

1-, 3-, 6- and 12-month cards for unlimited journeys on all lines (including the Airport line 01X/01N and the Cultural line 50) are also available. They are valid from the first day of the month they were issued until the last day of the month, third month, sixth month, or year. A photo-ID and a recent photograph are required to issue such cards. An one-month card costs €30.

By taxi [ edit ]

FreeNow app helps to order a taxi in Thessaloniki.

By bicycle [ edit ]

Bicycle lanes often do not exist, even on main roads. Sometimes, there are bicycle lanes on the pavement. There is a decent bicycle lane that runs along the seafront. You should always be very careful.

ThessBike is a bike sharing system with stations mainly near the center of the town. More stations located in other areas are being planned. You can either become a subscriber or pay per hour. In general, expect to pay €1 per hour.

See [ edit ]

Map

The northernmost 40.638533 22.958135 1 Byzantine Walls of the city and parts of the eastern walls are still standing, as is the city's symbol - the White Tower . The rest of the walls are in the picturesque Upper Town which offers a spectacular view over the bay, especially in the late afternoon.

The city is also known as "the mother of Israel", due to the once flourishing Jewish community here, which existed from the Roman period and grew substantially after the Ottoman Empire took in Jewish refugees expelled Spain, Portugal, and Spanish territories in Italy; these Jews are known as "Sephardim". Sephardi Jews formed a significant percentage of the city's population and infrastructure until World War II, when, in spring 1943, almost all were deported by the Nazis to the extermination camp at Auschwitz, never to return. However, there are still two Synagogues, and you can see the Jewish Museum.

Also interesting are the Turkish public baths Bey Hamam , the Bezesteni (Ottoman closed market for jewellery and precious materials) the Alatza Imaret (Ottoman poorhouse) and Hamza Bey Camii (both restored and used for exhibitions).

Seafront and lower town [ edit ]

  • The bustling Modiano and Kapani markets - see "Buy" below for details.

Upper town [ edit ]

Visit the upper town for its traditional old houses, small cobbled streets, Byzantine citadel, the Eptapyrgion fort. Next to the Rotunda, see the Arch of Triumph of Galerius and the ruins of his palace .

  • 40.640581 22.960115 7 Trigoniou tower ( Πύργος Τριγωνίου ). There is an observation deck just outside the tower, offering great views of the city.  
  • 40.63597 22.966637 8 Thessaloniki Zoological Garden ( Ζωολογικός Κήπος Θεσσαλονίκης ). A small municipal zoo with many hilly climbs. The exhibited animals are mostly goats, sheep, ducks, deer, and peacocks. Admission is free.  

thessaloniki tourist guide

Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments [ edit ]

On no account should you miss the Byzantine churches built between the 5th and 14th centuries, some of which are on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

  • 40.6417 22.9522 12 Latomou Monastery .  

thessaloniki tourist guide

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

Thessaloniki is home to many museums, mostly archaeological and ethnographic. The two big archaeological museums are in the city centre, under the OTE Tower at the CHANTH Square . It is possible to obtain a pass for €15 which allows entry into five museums (valid for three days): Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum, Museum of Byzantine Culture, White Tower, Archaeological Site and Museum of the Roman Agora, and Galerian Complex. Note that Winter opening times are shorter than Summer opening times.

  • 40.6274 22.9643 26 Olympic Museum ( Tritis Septemvriou & Agiou Dimitriou St. (300 m to the east of Teloglion Foundation of Art) ). Sports related.  
  • Museum at Aghios Demetrios , Agiou Dimitriou St .  
  • 40.658 22.9321 28 State Museum of Contemporary Art, Thessaloniki , Kolokotroni 25, Stavroupoli district .  
  • 40.635 22.9377 30 Museum of Ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Post Byzantine Musical Instruments , Katouni 12 ( in the Ladadika neighbourhood ).  
  • 40.5632 22.9955 33 Museum of Science .  

thessaloniki tourist guide

Do [ edit ]

Map

  • Take a walk along the long seafront promenade (about 12 km altogether).
  • Thessaloniki has a very active nightlife , as a 2007 New York Times article called it "Seattle of the Balkans".
  • The very lively and youth-oriented international film festival is held in November, the International Trade Fair in September.
  • 40.598032 22.948653 1 Thessaloniki Concert Hall , "25 Μartiou" Str. ( near the Posidonio Athletic Center of Thessaloniki - Kalamaria ). The venue includes a main hall of 1,400 seats, designed by the Japanese architect Arata Isozaki and inaugurated on 2 January 2000. The Thessaloniki State Symphony Orchestra plays Italian Operas and works of Greek composers. Current events listed on in their website. ( updated Feb 2016 )
  • 40.489526 23.02273 2 Waterland . A large water park near Tagarades Hill. Free bus service starting at the city centre. ( updated Feb 2016 )
  • Watch football . The city has two teams playing in the Super League, the top tier of Greek football. PAOK FC play at Toumba Stadium, capacity 29,000, two km southeast of city centre. Aris Thessaloniki FC play at Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium, capacity 22,800, a further km south.
  • Join the amazing World Naked Bike Ride in Thessaloniki every year in June. A celebration of Cycling, Environment, Body Freedom!

Yachting [ edit ]

Thermaikos Gulf is a challenging place for yachting and sailing . Many days there are strong North winds but with low waves making sailing a fun and joy for all sailors. There are three sailing clubs in Thessaloniki and world championships take place here every year. Thessaloniki has several marinas with a new one containing 182 mooring places under construction in the centre of the city and next to Aistotelous square. There are a couple of yacht charter companies renting sailing yachts.

  • Discovery Yachting , Thermaikou 21 , ☏ +30 231 046 5269 , +30 694 838 8098 , fax : +30 231 046 5269 , [email protected] . Bareboat charter or skippered sailing yacht, also night time tours.  
  • 40.59681 22.95647 3 Nautilia Yachting , Skiathou 2 , ☏ +30 231 055 8192 , fax : +30 231 055 8192 , [email protected] . Licensed by the Greek National Tourism Organization, organizes skippered or bareboat yacht charters with a wide range of monohulls and catamarans for sailing. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

Clothing [ edit ].

For fashion, Tsimiski (the main fashion street, which runs parallel to Egnatia Road and is southwest of it, with shops such as Zara and H&M), Proxenou Koromila, and Mitropoleos. You won't find many bargains, but the shopping area is conveniently small and full of cafes when you get too tired. For cheaper clothing, check out Egnatia Road.

Books [ edit ]

Books and maps in various languages can be bought in stores such as:

  • Ianos bookshop , Aristotelous Sq ( in the city centre ). Books & art-objects, cultural events.  
  • Maliaris-Pedia bookstore

Also in the 9th International Book Fair , that is held annually in late spring.

Food [ edit ]

You can buy local food products, such as olive oil, sometimes at significantly lower prices than in nearby countries.

For eating out, see the "Eat" section below

For food specialities, go to Modiano market and try the Terpsis and Omega delicatessens (the most famous is Kosmas, but it specialises in Asian food). Any Greek will expect you to bring back sweets from Salonica, so try tsoureki, plaited sweetened breads for which Terkenlis is famous, and desserts (baklava and galaktoboureko) e.g. or Nikiforou on Venizelou street. The most famous of the baklava joints is Hatzis, but fame has not made it any better - it's become overpriced and not as good as in previous years.

For a morning or late-night snack, try Bougatsa pies: cream (sweet) or cheese (savoury) filling.

Sweets and pastry [ edit ]

If you like sweets, there are 3 typical pastry shops you should try, typical of this city:

  • Chatzis . Is famous for its collection of Greek Asia Minor sweets (politika glyka) originating from Constantinople.  
  • Terkenlis . Is famous for its variety of "tsoureki", a sweet bread much like challah or brioche but containing spices too, covered and filled with several combinations of chocolates, creams, and nuts. ( updated Jan 2022 )
  • Elenidis . It is considered the expert in "trigona" (triangles made of sfoglia, filled with cream).  
  • Choureál . Very popular for its profiterole

Popular winter drink: hot sahlep (salepi) by wayfarers.

Landmark summer drink: frappé coffee, iced coffee drink generally made from spray-dried instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk, the hallmark of postwar outdoor Greek coffee culture, once by far the most popular among young people, invented in 1957 in Thessaloniki International Fair.

Eat [ edit ]

Greeks consider Thessaloniki a gourmet city - but bear in mind that this refers to the excellent local specialities and cheap-and-cheerful ouzo taverns rather than to haute cuisine or a range of foreign restaurants. The latter are best avoided in Thessaloniki.

  • Try a crepe in one of the numerous crepe shops patronised by the student population at Gounari St, near Navarinou Sq.
  • There are plenty of shops selling gyros . Usually there are pork and chicken gyros. This is the best calories per money option, since with less that €3 you get a meal that, although not that healthy, can keep you going for many hours.
  • During the winter you can try roasted chestnuts (kastana in Greek) that are sold from carts.
  • During the summer one can buy boiled or roasted corn on the cob that is sold from carts. Cost €1-2.
  • You can try stafidopsomo , a small bread with raisins, or koulouri a donut-shaped small bread with sesame. You can find them sold in a bakery or on carts. Cost: €0.50.
  • For breakfast you can have a bougatsa , a type of cream pie, that Thessaloniki is famous for. You can accompany it with a cacao milk or coffee.
  • For a carnivore's treat, try soutzoukakia : minced meat pellets either grilled (at the central market or rotisseries) and topped with chilli pepper flakes, or cooked in tomato and cumin sauce (Smyrna-style).
  • For a late night (or early morning) meal try patsas (Tripe soup).
  • Seafood: gemista kalamarakia (stuffed squid), mydopilafo (rice with mussels) or mydia saganaki (mussels in tomato sauce).
  • 40.590891 23.033414 1 ΚΛΕΑ Fine Bakery . Cafe with light meals and takeaway. ( updated May 2018 )
  • 40.586835 23.029727 2 Villa Luna . Ask to eat in the restaurant terrace - fantastic views at sunset. ( updated May 2018 )

Budget [ edit ]

Go for a meal in one of the many central ouzo restaurants (ouzeri). Accompany your ouzo or tsipouro with a battery of small dishes - by far the best way to eat in Salonica. Particularly good are the fava beans, octopus either grilled or in wine sauce and mussels (fried, or in pilaff, or with a hot cheese sauce, saganaki). If you see "boiled vegetables' on the menu in wintertime, you'll be amazed at how good they taste. Another typical winter salad is politiki, a combination of shredded cabbage and pickles.

Many fast food options are found on the Dimitriou Gounari Street (between Rotonda and the sea).

All these are in the city centre:

  • 40.633563 22.938396 3 Porto Gyros , El. Venizelou 2 . Delicious gyros, nice and polite staff, very close to the seafront of Thessaloniki. The gyros is for €4.50. Some tables to eat on site. Hospitable and competent staff. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 40.639168 22.944318 4 Evi Evan , Olympou 68 ( Bit-Bazaar ). A nice small place near the ancient market of Thessaloniki. Very cozy and nicely decorated. The personnel are very friendly and helpful and eager to make you feel welcome. Very nice place with traditional style and music. You will get nice plates and local drinks. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 40.639015 22.94357 5 Verges Lagies , Βενιζέλου 63 . Reminiscent of old taverns from the 80s with very helpful staff and respect for the customer. Really nice charcoal grill food. Small bistro and worthwhile a try. Good quality for little money. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 40.634213 22.952781 6 Pizza Chris , Armenopoulou 17 . One of the nicest pizzas in Thessaloniki. Well made dough and incredible flavors. The pizza slices are only €1.50. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 40.63416 22.951704 7 Tarantoúla , Arrianou 16 . Nice place with good vegan food. This is the best place to enjoy vegan mezze in Thessaloniki. You can find a decently sized menu with several options to choose from. The space is very alternative but small with some outdoor seating and expect to have to wait for seating if you arrive at peak hours. The beet salad is fresh and delicious. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.635201 22.953337 8 Nostimo - The Art In Taste , Fotakou 5 . Very tasty homemade food with lots of vegetables from their garden. Friendly staff, affordable rates, nice and clean interiors ( updated May 2022 )
  • 40.640024 22.945133 9 Ouzománia , Paster 5 . This is a small tavern. One of the oldest ouzories. Kind staff and great atmosphere. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.634648 22.942995 10 Olive Oil & Oregano ( Λάδι και Ρίγανη ), Ερμού και Αριστοτέλους 20 . 12:00–00:00 . ( updated Oct 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • 40.63717 22.94017 11 Agora , Kapodistriou 5 ( Off Ionos Dragoumi ). Ouzo restaurant (ouzeri) in one of the most interesting old downtown areas. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.593785 22.949692 12 To Manitari , Themistokli Sofouli 57, Kalamaria , ☏ +30 2310 415289 . 13:00-00:00 . Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood. Offers vegetarian options. Well-supplied with many regional Greek wines. €10-30 (March 2022) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.610013 22.950449 13 NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Omilos The Beach Club , Leof. Meg. Alexandrou 12 ( in Sailing Club of Thessaloniki ), ☏ +30 2310 869950 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-00:00 . Regional Greek ingredients. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.5736 22.9511 14 Nea Diagonios , Themistokli Sofouli 64A ( Take the bus 5 from Aristotelous square stop at Akaion Station ), ☏ +302310029085 , [email protected] . 12:30-00:00 . Here you can eat pork gyros and soutzoukakia from executive chef Ioannis Chantakis €25 (Nov 2015) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.616129 22.961677 15 Pire kai vradiazei ( Πήρε και βραδιάζει ), Omirou 7 ( Off Theagenio Hospital ). Great taverna, unique style, good food and some days (Th-Su) live music. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.642771 22.955287 16 Toixo Toixo (Wall by Wall) , Polydorou 1 ( Ano Poli (Kastra) ). An hipster hang-out, nice atmosphere, very expensive for the quality. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.63869 22.94516 17 Tsarouchas ( Τσαρούχας ), Olymbou 78 ( Off Ancient Forum ). 24/7 . For those with adventurous tastes, preferably go after a hard night's drinking, for a "patsás" (tripe) soup - a delicious way to prevent a hangover. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 40.63634 22.9407 18 Ouzo Melathron , Karipi 21 . ( updated Feb 2016 )
  • Heavy Melon ( Vary Peponi, Βαρύ Πεπόνι ), Apellou 4 , ☏ +30 231 024 3332 . 14:00-00:00 . Traditional Greek, Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern recipes. Also, a selection of desserts. ( updated Nov 2019 )
  • Glykia Symoria , Ioustinianou and Zaliki 1 ( Bit-Bazaar ). ( updated May 2022 )
  • Goody's . It is the Greek fast-food chain. You will find classic hamburgers, also souvlaki, pasta and salads.  
  • Apo Dyo Horia ( Navarinou Sq ). Cretan and Pontian restaurant. Here, order raki rather than ouzo or tsipouro.  
  • Kamaras ( Near Rotonda ). Great traditional dishes.  
  • Lila Cafe Bistro , Diogenus 23 ( Ano Toumba district ), ☏ +30 2310 947377 . Traditional pies and sweets, croissant and dishes accompany the coffee or your drink. Porcelain miniatures and collective drinks are available for original gifts.  
  • Myrsini ( Behind the state theatre Etairia Makedonikon Spoudon ). Good Cretan restaurant.  
  • Pizza da Pepe , Stefanou Tatti 10 ( Side street off Egnatia, near Aghia Sophia Church ), ☏ +30 2310 242407 . For the best pizzas in town head here.  
  • Tombourlika ( Τομπουρλίκα ), Navmachias Limnou 14 ( Off Vardaris Sqare ), ☏ +30 2310 548193 . Great traditional ouzeri, with fresh fish and meat dishes and live rembetico music.  

Splurge [ edit ]

  • Krikelas , Ladadika ( Near Morichovou Sq ).  
  • Odos Aristotelous ( Lepen ), Odos Aristotelous . Most Salonicans know it as the "Lepen".  
  • Zythos-Dore ( White Tower Square ). An upmarket brasserie with a wide range of specialties and interesting ambiance.  

Drink [ edit ]

Thessaloniki is by far the liveliest city in Northern Greece- maybe even the whole country. Most of the trendy bars at the old sea-front (Nikis Ave.) and around, many of the tavernas are either downtown or in the old city (Kastra). You can also find numerous bars and tavernas at Krini, an area in eastern Thessaloniki. If you want to check out what the whole bouzoukia scene is all about, try the clubs Pyli Axiou and Mamounia, at Vilka. You will also find a lot of night clubs, bars and restaurants in Ladadika, the neighbourhood with the old warehouses next to the port. The student area is around Kamara (the Arch of Galerius), with many cheaper cafes and bars.

If you will be in town during summer, take a ride on the floating bars plying the harbour. Every 2 hr or so they leave from the White Tower area for a short evening trip (30 min) in the Gulf of Thessaloniki. They play mostly ethnic and alternative foreign music.

A beer would cost you €3-7, an alcohol drink €5-10 and a coffee €2.50-5.

thessaloniki tourist guide

Among the most popular places to drink a coffee or a beer are:

  • Aristotle Sq (Aristotelous) - The most popular tourist cafés and bars lie in the central square of the city and the homonymous street. One can find quiet cafes or noisy ones usually preferred by the young. Breakfast is also served, some restaurants are also available.
  • Nikis’ Av - The centre’s seafront avenue is full of cafeterias usually crowded around the clock, available for coffee in daytime and beer or drink at night.
  • Proxenou Kroromila St - Parallel to the seafront Nikis avenue is Pr. Koromila street with some cafés and bars.
  • Iktinou pedestrian - Another place in the city with cafes and bars and a couple of restaurants. The last two years a "street beer" culture has been created by both locals and students. People just buy beer from the kiosks and hang out on the surrounding benches. This is probably one of the most economic ways to drink some Retsina and socialize with locals.
  • Ladadika district - At the west side of the center lies the picturesque neighbourhood of Ladadika (meaning: oil stores). Named this way by the many stores selling oil arrived from the adjacent harbour. This district used to be notorious but has been renovated, and many stone build warehouses now host the most known nightclubs with all sorts of music including traditional Greek bouzoukia.

thessaloniki tourist guide

  • Aretsou - Aretsou is in the southeast part of the city, in the Kalamaria District. In the seafront Plastira Av. are restaurants which change to bars during night featuring loud music and hosting many young.
  • Karabournaki - A place in Kalamaria district hosting delicate bars, restaurants and pizzerias. All of them along Sofouli street next to the seashore.
  • Boat bars - Quite interesting are the boats near the white tower’s seafront, which make a short trip around Thermaikos gulf where you can enjoy a late night city view. Most of them play ethnic and alternative foreign music.
  • 40.6417 22.9203 1 Vilka ( The area around the old trains station ) - A set of high-range café, bars, restaurants, disco, ouzeris some with live music at the city’s west.
  • Valaoritou and Syggrou - A lot of Thessaloniki's nightlife has moved here. The old industrial centre has become a place for entertainment for everybody. Many bars, clubs and cafes may remind you of Berlin, or English pubs.
  • 40.642201 22.918604 2 Mylos Club , 56 "Andrea Georgiou" Str. , ☏ +30 231 051 0081 . Hosting concerts, events, exhibitions, music bands, famous Greek artists etc. Venue can change. Check their page on Facebook. ( updated Feb 2016 )

Sleep [ edit ]

  • 40.59002 23.032685 1 Hotel Pefka ( Pefka Hotel ). ( updated May 2018 )
  • 40.63909 22.9579 2 Little Big House Hostel , 24 Andakidou St , ☏ +30 231 3014323 , [email protected] . This is a new hostel in Thessaloniki run by a brother and sister who are hosts. They have five rooms in a reconstructed house, each room with private bathroom and kitchenette and big lockers. There is also a common room and kitchen, and a nice, cozy garden area with tables and chairs. Welcome drink, maps of the city, wifi and linens, tea and coffee, all free. Laundry and breakfast for €2. €17 for bed in 6-person dorm, €19 for bed in 4-person dorm .  
  • Backpackers Refuge , ☏ +30 698 3433591 , [email protected] . Near the city centre (5-min bus ride) and the water front (7 min on foot) is well connected to the train station, bus station and the airport. 24 hr hot water, free linen, washing machine, kitchen, free city map, info available about Thess, and activities in northern Greece. Pick up and other transport options, free internet. Only a small capacity and advanced booking is recommended-staff is not present around the clock. 6 bed dorm €15 .  
  • 40.644267 22.944088 3 Studios Arabas , Sachtouri 28 ( Σαχτούρη 28 ), ☏ +30 697 381 7188 . €11.50 for dorm .  
  • 40.63374 22.93981 4 [dead link] The Tourist Hotel , 21, Mitropoleos St ( Right in the center ), ☏ +30 2310 270501 , [email protected] . 2-star hotel, cheap, clean and welcoming. Single, double or triple rooms. Free WiFi. Parking with an extra charge of €15 per day. €75 for a double room including breakfast .  
  • 40.64224 22.93114 5 Rex Hotel , Monastiriou 39 , ☏ +30 231 051 7051 , [email protected] . Cheap hotel opposite the train station towards the centre. Only a 5-min walk from train station. Not great, but adequate. Two-bedroom in peak season €60 .  
  • Hotel Acropoli . Close to the train station. Clean but shabby rooms, most with a balcony. A triple costs €80 or €60 for a double .  
  • 40.63935 22.93788 6 Alexandria Hotel , 18 Egnatia St ( there is a bus stop outside, buses link to train station, bus station and airport ), ☏ +30 2310 536185 , [email protected] . Check-out: 12:00 . Bang in the centre of Egnatia Str., with easy bus connections. Friendly staff. Price includes private bathroom, A/C, WiFi, fridge and TV. Snacks and laundry for extra charge. €33 for twin room . ( updated Feb 2016 )
  • 40.63244 22.9535 7 RentRooms Thessaloniki , Konstantinou Melenikou 9 , ☏ +30 2310 204080 , [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Travellers and backpackers hostel. Nice & clean rooms and dorms with balconies. Cafeteria garden for drinks and snacks near a green park. It is in city centre's university side, overlooking "Rotonda" UNESCO World Heritage Roman monument site. Cozy atmosphere and friendly staff really helpful. Available breakfast and bicycles. Free internet stations, WiFi in rooms and common areas. ( updated Nov 2017 )

There are many hotels in the area a few blocks north of Aristotelous. Some of these are a bit upmarket, but if business is slack it is worth shopping around - they might give you a good discount rather than turn you away.

  • 40.488987 23.031592 8 Heaven Hotel , Tagarades, Thessaloniki, Macedonia , ☏ +30 239 2072701 , [email protected] . Between the hills of Tagarades with panoramic views of the city and Thermaico's gulf.  
  • 40.638438 22.942704 9 Zaliki Boutique Hotel ( Zaliki hotel in the center of Thessaloniki ), 6 Gr. Zaliki St , ☏ +30 2310 226400 , [email protected] . Boutique hotel in Thessaloniki city center in a neo-classical building offering free wi-fi, free parking and free pick-up from airport.  
  • 40.6399 22.9364 10 El Greco Hotel ( Hotel in Thessaloniki city center ), 23 Egnatia Street. , ☏ +30 231 0520620 , [email protected] . 3-star hotel in the heart of Thessaloniki. Free parking lot, VIP taxi service and free WiFi.  
  • 40.63382 22.94013 11 City Hotel , 11 Komninon St , ☏ +30 2310 269421 . 4 star.  
  • Kinissi Palace , 41 Egnatia and Syngrou St , ☏ +30 2310 508081 . 4 star.  
  • 40.64539 22.9253 12 Rotonda ( Rotonda Hotel in the entrance of city ), 97 Monastiriou St , ☏ +30 2310 517121 , [email protected] . 3-star hotel entering the city of Thessaloniki. Free parking lot, VIP taxi service and free WiFi.  
  • 40.63449 22.93952 13 Le Palace , Tsimiski ( 2 blocks N of Aristotelou ). Very nice double rooms The price posted in the room is over €180, although it is possible to haggle down to as low as €60 including breakfast if business is slack .  
  • 40.63322 22.93982 14 Hotel Luxembourg , Komninon 6 , ☏ +30 2310 252600 , [email protected] . 3-star hotel in neoclassical building next to the Thessaloniki seaside and Aristotelous square  
  • 40.63902 22.94497 15 Hotel Olympia , Olympou 65 , ☏ +30 2310 36 466 . Boutique hotel in the centre of Thessaloniki.  
  • Hotel Anessis , 26th October 20 , ☏ +30 2310 520200 , [email protected] . 3-star hotel next to Thessaloniki seaside and port with free Wi-Fi.  
  • 40.64255 22.9398 16 Tobacco Hotel , Aghiou Dimitriou St . 4-star boutique hotel (formerly a tobacco warehouse).  
  • 40.64203 22.93269 17 [formerly dead link] Capsis Hotel , Monastiriou 16 , ☏ +30 2310 232221 . 5 star.  
  • 40.6463 22.98602 18 Hotel Philippion , Seich Sou Forest , ☏ +30 2310 203320 , [email protected] . 4-star hotel in the heart of Seich-Sou Park, overlooking Thessaloniki and Thermaikos Golf.  
  • 40.64006 22.94328 19 Park Hotel , 81 Ionos Dragoumi , ☏ +30 2310 524121 . Good breakfast buffet and reasonable price near the old Administration building.  
  • 40.66846 22.96312 20 Hotel Byzantio , West Peripheral of Thessaloniki , ☏ +30 2310 690000 , [email protected] . In an all-green setting with sparkling water from the surrounding mountains, a few metres from the water mills, on an area of 5.5 acres (2.2 hectares).  
  • Amalia Hotel , 33 Hermou St , ☏ +30 2310 268321 , [email protected] . 2-star hotel, in the centre of Thessaloniki, close to Aristotelous Square, all rooms with balcony and free WiFi.  
  • Vergina Hotel ( Ξενοδοχείο Βεργίνα ), 19, Monastiriou Str. , ☏ +30 2310 529372 , [email protected] .  
  • 40.639647 22.939417 21 a.d. Imperial Palace Thessaloniki Hotel ( a.d. Imperial Palace hotel in centralThessaloniki ), 13 Andigonidon st , ☏ +30 2310 5083000 , [email protected] . Boutique hotel in the city centre in a neo-classical building offering free wi-fi, free parking and free pick-up from airport.  
  • 40.63311 22.94111 22 Electra Palace Hotel Thessaloniki , 9, Aristotelous sq. , ☏ +30 2310 294000 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . 5-star hotel in the heart of Thessaloniki. 130 rooms and 8 suites, some of then with view to Aristotelous square and the sea. The "Orizontes Pool Bar & Restaurant" provides superb view of Thermaikos gulf.  
  • 40.618347 22.953155 23 Makedonia Palace , 2, M. Alexandrou Av , ☏ +30 231 089 7197 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . One of the most prestigious hotels in Thessaloniki, on the waterfront. ( updated Jan 2020 )
  • 40.52238 22.99972 24 Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki , 13 km Thessaloniki-Perea , ☏ +30 231 040 1234 , [email protected] . 5-star hotel with 2 ballrooms, 5 meeting rooms and 3 boardrooms. 2 km from the largest casino in Europe.  
  • 40.64292 22.90993 25 Porto Palace Hotel , 65, 26th October Ave , ☏ +30 231 0504504 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . At the west entrance of the city, near the new harbour/port. It has direct access to the new financial district and it is 5 min away from the city centre and the shopping area.  
  • 40.65865 22.9318 26 [dead link] Domotel Les Lazaristes Hotel , Kolokotroni 16, 56 430 , ☏ +30 2310 647400 , [email protected] . Nearby the major cultural centre of the city. The State Museum of Contemporary Art inspired its design philosophy.  
  • 40.635857 22.935763 27 Mediterranean Palace Hotel , 3, Salaminos & Karatassou Streets, 54626 Thessaloniki, Greece , ☏ +30 2310 552554 , [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 12:00 . 5-star hotel with views of Thermaikos Bay.  

Connect [ edit ]

As of Sept 2021, Thessaloniki has 5G from Cosmote and 4G from Wind and Vodafone. WiFi is widely available in public places.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Watch your pockets and travel documents as there are pickpockets , especially in buses during rush hour. Some people may feel very uncomfortable walking in the areas near the railway station at night, as there are several brothels there.

In Greece, including Thessaloniki, violence against the LGBTQ population is rare but can occur, and as such LGBTQ travelers should exercise caution. There are gay bars and clubs in the city. Be cautious when arriving at or leaving clubs, before and after attending local PRIDE events. It is useful to follow LGBTQ guides to Thessaloniki and keep up with the current hotspots.

Police number: 100

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Tap water is safe to drink. In some places in the city centre you might get a slight "taste" from the water. That means that the pipes in the building are getting old, so you might want to buy bottled water.

Greece is a sunny place, and if your skin is light-coloured, intense sunlight can be a serious danger. The sun can be strong at noontime and during the early afternoon, even during the autumn and spring. Use sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

Emergency phone number: 112

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

thessaloniki tourist guide

The suburb of Panorama is well heeled and has good restaurants, and spectacular views over Thessaloniki - especially at sunset.

The classic trips out of Thessaloniki are:

  • Serres – The second largest city in Greece's Macedonia region and close to the Bulgarian towns of Melnik and Bansko and Pirin National Park .
  • Kavala and Philippi – About 160 km east of Thessaloniki is Kavala, one of the most beautiful cities of Greece and is especially recommended to visit. The ancient site of Philippi is particularly known by Apostle Paul and the first Christian baptism in Europe.

thessaloniki tourist guide

  • Halkidikí peninsula – There are 500 km of wonderful beaches on the two first fingers of this peninsula, one of the main tourist destinations of Greece. The first "finger" from the West is called Kassandra and its the place where many Salonicans (and tourists) spend their holidays. The second "finger" called Sithonia is the most beautiful place of Halkidiki both in landscape and beaches. In the summer, the Armenistis campground (Sithonia peninsula) stages concerts and other events. Also check out the jazz and classical concerts in Sani (Kassandra peninsula). Try to schedule your visit in summer so that you're not driving back to the city on Sunday evening. The third finger is the monastic community of Mount Athos . Mount Athos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This peninsula houses over 1,700 monks in 20 Eastern Orthodox monasteries. The visit is strictly controlled and only male visitors are allowed. Tourist require a visa. But there are also sightseeing boats that offer tours around the peninsula (without landing). These do not require permits and are the only option for women who want to see Mount Athos. The boat tours start in Ouranopolis from about 10:00.
  • Mount Olympus coast (towards Platamonas ) – A very scenic region which has fallen out of favour with the trendy set but has lost no business - it is now mainly catering to tourists from Eastern Europe.
  • Pella – The Macedonian capital during the time of Alexander the Great.
  • Vergina – The spectacular site of the Macedonian royal tombs.
  • Dion – A beautiful archaeological site near Mount Olympus.
  • Prespa and Doirani lakes – Near the borders with Albania and North Macedonia, respectively, the Prespas especially offering an austere and evocative Balkan landscape and plenty of birdwatching.

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What To Do In Thessaloniki: Your Complete 3-Day Itinerary

Category Greece , Thessaloniki , Travel Updated on March 27, 2023

what to do in thessaloniki

Wondering what to do in Thessaloniki?

You’d be surprised but there are quite a few things to do in Thessaloniki. Whenever most people think of Greece, they imagine Athens, Santorini and Mykonos right?

But Thessaloniki? It’s probably not on top of your bucket list.

Matthew and I absolutely love Greece! We have been 3 times in 4 years and it just never gets old. We’ve been to the islands like Paros, Crete and Santorini but we never thought of visiting Thessaloniki before.

When the opportunity arose to visit Thessaloniki, you bet we took it! We are so glad we did because this Greek city surprised us in the best ways. Before running off to the islands, we realize that there’s also so much beauty on the mainland.

There are a lot of things you can do in Thessaloniki but we want to make it very simple for you. We’ve created a 3 day Thessaloniki itinerary to help curate your schedule and make sure you’re hitting the sights and restaurants to make the most of your time!

Here’s what to do in Thessaloniki that’s actually worth it!

Why Visit Thessaloniki Greece?

Thessaloniki probably isn’t first on your Greece bucket list, right?

A lot of people tend to underestimate this Greek city which has surprises around every corner for the off-the-beaten-path traveler. If you want to see the daily lives of Greek locals and get a deeper understanding of the culture – Thessaloniki is a great place to do that!

palace of galerius thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second most populated city in Greece filled with history, culture and excellent Greek cuisine. There’s something for everyone in Thessaloniki! Whether you are going for a history tour, a culinary tour or if you simply want a change of scenery for the weekend – Thessaloniki is worth visiting !

Check out our blog post if you’re trying to decide between Athens vs Thessaloniki .

Before you make a beeline for the islands of Thessaloniki, you might just want to give this ancient city another look.

How Many Days To Spend In Thessaloniki?

3 days! We think it’s the perfect amount of time to spend exploring Thessaloniki.

Matthew and I spent 3 days exploring Thessaloniki and I remember us thinking wow that felt like just the right time. The reason we got to visit the 2nd largest city in Greece is simply that it was on our way to another destination.

We took a minivan from Skopje to Thessaloniki and made the most of our little getaway. If you stay in the city center, we think 3 days is the perfect amount to explore Thessaloniki.

sunny thessaloniki promenade

Here’s the thing: You can definitely stay longer in Thessaloniki, about a week is also a great amount of time.

Did you know…

…some of the best beaches in Greece are only an hour away. That’s right, this area has some pretty pristine water and secluded beaches that the islands can’t offer! The Halkidiki peninsula has three ‘fingers’ called Kassandra, Athos and Sithonia. You can rent a car and drive down to have a relaxing, secluded beach day!

We could’ve stayed longer but we felt like we had already seen everything we wanted to see. Thessaloniki could also be a great digital nomad destination in the future! No matter how many days you spend in Thessaloniki, you’ll have a great time regardless.

What To Do In Thessaloniki For 3 Days: Full Itinerary

Thessaloniki is the perfect size for a 3-day trip or weekend getaway. You can easily access it by bus, train or plane from Athens. But what to do in Thessaloniki, exactly?

Before we all go running to the islands, Thessaloniki might be worth a second look. This city is beaming with life, culture and deep history if given a second look. While the Greek islands are a big reason people travel to Greece, there’s also so much beauty on the mainland.

park in thessaloniki

In this blog post, we will share a complete 3 day itinerary of what to do in Thessaloniki. We have planned out enough for each day without overloading you so you can still enjoy time to sit back and drink coffee as we did. Each day will have a different focus and if you follow this itinerary of what to do in Thessaloniki for 3 days, you should see all the cool things to do and eat some delicious Greek food.

For this itinerary, we will assume that day 1 is your first full day in Thessaloniki. This just makes it easier in case anyone arrives earlier in the day vs in the middle of the night.

Use this 3 day itinerary as a guide – you don’t need to follow it to a tee to have a great time exploring Thessaloniki. Feel free to add or remove anything you’d like to do, these are suggestions to help guide you and organize your days.

Let’s get to it!

What To Do In Thessaloniki On Day 1

Explore, explore, and explore!

Thessaloniki is an ancient city in Greece with plenty of artifacts, ruins, archaeological sites and landmarks to see. There are numerous world heritage sites that are interesting and not boring in the slightest!

But first, Coffee

But before you go on your history expedition – you’re going to need coffee and breakfast! If you know us, you know that we love coffee, like LOVE coffee. When we visit a place, we already have specialty coffee shops saved for us to visit throughout our time. For today, you can head to Dekapeta Cafe for coffee and small bites.

churches of thessaloniki

This cafe is in the perfect location for what you’re about to do next! It’s time to explore the historical city and its heritage sites which are scattered all across. That’s one of the cool things about Thessaloniki – you’ve got ruins in the middle of a modern Greek city!

Visit The Roman Rotunda

The first stop on your history tour of Thessaloniki is the Roman Rotunda. This landmark was built as a house of worship for the Romans in the early 300s. It’s open from 8:30am – 3:30pm which means it’ll be the perfect time to go after your coffee.

roman rotunda

Before you enter the rotunda, simply walk all around it! It’s such a beautiful and interesting building with intricate details. If you want to learn more, you can enter the building. It’s only $6 and you can learn about its history and look at the beautiful mosaics it’s famously known for. Note: it’s free to visit on Sunday!

See The Arch Galerius

After spending some time at the Roman Rotunda, stroll down to the Arch of Galerius. We did this exact route and I have to be honest if you don’t look up the history it might not mean much. This was built as a triumphal arch in the early 300s to commemorate Galerius’ victorious campaign against the Persians. You can stare at all the small details of the arch but honestly, that’s about it!

arch of galerius

Hungry yet? Have lunch at a traditional Greek restaurant that makes you feel at home. I can’t get the name of the place (because it’s in Greek) but this is the exact Google listing.

Visit All The Museums

Now back to exploring! The next place you’ll visit is the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.

historic thessaloniki

Apparently, you can buy a ticket to go to the 3 popular spots – the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the White Tower for only 15 euros – otherwise, it’s 8 euros for the Archaeological Museum alone. After this museum, you can make your way to the Museum of Byzantine Culture if you like. Otherwise, just roam around the area.

The White Tower Of Thessaloniki

The White Tower of Thessaloniki is the most iconic landmark in this Greek city.

is thessaloniki worth visiting

I purposely didn’t want to put it at the start of your day because it’s so much more magical during sunset. If you get the combo ticket, you can enter the White Tower just before the sun sets – there’s a rooftop section with a nice view of the ocean.

Dinner At The Greek

Dinner calls for an awesome Greek restaurant, funnily enough, called ‘The Greek’. It’s a very popular restaurant in Thessaloniki with over 3,000 Google reviews and a 4.5 star rating. We suggest getting there a bit early because it gets full very quickly! They told us you couldn’t reserve ahead of time. We stood out there around 6:45pm and we waited only 15 minutes before we were seated. The lamb chops and Greek salad were amazing!

greek salad

From here, you can do one of our favorite things to do – simply stroll the promenade from one end to the other! It’s really beautiful at sunset or in the evening, it’s completely flat and there are several benches all across in case you just want to sit down.

Phew! I know that was a big day but now you’ve seen all the museums, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and walked along the promenade. The next 2 days will be much more relaxed and diving into Greek food/culture!

What To Do In Thessaloniki On Day 2

Ready for a beach day or want a different adventure?

Day 2 is a great time to explore Thessaloniki’s surrounding areas. You can use this day to take a day trip to the Halkidiki peninsula if you’re visiting in the summer, see the famous UNESCO Heritage Site, Meteora or rent a car to see more archaeological sites in nearby towns.

Halkidiki Pensinsula – Lay On The Beach

This peninsula is only located 1-hour drive from Thessaloniki. You can choose from 3 different ‘fingers’ – Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. Tourists can visit the first two – Kassandra and Sithonia.

halkidiki peninsula

Sithonia is a good option for families looking to chill out and relax. You can visit any of the beaches along here and you’ll be rewarded with clear, blue waters and barely any crowds around you!

The most popular ‘finger’ is Kassandra. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife! This is a pretty popular spot in the summer – just FYI. If you want to explore this area, Afytos has a great mix of restaurants, cafes and beaches to enjoy!

Meteora – See The Magical Monastery

This UNESCO Heritage Site is honestly out of this world. The interesting rock formations make it a mind-bending thing to look at because it almost defies gravity! It honestly doesn’t make sense how the rocks formed that way and the fact that monasteries sit on top of them is a whole other thing to wrap your mind around.

meteora greece

If you’re staying in Thessaloniki, Meteora is about a 4-hour drive away. It will take some time and you’ll be tired but it’s certainly worth it! A lot of people will only go for a day trip, making Thessaloniki a good base to see this majestic place.

Pella And/Or Kavala – Visit Towns Nearby

Don’t want to go too far? You don’t have to! There are lots of cute Greek towns just 1-2 hours away filled with history, ruins, and Greek culture.

Pella is located about 45 minutes away from Thessaloniki, making it the perfect (short) day trip! What makes this town worth visiting?

If you’re a history lover – Pella is one of the capitals of the Ancient Kingdom of Macedonia. You can visit royal tombs and look at the beautiful ancient mosaics at this archaeological site.

My friend, Neil, messaged me while we were in Thessaloniki and told me to visit the town of Kavala! Unfortunately, we were on our last day in Thessaloniki so we couldn’t make it.

kavala greece

But you can go and see it for us instead (at least till we return). Kavala is a beautiful, charming port city located along a bay. The Byzantine fortress sits atop a hill overlooking the entire city, making it a great viewpoint! It’s a very small town with lots of charm and a beautiful port to walk around!

That’s it for day 2 of what to do in Thessaloniki! The surrounding areas are certainly worth a look if you have the time and energy.

What To Do In Thessaloniki On Day 3

Now you’re back! What to do in Thessaloniki for day 3?

Easy! Eat, shop and soak up the atmosphere.

Thessaloniki is a prominent city of Greek cuisine – a lot of people say the best Greek food can be found in Thessaloniki! There are many restaurants, bars and stands to find whatever cuisine you’re looking for too.

Bougatsa For Breakfast

One of the most important things to do in Thessaloniki is…

…eat bougatsa! This fluffy, delicious pastry originated in Thessaloniki so it would be a mistake to visit without trying it at least once. But what is Bougatsa exactly? It’s a filo pastry with custard inside that just melts in your mouth. Locals like to have bougatsa for breakfast and it’s just perfect with a Greek coffee in hand.

bougatsa giannis thessaloniki

The best place to try bougatsa is at Bougatsa Giannis! Make sure to go early, we arrived around 10:30am and there were barely any seats left. You can also get Greek bakery classics like spanakopita, burek and more.

Shop At The Markets

Once you’re finished with your Greek breakfast, it’s time to hit the markets! There is a place called the Agora Modiano market where you can shop to your heart’s content. There are more than 75 shops inside this market and it’s a great place to shop, buy some souvenirs and soak up the local culture. You can buy all sorts of things here from olive oil to jewelry – the options are endless!

It’s time to eat lunch! I don’t know why but ever since we were Athens digital nomads for 2 months, we loved having gyros for lunch. It’s quick, easy and so SO tasty! The best thing about getting a gyros for takeaway in Thessaloniki is that you can eat it along the promenade as we did! We bought gyros from Psisou Barbecue and it was pretty good.

gyros by the sea

What’s next? Well, you’re close to the promenade and White Tower so you can head down to the boats. There are about 3 boats that cruise along the ocean for an hour. It’s essentially free, you just have to buy a drink (which is about 8-10 euros depending on what you order. I have to warn you: this almost feels like a tourist trap but if you want to get out on the water, it’s a pretty cheap way to do that!

Shop And Wander The City

You can continue to stroll the promenade or shop on Tsimiki street.

aristotelous square

You can also visit the popular Aristotelous Square which has a bunch of cafes to have coffee or juice. After a full 2 days, you can also use this afternoon to relax at your Airbnb or hotel for a while.

Now it’s time for dinner – where to go?

Meze Dinner Or Dining By The Water

What about a meze (aka small plates) restaurant? This is a very Greek way to eat and it’s one of our favorite things! You get to try small plates of each thing on the menu and they bring it out as you go.

thessaloniki sunset

Remember: Greeks love to eat and enjoy their time. You will probably sit for a few hours! The best restaurant is called Full tou Meze with over 4,000+ Google reviews and a 4.4 star rating, you can’t go wrong with this Greek restaurant on your last night. If you want a restaurant located by the water, Kitchen Bar is also a great place with over 9,000 Google reviews!

Don’t Wonder What To Do In Thessaloniki Anymore

We hope you found this complete 3 day itinerary of what to do in Thessaloniki helpful!

Matthew and I enjoyed our short but sweet time in Greece’s second-largest city. Thessaloniki is worth a visit if you’ve already been to Greece a few times. It gave us another perspective of this beautiful country, the culture and its people!

With this guide, you don’t need to ask yourself, “what to do in Thessaloniki”. Simply follow the itinerary if you want. You can easily add things or cross things out – after all, it’s YOUR trip to Thessaloniki. Make it exactly how you want it to be!

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Welcome to Enjoythessaloniki.com, a place to find out everything that’s great about Thessaloniki. From the history and culture to the lifestyle and events of the city, this destination website will help you discover interesting things to do while you visit or live here.

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Visiting Thessaloniki: The Culinary Capital Of Greece

Johnny

  • Last Updated On: August 1, 2022

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and widely considered the culinary capital. After spending time in Athens not only as a tourist but also living in Athens as a digital nomad , I knew I was keen for more Greek city exploration. Sure the islands in the Cyclades get all the attention and fame because of their impossibly charming white houses, amazing beaches, and dramatic landscapes. However, I really enjoyed my time in Athens and absolutely love the Urban Greek vibes.

Thessaloniki views

Thessaloniki is like a smaller more compact version of Athens. Although it doesn’t have the famous Acropolis and Parthenon, it offers a lot in its own right. Located right on the sea, it is the hot spot for amazing nightlife and delicious food.

Thessaloniki Greece

Greece is my favorite country in Europe and I traveled extensively through the country. If you need inspiration for other parts of Greece, make sure to read my Ultimate Greece Travel Guide that details everything yo need to know about Greece and the places I’ve been to.

Getting to Thessaloniki from the airport

Thessaloniki airport is located 14 kilometres from the city centre and is  accessible by public bus  going to and from the airport. Express bus line 78 (and 78N at night) connect the airport to the city centre. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines on board the bus (exact change required) and the fare is EUR 2. Travel time between the airport and the city is 40 to 50 minutes and buses run every 30 minutes.

Taxis from the airport to the city center are roughly €20 one way. They are readily available outside of the airport and they are metered. There is no Uber in the city unlike in Athens, but the city taxis are available on the Uber app.

Getting around Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is actually a very small city. The city center is only 20 minutes from one end to the other. The upper town is only 20 minutes by foot from the city center. It might seem like a big and chaotic city because of how densely packed everything is but there really isn’t that much.

Thessaloniki

I would recommend exploring Thessaloniki entirely on foot.

Thessaloniki

The only choice for public transportation in Thessaloniki is public buses, but they make for a good way to get around the city. There is a dense network of bus lines connecting most parts of the city and suburbs. Tickets cost EUR 1 when bought from street kiosks ( periptera ) or EUR 1.10 when bought from vending machines on board the buses. Tickets must be validated in one of the special machines found on all buses.

Thessaloniki Greece cats

Taxis are also readily available and can be booked via Uber. There is no Uber officially but rather official Thessaloniki taxis use the platform as part of their own.

What to do in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a beautiful city in its own way. It doesn’t hook you in like a typical European city with beautiful gothic architecture or giant cathedrals but rather the character of the city grows on you. As far as “traditional” European city sights, there aren’t too many to speak of in Thessaloniki. Nevertheless, here are some of the must see things in the city.

Upper Town (Old Town)

Ano Poli (or the Upper Town) is enclosed within the city’s old fortifications at the highest point of the city. The historic area survived the great fire of 1917 so has retained much of its old-world aesthetic, and is one of Thessaloniki’s most charming neighbourhoods. Spend some time exploring the narrow streets and alleys filled with beautiful ottoman houses and traditional taverns. Due to the area’s elevated location, Upper Town is a great way to see Thessaloniki from above. You can get here on foot, but if you’re short on time or don’t feel like hoofing it, take bus 23 from the city centre.

Upper Town Thessaloniki

Street Mode is an annual music, art and sports festival that has been held in Thessaloniki since 2009. It is the largest festival in North Greece, hosting more than 40,000 spectators each year. The three-day program (usually around the end of August) involves more than 50 live music performances on multiple stages and DJ sets, as well as street art, street dance, parkour, skateboarding, children’s activities and much more.

Latomos Monastery

This is one of the oldest churches in the world. it’s also home to a beautiful mural that dates back to very olden times. Dating back to the 4th century AD, this church is located in the Upper Town of Thessaloniki and is open to the public.

Latomou Monastery Thessaloniki

The Rotunda

Situated in the center of Thessaloniki, Rotunda was turned into a Christian church after it was constructed in about 300 AD. With the Ottoman occupation, the church was turned into a mosque. Once it was liberated, Rotunda was again turned into a Christian church and later into a sculpture museum.

Thessaloniki

Arch of Galerius

Known as Kamara, the Arch of Galerius was originally constructed to commemorate the victory of Roman general Galerius over the Persians. Kamara is currently a passageway and a famous meeting point in the city.

Thessaloniki Arch of Galerius

Ancient Agora

Thessaloniki Ancient Agora

The Galerius Palace

The Galerius Palace is an important monument in Thessaloniki. It has received awards from the European Union in 2008 for the exceptional conservation of its ruins that turned into an educational site that is now a major attraction in the city.

Visit The Fabulous Museums In Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki town Greece

  • The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki houses an extensive collection of thousands of years old artifacts and is a must-visit if you’re interested in ancient Greek history.
  • The Museum of Byzantine Culture showcases more than 3000 artifacts, mosaics, and jewelry from the Byzantine period. If you wish to learn about the Byzantine culture and life during the Byzantine era, this museum is worth visiting.
  • The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki presents the history of Sephardic Jews and the Jewish life in the city. It houses several monumental stones, inscriptions, and series of photographs, explaining the history of the Jewish people who lived in Thessaloniki.
  • The Thessaloniki Olympic Museum was established to preserve the sporting heritage and is a great place to learn about the history of the Olympic Games.

Other museums in Thessaloniki include:

  • The Photography Museum
  • The Museum of Cinema
  • The Contemporary Art Center of Thessaloniki
  • The War Museum

See The Beautiful Churches In Thessaloniki

There are several churches in Thessaloniki dating back thousands of years. Most of these churches are among the best instagrammable places in Thessaloniki. Here are some of the best churches that are worth a visit while you’re in Thessaloniki:

  • Hagios Demetrios, also called The Church of Saint Demetrius, is dedicated to Saint Dimitri.
  • Hagia Sophia is one of the oldest churches in the city. This Byzantine church is included as a World Heritage Site  on the UNESCO list .
  • Agios Pavlos is located on a hill and is a beautiful church in the city.

Thessaloniki Church

White Tower

Historically the tower has played an important role in the development of the city. Today it is used as an exhibition center and museum, where you can find more information abut the history of the tower.

Thessaloniki White tower city view

Free walking tour of Thessaloniki

Free walking tour Thessaloniki town Greece

We explored the upper town sights and visited all the churches and historic sights in the process. The most interesting part of the hike really were his own personal recounts on the history of the city including the history of the traditional Greek Bouzouki (a small guitar) and the Turkish-Greek population exchange.

I had heard about the population exchange between Greeks and Turks in the early 20th century before but never in much detail. He recounted how Thessaloniki was once a thriving hub for Turks, Greeks, and Jews alike. Much of the upper town was home to Turkish communities that more or less built the city as it is today. However, after World War 1, the population exchange of a million Turks living in Greece and Greeks living in Turkey turned everything upside down.

Where to stay in Thessaloniki

There are no shortage of places to stay in Thessaloniki. Being a densely packed city means you’ll have all sorts of options available to you.

As the city is quite small, anywhere in the city center will ensure that you are close to the action. The Airbnb offerings in Thessaloniki are abundant and great. With very cheap prices and quality apartments, you can’t go wrong with this.

Thessaloniki

I stayed in an Airbnb in the upper town with absolutely unreal views of the city. It was located right next to Agios Dimitrios Church and you could see the entire city as well as the sea. There literally is nowhere better to get views of the city than from my apartment, not even the walls of the Akropolis.

Thessaloniki best airbnb

However, staying in the upper town meant walking up and down a hill 15 minutes every time I wanted to go into the city. If you would rather have a shorter commute and be right in the action, then I would stay more central nearer to the waterfront.

Where to drink in Thessaloniki

Like Athens, Thessaloniki is known for its trendy cocktail bars and various other institutions for imbibing. I love me a good cocktail and am probably too old to be going to college style bars. However, if you are of that age, then make sure to walk through the Galerius Square to see the young college nightlife.

For the rest of us, there are some amazing cocktail bars making world class drinks. They aren’t super cheap like they are in Albania for example, but they are still much cheaper than you’ll find in places like New York, Singapore, or London.

Vogatsikou 3

Vogatsikou is located near the waterfront and is one of the top cocktail bars in the country. They have legit bartenders that are masters of their craft and the drinks resemble that. I had some of the best drinks of my trip here and would highly recommend a stop in. It’s also nearby to many great restaurants so you can have a nice meal afterwards.

Coq Tail mix bar

If you want a cocktail bar with great views of the city, look no further than Coq Tail mix bar. This is definitely a great hangout spot for locals and tourists alike. Located in the Upper Town near to the city walls, this bar has unobstructed views of the city.

Coq Tail Mix bar thessaloniki

Where to eat in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is known for its culinary prowess. There are restaurants and bars literally at every corner of the city. The city center is home to many amazing Greek restaurants, many with a more trendy flair to it. Nevertheless, prices are still reasonable by Greek standards and the food is delicious.

To Elliniko

To Elliniko

Kapani Market

Another way to get a feel for local life is visiting Modiano and Kapani markets. These city market serve as a delicious introduction to Thessaloniki’s vibrant culinary scene. Both markets offer a glimpse (and taste) of traditional Thessaloniki foods and are across the street from each other. Wander through both for a sensory overload of colourful spices, produce, meats, cheeses (oh, the cheeses), olives, and many local snacks and prepared items.

Kapani Market Thessaloniki

Gyros and Souvlaki are staple fast foods in Greece and among my favorite street meats in the world. I can’t count how many gyros I’ve eaten during my many months in Greece but it’s enough to say I have a problem.

Gyradiko Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has their own style of gyros. They are made exceptionally large, and served with mustard and ketchup. Yes, you read that right. They are served with ketchup and mustard like a hotdog instead of using their prized tzatziki. I was a bit shocked when discovering this at first and have no idea why the Greeks would butcher such a good thing. Thankfully, you can just tell them no mustard/ketchup and to add tzatziki.

Gyradiko Thessaloniki

Gyrodiko is located outside of the main part of town but it is the most famous place for gyros. They have four giant rotating spits with 500kg of pork meat spinning all day and night. The gyros are 2x the size of normal gyros. They are all still just as delicious and my go to street food of choice in Greece.

Going to Meteora from Thessaloniki

If you’re in Thessaloniki for at least 3 or 4 days, then one of the best day trips you can take is to the monasteries of Meteora . These thousand year old monasteries are among the most stunning and picturesque religious buildings you will ever see.

Meteora Greece

They are built on the top of mountain peaks that look like they’re floating over the sky. From Thessaloniki, you can take a bus to the town of Kalambaka and do a DIY tour of the area. Otherwise, you can book a day trip from Thessaloniki to Meteora which will take up the entire day.

I visited Meteora as part of my Northern Greece road trip itinerary but if you are only here for a few days, then I would recommend just doing the day trip.

Continue Reading:

  • The Perfect Athens Itinerary: One Day, Two Days, and Three Days In The Greek Capital
  • The Perfect Travel Itinerary For Northern Greece
  • The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Meteora, Greece
  • The Ultimate Naxos Island, Greece Travel Guide
  • The Perfect Travel Guide For Paros & Antiparos, Greece
  • The Ultimate Travel Guide For Visiting Sifnos, Greece
  • What To Do In Athens: Top 16 Must See Attractions For The Greek Capital
  • Cost Of Living In Athens, Greece: Detailed Breakdown Of My Monthly Budget

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  • Visiting Lefkada And The Most Beautiful Beaches In Greece
  • The Ultimate Travel Guide For Zakynthos, Greece
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Thank you so much for all this information! Can you share the name of this upper town Airbnb place?

The inside guide to Thessaloniki, Greece’s offbeat second city

Greece’s quirky second city sat at the heart of great empires for two millennia. today, it offers up historic sites alongside some of the country’s best nightlife and cuisine..

thessaloniki tourist guide

Wickerwork stalls in Athonos Square in Thessaloniki.

It’s impossible to understand the offbeat charm of modern-day Thessaloniki without first knowing a little of the forces that shaped it. The Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires all staked a claim to the port city, founded in 315BC, and each saw the addition of new monuments, crypts, churches and culinary quirks that paved the way for today’s affluent melting pot city.

Any introduction to Thessaloniki should start with Aristotelous Square , designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard after a fire devastated the city’s labyrinthine Ottoman lanes and Jewish quarter in 1917. Note the sophisticated Electra Palace Hotel , with its rooftop restaurant, and the grand Olympion Cinema , before promenading along the three-mile waterfront — a favourite local pastime. 

Here, views of Mount Olympus compete with manmade wonders like the 20ft-tall statue of Alexander the Great , unveiled in 1974 and sculptor George Zongolopoulos’s stainless steel Umbrellas , installed in 1997 to celebrate the city’s designation as European Capital of Culture. 

Another icon of the city lies on this waterside stretch: the White Tower (originally called the Lion Tower by the conquering 15th-century Ottomans, who built it to bolster their defences), which houses a permanent exhibition celebrating the city’s multicultural past and present.  

Continue the history lesson at the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki . It tells the story of the city’s once-thriving Jewish population (dating back to the city’s founding in 315 BC), which was all but wiped out during the Holocaust.

A short walk brings you to the well-preserved ancient Agora , the Roman-era heart of public life. Today, young creatives flock to art shows held at the nearby Nitra Gallery and Bey Hamam , the city’s oldest Ottoman bathhouse. Meanwhile, down at the port, abandoned warehouses have been repurposed into equally dynamic venues: don’t miss MOMUS Thessaloniki Museum Of Photography or MOMUS Experimental Centre For The Arts . 

If exploring has worked up your appetite, you’re in the right place: considered Greece’s culinary capital, Thessaloniki takes pride in its amalgam of flavours borrowed from Anatolia and the Middle East. Check out comforting meze at Full Tou Meze and faultless seafood at Marea Sea Spirit . 

When night falls, students bar hop in the cobblestone alleyways of Ladadika , the former oil and spice merchants’ district, and along Valaoritou . Pop into Vogatsikou 3 for an extensive gin list, then head to The Blue Cup for cutting-edge cocktails. Finish the night in true Thessalonian style at Aigli Geni Hamam , a 16th-century Ottoman public bathhouse converted into an atmospheric club-restaurant. 

How to do it Book a walking tour with Thessaloniki Urban Adventures .

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Love food and travel? Get to know Greek cuisine at the National Geographic Traveller Food Festival, our immersive culinary event taking place on 17-18 July 2021 at London’s Business Design Centre.  Find out more  and  book your tickets .

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Home to three quarters of a million people, Greece’s second city, THESSALONÍKI – or Salonica, as it is was once known – stands apart from the rest of the country. Situated at the head of the Gulf of Thessaloník, it seems open to the rest of the world, with a wide ethnic mix and an air of general prosperity, stimulated by a major university and a famously avant-garde live music and entertainment scene. The food is better here too and there are some very sophisticated restaurants, but also wholesome traditional food on offer in a great number of old-fashioned Turkish-influenced ouzerís and tavernas.

Brief history of Thessaloníki

Ottoman thessaloníki, the archeological museum, byzantine churches, the museum of byzantine culture, the jews of thessaloníki, the white tower, the fire-walkers of langadhás, roman remains, atatürk’s house, áno póli (upper town).

The city has enough to offer the visitor for two or three days, at least. There are substantial Roman remains and the many churches constitute a showcase of Orthodox architecture through the ages, while you can catch glimpses of the Turkish city both in the walled Upper City and in the modern grid of streets below: isolated pockets of Ottoman buildings, many of them Islamic monuments, which miraculously survived the 1917 fire (see Brief history). Modern Greek architecture is exemplified by Art Deco piles dating from the city’s twentieth-century heyday, around the time of the first International Trade Fair in 1926, an event that continues to this day. Thessaloníki’s many and often excellent museums cover subjects as varied as Byzantine culture, the city’s Jewish heritage, folklife, musical instruments, Atatürk (who was born here) and, more recently, modern art and photography.

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When King Cassander of Macedonia founded the city in 315 BC, he named it after his wife Thessalonike, Alexander the Great’s half-sister, whose name in turn derived from the Macedons’ decisive victory (nike) over the Thessalians. It soon became the region’s cultural and trading centre, issuing its own coins, and when Rome conquered Macedonia in 146 BC, the city (under the name Salonica) became the natural and immediate choice of capital. Its fortunes and significance were boosted by the building of the Via Egnatia, the great road linking Rome (via Brindisi) with Byzantium and the East.

Christianity had slow beginnings in the city. St Paul visited twice, and on the second occasion, in 56 AD, he stayed long enough to found a church, later writing the two Epistles to the Thessalonians, his congregation there. It was another three centuries, however, before the new religion took full root. Galerius, who acceded as eastern emperor upon Byzantium’s break with Rome, provided the city with virtually all its surviving late Roman monuments. The first resident Christian emperor was Theodosius (reigned 379–95), who after his conversion issued the Edict of Salonica, officially ending paganism.

Under Justinian’s rule (527–65) Salonica became the second city of Byzantium after Constantinople, which it remained – under constant pressure from Goths and Slavs – until its sacking by Saracens in 904. The storming and sacking continued under the Normans of Sicily (1185) and with the Fourth Crusade (1204), when the city became for a time capital of the Latin Kingdom of Salonica. It was, however, restored to the Byzantine Empire of Nicea in 1246, reaching a cultural “golden age” until Turkish conquest and occupation in 1430.

Thessaloníki was the premier Ottoman Balkan city when Athens was still a backwater. Its population was as varied as any in the region, with Greek Orthodox Christians in a distinct minority. Besides Ottoman Muslims, who called the city “Selanik”, there were Slavs (who still know it as “Solun”), Albanians, Armenians and, following the Iberian expulsions after 1492, the largest European Jewish community of the age.

The modern quality of Thessaloníki is due largely to a disastrous fire in 1917 which levelled most of the old plaster houses along a labyrinth of Ottoman lanes, including the entire Jewish quarter. The city was rebuilt, often in a special form of Art Deco style, over the following eight years on a grid plan prepared under the supervision of French architect Ernest Hébrard, with long central avenues running parallel to the seafront and cross-streets densely planted with trees. During World War II the city was occupied by the Nazis, who decimated the Jewish community. After the war more reconstruction was necessary to repair bomb damage, though this was interrupted in 1978 by a severe earthquake that damaged many older buildings.

Thessaloníki’s opulence has traditionally been epitomized by the locals’ sartorial elegance, but the boom of the 1990s is long gone and an increasing number of boarded-up shops indicate that Greece’s economic malaise has taken hold here. A permanent underclass lives in shantytowns near the port, consisting of Pontic or Black Sea Greeks, Albanians and eastern European refugees, as well as a growing community of Afghans and Africans.

Despite years of neglect, the 1917 fire and the 1978 quake, Thessaloníki has quite a number of vestiges of Ottoman architecture to show, mostly within walking distance of Platía Dhikastiríon. At the eastern corner of the square itself stands the disused but well-preserved Bey Hammam or Parádhisos Baths (Mon–Fri 9am–9pm, Sat & Sun 8.30am–3pm; free), the oldest Turkish bathhouse in the city (1444) and in use until 1968. The doorway is surmounted by elaborate ornamentation, while inside art exhibitions – often paradoxically with Byzantine themes – are held from time to time.

To the south of Platía Dhikastiríon lies the main Turkish bazaar area, bounded roughly by Egnatía, Dhragoúmi, Ayías Sofías and Tsimiskí. Much the most interesting bit, and a quiet midtown oasis, is a grid of lanes between Ayías Sofías and Aristotélous, devoted to selling animals, crafts and cane furniture. Nearby Ottoman monuments include the six-domed Bezesténi or covered valuables market at the corner of Venizélou and Egnatía, now housing jewellery and other shops. Directly opposite, on the north side of Egnatía, rather more modest stores occupy a prominent mosque, the fifteenth-century purpose-built Hamza Bey Tzamí (most mosques in Ottoman Thessaloníki were converted churches), now looking decidedly ramshackle.

Well to the north of Platía Dhikastiríon, beyond Áyios Dhimítrios basilica, is the seventeenth-century Yeni Hammam, now a summer cinema and music venue serving basic food, and better known as the Aigli; the fifteenth-century Altaza Imaret, tucked away in a quiet square diagonally opposite, sports a handsome portico and multiple domes.

The refurbished archeological museum is undoubtedly the city’s leading museum. Star billing goes to the marvellous Gold of Macedon exhibition in the south hall, which displays – and clearly labels in both English and Greek – many of the finds from the royal tombs of Philip II of Macedon (father of Alexander the Great) and others at the ancient Macedonian capital of Aegae, in Vergina. They include startling amounts of gold and silver – masks, crowns, necklaces, earrings and bracelets – all of extraordinarily imaginative craftsmanship, both beautiful and practical, as well as pieces in ivory and bronze. Other highlights include the central gallery (opposite as you enter), which is devoted to rich grave finds from ancient Sindos, a few kilometres north of the modern city, while the left-hand wing is taken up by Hellenistic and Roman art, in particular some exquisite blown-glass birds, found in the tumuli or toúmbes which stud the plain around Thessaloníki.

Almost all the Byzantine churches in Thessaloníki are located in the central districts or on the slopes heading up towards the Upper Town. Under the Turks most of the buildings were converted for use as mosques, a process that obscured many of their original features and destroyed the majority of their frescoes and mosaics. Further damage came with the 1917 fire and, more recently, with the 1978 earthquake. Restoration seems a glacially slow process, meaning that many sanctuaries remain locked. Nevertheless, those below are all worth a visit and free to enter.

One of the most central is the eleventh-century Panayía Halkéon church (daily 7.30am–noon), a classic though rather unimaginative example of the “cross-in-square” form, nestling at the lush southwestern corner of Platía Dhikastiríon. Its interior contains fragmentary frescoes in the cupola and some fine icons.

Several blocks east, and tucked away just out of sight north of Egnatía, the restored, fifth-century, three-aisled basilica of Panayía Ahiropíitos (daily 7am–noon & 4.30–6.30pm) is the oldest in the city. It features arcades, monolithic columns and highly elaborate capitals – a popular development begun under Theodosius. Only the mosaics inside the arches survive, depicting birds, fruits and vegetation in a rich Alexandrian style.

Around Áyios Dhimítrios are several more churches, utterly different in feel. To the west along Ayíou Dhimitríou is the church of Dhódheka Apóstoli (daily 8.30am–noon & 4–6pm), built in the twelfth century with the bold Renaissance influence of Mystra. Its five domes rise in perfect symmetry above walls of fine brickwork, while inside are glorious fourteenth-century mosaics, among the last executed in the Byzantine empire. High up in the arches to the south, west and north of the dome respectively are a Nativity, an Entry into Jerusalem, a Resurrection and a Transfiguration.

A short climb up Ayías Sofías is Ósios Dhavíd (Mon–Sat 9am–noon & 4–6pm), a tiny fifth-century church on Odhós Timothéou. It doesn’t really fit into any architectural progression, since the Ottomans demolished much of the building when converting it to a mosque. However, it has arguably the finest mosaic in the city, depicting a clean-shaven Christ Emmanuel appearing in a vision, with the four Rivers of Paradise, replete with fish, flowing beneath and lapping the feet of the prophets Ezekiel and Habakkuk.

Farther east in Kástra, on Irodhótou, fourteenth-century Áyios Nikólaos Orfanós (Tues–Sun 8.30am–2.45pm) is a diminutive, much-altered basilica; the imaginative and well-preserved frescoes inside are the most accessible and expressive in the city. It also houses the unusual Áyion Mandílion, an image of Christ’s head superimposed on a legendary Turin-style veil sent to an ancient king of Anatolian Edessa. Around the apse is a wonderful Niptir (Christ Washing the Disciple’s Feet), in which the image top right of a man riding a horse is thought to be the painter himself.

The prize-winning Museum of Byzantine Culture, in a handsome brick structure just east of the Archeological Museum, does a fine job of displaying the early Christian tombs and graves excavated in the city, featuring rescued wall paintings depicting, among others, Susannah and the Elders, and a naked rower surrounded by sea creatures. Despite this and the faultless lighting and display techniques, most of the displays will appeal more to specialists than to lay visitors.

In the early sixteenth century, after virtually all the Jews were expelled from Spain and Portugal, nearly half of the inhabitants of Thessaloníki, over 80,000 people, were Jewish. For them “Salonik” or “Salonicco” ranked as a “Mother of Israel” and the community dominated the city’s commercial, social and cultural life for some four hundred years, mostly tolerated by the Ottoman authorities but often resented by the Greeks. The first waves of Jewish emigration to Palestine, western Europe and the United States began after World War I. Numbers had dropped to fewer than 60,000 at the onset of World War II, during which all but a tiny fraction were deported from Platía Eleftherías to the concentration camps and immediate gassing. The vast Jewish cemeteries east of the city centre, among the world’s largest, were desecrated in 1944; to add insult to injury, the area was later covered over by the new university and expanded trade-fair grounds in 1948. Thessaloníki’s only surviving pre-Holocaust synagogue is the Monastiriótou at Syngroú 35, with an imposing, if austere, facade; it’s usually open for Friday-evening and Saturday-morning worship. At the very heart of the former Jewish district sprawls the Modhiáno, the still-functioning central meat, fish and produce market, named after the wealthy Jewish Modiano family which long owned it.

Dominating the seafront promenade, the White Tower (Lefkós Pýrgos) is the city’s graceful symbol. Originally known as the Lions’ Tower and the Fortress of Kalamariá, it formed a corner of the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman defences before most of the walls were demolished late in the nineteenth century. In 1890 a Jewish prisoner was given the task of whitewashing the tower, in exchange for his freedom, hence the new name, which stuck, even though it is now more of a buff colour. It was restored in 1985 for the city’s 2300th birthday celebrations and has since been converted into a moderately interesting historical museum.

On May 21, the feast day of SS Constantine and Helen, villagers at LANGADHÁS, 20km north of Thessaloníki, perform a ritual barefoot dance across a bed of burning coals known as the anastenária. While it has been suggested that they are remnants of a Dionysiac cult, devotees fiercely assert a purely Christian tradition. This seems to relate to a fire, around 1250, in the Thracian village of Kostí (now in Bulgaria), from where many of the inhabitants of Langadhás originate. Holy icons were heard groaning from the flames and were rescued by villagers, who emerged miraculously unburnt from the blazing church. The icons, passed down by their families, are believed to ensure protection during the fire walking. Equally important is piety and purity of heart: it is said that no one with any harboured grudges or unconfessed sins can pass through the coals unscathed.

Whatever the origin, the rite is still performed most years – lately as something of a tourist attraction, with an admission charge and repeat performances over the next two days. It is nevertheless eerie and impressive, beginning around 7pm with the lighting of a cone of hardwood logs. A couple of hours later their embers are raked into a circle and, just before complete darkness, a traditional Macedonian daoúli drummer and two lyra players precede a group of about sixteen women and men into the arena. These anastenáridhes (literally “groaners”), in partial trance, then shuffle across the coals for about a quarter of an hour, somehow without requiring a trip to hospital at the end.

The Arch of Galerius dominates a pedestrianized square just off the eastern end of Egnatía. Along with the nearby Rotónda, it originally formed part of a larger Roman complex which included palaces and a hippodrome. The mighty arch is the surviving span of a dome-surmounted arcade that once led towards the palaces. Built to commemorate the emperor’s victories over the Persians in 297 AD, its piers contain weathered reliefs of the battle scenes interspersed with glorified poses of Galerius himself. The well-displayed remains of Galerius’s palace can be viewed, below the modern street level, along pedestrianized Dhimitríou Goúnari towards its southern extension, Platía Navarínou.

Rotónda (Áyios Yeóryios)

North of the great arch, the Rotónda, later converted into the church of Áyios Yeóryios, is the most striking single Roman monument in the city. It was designed, but never used, as an imperial mausoleum, possibly for Galerius himself. Consecrated for Christian use in the late fourth century, by the addition of a sanctuary, an apse, a narthex and rich mosaics, it later became one of the city’s major mosques, from which period the minaret remains. The cavernous interior is stark but some of the stunning mosaics remain in place.

Roman Forum

Just north of leafy Platía Dhikastiríon, the Roman Forum has been undergoing gradual excavation for over a decade so access is limited. In many ways, its layout is best observed from the road behind, where the shape of the stoa, with several remaining columns, is clear. The restored amphitheatre is used for occasional summer performances.

In Kástra, as the lower fringes of the Upper Town are known, stands a pink nineteenth-century building in which Kemal Atatürk, creator and first president of the modern secular state of Turkey, was born in 1881. The consulate maintains the house as a small museum, with its original fixtures and an interesting selection of Atatürk memorabilia. Due to tight security, you must apply for admission with your passport to the Turkish consulate, next door.

The heavily restored eighth-century church of Ayía Sofía is the finest of its kind in the city. Modelled on its more illustrious namesake in Constantinople, it replaced an older basilica, the only trace of which remains a few paces south: the below-street-level holy well of John the Baptist, originally a Roman nymphaeum (sacred fountain). Ayía Sofía’s dome, 10m in diameter, bears a splendid mosaic of the Ascension, for which you’ll need binoculars. Christ, borne up to the heavens by two angels, sits resplendent on a rainbow throne, right hand extended in blessing; below, a wry inscription quotes Acts 1:11: “Ye men of galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven?” The whole is ringed by fifteen figures: the Virgin attended by two angels, and the twelve Apostles reacting to the miracle. The dome was restored late in the 1980s; the rest of the interior decoration was plastered over after the 1917 fire.

Above Odhós Kassándhrou, the street parallel to Ayíou Dhimitríou, rises the Upper Town or Áno Póli, the main surviving quarter of Ottoman Thessaloníki. Although the streets here have long been swamped by new apartment buildings, they remain ramshackle and atmospheric, a labyrinth of timber-framed houses and winding steps. In the past few years many of the older houses have been bought up and restored and it is justifiably one of the city’s favourite after-dark destinations. Sections of the fourteenth-century Byzantine ramparts, constructed with brick and rubble on top of old Roman foundations, crop up all around the northern part of town.

The best-preserved portion begins at a large circular keep, the Trigónion or Chain Tower (so called for its encircling ornamental moulding), in the northeast angle where the easterly city walls veer west. A much smaller circuit of walls rambles around the district of Eptapýrgio (Seven Towers), enclosing the old eponymous acropolis at the top end. For centuries it served as the city’s prison until abandoned as too inhumane in 1989; it is described as a sort of Greek Devil’s Island in a number of plaintive old songs entitled Yedi Küle, the Turkish name for Eptapýrgio.

PELLA, 40km west of Thessaloníki, was the capital of Macedonia throughout its greatest period and the first capital of Greece after Philip II forcibly unified the country around 338 BC. It was founded some sixty years earlier by King Archelaos, who transferred the royal Macedonian court here from Aegae. At that time it lay at the head of a broad lake, connected to the Thermaïkós gulf by a navigable river. The royal palace was decorated by the painter Zeuxis and was said to be the greatest artistic showplace since the time of Classical Athens. Euripides wrote and produced his last plays at the court, and here, too, Aristotle was to tutor the young Alexander the Great – born, like his father Philip II, in the city.

The site today is a worthwhile stopover en route to Édhessa and western Macedonia or as a day-trip from Thessaloníki. Its main treasures are a series of pebble mosaics, some in the museum, others in situ.

Today Pella’s ruins stand in the middle of a broad expanse of plain. It was located by chance finds in 1957 and as yet has only been partially excavated. The acropolis at Pella is a low hill to the west of the modern village of Pélla. To the north of the road, at the main site, stand the low remains of a grand official building, probably a government office; it is divided into three large open courts, each enclosed by a peristyle, or portico (the columns of the central one have been re-erected), and bordered by wide streets with a sophisticated drainage system.

In the third court three late fourth-century BC mosaics have been left in situ under sheltering canopies; one, a stag hunt, is complete, and astounding in its dynamism and use of perspective. The others represent, respectively, the rape of Helen by Paris and his friends Phorbas and Theseus, and a fight between a Greek and an Amazon.

The excellent new museum, designed on the rectangular model of the ancient dwellings, stands up at the back of the modern village of Pélla. It showcases more spectacular pebble mosaics taken from the site, as well as rich grave finds from the two local necropolises, delicately worked terracotta figurines from a sanctuary of Aphrodite and Cybele, a large hoard of late Classical/early Hellenistic coins, and – on the rarely seen domestic level – metal door fittings: pivots, knocker plates and crude keys. The finds are all set within the context of life in the ancient capital, with detailed contextual displays, all well translated.

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Welcome to Thessaloniki!

Roman Forum Museum (Ancient Agora)

Roman Forum Museum (Ancient Agora)

Just a few blocks away from Aristotelous square lies the roman heart of the ancient city, the Roman Forum, also known as “Ancient Agora”. The Agora was constructed by the Romans in the late 2nd century A.D. The Forum was the center of political and public life in Thessaloniki.

Museum Roman Agora Olympou 75, 546 31 Thessaloniki

Agios Dimitrios

Agios Dimitrios

Agios Dimitrios is a fine sample of Byzantine religious architecture of the late early period of the Empire (7th century A.D.). The initial architectural design and interior decoration was significantly deteriorated, due to continuous reconstructions, additions and several disasters that occurred throughout the centuries.

Agiou Dimitriou st, 546 33 Thessaloniki

Quick Guide

Quick Guide

Thessaloniki is considered by many as one of the most vibrant and culturally interesting cities of Greece. With a history that spans centuries, a very rich culture, urban and nature landscapes blended together, vast entertainment options and an amazing cuisine, it’s a not-to-be-missed european destination!

Thessaloniki White Tower (Center)

White Tower Museum

White Tower Museum

The White Tower is the most commonly known monument of Thessaloniki and the symbol of the city because of its prominent position, long history and impresive architecture.

Thessaloniki, White Tower (Leoforos Nikis)

Rotonda of Galerius

Rotonda of Galerius

Built in 306 A.D. by the romans, Rotunda is one of the oldest religious sites of the city. You will easily find iot next to the Arch of Galerius (Kamara) , North of Navarino plaza.

Plateia Agiou Georgiou Rotonta 5, Thessaloniki 546 35

Agios Nikolaos Orfanos

Agios Nikolaos Orfanos

The 14th century Byzantine temple of Agios Nikolaos Orfanos is one of Thessaloniki’s most beautiful churches. Located in a quiet area behind the Northeast section of the city’s walls it remains hidden from many visitors and even some locals! Agios Nikolaos Orfanos is one of the many precious treasures the old city hides. It stands like a small oasis that will take you centuries back within seconds in a magical way. You’ll immediately understand from the very first moment that there is something different about that building. The temple was built at the beginning of the 14th century during the Paleologian period of the Byzantine Empire in 1320 aD. It is the “Katholikon” (main temple) of an older Byzantine monastery while it still remains a glebe of Vlatadon Monastery and belongs to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. The name of the temple is believed to be taken from its founder while it is also a fact that Saint Nikolas (Agios Nikolaos) was the protector of the orphaned children as well. According to the local tradition though, the existence of an orphanage inside the monastery was the reason for this name. A small part of the propylon (gate) of the older buildings survives and is […]

Church of Agios Nikolaos Orfanos Irodotou 1, Thessaloniki 546 23

A City Full of Secrets!

A City Full of Secrets!

Right next to the temple of “Agia Sophia” just before the popular “Iktinou” str. you will find a very interesting place that remains hidden despite being in one of the most crowded areas of Thessaloniki. The Catacombs of Saint Prodromos the Baptist!

Makenzi King, Thessaloniki 546 22

Thessaloniki Museum of Cinema

Thessaloniki Museum of Cinema

The Thessaloniki Museum of Cinema is one of the most interesting museums of the city, just a couple of minutes away from Aristotelous Square at the end of the coastal avenue. It is located in a warehouse on the first wharf of the port of Thessaloniki covering an area of 1100m.

Warehouse A, Pier A, Thessaloniki 546 25

Keeping the budget low!

Keeping the budget low!

Some good tips that will give you the chance to enjoy the city’s museums and sightseeing, its nightlife and cuisine without ending up with an empty wallet!

Rotunda Thessaloniki (Center)

Rent a car

If you rent a car in Thessaloniki you’ll have the chance to enjoy the city’s best attractions while you will be able to visit several other places and beautiful nearby cities as well.

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Museum of Byzantine Culture

The Museum of Byzantine Culture is housed in modern facilities that include advanced, well-organized conservation laboratories and storerooms. Hundreds of unique exhibits and artifacts throughout the entire Byzantine period are displayed in several different rooms. It has a rather imposing atmopshere while the presentations are well organized and informative.

Leoforos Stratou 2, Museum of Byzantine Culture, Thessaloniki

Urban Transport Organization of Thessaloniki

Urban Transport Organization of Thessaloniki

Travel anywhere in the city of Thessaloniki and in the outskirts. 75 bus lines are available for smart, fast, cheap and safe traveling.

Al. Papanastasiou 90, Thessaloniki 546 44

Ataturk Museum

Ataturk Museum

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was born in this house in Apostolou Pavlou St in 1881. In 1935 the Thessaloniki city council decided to give the building to the Turkish State which afterwards converted it into a museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

Apostolou Pavlou 17, Thessaloniki 546 34 (Inside the Turkish Consulate)

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

The Archaeological museum of Thessaloniki is one of the most beautiful and important museums of the city. It is located in the center of the city in “Manoli Andronikou” street right after the Byzantine Museum, on the south of Thessaloniki Trade Fair.

Manoli Andronikou 6, Thessaloniki 546 21

Train

Looking to explore the beauty of Greece? TRAINOSE connects cities so that travelers can experience all that the illustrious region has to offer. Plan on breathing the air of Athens, Nafplio, Alexandroupoli, Volos and Thessaloniki as you coast from city to city inside one of the window-lined, of TRAINOSE.

Monastiriou 87 Thessaloniki, 546 27 Greece

Bey Hamam

Built in 1444, Bey Hamam is the oldest off all the Ottoman baths in Thessaloniki and one of the most important buildings that integrate Ottoman architecture. It is located in the center of the city north of Aristotelous Plaza right across the paleo-christian temple of “Panagia Halkeon”.

Bey Hamam Aristotelous Square Thessaloniki

Temple of Panagia Acheropoietos

Temple of Panagia Acheropoietos

Dated back to 452 A.D., Panagia Acheropoietos is arguably one of the oldest surviving Christian temples of Greece. The name of the church is due to an ancient Christian tradition according to which the icon of Virgin Mary was believed to be made by divine, not human hands.

Panagia Acheiropoietos Agias Sofias St. 56, Thessaloniki (Center)

Galerius Palace Complex

Galerius Palace Complex

The imposive Palatial Complex included several different areas and buildings. In order for someone to fully appreciate its importance for Thessaloniki, we must first realize its overwhelming size for the Greek standards! It included Rotunda and the Galerius Arch (Kamara) along with several other buildings!

Galerian Palace Complex Thessaloniki (Navarino Square)

Agia Sofia

The PaleoChristian temple of Agia Sophia is one of the most impressive Byzantine churches of Thesaloniki with imposing architecture, beautiful wall paintings and elaborate mosaics.

Agias Sofias Square, 546 22, Thessaloniki

Roman Forum (Ancient Agora)

Roman Forum (Ancient Agora)

Just a few blocks away from Aristotelous square lies the roman heart of the ancient city, the Roman Forum, also known as “Ancient Agora”. A well preserved archaeological site that will lead you to… an underground museum!

Ancient Agora Thessaloniki Olympou 75, 546 31

Wine Routes of Macedonia

Wine Routes of Macedonia

On the way to the four Thessalonian vineyards you will have the chance to discover several beautiful places and flavors that will exceed your expectations!

Gerovasivleiou Domain - Epanomi

Famous bloggers

HONG KONG FOR KIDS – 54 THINGS TO DO

HONG KONG FOR KIDS – 54 THINGS TO DO

First published on ForSomethinMore Hong Kong For Kids Is Amazing What’s in Hong Kong for kids? In short, just about anything you’d like! From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, exploring Hong Kong with kids can be as active or relaxing as you’d like. There are lots of free options, and many that also come with a fee, but the bottom line is that there are a TON of things to do in Hong Kong with kids. Some of the activities below are old classics that you’ll be quite familiar with, and we hope some give you new ways to enjoy this marvelous city with your kiddos! We’ve divided our list of things to do into two sections: Section 1 – 29 Free Activities To Do In Hong Kong With Kids Section 2 – 25 Fee-Based Activities To Do In Hong Kong With Kids It also goes with out saying (but we’ll say it anyway), some of the activities below are more suitable for older children and others are more suitable for younger ones. You know your own kids best, so we’re confident you’ll choose wisely. Lastly, we’ve compiled this list knowing full well that we would never be able to capture all the ways […]

How to find the best places to eat in Rome

How to find the best places to eat in Rome

By CarpediemRome Everyone comes to Rome with high expectations about the food, and rightly so, but how do you find the best places to eat in Rome? There are thousands of places to choose from to eat in Rome, a trattoria, ristorante, tavola calda… what do they all mean, what kind of establishment should you be looking for and how do you pick a good one rather than a tourist trap?!  Fear not we will explain all…. as well as make some recommendations! When to eat? The most important thing to remember is when in Rome do as the Romans do. Firstly, know your times, Italians eat later than the Brits or North Americans and North Europeans.  Restaurants and proper Italian establishments stick to these eating times and are not generally open all day for a wide range of food.  Lunch or pranzo is from 1-3 pm and dinner or cena is served from 8 pm onwards (most places don’t open until 7.30 pm).  If you are peckish earlier 6-8 pm you can opt for the classy drink with nibbles option or Aperitivo. Places to eat in Rome… a pizzeria! Where to eat? Life can sometimes seem old fashioned here, you […]

Dudhsagar Waterfall Trek and Revdanda Beach Camping

Dudhsagar Waterfall Trek and Revdanda Beach Camping

Overview About Dudhsagar Waterfall 2017:Dudhsagar waterfall is located in the middle of a forest on the Goa-Karnataka border. It is a four tiered waterfall with different ways to reach each level. The bottom of the waterfall is accessible through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The forest department runs a 4WD service through the sanctuary up to the foot of  the Dudhsagar waterfalls. This service is closed during monsoon. The waterfall is called Vajra Sakala Falls by the locals but most people know it as Tambdi Surla falls based on the popular trekking tale to the waterfall which starts from Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple. The waterfall is four-tiered waterfall and is about 1015 ft high and 100 ft wide. During monsoon, the trek from Castle Rock railway station to the waterfall is very popular. It is about 14 km long and offers amazing views of the valley. The third trail starting from Collem railway station or Kulhem railway station; is about 11 km long. Though scenic it is not as popular as the trail from Castle Rock. Places Nearby to See:Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park (20km), Karmali (58 KM) , Ponda Wildlife Sanctuaries(78 KM). Vasco Da Gama (80km) , Panjim (107 km) Find out […]

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Quick Guide

Thessaloniki’s history through some really rare photos…!!!

Thessaloniki Oldies

Food Lovers’ Guide to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is paradise for foodies offers its visitors the opportunity to discover the Greek cuisine with all its original dishes and culinary influences! Bon Appétit!

Food Lovers’ Guide to Thessaloniki

Spa & Wellness Tourism

Pozar is an ideal destination for mountain vacation, 20km away from the all popular ski resort of Kaimak Tsalan and less than 100km away from Thessaloniki.

Loutra Pozar Greece

Spa & Wellness Tourism

Backpacker’s Guide

Are you a backpacker enthusiast? Do you love hiking? If you do, you’d definitely not be able to ignore such a heavenly creation like Chalkidiki!

Nikiti Agios Nikolaos Halkidiki

Backpacker’s Guide

Ecotourism in Thessaloniki

The natural beauty of the wider area of Thessaloniki has has created the ideal conditions for the creation of more nature related tourist destinations.

Koroneia Lake Thessaloniki

Ecotourism in Thessaloniki

Studying in Thessaloniki

With more than a million population and many important Universities and research institutions, Thessaloniki offers many interesting options for pre-graduate and post-graduate studies.

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Studying in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki: Brief history

Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedonia. It rapidly became a very important center and one of the major cities of the kingdom during the Hellenistic Era with limited political autonomy.

White Tower Thessaloniki 546 21

Thessaloniki: Brief history

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Thessaloniki, known as the northern gem of Greece, is a city steeped in history. It once stood alongside Constantinople as a key city in the Byzantine Empire and has seen many cultures, like the Romans and Ottomans, leave their mark. The city was named by King Cassander after his wife, Thessalonike, who was also the half-sister of Alexander the Great. Famous figures like Apostle Paul and Emperor Galerius once walked its streets. As you explore, you’ll feel the history from past rulers and thinkers like Saint Gregory Palamas. Today, Thessaloniki is buzzing with contemporary art and design, showing how it blends the old with the new. This guide will help you discover the city’s hidden gems, top cultural venues, and the best hotels.

Aristotelous Square Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has a story as deep as the blue Aegean Sea. There’s an old tale that after Thessalonike died, she became a mermaid in the Aegean Sea, asking sailors about her legendary brother, Alexander the Great. The city grew significantly under Roman rule and became an important place for trade and culture. You can see signs of its rich past everywhere, from old churches to markets set up by the Ottomans. Among the many legends tied to the city is the story of the god Dionysus. It is believed that Dionysus, the god of wine, merriment, and agriculture, was particularly fond of the region because of its fertile land, making it a prime location for vineyards and festivities. Today, every corner of Thessaloniki tells a story of its ancient heroes and past times.

Contemporary Art Venues:

MOMus (Metropolitan Organisation of Museums of Visual Arts of Thessaloniki) is a prominent cultural institution in Thessaloniki, that encompasses several museums dedicated to visual arts. Established in 2018, MOMus serves as an umbrella organization that brings together various art museums in the city under a unified administrative and operational structure. Among its notable entities is the MOMus Contemporary, which was formerly known as the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art and the State Museum of Contemporary Art. Under the MOMus banner, these museums continue to showcase a rich tapestry of artworks, from historical pieces to local and international contemporary creations.

The Bensousan Han stands as a groundbreaking example of architectural heritage preservation in Thessaloniki. Recognized as the city’s oldest surviving motel, or ‘han’, its origins trace back to Samuel Bensousan, a Sephardic individual of Spanish-Jewish descent, after whom the building is named. Constructed in stages, the basement and ground floor emerged around 1810, with the first floor added subsequently. This architectural marvel encapsulates elements from various eras of its existence. Originally, the ground floor served as stables for horses, while the upper floor functioned much like a hostel, where travelers didn’t rent rooms but beds, often sharing space with multiple occupants. By the 1930s, the Bensousan family sold the property, leading to its transformation into a commercial hub with shops on the ground floor and offices and storage spaces above. Today, the Bensousan Han is a vibrant cultural center, hosting a myriad of cultural, artistic, and educational events throughout the year. Notably, the ground floor now houses a gallery showcasing diverse artistic expressions. This historic inn, with its rich tapestry of stories and adaptive reuse, embodies Thessaloniki’s enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

The Teloglion Fine Arts Foundation in Thessaloniki, established in 1972, owes its inception to the philanthropy of Nestor and Aliki Telloglou, who donated their expansive art collection to the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Located at the university’s northern end, this modern institution houses a vast collection, primarily featuring works by 19th and 20th-century Greek artists. Over the years, contributions from art enthusiasts have further enriched the collection. Beyond its role as an art repository, the foundation actively promotes art education and collaboration between artists and scholars, hosting regular cultural and educational events. For the latest exhibitions and events, a visit to the foundation’s official website is recommended.

Kalfayan Galleries , was established in 1995 and has since played a significant role in the contemporary art scene of Greece. Bridging Eastern and Western visual cultures, the gallery emphasizes works from Greece, the Balkans, and the MENAM region. Over the years, Kalfayan has gained international acclaim through collaborations with esteemed art institutions and participation in global art fairs. Besides showcasing emerging and established artists, the gallery has a rich history of exhibitions on post-war Greek art.

The Municipal Art Gallery of Thessaloniki was established in 1966. It was founded as an offshoot of the Municipal Library. The gallery includes a collection of over 1,000 works, encompassing a diverse range of artistic expressions from Thessalonian artists across three generations, a Modern Greek Engraving Collection, a Collection of Byzantine and Postbyzantine Icons, a Modern Greek Art Collection, and a Sculpture Collection. Located in the heart of the city, the gallery is situated in the neighborhood of Vardaris, making it a prime destination for both locals and tourists.

Established in 1983, the Zina Athanassiadou Gallery is a premier art space located in Thessaloniki. Founded by Zina Athanassiadou herself, the gallery has been at the forefront of the contemporary art scene for several decades. It has been instrumental in promoting contemporary art, featuring a curated collection from both national and international artists. Over the years, the gallery has not only showcased art but has also been a part of significant art events and fairs, further solidifying its reputation in the art world.

Artis Causa is a unique and dynamic art space dedicated to the exploration and celebration of contemporary art, the gallery serves as a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their creative visions. With a name that translates to “for the sake of art,” Artis Causa truly embodies its mission, curating exhibitions that challenge conventions and inspire dialogue. The gallery is known for its diverse range of mediums, from traditional paintings and sculptures to innovative installations and multimedia works. Beyond its exhibitions, Artis Causa is also a hub for cultural events, workshops, and artist talks, fostering a community of art enthusiasts and creators.

Donopoulos International Fine Arts is a prestigious art gallery situated in Thessaloniki, Greece. Renowned for its commitment to showcasing the finest in contemporary art, the gallery has become a focal point for art enthusiasts and collectors from around the world. Established with a vision to bridge the gap between Greek and international art scenes, Donopoulos has curated exhibitions featuring a blend of local talent and acclaimed international artists.

TinT Gallery , established in 2002, is a contemporary art space. Since its inception, the gallery has been dedicated to promoting and showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions from both emerging and established artists. With a focus on modern and avant-garde art forms, TinT Gallery has become a pivotal destination for art enthusiasts, collectors, and professionals in the region. The gallery’s curated exhibitions often reflect a blend of local and international talent, emphasizing the rich cultural tapestry of Thessaloniki while also embracing global art trends. 

Art and Design Events:

The Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art , established in 2007, underscores Thessaloniki’s pivotal role in the global contemporary art community. Organized by the State Museum of Contemporary Art, the Biennale attracts artists and enthusiasts from around the world, fostering a platform for global dialogue on art and society. Hosted at various iconic venues throughout Thessaloniki, the event ensures city-wide immersion in art. Its international character brings a myriad of artistic perspectives to the city, further solidifying Thessaloniki’s reputation as a significant hub for contemporary art.

Thessaloniki Design Week (ThessDW) is a biennial event in Greece, initiated by the non-profit Philartia in collaboration with the Municipality of Thessaloniki. Established in 2019, its mission is to bridge creativity with entrepreneurship and innovation. The event, held in October, welcomes representatives from various creative industries, fostering collaboration and showcasing design in both local and global contexts.

The White Tower , an iconic symbol of Thessaloniki, stands proudly along the city’s waterfront, gazing out over the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. This elegant, cylindrical structure has witnessed centuries of history and transformation, earning its place as a historical treasure. Originally constructed during the Ottoman period, its precise origins remain shrouded in mystery. Over time, the tower has served various purposes, from a fortress to a prison, and its stark white exterior, which gives it its name, has become a beloved landmark. Today, the White Tower houses a museum that offers visitors a journey through Thessaloniki’s rich history, culture, and maritime heritage. 

The Rotunda of Galerius , also known simply as the Rotunda, is one of the most ancient and architecturally significant structures in Thessaloniki, Greece. Originally constructed in the early 4th century AD as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Galerius, it was later converted into a Christian church and then into a mosque during the Ottoman period. The Rotunda is renowned for its massive dome, which is considered one of the most impressive in the ancient world. Inside, remnants of early Christian mosaics can still be seen, showcasing intricate designs and artistry. Due to its historical and architectural importance, the Rotunda, along with other early Christian and Byzantine monuments of Thessaloniki, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thessaloniki, Greece, possesses a rich and intricate Jewish history that spans over two millennia. At its zenith, this vibrant community was among the largest and most influential in the world, with a significant Jewish population. However, the World War II and the Holocaust decimated the community, reducing it to a fraction of its former size and leaving a profound and poignant legacy. Prior to the war, there were approximately 50,000 Jews living in Thessaloniki, but after the Holocaust, only a small number remained, marking a devastating loss that forever altered the city’s cultural landscape. Today, visitors can explore this remarkable history by visiting the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki and the Monastir Synagogue , which bear witness to the enduring spirit and cultural heritage of the Jewish community in the city.

Saint Paul (Agios Pavlos) Church in Thessaloniki is a significant religious landmark dedicated to the Apostle Paul, who is believed to have visited Thessaloniki during his missionary journeys and preached Christianity to its inhabitants. The church stands atop a hill in the city and offers panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf. Architecturally, the church is a blend of traditional Byzantine elements and modern design, making it a unique structure in the city’s landscape. Inside, visitors can find beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and icons depicting various religious scenes.

Aristotelous Square , the central square of Thessaloniki, is a vibrant and bustling hub that serves as the heart of the city’s social and cultural life. This spacious square is adorned with neoclassical architecture, including cafes and shops, making it an ideal place for leisurely strolls and people-watching. With the serene backdrop of the Thermaic Gulf, it offers breathtaking views of the sea, especially when enjoyed from above. The square derives its name from the renowned ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, who was born in the nearby town of Stagira. For a truly spectacular experience, head to the roof restaurant of the Electra Palace Hotel, where you can gaze out over the sprawling Aristotelous Square, the city’s historic landmarks, and the glittering waters beyond. This elevated perspective provides a unique and memorable way to appreciate the vibrant energy of Thessaloniki’s most iconic square.

Athonos Square is a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic Greek experience. This pedestrian-only haven buzzes with life, offering a delightful blend of the city’s rich history and contemporary vibrancy. By day, the square transforms into a lively market, where traditional cafés serve aromatic Greek coffee and local vendors showcase their wares. As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts, with the square’s numerous tavernas and restaurants coming alive, serving a medley of delectable Greek dishes and international cuisines. 

Ano Poli , often referred to as the “Upper Town” of Thessaloniki, is a captivating blend of history and charm. As one of the oldest districts in the city, it stands as a testament to Thessaloniki’s rich past, having miraculously survived the Great Fire of 1917. Perched high in the hills, Ano Poli boasts narrow cobbled passageways, pastel-colored Ottoman houses, and grand Byzantine structures. Travelers can easily lose themselves in the winding streets, discovering hidden gems at every turn. From ancient Byzantine churches to traditional taverns offering mouthwatering Greek delicacies, Ano Poli provides a journey back in time. The neighborhood offers breathtaking vistas over the city and the gulf, making it a perfect spot for those seeking both historical insights and picturesque views. 

For those fortunate enough to visit Thessaloniki in the summer, it’s highly recommended to set aside a few days to explore the stunning beaches of Chalkidiki . Just an hour’s drive away from the bustling city, Chalkidiki has some of Greece’s most pristine and picturesque coastlines. Its three peninsulas – Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos – each offer a unique blend of golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re looking to relax on secluded shores, indulge in water sports, or simply soak up the Mediterranean sun, Chalkidiki has something for every beach lover. The contrast between Thessaloniki’s urban charm and Chalkidiki’s natural beauty provides travelers with a well-rounded and unforgettable Greek experience.

Shachaf Dekel

Boutique Hotels, Nomad Sanctuaries, and Chic Hostels: When planning your stay in Thessaloniki, it's crucial to select the right hotel to meet your needs and ensure it's situated in your desired location in the city. To help you make an informed decision, we've carefully selected some of the best hotels in Thessaloniki for our readers. Please note that some of our recommendations include an affiliate link, which supports the magazine's continued activities by providing a percentage of the sale without extra cost to you. We encourage you to use these links and support our magazine.

Electra Palace Thessaloniki

Electra Palace Thessaloniki is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Thessaloniki. It stands out not only for its comfortable and modern rooms but also for the breathtaking views it offers. One of the highlights of the hotel is its roof bar, which provides guests with an extraordinary experience. Overlooking the Aristotelous Square, the roof bar allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views while sipping on their favorite drinks, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and entertainment.

The Excelsior

The Excelsior in Thessaloniki is a top-tier hotel that seamlessly blends luxury with comfort. Nestled in the heart of the city, it offers guests an luxurious experience with its impeccable service and modern amenities. While all rooms provide a lavish stay, it's highly recommended to upgrade from the standard room to one of the more spacious options.

Daios Luxury Living

Daios Luxury Living is situated in a prime location, this 5-star hotel offers guests an immersive experience of luxury combined with comfort. The rooms are stylish and spacious, ensuring a restful stay. One of its standout features is the hotel's restaurant, where guests can indulge in exquisite Mediterranean cuisine while soaking in mesmerizing sea views.

Makedonia Palace

Makedonia Palace is nestled along the city's seafront, guests are treated to rooms that offer breathtaking views of the Thermaic Gulf. The hotel's multiple restaurants not only serve delectable dishes but also showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region. Additionally, the hammam baths provide a touch of traditional relaxation, ensuring guests feel rejuvenated.

The Modernist Thessaloniki

The Modernist Thessaloniki is a standout boutique hotel located in the heart of Thessaloniki. With its contemporary design and attention to detail, it offers guests a unique blend of modern aesthetics and traditional charm. Each room is thoughtfully curated, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city's rich cultural landmarks, vibrant markets, and bustling cafes.

Zeus is Loose Hostel

Zeus is Loose Hostel stands as a vibrant gem in the heart of Thessaloniki. Perfectly positioned overlooking a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this hostel offers travelers a unique blend of historical surroundings and modern comforts. The spacious rooms, equipped with en-suite bathrooms, ensure a restful stay, while the common room brims with lively interactions and games. The highlight, however, is the top-floor cafe-bar, where guests can mingle with locals, sip on delightful cocktails, and soak in the city's ambiance.

Crossroads Hostel

Crossroads Hostel is a top-rated accommodation choice for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion. Perfectly situated next to the city's historic Byzantine Walls in Ano Poli, this hostel offers guests the unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. Whether you're relaxing in the picturesque courtyard, enjoying panoramic city views from the balcony, or exploring the nearby city center, Crossroads ensures a memorable stay.

Sani Dunes (Chalkidiki)

Sani Dunes is a luxurious beachfront resort located in the picturesque region of Chalkidiki. As a part of the renowned Sani Resort complex, Sani Dunes stands out for its sophisticated design and serene ambiance. Catering to both couples and families, the resort offers a blend of elegance and contemporary comforts. The interiors are tastefully designed, featuring natural materials and a palette that reflects the coastal surroundings. Guests can indulge in a variety of amenities, including a choice of pools, a state-of-the-art spa, and multiple dining options that serve delectable cuisine. With its proximity to the azure waters of the Aegean Sea and its commitment to providing unparalleled service, Sani Dunes promises a tranquil and opulent getaway for its visitors.

Possidi Holidays Resort & Suite Hotel (Chalkidiki)

Possidi Holidays Resort & Suites Hotel is a luxurious beachfront establishment situated in Kassandra, Chalkidiki. Nestled right on a pristine sandy beach, the hotel is consistently recognized for its exceptional service standards and its commitment to ecological and environmental management. The resort's top-tier amenities and services make it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed beach vacation. Moreover, its strategic location serves as a perfect base for guests to explore and experience the unique attractions that the Kassandra peninsula has to offer.

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18 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Thessaloniki

Last updated on October 31, 2023 by Touropia Editors - Leave a Comment

Thessaloniki

This second largest city in Greece dates back to 315 BC and was once the richest city of the Byzantine Empire. Through several thousand years, Thessaloniki has attained a large collection of iconic buildings from Byzantine, Paleochristian, Roman, Ancient Greek, Ottoman, and Sephardic Jewish origins.

It has been known as a vibrant center of festivals and culture, and has one of the most inventive nightlife scenes in Greece. Anyone who visits Thessaloniki with a love of history and archaeology or world religions will be astounded by the many monuments to discover here.

Indulging in divine Greek gastronomy, basking in the city’s rich heritage, and dancing the night away to live music are just a few essential things to do in Thessaloniki. So let’s dive deeper into the mesmerizing capital of Central Macedonia and explore some of the city’s most captivating tourist attractions.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Map

In this post, we'll cover:

18. Church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos

Church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos

Located in the old town of Thessaloniki, the Church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. This small church was built in the early 14th century and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of orphans and sailors. The name “Orphanos” comes from the founder of the church, who was known for his charity work with orphans.

The church stands out for its exquisite frescoes adorning both the exterior and interior walls. These frescoes, preserved in excellent condition, depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. Its captivating artwork showcases the elaborate techniques and masterful skill of the Palaiologan Renaissance.

When visiting this historical gem, don’t forget to explore its serene garden, which is a little oasis amidst the bustling city. It is an ideal spot to reflect on the beauty and history of the church.

17. Monument of Alexander The Great

Monument of Alexander The Great

Thessaloniki has no shortage of wonderful historical attractions to explore. One such attraction is the majestic Monument of Alexander The Great. This iconic statue is a must-visit when in the city.

The monument is located at the waterfront on the Nea Paralia promenade. It was created by the famous sculptor Evangelos Moustakas in 1974 and honors one of history’s greatest military leaders, Alexander the Great. The imposing bronze statue stands at approximately 6 meters tall, proudly depicting the legendary king on his horse, Bucephalus.

Visitors to the monument can take advantage of its excellent location to capture the perfect photo. The Thessaloniki waterfront with its stunning sea views serves as the ideal backdrop for the statue.

16. Ataturk Museum

Ataturk Museum

If you’re interested in history, the Ataturk Museum is must-visit destination in Thessaloniki. The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey.

The museum is located in the house where Ataturk was born in 1881, and it showcases personal items, photographs, and documents related to his life and accomplishments. The exhibits are well-curated and provide insight into the life of this important historical figure.

Some of the highlights of the museum include Ataturk’s childhood bedroom, which has been preserved as it was when he lived there and a collection of his personal belongings.

Visitors to the museum can take a self-guided tour, or they can opt for a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. The museum is open daily, and admission is free.

15. War Museum of Thessaloniki

War Museum of Thessaloniki

The War Museum of Thessaloniki is a fitting tribute to the city’s rich military history. It provides an in-depth look at conflicts involving Greece and the Balkan region.

The museum features exhibits that showcase the military history of Greece from ancient times to the present day. Visitors can learn about the battles, weapons, and tactics used by Greek soldiers throughout history. The museum also features exhibits on the role of Greece in World War I and World War II.

One of the highlights of the museum is the outdoor exhibit, which features tanks, artillery, and other military vehicles used by the Greek army. You can get up close to these vehicles and even climb inside some of them.

14. Nea Paralia

Nea Paralia

This large pedestrian waterfront in the eastern urban district represents one of the best public projects in Greece in the past twenty years. Small in depth but very long, the promenade runs for about 3,5 km (2,2 miles) from the White Tower to Megaro Mousikis and offers a great space in between the sea and the city.

It has become one of the most popular locations for a stroll in all of Thessaloniki. The promenade also offers bike and boat rentals along its flanks, as well as a number of delicious restaurants and lively bars.

13. Church of Hosios David

Church of Hosios David

Located in the old town of Thessaloniki, the Church of Hosios David is a truly enchanting destination for spiritual seekers and history buffs alike. This small yet awe-inspiring church dates back to the 5th century and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its impressive mosaics and rich history.

Upon entering, you’ll be greeted with a mysterious ambience, as traces of candlelight flicker against the ancient walls. The church’s main attraction is its breathtaking mosaic, which depicts Ezekiel’s vision of Christ – a unique and rare subject in Byzantine art. Marvel at the intricate details and the mesmerizing golden background, which seems to represent divine light.

Though relatively small in size, the church houses plenty of other gems including an ancient cistern, revealing the site’s former life as a Roman bath. There is also a beautiful, serene courtyard that offers a peaceful retreat.

12. Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

If you’re interested in learning about the history of the Sephardic Jewish community in Thessaloniki, the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki is a must-visit tourist attraction. The museum is located in the heart of the city and is housed in a beautiful, restored building that was once the site of a Jewish elementary school.

The museum’s exhibits cover a range of topics related to the Jewish community in Thessaloniki, including their history, culture, and traditions. You’ll find a variety of artifacts on display, including religious objects, photographs, and documents that provide insight into the daily lives of the city’s Jewish residents.

One of the most moving exhibits in the museum is the Holocaust Memorial Room, which pays tribute to the thousands of Jews from Thessaloniki who were deported to concentration camps during World War II. The room is a somber reminder of the atrocities committed during the war and serves as a powerful tribute to those who lost their lives.

11. Arch of Galerius

Arch of Galerius

The Arch of Galerius (or Kamara) is probably the most distinctive Roman structure of Thessaloniki. It is also one of the most popular attractions in Thessaloniki along with the White Tower.

The arch was commissioned as a triumphal monument by emperor Galerius in order to celebrate the victorious campaign against the Sassanid Persians in 298 A.D. and the capture of their capital Ctesiphon. In its initial form the Arch had four main pillars and four secondary.

Today only two of the main pillars and one secondary pillar are still standing. Visitors can still see the beautifully carved battle sequences on the remaining pillars of the archway.

10. Vlatadon Monastery

Vlatadon Monastery

Whisk yourself away to a serene and historic destination, the Vlatadon Monastery. Situated in the Ano Poli neighborhood, this 14th-century Byzantine monastery offers breathtaking views and a taste of the region’s rich past.

An integral part of the city’s history, the Vlatadon Monastery is famed for being built on the site where St. Paul preached during his visit to Thessaloniki. Besides the religious significance, the monastery boasts numerous beautiful frescoes and well-preserved architecture.

Observe the intricate and stunning frescoes adorning the monastery’s walls; they are exquisite examples of Byzantine artistry. Don’t forget to climb up to the balconies and terraces for a panoramic view of Thessaloniki and the surrounding areas.

Although the monastery is still home to a small community of monks, certain sections remain open to the public. Ensure you respect their customs and dress modestly when visiting this sacred space.

9. Ladadika District

Ladadika District

One of the most popular things to do in Thessaloniki is a trip to the vibrant Ladadika District. This colorful quarter was once a hub for oil merchants, and its name is derived from the Greek word “ladi,” meaning oil. Today, Ladadika is a trendy hotspot where you can indulge in delicious food, drinks, and nightlife.

Take a stroll through the cobblestoned streets and admire the preserved neoclassical buildings. The area boasts a mix of lively tavernas, modern bars, and cozy cafés.

Ladadika is also home to various events and festivals throughout the year. The Thessaloniki Street Party in March and the city’s International Film Festival in November enhance the district’s appeal.

Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the lively atmosphere and Instagram-worthy alleys filled with street art make for excellent photo opportunities.

8. Museum of Byzantine Culture

Museum of Byzantine Culture

This large, extensive museum covers thousands of artifacts from Prechristian and Byzantine times. These include frescoes, mosaics and wall paintings, rescued arches from historic buildings, ceramics and textiles. Much of the museum’s permanent display themes focus on early Christians, their rituals, beliefs, and daily life.

There are several early Christian tombs and graves that were excavated in Thessaloniki on display here. The museum offers both guided and unguided tours for adults, as well as educational programs geared toward school children.

7. Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square

This main city square was designed in 1918 by French Architect Ernest Hebrard, though much of today’s square, particularly the Electra hotel and the movie theater, was recreated in the fifties. It was a move from the narrow, crowded, unplanned streets that came from centuries of Ottoman empire build-outs to a more modern plan, under the guidance of Hebrard.

The square came to fruition just after a fire in 1917, and marked a major shift in the archaeological evolution of the city. Today, the square is home to many celebrations and public gatherings.

6. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

This church of holy wisdom is one of the oldest continually standing buildings of Thessaloniki. It was built in the 8th century in the footprints of a church that was built in the 3rd century. The church was created during the Byzantine era based on the design of its more illustrious namesake in Constantinople.

Today, it is one of the best remaining examples of the Greek domed churches of the time. Hagia Sophia’s dome bears a splendid mosaic of the Ascension, with Christ seated on a rainbow throne occupying the central medallion. Below is the Virgin Mary flanked by angels and the Apostles divided by trees.

5. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki holds artifacts from four of the most archaeologically important historic periods of Thessaloniki and the surrounding sections of Macedonia. Pieces here represent the Hellenistic, Archaic, Classical and Roman periods.

The building itself, ironically, is built in the modern Greek architectural style. The museum also pays special attention to the historic ways in which ancient Macedonians used gold as an adornment.

Since the city dates back to prehistoric times, there is also a section that attempts to reconstruct a picture of the Thermaic gulf region that predated the city entirely.

4. Heptapyrgion

Heptapyrgion

Though commonly called the fortress of the seven towers, the Heptapyrgion is also known by its Ottoman name Yedi Kule. The fortress is located at the northeast corner of the city’s acropolis.

The northern towers are believed to date back to the fortification of the city in the late 4th century, while the southern five are believed to have been built in the twelfth century.

It served as a military installation until the late nineteenth century then spent 100 years as a prison. Today, the Heptapyrgion is a popular tourist attraction, partly because of the great views over the city and its harbor.

3. Rotunda of Galerius

Rotunda of Galerius

The oldest monument in Thessaloniki, the Rotunda is a massive round building that was first a Roman temple, then a Christian church, then a mosque. Its walls are more than 6 meters (20 feet) thick, which is one reason why it has withstood Thessaloniki’s earthquakes.

The cylindrical structure was built in 306 as part of a large palace complex on the orders of Roman emperor Galerius. It was either intended to be his mausoleum or somewhat more likely as a temple. The building was used as a church for over 1,200 years until the city fell to the Ottomans.

In 1590 the Church of Agios Georgios was converted into a mosque. Fortunately, the mosaics that survived until then were not harmed further by this conversion; they were simply painted over. After serving three religions, the Rotunda is now a museum.

2. Agios Dimitrios Church

Agios Dimitrios Church

This large and impressive church was built on the site of an ancient Roman bath where legends say that its namesake, St Demetrius, was held prisoner, executed and dropped down a well by Roman soldiers. It is a five aisled basilica with a unique hexagonal nave known as a ciborium.

Of particular interest here is a famous six-paneled mural that is one Thessaloniki’s finest mosaics, showing St Demetrius with children and the builders of the church. This is not only one of the largest churches in the city, it is considered to be one of the most historically and religiously important houses of worship in all of Thessaloniki.

1. White Tower

White Tower

This circular, whitewashed waterfront tower is the symbol of the city. Like Thessaloniki itself, the tower’s history is quite storied. Originally, it formed a corner of the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman defenses before most of the walls were demolished late in the 19th century.

During the period of Ottoman rule, it was a jail and the site of multiple tortures, and nicknamed the “tower of blood.” As an attempt to atone for this, the building was symbolically whitewashed and renamed the White Tower. It keeps that name today, even though the color is more of a buff.

Today the interior of the white tower serves as an extensive museum showing daily life in different eras of Thessaloniki. In addition to a number of artifacts, the third story has a replication of a Byzantine era home and its typical furnishings.

Best Time to Visit Thessaloniki

The most popular time of year to visit Thessaloniki is in July and August when temperatures average 31°C (88°F) and its waters are warmest. Although strolling about the center can get a bit hot, conditions are ideal for sunbathing and swimming at Halkidiki’s idyllic beaches.

Prices are at their highest however with its seafront promenade, cafes and hotels all packed with people. Countless fun concerts, art exhibitions and festivals are also held all around the seaside city.

May, June and September are also very warm, sunny months to visit. While the crowds have dissipated a bit, important events like the Thessaloniki International Fair create a very lively atmosphere. You can also still swim with fewer people now lying along its beaches.

As temperatures range from a very comfortable 15 to 21°C (59 to 70°F), April, October and November still see a fair few visitors. There are some good deals to be had while things are much quieter and calmer. December to March is the low season though temperatures never really get too cold. If you do visit during this period, you’ll lose a bit of Thessaloniki’s vibrant feel as most cafes close their outdoor terraces.

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At the crossroads of East and West, where North blends into South, Thessaloniki (accent on the "ni") has seen the rise and fall of many civilizations: Macedonian, Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and that of the Jews and the modern Greeks. Each of its successive conquerors has plundered, razed, and buried much of what went before. In 1917 a great fire destroyed much of what was left, but the colorful past can still be seen and sensed. The vibrant city with close to 1.5 million inhabitants today—also known as Thessalonike, Saloniki, Salonika, or Salonica—has a spacious, orderly layout that is partly a result of French architect Ernest Hébrard, who rebuilt the city after the fire.

Though Thessaloniki has suburbanized since the 1990s, sprawling to the east and west, the old part of the city is fairly centralized and easy to get used to. Whether you're in Ano Polis (Upper City) or along the lively seaside promenade, long, leisurely walks here are well rewarded; you will come across parks, squares, old neighborhoods with narrow alleyways and gardens, courtyards draped with laundry, neoclassical mansions, and some of the more than 50 churches and 40 monasteries. Thessaloniki's Early Christian and Byzantine monuments, with their distinctive architecture and magnificent mosaics, are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The ever-changing nature of the city continues as neighborhoods like Ladadika, a former warehouse district (which got its name from the olives and olive oil or ladi stored here), have been recycled into pedestrian zones of restaurants and clubs. The neighborhood is filled with young and old, strolling by fountains, snapping fingers to the music in the air, and savoring mezedes and microbrews at tables spilling onto the stone squares.

One of the most alluring aspects of Greece's "second capital" is its vibrant cultural scene—annually people travel here from across the globe to attend the city's two major film festivals, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival and the International Documentary Film Festival, both of which offer numerous parallel events like exhibitions, workshops, and performances, as well as several other independent film, music, theater, dance, and gastronomy festivals throughout the year. Its intricate cultural character is also reflected in its quarters, such as the Jewish section, and the impressive museums, buildings, restaurants, and shops associated with them.

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  1. The official travel guide of Thessaloniki thessaloniki.travel

    History of Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki has many stories to tell, starting by the moment of its foundation in 316/315 B.C. Fortunate to have royal "blood", since the new city was named after Thessaloniki. read more.

  2. 33 BEST Things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece (The ...

    3. Take a Tour of Pella, Alexander the Great's birthplace. Alexander the Great's statue is worth a look, especially as it is close to many other leading things to do in Thessaloniki. But if you want to discover more about his life and background, I recommend touring Pella with a knowledgeable guide.

  3. Travel Guide to Thessaloniki: Greece's Hippest City

    A Guide to Greece's Hippest City. Thessaloniki, (also known as Salonika or Saloniki,) has given Greece some of its greatest musicians, artists, poets and thinkers. It has some of the most beautiful beaches and has some of the finest hotels and best restaurants in northern Greece. Home to the Thessaloniki Film Festival and the International ...

  4. Thessaloniki travel

    Thessaloniki. Greece, Europe. Thessaloniki is easy to fall in love with - it has beauty, chaos, history and culture, a remarkable cuisine and wonderful, vast sea views. This is Greece's second city, which, like the rest of the country, has suffered the hit of the economic crisis, but the streets remain full of life and vibrancy.

  5. Thessaloniki Tourism

    Thessaloniki is the Greek capital of Balkans, and the country's gastronomic and cultural capital. The co-capital of the Byzantine Empire and the modern Hellenic Republic, today Thessaloniki continues to be a major center of Orthodox Christianity. With her countless Byzantine churches and grand cathedrals, with her beautiful monasteries and ...

  6. Thessaloniki Greece: Travel Guide 2024

    Complete Thessaloniki travel guide. Discover the best things to do in Thessaloniki Greece, beaches, fantastic restaurants, top hotels, and breathtaking photos! (+30) 211 85 03 006

  7. 12 Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki

    The Rotunda of Galerius. 4. Thessaloniki's Museums. Let's continue this Thessaloniki travel guide with a bit of cultural tourism.. The city has many museums, and here are the best ones:. The Archaeological Museum showcases a collection of remains found around Thessaloniki and in Greek Macedonia; The Museum of Byzantine Culture houses more than 3000 artefacts, jewelry and mosaics from the ...

  8. Thessaloniki Greece

    It is known as Greece's most multicultural city, with Byzantine and Ottoman influences, as well as the influence of Greeks who returned from Asia Miner after the 1922 population exchange with Turkey. It also once had a large Jewish community. There are many museums and cultural sites and one of the best nightlife scenes in Greece.

  9. Things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece: A Handy First Timer's Guide

    Things to do in Thessaloniki: Visit the White Tower. The White Tower of Thessaloniki is undoubtedly the city's most iconic landmark. The tower was erected in the 15th century on top of an old Byzantine fortification. It was built so as to improve Thessaloniki's defenses, particularly along the coast.

  10. 11 best things to do in Thessaloniki

    The White Tower. Sturdy and imposing, the White Tower has been gazing over Thessaloniki's waterfront since the 16th century. Known over the years as the Kalamaria Fortress, Janissaries Tower and Blood Tower, the one-time prison was sanctified when it was symbolically painted white in 1890 by the Ottomans. Inside, there is a multimedia museum ...

  11. Thessaloniki

    Thessaloniki is an important rail hub within Greece and it is quite easy to travel here by passenger trains. TrainOSE ( ΤραινΟΣΕ) operates up to six daily trains from Athens via Larissa, with the journey taking four hours. Further works are underway which are expected to reduce the trip time to 3:15.

  12. What To Do In Thessaloniki: Your Complete 3-Day Itinerary

    The next place you'll visit is the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. Apparently, you can buy a ticket to go to the 3 popular spots - the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the White Tower for only 15 euros - otherwise, it's 8 euros for the Archaeological Museum alone.

  13. Tourism & Lifestyle city guide to Thessaloniki

    Welcome to Enjoythessaloniki.com, a place to find out everything that's great about Thessaloniki. From the history and culture to the lifestyle and events of the city, this destination website will help you discover interesting things to do while you visit or live here. Moreover, you can search for the best Thessaloniki hotels prices, great ...

  14. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Thessaloniki (Updated 2024)

    Things to Do in Thessaloniki, Greece: See Tripadvisor's 174,847 traveler reviews and photos of Thessaloniki tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. ... Thessaloniki Street Food Tour with a Local Guide. 11. Food & Drink. from . $99. per adult. Thessaloniki Food Tour - Gastronomy Experience - 4 hrs. 1.

  15. Visiting Thessaloniki: The Culinary Capital Of Greece

    Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and widely considered the culinary capital. After spending time in Athens not only as a tourist but also living in Athens as a digital nomad, I knew I was keen for more Greek city exploration.Sure the islands in the Cyclades get all the attention and fame because of their impossibly charming white houses, amazing beaches, and dramatic landscapes.

  16. The inside guide to Thessaloniki, Greece's offbeat second city

    Any introduction to Thessaloniki should start with Aristotelous Square, designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard after a fire devastated the city's labyrinthine Ottoman lanes and Jewish quarter in 1917.Note the sophisticated Electra Palace Hotel, with its rooftop restaurant, and the grand Olympion Cinema, before promenading along the three-mile waterfront — a favourite local pastime.

  17. Thessaloníki and around

    The city has enough to offer the visitor for two or three days, at least. There are substantial Roman remains and the many churches constitute a showcase of Orthodox architecture through the ages, while you can catch glimpses of the Turkish city both in the walled Upper City and in the modern grid of streets below: isolated pockets of Ottoman buildings, many of them Islamic monuments, which ...

  18. Thessaloniki

    The ultimate city guide about Thessaloniki, Greece. Tourist info, tips & facts, photos and lots more for the city of Thessaloniki! Visit and book your stay! ... Travel anywhere in the city of Thessaloniki and in the outskirts. 75 bus lines are available for smart, fast, cheap and safe traveling. Al. Papanastasiou 90, Thessaloniki 546 44 ...

  19. 15 Best Things To Do in Thessaloniki in 2023

    1. Visit The White Tower. The fortified White Tower on the seafront is Thessaloniki's main landmark, which houses an exhibition about the city's Byzantine history. During Ottoman times, the White Tower was used as a prison and supposedly called "Blood Tower" due to the many executions that took place there.

  20. Thessaloniki Travel Guide: Exploring Artistic Hubs, Timeless Monuments

    Thessaloniki, known as the northern gem of Greece, is a city steeped in history. It once stood alongside Constantinople as a key city in the Byzantine Empire and has seen many cultures, like the Romans and Ottomans, leave their mark. The city was named by King Cassander after his wife, Thessalonike, who was also the half-sister of Alexander the ...

  21. 18 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Thessaloniki

    Today, the Heptapyrgion is a popular tourist attraction, partly because of the great views over the city and its harbor. 3. Rotunda of Galerius. The oldest monument in Thessaloniki, the Rotunda is a massive round building that was first a Roman temple, then a Christian church, then a mosque.

  22. Thessaloniki Travel Guide

    Get information on Thessaloniki Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's reviews, or post your own.

  23. Thessaloniki Travel Guide: Awesome Hidden Gems by Real Locals

    Thessaloniki Travel Guide: Awesome Hidden Gems by Real Locals. Everybody knows their way to the White Tower and the Archaeological Museum, but where do Thessaloniki locals go? Check our online travel guide & download our app for hidden local gems. No algorithms, no fake reviews, and away from the touristic traps. Try Spotted by Locals!