thessaloniki visit greece

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.

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.

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.’

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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!

• 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

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.

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)

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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!

• 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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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’?

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!

Don’t miss: Brush up on your Greek with my free Greek travel phrase guide.

Like it? Pin it for later!

Over to you!

Got a question about visiting Thessaloniki? Let me know using thecomments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Like what you see? Subscribe using the form below to have all of my posts delivered directly to your email.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

Get my best language and travel tips FREE by email...

Subscribe to my newsletter to receive detailed travel guides, exclusive travel and language learning tips, priority access to giveaways and more!

I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

27 Best Things to Do in Trieste, Italy (PLUS Map, BEST Tours & Day Trips)

20 best hotels near the vatican in rome [2023 edition], leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

If you don't know where you are , how do you know where you're going?   Find out how well you know Italian grammar today!

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:

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!

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.

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.

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!

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

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:

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

• 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
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

Visit Malta: Top 27 things to do and best places to visit

2 Days in Marseille: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 Days in Nice: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Discussion 4 comments.

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

Enjoy your trip to Thessaloniki and Greece!

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,

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

The City Of Saints

Love At First Sight

A World Heritage City

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.

War Museum of Thessaloniki

Pasha’s gardens.

in Family friendly

Casts Museum of the Faculty of Philosophy

The byzantine baths.

in Monuments

Ottoman architecture in Thessaloniki

Phillip ii of macedon the monument of alexander the great father, thessaloniki concert hall.

in Art & Architecture

Statue of Aristotle

in Excursions

The Byzantine Church of Panagia Chalkeon

in Churches

Thessaloniki Museum of Photography

Church of osios david (catholicon of the latomos monastery), church of agios nikolaos orphanos, church of agioi apostoloi.

• Getting around
• Where to sleep
• Practical Info

Audiovisual Works

Transfer Sponsor

BOOK ONLINE

Sweet Sponsor

  ONLINE ORDER

Thessaloniki Tourism

The tourism guide for official travellers

[email protected]

Advertise      Contact us       Live streaming

• Monasteries
• Mount Athos
• Art & Architecture
• UNESCO World Heritage
• Restaurants
• Patisseries
• Food Markets
• Wine Tourism
• Famous products
• Attractions
• Family friendly
• Practical info

You’ve probably never been to Thessaloniki, Greece. Here’s why you should go

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Many travelers to Greece never make it to charming Thessaloniki. We advise against that © Aivita Arika / Shutterstock

Often eclipsed by Athens , Thessaloniki – Greece’s second-largest city – shouldn’t be overlooked.

This student metropolis has a relaxed vibe and great nightlife, ancient sites, fabulous food and nearby wineries that will give anyone plenty to explore for a weekend break or longer, all year round. Is Thessaloniki good for tourists? Resoundingly, yes.

Here are some top travel tips for Thessaloniki, the city by the sea.

A culinary crossroads

Gastronomy lovers won’t be disappointed in Thessaloniki, which was awarded prestigious City of Gastronomy status by UNESCO in 2021 in recognition of the many cultures that have influenced the dishes of the region over the years. This fusion of Ottoman, Balkan and Mediterranean traditions results in such specialities as bougatsa , a popular cream pastry first brought to the city by refugees from Asia Minor in the 1920s.

Be sure to sample Greek coffee and local street food such as koulouri , a sesame bread ring popular all over Greece that supposedly originated with refugees in Thessaloniki. As you sample traditional handmade foods – pumpkin-and-leek pies, cheeses made from sheep and goats milk, cured meats, olives and extra-virgin olive oil, and traditional delicacies such as small fish mezes – you’ll understand the region’s diversity through its food. Centrally located Kapani Market, the city’s oldest, is a one-stop shop for tasting a range of fish and meat, fruit and vegetables, sweets, nuts, spices and more. A gastronomy tour offered by local outfit Chef Stories is a great way to combine top flavors while learning more about the historical center of the city.

A compact city for strolling

Compact Thessaloniki is a pleasure to walk around, its waterfront never more than a 15-minute stroll from the city center. This scale makes it easy to delve into the city’s history and architectural wonders. The city’s landmark 34m (111ft)-high White Tower served as a prison and place of execution during Ottoman times. Today, it’s the anchor of the New Waterfront , a modern promenade that offers views across the bay to Mt Olympus. 

There’s no shortage of archaeological wonders here, either. The 7th-century Church of Agios Dimitrios honors Thessaloniki’s patron saint (his remains are interred in the crypt underneath the church). Taking after the famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the even earlier (6th-century) Agia Sofia blends Roman and Byzantine architectural traditions, and is covered with stunning gold leaf that glows in the candlelight.

Have a coffee break in Aristotelous Sq, where the statue of the ancient philosopher stands proud. Then head up to the historic neighborhood of Ano Poli (Upper Town), with its narrow cobbled alleyways protected by the remaining walls of the Byzantine and Ottoman fortress. While it’s a long walk up, phenomenal views down to the main lower city and sea are the reward. (We recommend taking a taxi up, then walking down.)

Back in the new city, learn even more about Thessaloniki’s past. The Archaeological Museum documents Macedonia’s prehistory, as well as the Hellenistic and Roman periods, while the Museum of Byzantine Culture showcases more than 3000 Byzantine objects. Guru Walk offers free walking tours with local guides.

Go wine tasting at family-run wineries

A few kilometers outside the city lies Ktima Gerovassiliou , a family-owned winery spread over 118 acres, that has produced wine since 1981. Visitors love sampling the whites, reds and rosés here, and taking in the small on-site museum, with its displays of viticulture, wine-making and bottling tools from around the world, collected by the family since 1976.

For a taste of single-grape spirits made from hand-harvested, organic grapes, head to the Abelon Distillery , a half-hour’s drive from Ktima Gerovassiliou. Both family-run businesses continue regional traditions, in a beautiful area with views of both the sea and snow-capped Mt Olympus. 

Delve into the area’s “great” past

If you’re interested in ancient Greek history and archaeology, head for a small village about an hour from Thessaloniki. Vergina is where you’ll find the UNESCO-protected archaeological site of the Royal Tombs of Aigai , its main tomb the burial chamber of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. It’s one of the most important historical sites in Northern Greece . 

Descend through the tunnel under the burial mound to see the tomb door. On display in the surrounding museum are silver chalices, an ivory-and-gold shield, a gold-plated quiver, a full suit of gilded armor and countless other treasures found buried with the king. 

A short distance away lies the larger Polycentric Museum of Aigai , which exhibits objects from Alexander the Great’s period. It’s the main highlight of the restored part of Macedon’s Royal Palace – which, in its day, was three times bigger than the Parthenon . You won't find this Alexander the Great–related history anywhere else in Greece. 

To visit Vergina (as well as the wineries), it’s best to rent your own car if you prefer to tour on your own. But consider a guided tour to fully understand the majesty of what you’re experiencing.  Discover Greece can help with both.

Enjoy art on the waterfront

Back in Thessaloniki, head to Pier A along the port to the  Thessaloniki Museum of Photography and the Experimental Center for the Arts, both atmospheric locations for looking at art. Both mount photography exhibits on social and political themes, with works by international artists that change every three months or so. The two are part of the Metropolitan Organisation of Museums of Visual Arts ( MOMus ) network – as is the Museum of Contemporary Art , a nine-minute walk from the White Tower.

Back at the pier’s entrance, treat yourself to a coffee at the Maritime Cafe and Cocktail Bar. Whether you’re sitting inside or out, you can soak in the lively waterfront ambiance and look out to Mt Olympus in the distance.

Where to eat in Thessaloniki

You’ll be spoiled for choice with restaurants and tavernas here. Ladadika, the old district to the west of the port filled with cobbled streets and neoclassical buildings, is Thessaloniki’s nightlife area. You’ll find coffee shops and bars galore frequented by the students, plus several restaurants to choose from.

In the heart of Ladadika, Kazaviti is a good local choice, with staples such as moussaka and wine served in jugs to a soundtrack of live music. The more upmarket Mamalouka serves dishes that suit meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans alike. (The  tarama fish roe dip is to die for.) In the heart of the city, Poster is popular with the business crowd; don’t leave without trying the delicious focaccia bread dripping with chili butter and hot honey.

Olympos Naoussa Restaurant at the On Residence Hotel combines deluxe gastronomy with down-to-earth, “passed down from grandma”–style recipes. The award-winning Greek chef here serves up dishes such as moussaka with béchamel sauce on the side. We recommend being adventurous and leaving the choice of dish to your server, for a pleasant surprise.

Where to stay in Thessaloniki

Wherever you stay in central Thessaloniki, you won’t be far from the promenade or main sights. Hotel choices range from five-stars such as the renovated, historic On Residence along the promenade, which has Mt Olympus views and is perfect for a romantic break. More down to earth but still central, the Teight Hotel  is close to shopping streets and the main sights.

If you’re planning on staying longer, Thess Residences occupies a former factory that once produced traditional pots and the famous briki used to brew Greek coffee; today, the building houses 25 self-catering apartments in a local neighborhood. This is a great choice for independent travelers looking to be in the thick of local life, yet only a 15-minute walk to the seafront.

How to get to Thessaloniki

Flights from Athens take around 35 minutes, and the airport lies just 13km (eight miles) from the city center. A taxi will take about 30 minutes, with prices ranging from €24 (day rate) to €32 (midnight to 5am). The 40-minute airport bus costs €1.80 at all times; tickets can be bought on board, but only with cash.

Direct buses from Athens depart every couple of hours and take about five hours (€40 one way). Driving on your own is marginally faster, though the cost of tolls and gas can run upward of €100 one way.

Explore related stories

Mar 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Explore world-class ancient ruins, bathe in island sunsets and enjoy incredible food – here are the best things to do in Greece.

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 14 min read

Jan 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

THESSALONIKI

The charming Beach Promenade of the city

The old neighbourhood of Ano Poli in Thessaloniki

The roman Rotonda monument

TRENDING IN THESSALONIKI

How to get there?

Tours & Activities

Things to Do

Selection of Restaurants

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!

Best Hotels

Things To Do (11)

Where to Swim?

Sightseeing (26)

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.

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

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Continue your trip to the best Greece destinations!

• Share this page on Facebook
• Share this page on Twitter
• Copy the URL of this page

Sign in to the Greeka Community.

Upload your best photos of Greece and interact with other Greeka members!

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Best Things To Do In Thessaloniki, Greece’s Culture Capital

• Destinations

Thessaloniki, capital of the region of Central Macedonia and Greece’s second largest city, is a shimmering jewel on the Thermaic Gulf. She basks in the Aegean sun, beckoning all to come and partake of her many delights. Renowned for rich history, stunning architecture, exquisite cuisine, and friendly citizens, this enchanting destination offers visitors many unique one-of-a-kind experiences.

The city enthralled my husband and me with its timeless allure. We walked miles each day, exploring monuments, museums, and other points of interest. Then, we rested our feet at an outdoor café in Thessaloniki’s bustling Aristotelous Square and engaged in the popular pastime of people watching.

Totally fascinated and thoroughly exhausted, we settled into our comfortable room at the Bristol Capsis Historical Boutique Hotel . The next morning, following a hearty hotel buffet breakfast, we were ready to do it all again. Although Thessaloniki is overflowing with fascinating things to see and do, these are the nine we recommend as an introduction to this vibrant and awe-inspiring city.

We are grateful to Pass Partout – Tourism Marketing and Bristol Capsis Historical Boutique Hotel for their generous support and assistance during our Thessaloniki visit. However, all opinions are entirely my own.

1. The Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki

Showcasing the rich history and culture of the region, from prehistoric times to late antiquity, the Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece.

This spacious, thoughtfully laid out museum houses a wealth of artifacts, including priceless pottery, magnificent jewelry, sculptures, coins, and mosaics. These and other artifacts combine to trace the development of Macedonian civilization and that of Greece.

Among other treasures, my husband and I were in awe of the gold salvaged from the royal tombs of Vergina and the Derveni papyrus — the oldest surviving book in Europe.

2. Museum Of Byzantine Culture

Discover another important chapter of Thessaloniki’s story at the Museum of Byzantine Culture . The extensive collection, spanning from the 4th to the 15th century, consists of more than 3,000 objects. Icons, frescoes, manuscripts, textiles, and other artifacts convey the history, art, and splendor of the Byzantine Empire.

The exhibits were grouped in thematic sections representing various aspects of Byzantine life. This arrangement made it easy for us to gain a basic understanding of how the society functioned in the areas of religion, politics, economy, and culture.

3. White Tower

Standing tall on the waterfront, the White Tower is Thessaloniki’s most recognizable landmark. The Ottomans constructed the tower in the 15th century and it served as the city’s fortifications as well as a prison and place of execution. Today, it houses a museum that tells the story of Thessaloniki through various multimedia exhibits on six levels.

We climbed the stairs, stopping on all six floors. Each display focused on a different period and theme, such as the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern eras. Reaching the top, we were rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the sea sparkling in the sun.

You can purchase a pass that gives you access to the above museums, as well as other attractions.

4. Jewish Museum Of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has an intriguing Jewish history spanning 2 millennia. Romaniote Jews, who had been living in Greece since ancient times, formed a vibrant and diverse community. They welcomed Jewish arrivals during Roman times, Sephardic Jews fleeing Spain in the 15th century, and Ashkenazi Jews escaping the pogroms and persecution of the 19th and 20th centuries in Eastern Europe.

Through the centuries, the Jewish community made substantial contributions to Thessaloniki’s culture and economy. At its peak, the city had more than 30 synagogues and was known as the “Mother of Israel.” During the Nazi occupation of WWII, more than 56,000 Thessaloniki Jews were deported to the Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camps. Fewer than 2,000 returned. Two synagogues now serve Thessaloniki’s greatly diminished Jewish community.

We found the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki in a former city center bank building. Artifacts, documents, photographs, and testimonies captured the religious traditions, social life, economic activities, and artistic expressions of Thessaloniki’s Jewish community from ancient times to the present.

The Holocaust Section was especially heart-wrenching and disturbing. Obviously, the curators had poured much care and consideration for the truth into assembling the exhibit.

5. Rotunda Of Galerius

Originally built as a mausoleum for Roman Emperor Galerius, Thessaloniki’s Rotunda didn’t take long to explore. But this brief interlude packed a sizable punch. The Roman and Byzantine architecture combined to create a treat for the eyes and some welcome shade on a hot afternoon.

Intricate mosaics adorned the grand interior and we marveled at the workmanship dating back nearly 2 millennia. A fine example of Thessaloniki’s multicultural heritage, the Rotunda gave our saturated brains a respite, while gently handing us yet another piece of the Thessaloniki historical puzzle.

Since it was nearby, we walked over to and around the Arch of Galerius. It struck us how these monuments, dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods, reflected the architectural styles and influences of the eras that are so prominent in Thessaloniki’s cultural framework.

6. The Waterfront Promenade

In an effort to wind down from our long but exhilarating days, we treated ourselves to leisurely strolls along the waterfront promenade, passing tavernas, cafés, and smiling people also partaking in the early evening cool-down. We enjoyed tranquil views of the Thermaic Gulf, as well as glimpses of the White Tower.

It felt as if we had one foot firmly planted in the past and the other in the present. We knew then we had fallen under Thessaloniki’s spell, because this sensation seemed perfectly natural.

7. Historic Churches

The Greek Orthodox Church plays a prominent role in Greek culture and Thessaloniki is home to several of the most impressive churches in Greece. The interior of Hagia Sophia was breathtaking, with its stunning mosaics and frescoes that transported us back to the days of the Byzantine Empire. Another architectural gem was Agios Dimitrios, dedicated to the city’s patron saint and awe-inspiring both inside and out.

Thessaloniki has more stunning churches than most can pack into one visit. But considering the wonders each church holds, you can’t go wrong, even if you manage to see only one.

8. Ano Poli

A climb up winding streets led to Ano Poli (Upper Town), the city’s old town. A maze of narrow cobblestone alleys, traditional colorful houses, quaint squares, and picturesque Byzantine churches greeted us, along with the imposing Byzantine walls and the breathtaking views they offered.

After catching our breath and soaking up the authentic atmosphere of Ano Poli, we continued our climb up to the Castle of Thessaloniki , located on a hill above the ancient neighborhood. The castle was built in 316 B.C. and the existing walls date back to the 4th century A.D. Our exhaustion from the climb was replaced with spectacular views of the city, the port, and the Aegean Sea from atop the Trigonian (Chain) Tower.

9. The Phenomenal Flavors Of Thessaloniki

To our delight, Thessaloniki was a food lover’s paradise influenced by various cultures and cuisines. Our first stop was the bustling Kapani Market , where we indulged our senses in fresh produce, spices, and local specialties.

Thessaloniki was an abundant grazing ground, so we opted for snacks and street food during the day, and tiny family-run restaurants — unpronounceable names, limited menus, and no websites — for dinner. Our favorites included tender calamari, grilled octopus, spicy meatballs, gyros, mpougatsa (a savory cheese or meat pie), creamy stewed fava beans, and smoky eggplant dishes. For dessert, we usually indulged in the classic flaky baklava, washed down with Greek coffee. And not a day went by without a fresh Greek salad dressed in some of the best olive oil we’ve ever tasted.

Thessaloniki is a captivating concoction of old and new. No matter where you stand or what you touch, you come into contact with a piece of the city’s history. At the same time, Thessaloniki invites you to enjoy modern amenities and participate in its vibrant nightlife. Ancient ruins, a first-rate food scene, and a welcoming vibe make exploring this Greek gem an unforgettable adventure. In fact, you could continue the adventure by making Thessaloniki your first stop on a Macedonia road trip.

Related Reading:

• 5 Unique Places In Northern Greece You Need To Visit
• Why The Fabulous Villages Of Southern Greece Should Be On Your Peloponnese Itinerary 
• 5 Must-Try Foods When Visiting Greece

Penny Zibula has been a freelance writer and blogger since she retired in 2013. Her background is in public relations and community outreach, with stints as a newspaper reporter, television talk show host, and producer. She applies her life-long love of learning and passion for travel to her writing about destinations, history, culture, food, and accessibility.

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 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.

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 ]

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.

Get around [ edit ]

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 ]

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 ]

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.  

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 .  

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 .  

Do [ edit ]

• 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.

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.

• 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 St , ☏ +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 ].

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.

• 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.

• Pages with broken file links
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• UNESCO tag to be fixed
• Has custom banner
• Has caution box
• Has caution box with out of date warning
• Has map markers
• Articles with dead external links
• Airport listing
• Has mapframe
• Articles with formerly dead external links
• See listing with no coordinates
• Listing with Wikipedia link but not Wikidata link
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Buy listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Macedonia (Greece)
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Help Support Matt's Greece Guides Do you enjoy using my site? Have you found it entertaining as well as useful? If so please show your appreciation by booking hotels through the travel agencies and the links found on my Hotels of Greece site. The small commission I make on the bookings enable me to keep working and in most cases you won't find them any cheaper by searching elsewhere. You can find hotels in Greece by location, price, whether or not it has a swimming pool, and see photos and reviews by using this link to booking.com which also contributes to my website when you book.

Join Matt Barrett's Greece Travel Guides Group on Facebook for comments, photos and other fun stuff. If you enjoy this website please share it with your friends on Facebook. If you are appreciative of all the free information you get on my websites you can send a donation through Paypal or Venmo or send a check to GreeceTravel.com/102 Old Pittsboro/Carrboro/NC 27510/USA

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > Visiting Thessaloniki – Your Guide Of Things To Do In Thessaloniki

Visiting Thessaloniki – Your Guide Of Things To Do In Thessaloniki

Written by our local expert Nick

Nick is is digital nomad originally from Athens, Greece. You will now find him exploring the Greek islands, Bulgaria and beyond.

Headed to Thessaloniki, Greece? Great, then here is a list of the best things to do in Thessaloniki, as well as where to eat, sleep, and go.

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece after Athens. Despite the endless historical places in the city, Thessaloniki also has a modern vibe to it with its vibrant nightlife, culinary delights, and stunning views. The city even made its way to the New York Times’ “Top Destinations” in 2016.

But with so much to see and do along the way, you’re likely to miss out on the important destinations. To steer you in the right direction, we’ve rounded up the top things to do in Thessaloniki in just a few days or a week.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

How To Get To Thessaloniki From Athens

You can get to Thessaloniki from Athens by flight, car, or even by public transit options like buses and trains.

The quickest way to get to Thessaloniki is to take a flight from Athens, which would take nearly one hour. You’ll get many direct flights from Athens airport to Thessaloniki.

If you want to stop and take in the gorgeous views on the way, renting a car is a good option . This would take about five hours, but it depends on how much time you spend exploring Greece on the way.

Another option is to take public transit, such as a bus from the Kifissos Bus Terminal or a train from Athen’s central station. A bus would take about seven hours, and a train would take nearly four hours to reach Thessaloniki.

Best Time To Visit Thessaloniki

The best time to visit Thessaloniki is from June to Mid October due to the pleasant temperature and events taking place during this period. The highest temperature in Thessaloniki is 32°C in July, and the lowest is eight °C in January.

Read on to know the perks of visiting Thessaloniki during different seasons:

Thessaloniki In Summer (June to August)

Thessaloniki sees a large number of tourists in the Summer season. Although the temperature is hot this season, tourists come for the festivals held here during summer. These include the Street Mode festival, the Urban Picnic Festival, and many others. With music, dance performances, open-air cinema, and good food, Thessaloniki summers are a big deal.

Thessaloniki In Fall (September to November)

Like summer, the fall season in Thessaloniki is also known for its vibrant festivals. The International Trade Fair, the Thessaloniki Mystery Festival, and the Reworks Music Festival are some popular ones. The temperature is around 25°C in September, but it drops to nearly 15°C in November. You can also expect rainfall during this time.

Thessaloniki In Winter (December to February)

Unlike the harsh winters in the upper part of Greece, winters in Thessaloniki are mild and easy to deal with. You can expect occasional rain and snow during this time. The average temperature is around six °C, so that it can be pretty chilly at night, and you may not be about to explore the nightlife. However, if you’re looking for a Greece winter getaway , the breathtaking view from Ano Poli and the snow-covered churches and museums will make your time here worthwhile.

Top Things To Do In Thessaloniki

From visiting the archeological sites and museums to experiencing the nightlife in excellent eateries, Thessaloniki has a variety of activities in store for its visitors. Below, see all the main attractions in Thessaloniki and the things to do in Thessaloniki.

Don’t miss our guide to Thessaloniki day trips!

Visit the white tower of thessaloniki.

Considered the city’s landmark, the White Tower is one of the top places to visit in Thessaloniki. This iconic monument was formerly called the Tower of Blood or The Red Tower as it was used as a prison during the invasion of Ottoman in Greece.

The tower later became known as the White Tower after a prisoner painted it white in exchange for his freedom. If you’re here, go to the top floor to enjoy the gorgeous 360° view of the city and its beautiful beaches and mountains.

Go For An Evening Walk Along The Thessaloniki Waterfront

To delve deep into the culture and everyday life in Thessaloniki, take a stroll on the 5-km-long promenade along its waterfront. Destinations on the way include the Photography Museum, the White Tower, and a sculpture called “The Umbrellas” near the White Tower.

If you prefer biking to walking, rent a bike and ride along the waterfront bicycle path. You can also check out the cool bars, restaurants, and beautiful gardens on the way.

Visit The Archaeological Sites In Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has several archaeological sites . Here are a few of them you can visit while you’re here:

The Rotunda

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

Arch of Galerius

Known as Kamara, the Arch of Galerius was initially 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 .

Ancient Agora

The Roman Forum, also known as “Ancient Agora,” was constructed by the Romans. Situated near the Aristotelous square, the building was the center of the political and public life in the city.

The Galerius Palace

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

Visit The Fabulous Museums In Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is famous for its museums, owing to its history dating back thousands of years. In fact , this city holds some of Greece’s best ancient artifacts. Here are some of the best museums you can visit in Thessaloniki:

• 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. This museum is worth visiting if you wish to learn about the Byzantine culture and life during the Byzantine era.
• 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 a 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.
• The Church of Panagia Chalkeon is an attractive Byzantine church with a gorgeous garden.

Walk Around The Thessaloniki Markets

From spices , olives, and herbs to fish and meat, the markets have everything you need to take a bit of Thessaloniki back home. You can also have lunch from one of the Greek taverns in the markets.

Visit Ladadika To Experience The Nightlife

Ladadika district is one of the best Thessaloniki attractions where you can experience the amazing nightlife. Located in the central area near the Port of Thessaloniki , Ladadika is popular for its beautiful, walkable cobblestone alleyways, colorful buildings, great food, lively music, bars, clubs, and traditional taverns.

Grab a drink from one of the bars in Ladadika and walk through the pretty streets at night. Valaoritou is another lively district with great Thessaloniki nightlife.

Visit The Old Town: Ana Poli

Considered the historical center of Thessaloniki, Ana Poli is a must-visit district if you find yourself in this city. When most of the town was destroyed by a great fire in 1917, Ana Poli was the only surviving neighborhood.

Tourists love its narrow paved streets, unique architecture, and beautiful city views. Ana Poli was the city’s citadel during the Byzantine and Ottoman occupation.

• The Kipoi tou Pasha, also known as The Pasha’s Gardens, is a beautiful garden near the Agios Dimitrios Hospital. If you’re in Ana Poli, this is a great place to relax by the fountains and enjoy the stunning views of the city. Here are some ofthe Thessaloniki points of interest in Ana Poli:
• Vlatadon Monastery, built in 1351, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Ana Poli. You can see gorgeous views of the city from the monastery .
• Churches like Profitis Ilias Church, Church of Aghia Aikaterini, and Church of Aghios Nikolaos Orphanos are major tourist attractions in this district.
• Trigoniou Tower is one of the best spots in Ana Poli. It offers stunning views of the forest and the Thermaikos Bay beneath the tower. You can also see Mt Olympus from here. The best time to visit Trigoniou Tower is in the evening, so you’ll also get to enjoy the breathtaking sunset views.
• Sheikh Sou Forest, which borders the district’s northeastern edge, is a good place for hiking .
• The Byzantine Bath of the Upper Town is one of the best-preserved Byzantine baths, which has survived all these years, right from the Byzantine period.

See The Ancient Hamams In Thessaloniki

Several  hamams (Turkish baths) in Thessaloniki were constructed during the period of the Turkish occupation. Yahudi Hamam (Bath of the Jews) and Bey Hamam (Bath of Paradise) are the most attractive ones in the city.

These are popular attractions because these bathhouses are among the few remaining Ottoman buildings left in Greece. Visit the hamams to see the Ottoman architecture and the cultural interactions that have taken place in the city ages ago.

Brands We Use And Trust

Explore the best beaches in thessaloniki.

Here are some of the best beaches around Thessaloniki:

• The Agia Triada beach is perfect for a quick getaway as it is nearest to the city. You will find various restaurants and bars stretching along the beachside.
• Angelochori beach is in the coastal town of Angelochori. You will find restaurants serving Greek and international dishes along the sandy stretch.
• Potamos beach is a beautiful beach with stunningly clear waters. You can also see the beautiful Mount Olympus over the horizon.
• Afytos beach offers views of the Toroneos Gulf. Tourists love its crystal clear waters and the clean sandy beach .

Best Places To Visit In Thessaloniki To Taste Local Food

Let’s face it: we always turn to food wherever we go. And to taste the local food of another place is a whole different experience. Some of the best Greek food you have to try in Thessaloniki include a kind of pie called Bougatsa, Espresso Freedo, Sesame Bagel, and the Thessaloniki-style lunch – and, of course, Greek coffee . 

Whether you’re looking for Thessaloniki-special dishes or the best new condiments, here are the best restaurants in Thessaloniki that can satisfy the foodie in you.

Opsopoion Maganeiai

With stunning views of the sea, delicious food, and great music, Opsopoion Maganeiai is an amazing dining option in the city. Situated by the Aegean Sea , this restaurant at Omilos serves delicious seafood and the best varieties of Greek wines. You can sit close to the water and literally touch the waves while eating!

Located in the heart of the Ladadika district, Negroponte is a charming restaurant that runs in a building from the 1880s. The atmosphere is cheerful and lively, just like the nightlife in this neighborhood. The chefs pick fresh ingredients every morning and prepare a daily menu. The superb service and the generous portions are other pluses. Overall, it is a great dining option in Thessaloniki.

Situated right on the waterfront, next to Aristotle Square, Agioli is a popular brasserie-bistro in the city. With a good selection of wines and tsipouros, it is a great place to taste both Greek food and Mediterranean culture. The restaurant has two levels, interior seating as well as a balcony. The balcony offers gorgeous views of the sea and is a hit among tourists.

Use this Greece tipping guide to help.

Where to stay when you visit thessaloniki.

Although there are a large number of hotels and guesthouses in Thessaloniki, here are our top picks:

Mediterranean Palace

Located in the heart of the commercial center of Thessaloniki, Mediterranean Palace offers 5-star facilities with magnificent views of the Thermaikos Gulf. Nearby tourist attractions include the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum, and the Byzantine churches. The hotel is best suited for families of 4 or 5.

Hotel Capsis Bristol Boutique Hotel

This hotel is an excellent option if you’re  planning to stay in the Ladadika district. It is a 5-star boutique hotel located in the heart of the Ladadika district. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. Visitors also love the Persian carpets, the paintings, and the unique antiques. Bicycles are free at the hotel, so that you can ride to the nearby commercial markets and the seashore.

Situated in the center of Thessaloniki, Park Hotel offers spacious and modern rooms with stunning city views. Visitors love the delicious buffet breakfasts and the refreshments served at the cafe bar. The hotel is just one kilometer away from the seafront. Commercial markets and nightlife hotspots are also within walking distance from the hotel.

• Unique Things To Do In Greece With Kids
• How To Tip In Greece
• Car Rental And Driving Tips For Greece
• Where To Stay In Crete
• What To Do In Greece 
• What To Expect & Do In September In Greece
• Things To Do In Greece During The Winter
• Packing Tips For Greece
• Things To Do And Eat During Easter In Greece
• How To Travel Greece On A Budget
• How To Get From Santorini To Crete
• Things To Do In Corfu For Families
• Best Cave Hotels In Greece
• Where To Stay On Corfu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Thessaloniki, Greece

Beautiful and complex, Thessaloniki is a treasure trove awaiting discerning travelers. With a load of ancient monuments, museums , old churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a plethora of picturesque cafés and bars, and a fascinating food scene, Thessaloniki is a great destination for a city trip. Here are some of the top attractions.

White tower of thessaloniki.

Thanks to its prominent position on the city’s waterfront, the White Tower is Thessaloniki’s main symbol and most famous monument. Built in the 15th century, the White Tower was used as a fort, enhancing the harbor defenses, and also served as a garrison and a prison, which earned it the nickname of the “Tower of Blood” (Kanli Kule) or “Red Tower” during the Ottoman Empire. When the city became part of the newly established Hellenic State in 1912, the tower was whitewashed and received its new name, White Tower. From the top, visitors get to enjoy 360-degree views of the city and the Gulf.

White Tower of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece

2. Ataturk Museum

3. archaeological museum of thessaloniki.

4. Museum of Byzantine Culture

5. Olympic Museum of Thessaloniki

6. Church of Agia Sofia

7. temple of osios david.

Church, Monastery

8. Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace

Housed in Villa Modiano, built in 1906 by the Jewish architect Eli Modiano, the Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace is home to a rich collection of artifacts and remnants from these two regions of Northern Greece. The collection includes about 15,000 objects, including textiles, traditional costumes, weapons, as well as domestic articles, musical instruments, wood items and metalworking equipment.

Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace, Filippou Nikoglou 1, Thessaloniki, Greece , +30 231 088 9840

Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace | © konstantinos kolimpalis / WikiCommons

10. Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos

Up in the old city, or Ano Poli, the church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos (the Orphan), or Agios Nikolaos o Orfanos, is an early 14th-century Byzantine structure mostly known for its frescoes, which covers the entirety of the interior. The church continued to function during the Ottoman era; it was only in the 20th century that its frescoes were rediscovered and restored.

Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos, Irodotou 1, Thessaloniki, Greece , +30 231 021 3627

Agios Nikolaos Orfanos, Thessaloniki | © Luc.T / Flickr

11. Ano Poli and The Heptapyrgion

The only part of Thessaloniki that survived the great fire of 1917, Ano Poli (Upper Town) is a place where time has stood still. Boasting a charming character and a unique style, Ano Poli is home to graphic streets and beautiful Ottoman-styled houses. It is where you will find the city’s main fortress (Heptapyrgion), offering spectacular panoramic views over the city.

Ano Poli, Thessaloniki, Greece

Kafe Ouzeri Tsinari, Ano Poli | © L’imaGiraphe en travaux / Flickr

12. Vlatadon Monastery

Arch of galerius (kamara) and the rotunda.

Erected to celebrate the victory over the Persians in 279 AD, the Arch of Galerius was part of the palace of Roman emperor Galerius. Standing at the heart of major axes, the Arch is an important meeting point for Thessalonians. Less than 125 meters (410 feet) away, the Rotunda of Galerius (or Church of Agios Georgios) was built in 306 AD and connected to the Arch via a processional road. Its interior features splendid mosaics still visible today, and it is one of the oldest Paleo-Christian edifices in the world.

Arch of Galerius, Egnatia 144, Thessaloniki, Greece

Rotunda, Pl. Agiou Georgiou Rotonta 5, Thessaloniki, Greece , +30 231 096 8860

13. Roman Forum

14. Church of Agios Demetrios

15. Church of the Acheiropoietos

16. bey hamam.

17. Alaca Imaret

Thessaloniki waterfront.

Although not technically a monument, the waterfront of Thessaloniki is a must-see. It covers five kilometers (3.1 miles) and includes a series of green spaces, bike lanes, and footpaths along the sea, split between the Palia Paralia (Old Waterfront) and the Nea Paralia (New Waterfront). Walk along the waters, admire the colors of the sky and observe the scenes that unfold before your eyes. You will have the chance to capture a few Instagram-worthy moments.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

Why you need to visit greece in 2022.

A Guide to Sailing in the Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Why Costa Navarino should be your next Greek destination

A Guide to Sailing in the Ionian Islands, Greece

Guides & Tips

The best private trips to book for family celebrations.

The Best Sailing Vacations for Exploring Ancient Historical Sites

Come Sail Away with Culture Trip

How Much Does a Trip to Greece Cost?

The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Greece

This is the Best Package Deal to Book in Greece

Where to Travel in Summer 2023

Top Tips for Travelling in Greece

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1588219
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting?

Is Thessaloniki worth visiting? Absolutely! Here’s why Thessaloniki is one of the best cities in Greece, and why it should be on your travel list.

Why Visit Thessaloniki Greece

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city. It is located to the north of the country, in the region of Greece called Central Macedonia, and is built right on Thermaikos Gulf .

Thessaloniki often flies under the radar with foreign visitors. Which is a shame, as the buzzing coastal city is full of history, culture and colorful markets. In fact, it’s one of the most amazing cities in Greece.

Visitors can explore Thessaloniki’s archaeological sites and museums, sample the delicious local cuisine, and enjoy its lively art and nightlife scene. The city is also a great base for exploring the surrounding region, with plenty of day trip options available.

In a nutshell, Thessaloniki is a great city for history buffs, foodies, shopaholics, and anyone who enjoys a lively scene. Here are all the reasons why Thessaloniki is absolutely worth a visit!

1. Thessaloniki is an amazingly lively city

Thessaloniki is one of the liveliest cities in Greece. This is partly due to the large number of university students living here, and roaming the city’s streets throughout day and night.

There is always something going on in Thessaloniki. From festivals and exhibitions to gigs and live performances, the charming coastal city never sleeps!

2. The Thessaloniki waterfront is one of the most iconic spots in Greece

One of the most beautiful spots in Thessaloniki is the city’s promenade, which stretches for over 6 kilometers along the seafront. Here is where locals come to walk, cycle, jog, or just hang out.

The waterfront is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, sit on a bench, and watch the world go by. You can also have a look at various statues and artworks, of which the most famous is the Umbrellas installation by the acclaimed Greek sculptor George Zongolopoulos.

If you have some extra time, you can hop on the little pirate boats sailing around the Gulf. It’s a fun activity, especially if you are travelling with kids!

3. Thessaloniki has an incredibly rich history

Thessaloniki has a long and rich history, dating back to the ancient times. It was founded in 316 / 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedon, and was an important cultural center during the Roman and the Byzantine Era. Its port was a major trade hub, connecting the East with the West.

After surviving numerous attacks by various invaders over the centuries, Thessaloniki was seized by the Ottomans in 1430. It remained occupied until 1912, when it was liberated by the Greek army.

At that time, Thessaloniki was a flourishing city with a large multicultural population of Jewish, Ottoman and Greek people. In 1917, the Great Fire destroyed a part of the city, which resulted in the displacement of many residents.

Thessaloniki today

Today, visitors can see reminders of Thessaloniki’s fascinating history all around the city. Ancient ruins sit side by side with trendy bars and cafes, and Byzantine churches blend in with traditional taverns, busy Ottoman markets and wonderful neoclassical buildings.

One thing that might put you off in Thessaloniki are the rather bland blocks of flats. Many of them were built quite hastily in the ’60s and ’70s, when low prices were more important than aesthetics and style. Still, there are so many beautiful churches and refurbished buildings everywhere, that you may not even notice the blocks of flats!

History buffs will be thrilled to visit some of the archaeological sites and museums in Thessaloniki, such as the following:

The White Tower

The iconic monument is the city’s landmark. It was built in the 15th century by the Ottomans, and was used as a fortress, a prison, and a execution site over the centuries.

Today, it houses a museum exhibiting the city’s rich history. Go all the way to the top for some gorgeous views!

The Roman sites

Thessaloniki flourished during the Roman Era. Visitors can see the remains of the Galerius Palace, the Roman Agora, the Arch of Galerius, and the impressive Rotunda, which was later transformed into a Christian temple.

The UNESCO Byzantine churches and monuments

The Byzantine monuments and churches of Thessaloniki were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988. They are scattered all around the city, so if you want to visit all of them get ready for a very long walk.

Don’t miss the restored church of Agios Dimitrios, with its impressive crypt. Also, make sure you pass by the Byzantine church of Agia Sofia, the church of Acheiropoiitos, and Vlatadon Monastery.

Heptapyrgion

Ano Poli, the old town of Thessaloniki, sits on a hill overlooking the city centre. Here is where you will find Heptapyrgion, a massive fortress which was originally used by the Byzantines.

During the times of the Ottoman Empire, the Heptapyrgion was transformed into a prison. It was maintained for several decades after Thessaloniki was liberated, and eventually closed down in 1989. It is an eerie, sad place to explore.

If you like walking, by all means walk all the way up to the Heptapyrgion, past the Byzantine Walls and the old Pasha’s Gardens. The views of the city are just fantastic!

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

The Archaeological Museum in Thessaloniki is one of the most important museums in Greece. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, such as the Aravissos Hoard, tombs, statues, mosaic floors and the impressive Derveni Papyrus, the oldest surviving book in Europe.

The Museum of Byzantine Culture

Every history lover should definitely spend some time in the Museum of Byzantine Culture, an atmospheric museum which has received numerous awards. Apart from seeing the precious exhibits, you will also learn a lot about the Byzantine culture.

The Jewish Museum

A museum featuring the history of the thriving Jewish population of the city. Among others, you can see religious objects, books, family heirlooms, letters, photos, and various other documents highlighting the importance of Jewish people in Thessaloniki’s history.

This is just a small selection of the historical sites and museums you can find in Thessaloniki. If you want to find out more about the city’s past, make sure to add some of these places to your itinerary.

4. Thessaloniki is full of art and culture

Apart from being a historical city, Thessaloniki is also home to many art museums, galleries, and cultural organisations. Four of these museums belong to the Metropolitan Organisation of Museums of Visual Arts of Thessaloniki ( MOMus ).

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOMus)

A massive art museum showcasing contemporary art by various artists. It manages private and state art collections, and organizes the Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art.

The Museum of Modern Art – Costakis Collection (MOMus)

This museum aims to study, preserve and promote modern art and avant-garde art. There is a selection of works by both Greek and international artists.

Thessaloniki Museum of Photography (MOMus)

The photography museum aims to study and promote the art of photography with rotating exhibitions. Its vast collections and archives go back to 1890.

Experimental Center for the Arts (MOMus)

A cutting-edge museum promoting contemporary experimental art and supporting young artists and innovative projects.

Thessaloniki Cinema Museum

Established in 1997, this compact museum gives an overview of the development of Greek cinema over the years. The collection of displays includes photos, posters, projections, images and various relevant objects.

Apart from these art museums, the city is brimming with small, independent galleries. You will discover several as you wander around the city center – just keep your eyes open!

5. The local food in Thessaloniki is out of this world

If you like Greek food, you will absolutely fall in love with Thessaloniki. There is something about this city that just makes everything taste better – and the portions are huge!

The city is famous for its koulouri , a semi-sweet bread with sesame seeds, its bougatsa , a type of Greek pastry , and the souvlaki , which is similar to a kebab. However, do not hesitate to taste everything you come across.

Even better, take a food tour and learn more about the city’s thriving food markets and multicultural culinary legacy! You can book it here: Thessaloniki food tour

For more information on Greek dishes and desserts, check out these articles

• Food of Greece
• Greek desserts

6. Thessaloniki has amazing nightlife

Thessaloniki’s nightlife is famous all around Greece. There are plenty of all-day-cafes, bars and clubs everywhere in the city. The significant student population ensures that there is always a party going on somewhere!

Two of the most lively areas of the city are the famous Ladadika, and the nearby Valaoritou Street. You will also find plenty of nightlife on Nikis street, right on the seafront.

If you are visiting in summer, you can also head out to the coastal resorts close to the city, and enjoy the seasonal bars and clubs.

7. Thessaloniki has excellent shopping

Thessaloniki is an fantastic place if you like shopping. As the commercial center is compact, you can easily walk around the various shops and markets, and shop till you drop.

Tsimiski street is the main shopping area. Here, you’ll find the most famous chain stores and high street shops in Greece. There are also a few local boutique shops with original items, and a couple of department stores.

For budget clothes / shoes and a few thrift stores, head to Egnatia street . This has traditionally been a place for students to go shopping. The stores around Navarinou Square will have you covered for souvenirs, hippy clothes, inexpensive accessories, and all sorts of tattoos and alternative jewelry.

Head to Kapani food market for tasty, inexpensive products, and Bezesteni market , for a mix of cheap clothes, household items, tools, and a bit of everything.

Finally, for deli products and treats, check out the renovated Modiano market , which is scheduled to re-open in late 2022. I can’t wait to visit myself!

8. There are some cool urban beaches close to Thessaloniki

A short drive to the south of Thessaloniki, a little past the airport, you will find the coastal areas of Peraia and Neoi Epivates . Here, you can enjoy the shallow, sandy beaches, and a wide selections of cafes, bars and restaurants.

Further away, you can find Nea Michaniona , Nea Kallikrateia , and the region of Chalkidiki , which has some of the most beautiful beaches on mainland Greece.

In fact, as any person from Thessaloniki will tell you, “there is no place like Chalkidiki”!

9. There are plenty of day trip options from Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is situated in the Macedonia region of Greece, which is famous for its stunning mountain scenery. The city is the perfect base if you want to explore the surrounding areas.

Here are some ideas for day trips from Thessaloniki:

• The Royal Tombs of Vergina, an incredible Unesco World Heritage Site and museum > BOOK HERE
• Cruise to the monasteries of Mount Athos > BOOK HERE
• Pozar thermal baths and Edessa day trip > BOOK HERE
• The archaeological site of Dion and Mount Olympus > BOOK HERE
• The amazing Meteora Monasteries > BOOK HERE

If you don’t want to go on an organized tour, you can always hire a car and explore independently. Check out Discover Cars , an online platform where you can book your rental car in Thessaloniki quickly and easily.

And if you are still unsure where to go, here are some more ideas for day trips from Thessaloniki .

10. The pace of life in Thessaloniki is relaxed

Many visitors comment on the relaxed pace of everyday life in Thessaloniki. You are likely to see people hanging out in the city’s cafes, bars, parks, squares or the iconic seafront at any time of the day and night.

Yes, Thessaloniki is a fantastic city to explore. But it’s also a fantastic city to hang out, people-watch, and strike random conversations with strangers who always seem to have stacks of time for a chat.

In fact, there is even a specific term in Greek for this slow-paced life: halar á 🙂

How to get to Thessaloniki

There are direct flights to Thessaloniki from several airports in Europe. Here’s how to get from Thessaloniki airport to the city center .

Alternatively, you can reach Thessaloniki on a short flight or train ride from Athens. 

Where to stay in Thessaloniki

Unlike Athens, Thessaloniki is a fairly compact city. If you like walking, you can easily get everywhere on foot. There are many high-end and mid-range hotels around Aristotelous Square, Tsimiski and Agias Sofias Street.

Best time to visit Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is wonderful at any time of the year. Yet, if you don’t tolerate heat and humidity very well, it’s probably best to avoid it in July and August.

On the other hand, winters in Thessaloniki can be very cold and wet. Still, the city remains lively, with plenty of festivals, exhibitions, special events and parties.

My favourite times of year to visit Thessaloniki are spring and autumn. Unlike the Greek islands, which can feel a little too quiet then, the charming city is buzzing with things to do, minus the touristy vibe!

Conclusion: Is Thessaloniki worth visiting? For sure!

Whether you’re interested in history and Greek culture, or simply looking for a fun city to explore for a few days,Thessaloniki is definitely worth visiting. With its abundance of things to see and do, you’ll never find yourself bored in this vibrant Greek city.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to explore Thessaloniki for yourself! If you visit, I’d love to see what you thought, so please leave a comment down below.

FAQ about Thessaloniki

Here are a few questions that readers have asked in the past:

How many days do you need for Thessaloniki?

You can get a good feel of Thessaloniki in a day or two. However, if you want to visit all the museums and enjoy the nightlife, allow for at least four or five days.

Is Athens or Thessaloniki better?

Both Athens and Thessaloniki are lovely! If you are into classical history, Athens is better, but if you are interested in Byzantine monuments, Thessaloniki is unbeatable. Athens is a big city, while Thessaloniki is quite compact, and it’s possible to walk around everywhere. Whichever city you choose, you will definitely enjoy the local culture and ambiance.

Why is Thessaloniki popular?

Thessaloniki is a fantastic city to visit for a city break or a long weekend. People visit to see ruins from the Roman and Byzantine Era, to taste the delicious food, and to enjoy its vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere.

Is Thessaloniki a beautiful city?

Thessaloniki is a wonderfully charming coastal city, where buildings of different eras stand side by side. Whether you are interested in Roman ruins, signs of the Byzantine and Ottoman occupation, or modern architecture, Thessaloniki has you covered!

Is Thessaloniki a party city?

Thessaloniki is a lively city which several thousands of students call home, and has amazing nightlife. Areas like Ladadika, Valaoritou street or Nikis street are always busy, and there’s a buzzing atmosphere.

More guides about Greece

If you enjoyed this article, have a look at these other guides about Greece:

• Useful Greek words and phrases
• Tipping in Greece
• The evil eye in Greece
• The best Greek souvenirs
• Important Greek celebrations and festivals
• Greek food culture

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thessaloniki

Written by Lisa Alexander and Carri Wilbanks Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Thessaloniki (also known as Salonica) offers the cosmopolitan culture and energy of a big city with the friendly ambience and charm of a smaller town. It's the perfect place to experience the real Greece without the crowds and congestion of Athens . Plus, the sea views are amazing.

This delightful city has an impressive multiethnic heritage, influenced by the different civilizations that have left their mark, including the Romans, Venetians, and Ottoman Turks. Visitors are awed by the ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and the world-class archaeology museum, which is one of the top attractions in Greece .

Another highlight of visiting Thessaloniki is the delicious local cuisine. Traditional restaurants and casual tavernas tantalize diners with the region's finest culinary fare.

Thessaloniki is also famous for its music scene, and live band performances take place at venues throughout the city at almost any time of the year.

Learn about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Thessaloniki.

See also: Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

1. Rotunda of Galerius (Saint George's Church)

2. the white tower: relic of the ottoman-era ramparts, 3. church of agios dimitrios, 4. arch of galerius, 5. archaeology museum of thessaloniki, 6. ano poli (upper town), 7. byzantine walls (ancient ramparts), 8. church of the holy apostles, 9. church of saint sophia, 10. church of panagia halkeon, 11. museum of the macedonian struggle, 12. villa allatini, 13. day trip to the archeological museum of polygyros, 14. day trip to mount olympus, where to stay in thessaloniki for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in thessaloniki, salonica, greece - climate chart.

The Rotunda of Galerius is Thessaloniki's most magnificent ancient monument. Built in the early fourth century, it was most likely intended to be Roman emperor Galerius' mausoleum (although he was not buried here) and was part of the complex that included the Galerius Palace and the Arch of Galerius.

Emperor Theodosius the Great, who was baptized as a Christian in Thessaloniki, converted the mausoleum into a Christian church in the late fourth century. During the 10th to 12th centuries, the Rotunda was used as the Cathedral of Thessaloniki.

Under Ottoman rule, the building was converted to a mosque; the minaret is a relic of the Islamic era. After the liberation from the Turks in 1912, the Rotunda was transformed into the Church of Saint George (Áyios Yeóryios).

This grandiose sanctuary makes a breathtaking impression. More than 24 meters in diameter and 30 meters in height, the Rotunda features cylindrical domed architecture similar to the Pantheon in Rome .

Inside, gorgeous mosaics decorate the dome and the vaulted recesses. Designated on the UNESCO World Heritage List , the Rotunda's mosaics are considered masterpieces of Byzantine (early Christian) art. The mosaic in the center of the dome is missing, but below it are charming figures of angels and architectural facades on a gold background.

The Rotunda of Galerius houses a Sculpture Museum and also presents temporary exhibitions.

The most recognizable landmark of Thessaloniki, the White Tower can be reached by taking a scenic walk along a waterfront promenade. Built by the Ottoman Turks around 1530, this imposing tower was used mainly as a prison.

In a small public garden at the southern end of the promenade, the White Tower (Lefkós Pyrgos) was once part of the town's Ottoman-era ramparts. The circuit of fortification walls no longer remains completely intact; the White Tower is the only relic of the seaward defenses.

Today, tourists can visit the tower and ascend to the viewing platform on the top, which offers sensational views of the city and harbor.

The White Tower also houses the permanent collection of the Museum of Byzantine Culture . The museum's exhibits educate visitors about Byzantine history and art in Thessaloniki from around AD 300 until its capture by the Turks in 1430. The collection includes a wide range of artifacts such as early Christian coins, vases, mosaics, wall paintings, and liturgical objects.

The Museum of Byzantine Culture also hosts temporary exhibitions on modern Greek art and themed exhibitions related to modern Greek culture and history.

Visitors will appreciate the museum's café with shaded outdoor-patio seating and gift shop that sells books and souvenirs inspired by the antiquities and Byzantine art displayed at the museum.

Official site: https://mbp.gr/en

The Church of Agios Dimitrios is dedicated to the town's patron saint, Dimitrios, a Roman soldier who was executed at this site in the year 306. At that time, it was a Roman bathhouse, and the murder was ordered by Emperor Galerius who was ruthless in his persecution of Christians.

In the 4th century, a church was built on the site of Saint Dimitrious' martyrdom. For centuries, pilgrims from all over the Byzantine Empire came to venerate the saint's relics, which are preserved in a sarcophagus in front of the iconostasis.

In the 7th century, the original small church was replaced with a larger five-aisled basilica that still stands today.

Spiritual pilgrims and tourists alike marvel over the church's glorious interior. The richly embellished sanctuary is 43 meters long, the largest in Greece. Adornments include finely carved capitals on the varicolored marble columns, a dazzling chandelier in the central aisle, and exquisite gilded mosaics of the early Byzantine Empire that have been beautifully restored.

Today, the Church of Saint Demetrius (Agios Dimitrios) is the town's main church. Tourists may visit the church, which is open daily free of charge.

Address: 97 Agiou Dimitriou, Thessaloniki

Walking from Egnatia Street towards Thessaloniki's city center, visitors will come across the Arch of Galerius (Apsída Galeríou), an ancient Roman monument dating to around AD 297.

This arch was the ancient town's main entrance gate. Of the original structure, three piers of the west side remain. Two of the surviving piers, linked by an arch, feature a marble facade decorated with elaborate reliefs.

The reliefs, separated by garlands, depict battle scenes from Emperor Galerius' Persian, Mesopotamian, and Armenian campaigns of the third and fourth centuries. These ornately carved reliefs are among the finest of their kind.

Be sure to notice the animated scenes on the south pier. Although badly weathered, the reliefs are much better preserved than contemporary reliefs on the Arch of Constantine in Rome, dating to AD 315.

This renowned museum presents a superb collection of artifacts that were uncovered in Thessaloniki, as well as all over ancient Macedonia. The collection spans from prehistory to late antiquity. Be sure to see the sculptures from the Archaic to Late Roman era. Several rooms display architectural elements from an Ionic temple of the sixth century BC.

Other exhibits show excavation findings from a Neolithic settlement at Makriyalo in Pieria, artifacts from the ancient palace built by Emperor Galerius, and the reconstruction of a Macedonian tomb in Ayia Paraskevi.

A showcase in the lobby of the museum displays finds from a Neolithic site, accompanied by information about the progress of the excavation.

The museum is open daily from 8am until 8pm. Well designed to welcome visitors, the museum has a café with a pleasant outdoor terrace. There is also a gift shop that sells books about Ancient Greek culture, items inspired by antiquities, and replicas of Ancient Greek ceramics and jewelry.

Address: 6 Manolis Andronikos Street, Hanth Square, Thessaloniki

Official site: http://www.amth.gr/

The Ano Poli is the historic old town, known as the Upper Town because of its hilltop location. The upper town can be reached from Odós Olympíados, the curving street that links the lower town on the north to the old town walls and citadel.

This atmospheric quarter is characterized by its steep, winding streets and pedestrian alleyways. Numerous fountains of the Ottoman era reveal the quarter's Turkish influence.

The Ano Poli has many noteworthy historic churches, including Saint Catherine's Church; the Church of the Prophet Elijah; the Church of the Taxiarchs (Archangels); the Church of the Holy Apostles ; the Church of Agios Nikolaos Orfanos; and the must-see Church of Ósios Davíd , which was built in the fifth and sixth centuries and is renowned for its splendid mosaic depicting the prophet Ezekiel's vision.

Soon after Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BC, the town was surrounded by defensive walls to withstand attacks by King Pyrrhus of Epirus in 285 and by the Celts in 279. Constantine the Great strengthened the fortifications, and under the Byzantine Empire, the walls were frequently enhanced.

In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Turkish authorities built additional defensive structures and towers, often using Venetian military engineers for the construction.

Until the 19th century, the old town was surrounded by a complete eight-kilometer-long circuit of walls. Unfortunately, the Ottoman government pulled down the ancient walls to modernize and "beautify" the town. However, recently the walls have been restored in sections.

A good starting-point for a tour of the Byzantine Walls is at the Evangelistria Cemetery north of the University campus. From there, walk outside the walls to the massive 15th-century round tower known as the Trigonion Tower (or Alysos Tower).

Beyond this is the Anna Palaiologina Gate , an entrance that leads into the Citadel , on the site of the ancient acropolis. On the highest point is a fortress, the Heptapyrgion ("Seven Towers"), a Byzantine-era fortress that was formerly used as a prison.

From the Citadel, tourists may continue westward along the walls, either inside or outside, to the Letaia Gate near the Church of the Holy Apostles and then down to Democracy Square (Platía Dimokratías). From there, the walls continue down towards the harbor, ending at the Vardar Fort.

The UNESCO-listed Church of the Holy Apostles (Agioi Apostoloi) lies at the edge of the old town, close to the Byzantine Walls. This 14th-century Byzantine church was designed on a cruciform ground plan, with five domes and elaborately patterned brickwork.

A characteristic feature of the Late Byzantine architecture is the main dome that rises above the barrel vaulting of the cross with the other domes over corners of the portico.

During the Turkish period, the church was used as a mosque, the Soguk Su Camii ("Mosque of the Cold Spring"). The church boasts spectacular frescoes and mosaics of the late Byzantine era, which were discovered during restoration work in 1940.

On the northern side of the church is a cistern that belonged to the former monastery of the Holy Apostles.

The Church of the Holy Apostles holds religious services for the local community and is also open to the public daily for visits.

At the east end of Hermes Street (Odós Ermoú), the Church of Saint Sophia (Ayía Sofía) is one of the town's most important historic churches. The church is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Thessaloniki's other remarkable Paleo-Christian and Byzantine monuments.

The domed church was built in the eighth century on a three-aisled cruciform plan. In the ninth and 10th centuries, after the iconoclastic conflict, the church was decorated with expressive figural mosaics, including the Mother of God mosaic in the apse and a magnificent representation of the Ascension mosaic in the dome.

Also notable are the capitals of the columns, believed to be from a fifth-century building. From 1204 to 1430, the Church of Saint Sophia was the town's metropolitan church (cathedral). During the Turkish period, it was converted into a mosque, the Aya Sofya Camii.

The building was restored after a fire in 1890 and survived the great fire of 1917 unscathed.

The Church of Saint Sophia is often used by locals to celebrate weddings. Outside of events, the church is open to the public for visits.

Near the ancient Roman archaeological sites, the Church of Panagia Halkeon exemplifies Byzantine architecture with its cruciform shape, four domes, and facade featuring rows of arches and columns. The design was inspired by the monuments of Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire.

The sanctuary is adorned with Byzantine-era frescoes, dating from the 11th century and 14th century.

In 1430, the Ottomans converted the church into a mosque, but in 1912, it was changed back to a Greek Orthodox Church.

The church is open to the public for visits daily from 7am until 12 noon.

Address: 2 Halkeon Street, Thessaloniki

Housed in a Neoclassical building of the 19th century, this museum educates visitors about the Macedonian struggle. The collection includes artifacts and photos from 1900 to 1912.

The most interesting exhibits are the weaponry, uniforms, memorabilia, and personal effects of the leaders of the Macedonian Struggle that took place from 1904 to 1908.

The extensive photography collection includes 1,350 contemporary photographs. Also on display are explanatory maps, books, newspapers, and paintings of the Macedonian landscape in the late 19th and early 20th century.

The museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9am until 2pm; Wednesday from 9am until 8pm; and Saturday from 10am until 2pm.

Address: 23 Proxenou Koromila Street, Thessaloniki

Official site: http://imma.edu.gr/en/imma-home-en/

In the southwestern suburb of Kalamaria, visitors will discover many lovely 19th-century villas and mansions. Many of these villas were designed by Italian architects in Neoclassical style.

One house of particular historical interest is the Villa Allatini, created by the Italian architect Vitaliano Poselli in 1896. Set in picturesque grounds, this stately villa was originally owned by a wealthy Jewish family, who were part of the Jewish community that once thrived in Thessaloniki.

From 1926, the Villa Allatini served as a university building, and it currently houses the offices of the Central Macedonia Region headquarters.

The beautiful historic gardens of the Villa Allatini are open to the public.

Address: 26 Vasileos Irakleiou, Thessaloniki

About 69 kilometers from Thessaloniki, the charming city of Polygyros is nestled in the foothills of the Chalkidiki region. The town has retained a traditional Greek character with its quaint little neighborhoods, which are a delight to explore.

Polygyros' top tourist attraction is the Archeological Museum, an extensive collection of archaeological finds from the Chalkidiki region. The collection covers the Bronze Age, the Archaic era, the Classical period, and the ancient Roman era. On display are sculptures, reliefs, pottery, weapons, fishermen's gear, coins, and jewelry.

Highlights include the exhibits of the Archaic period, jewelry of the Late Archaic and Classical period, and sculptures from the fourth century BC to the first century BC. Not to be missed are the marble Bust of Dionysos and the grave statues from the Heroön at Stratoni.

The assortment of objects uncovered at the nearby city and cemetery of Olynthus are particularly interesting because they give a sense of the everyday life of that time.

The Archeological Museum of Polygyros is open every day (except Tuesdays) from 8:30am until 3pm.

Address: 1 Arhaioloyikou Moussiou Sreet, Polygyros

About 80 kilometers southwest of Thessaloniki, Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece. It features in Homer's Iliad as the home of the gods, who were known as the Olympians. This mighty massif covers an area of some 20 kilometers across and climbs steeply towards the summit, reaching its highest point in Mítikas at 2,917 meters.

Today, Mount Olympus is the top attraction of Olympus National Park, also classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve . This 238-square-kilometer park attracts nature lovers for hiking and mountain climbing. Various mountain routes provide options for different skill levels.

Though the highest ridges of Mount Olympus are difficult to climb, the most northerly peak (2,787 meters) offers easier access. A good point for an ascent of Olympus is the town of Litóhoro in the mountain's eastern foothills. From Litóhoro , there is a moderately challenging five-hour hike that leads the way past a monastery, waterfalls, and crystalline lakes.

Those seeking an easy nature walk should head to Prionia . Here, a trail begins for a gentle two-hour hike through the lush Enipeas Gorge. Prionia has a café-restaurant that is open year-round.

For overnight accommodations and meals on Mount Olympus, visitors can choose from eight mountain refuges scattered throughout Olympus National Park.

South of Mount Olympus, the Vale of Tempe is where the river Piniós (Peneios) flows to the sea and is the principal route into central Greece from the north.

Nature lovers looking for things to do may also want to visit Lake Vistonida near the town of Porto Lagos, about a two-hour drive from Thessaloniki. This area includes a protected wetland, part of the National Park of Nestos Delta and Lakes Vistonida-Ismarida , which is home to vast flocks of migrating birds. With hundreds of different avian species recorded here, this national park is one of the best places to visit in Greece for bird-watching.

We recommend these highly rated hotels in Thessaloniki, near top attractions like the Rotunda of Galerius and the Church of Agios Dimitrios:

Luxury Hotels :

• An upscale boutique hotel, The Excelsior offers a convenient central location and excellent amenities. This five-star property occupies a historic building with bright, spacious contemporary-style interiors. Accommodations include a generous buffet breakfast.
• The four-star Anatolia Hotel is an elegant property in the city center. Rooms and suites feature cozy modern decor and private balconies. Amenities include complimentary breakfast, a spa, fitness center, and concierge. The hotel's gourmet restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine.

Mid-Range & Budget Hotels :

• The stylish yet affordable Colors Urban Hotel offers sleek contemporary-style guest rooms with sea or city views. Amenities at this four-star hotel include a concierge, parking, airport transportation, and an on-site café. Guests may opt for the breakfast buffet.
• Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the three-star Hotel Orestias Kastorias , which provides basic accommodations in a great location near many attractions. Guest rooms feature flat-screen televisions, updated bathrooms, and city views. The front desk offers baggage storage for added convenience.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Athens : Athens is considered the cradle of Western civilization and has a history stretching back more than 3,000 years. To find out more about Athens, check out our Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens page. This detailed guide will help you plan your sightseeing itinerary, from the Acropolis to the National Archaeology Museum.

Crete: Another must-see destination for history buffs is the Island of Crete. The largest island in Greece, Crete is packed with tourist attractions including archaeological sites, historic port towns, charming mountain villages, and beautiful beaches . Other must-see sights of Crete include the ancient Palace of Knossos near the city of Heraklion and the picturesque seaside town of Agios Nikolaos surrounded by a small lake and rocky cliffs.

More on Greece

How Greece’s Thessaloniki can teach you the subtle art of taking it easy

Thessaloniki is a curious case among Greek cities . Lively, youthful, chaotic and – sometimes – romantic, it is a city that invites you to go slow and enjoy the ample sea view.

Greece’s second-largest city is a place of exceptional gastronomy, rich history and many contradictions. It’s up to you to discover them all.

Thessaloniki through the ages

Photo by YK.

When we’re talking about Greek history, the spotlight justifiably goes to Athens. However, few cities in Greece can claim an unbroken link between their past and present. In Thessaloniki, history is not just a series of tourist monuments; it is woven organically in the cityscape, ready for you to uncover.

Cassandrus, a former general of Alexander the Great founded Thessaloniki back in 315BC. He correctly estimated that the city’s natural port within the Gulf of Thermaikos would make it an important trade centre. But trade alone wasn’t what made the city great.

RELATED: WHY I’M SO GLAD I CHOSE A GROUP TOUR OF GREECE

Thousands of ships would arrive in the city, full of goods, supplies, but most importantly people and new ideas. Wealthy merchants, refugees, adventurers and intellectuals from all over the world would call Thessaloniki their home, giving it a cosmopolitan atmosphere that still permeates its streets.

The city remained an important centre throughout the years of the Roman occupation, and the emperor Galerius even turned it into its base of operations in the third century AD. Buildings like the Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius still stand to this day and are famous landmarks of Thessaloniki.

Jerusalem of the Balkans

Photo by S-F.

Of all the different nationalities that populated Thessaloniki, it was the Jewish population that played a crucial role in its development. After being persecuted out of their Spanish homeland in 1492, around 120,000 Spanish-Jewish refugees would seek asylum by the Ottoman sultan and were welcomed with open arms. 15,000 of them stayed in Thessaloniki, making it their second home.

EXPLORE GREECE ON A SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE WITH US NOW – DETAILS HERE

Until 1941, the city would be known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”, as half of its population was of Jewish descent. For more than 400 years, Thessaloniki remained a melting pot of religions, nationalities and languages. Foreign travellers would write that each neighbourhood was like a small nation on its own, with different traditions depending on the area.

What not to miss in Thessaloniki

Photo by istergio.

Although Thessaloniki is not as multicultural as it once was, traces of its past are still visible today. Parts of the old city walls are scattered on the perimeter of the city centre, outlining what used to be the edge of the ancient fortifications. Follow them uphill to find yourself lost in a maze of narrow streets and traditional houses.

SUBSCRIBE TO INTREPID’S NEWSLETTER FOR TRAVEL TIPS, COMPETITIONS, GIVEAWAYS & MORE

The Old Town (Ano Poli) and the castle (Heptapyrgion) of Thessaloniki form the quaint part of the city, with fantastic views of the area and the port in the distance below. In an otherwise bland city centre, it still holds a lot of old-timey character. The difference between the old and the modern part is striking, as the mass of concrete in downtown gives its place to cosy houses and picturesque restaurants. Ano Poli is not as touristy as you might expect and it is a perfect spot for a springtime outing.

Photo by airphoto.gr.

Even though the centre of the city is not as pretty, it still has a lot of things to see and do. The seaside promenade is a great way to meet the city’s most famous landmark: the White Tower. On a sunny day, you will see thousands of people walking around and enjoying a coffee in one of the countless bars across the waterfront. Don’t forget to visit the Kapani market for some cheap organic produce and to get a taste of everyday life in a city that has food in its DNA!

Where to eat in Thessaloniki

Photo by Ververidis Vasilis.

Food is a core part of the Thessaloniki experience. Nowhere else in Greece is eating out as sophisticated, affordable and delicious. Whether it is traditional Greek dishes, a hearty breakfast, or fusion cuisine you like, there is something around town to satisfy just about every palate.

RELATED: VISITING GREECE? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO EAT

If you want to explore the city from early on, try out some of the brunch dishes in Estrella or Ergon Agora. If you are out for lunch, head to Extravaganza, Sempriko, Nea Folia or Vari Peponi for a unique take on Greek and international cuisine. For a more authentic local fast food experience, try the meatballs in Vomvidia or indulge in some traditional fish and chips in one of the restaurants down by the port – just don’t forget the garlic sauce and Greek salad!

Photo by PitK.

There are equally plentiful dessert options around town as well. Treat yourself to a custom profiterole from Choureal or visit Armenonville for traditional Armenian ice cream. Just across the street, you’ll find Konstantinidis, the home of the best crunchy mille-feuille in Thessaloniki. If you want to try some traditional treats, visit Galifianakis for some creamy custard pie (galaktoboureko) or Chatzis for its original recipes made with buffalo milk.

Discover Thessaloniki on one of these small group adventures in Greece now, or explore our full range of Greece adventures here .  

Feature image by Zoran Temelkov.

Feeling inspired?

George Mouratidis

George Mouratidis is a digital nomad writer and researcher from Greece. When he is not developing content for companies like Stasher , he is probably planning his next creative endeavor or eating.

You might also like

The 7 best places to go on a..., galapagos or madagascar which unique destination should be..., travelling to chile here’s the best time to..., 10 reasons to visit samoa, the 10 antarctica questions you want answered, australia or new zealand where to go on..., 10 epic spots to stop at on your..., small group travel vs coach tours: which style..., costa rica or mexico: which country to check..., 7 of the best destinations for solo travellers..., machu picchu or chichen itza which historical site....

10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. 

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity   travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .