Thessaloniki Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful locations in Thessaloniki, complete with a list of must-visit destinations, accommodations, foods, and safety tips for travelers.


Introduction to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, a city located in Macedonia, in Northern Greece, has a rich cultural and historical background. Being the second-largest city and economic hub of the country, it attracts millions of tourists every year. The city is also known as ‘The Bride of the North’ for its stunning location beside the scenic Aegean Sea. It has everything to offer to all kinds of travelers - from historic landmarks and museums to natural wonders and outdoor activities. In this travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, food and drink scene, accommodations, culture, and safety tips to make your trip to Thessaloniki a memorable one.

List of Places to Visit in Thessaloniki

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Thessaloniki has a vast cultural history dating back to 315 BC, and it has left many traces in the form of architectural masterpieces. The following are some of the must-visit places to explore Thessaloniki’s cultural significance:

  1. The White Tower - an iconic symbol of Thessaloniki and an important monument in Greece’s history.
  2. Aristotelous Square - the city’s beating heart, a bustling pedestrian area lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants.
  3. The Roman Forum - a historical gathering place with the ancient ruins to explore.
  4. The Rotonda - built by the Romans in the 4th century AD, consists of an impressive dome, now known as Agios Georgios.

Natural Attractions of Thessaloniki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Thessaloniki is known for its natural beauty and scenic routes; the following are some of the not-to-miss natural attractions in and around Thessaloniki:

  1. Mount Olympus - about two hours drive from Thessaloniki, the highest peak in Greece, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  2. The Petralona Cave - located at the foot of Mount Katsika, about one hour drive from Thessaloniki, an underground chamber with stalactites and stalagmites.
  3. The Halkidiki Peninsula - about an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, a popular beach destination with turquoise waters and scenic views.
  4. The Axios-Loudias-Aliakmonas National Park - approximately an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, the largest wetland area in Greece, home to some of the rarest bird species in Europe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a beautiful city to explore on foot or bike. The following are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around Thessaloniki:

  1. The Seaside Promenade - a perfect place for an early morning or sunset stroll observed by the Aegean Sea.
  2. The Old City - a historic district to explore on foot, consisting of cobbled alleys and colorful houses.
  3. Kalamaria - a suburb of Thessaloniki to explore by bike or foot, known for its beautiful coastal road, parks, and beaches.

Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki: Activities and Tours

Thessaloniki has plenty to offer for all kinds of travelers. The following are some of the best things to do in Thessaloniki:

  1. Visit the vibrant Modiano Market and experience the city’s culinary palette.
  2. Explore the city’s vibrant art scene by visiting State Museum of Contemporary Art.
  3. Take a stroll in Aristotle’s Square and indulge in a cup of traditional Greek coffee.
  4. Book a walking tour to learn about the city’s rich cultural history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has plenty to offer to keep you engaged for a week. Here is a week-long itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the historic Aristotelous Square and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Day 2 Explore Thessaloniki’s cultural landmarks like the White Tower, The Roman Forum, and The Rotonda.
Day 3 Take a trip to Mount Olympus and indulge in your love for nature and adventure.
Day 4 Visit the Petralona Cave and explore Thessaloniki’s natural beauty.
Day 5 Tour the City’s vibrant art scene by visiting the State Museum of Contemporary Art.
Day 6 Take a stroll along the Seaside Promenade and spend the rest of your day in Kalamaria.
Day 7 Explore Thessaloniki’s cuisine by visiting the Modiano Market and enjoy a traditional Greek coffee in Aristotle’s Square.

Food and Drink Scene of Thessaloniki

Must-Try Dishes

Thessaloniki has a rich culinary history to explore. The following are some must-try dishes:

  1. Souvlaki - skewered meat (usually pork or chicken) with tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce.
  2. Pita Gyro - similar to Souvlaki but with meat cooked on a vertical spit.
  3. Koulouri - a traditional street food consisting of a circular bread roll covered in sesame seeds.
  4. Bougatsa - a phyllo pastry filled with semolina custard, cheese, or minced meat.

Local Beverages

Thessaloniki is famous for its unique and traditional beverages. The following are some to try during your visit:

  1. Ouzo - a traditional Greek spirit made from anise.
  2. Tsipouro - strong alcoholic beverage made from distilling the skins and seeds of grapes.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thessaloniki has plenty of options to stay for all kinds of budgets. The following are some top-rated accommodations to consider during your stay:

  1. The Met Hotel - located in the heart of the city, offering modern rooms, deluxe suites, and dining amenities.
  2. The Queen Olga Hotel - an eco-friendly hotel overlooking the city, surrounded by lush greenery.
  3. The Capsis Hotel - situated opposite the White Tower, offering a comfortable stay.

What to Buy in Thessaloniki: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thessaloniki is famous for its unique souvenirs and local products. The following are some to consider for your trip:

  1. Traditional Greek Olive Oil.
  2. Traditional Greek Honey and Greek Delicacies.
  3. Handmade pottery and ceramics.
  4. Local wines and spirits.

Local Culture and Customs of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki locals are friendly and welcoming. However, they take pride in respecting their traditions and culture. Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind during your trip to Thessaloniki:

  1. Dress modestly while visiting churches and monasteries, including covering your shoulders and knees.
  2. Keep your voice low and avoid being noisy in public places.
  3. Practice proper table etiquette while dining with locals.

Best Time to Visit Thessaloniki

The best time to visit Thessaloniki is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the city’s outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visiting during the shoulder seasons like March to May and October to November can give you a unique and quieter experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thessaloniki

Do:

  1. Greet locals with a smile and a friendly “Yassou.”
  2. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  3. Learn a few Greek phrases like “Kalimera” (Good morning), “Efharisto” (thank you) and use them while interacting with locals.

Don’t:

  1. Pick flowers and plants.
  2. Litter in public areas.
  3. Make a loud noise in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is generally safe for visitors. However, keeping a few things in mind can make your stay even safer:

  1. Avoid carrying valuable items and money while walking in crowded areas.
  2. Stay vigilant while using public transport or visiting areas outside the city limits.
  3. Take precautions against petty theft and scams.

Health in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has a well-developed healthcare system with hospitals and medical clinics. However, the following are some tips to stay healthy during your trip:

  1. Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling.
  2. Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.
  3. Practice proper hygiene and handwashing.

Getting to Thessaloniki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki International Airport is the nearest and largest airport to access the city. It lies approximately 13 km south of the city center and has several transport options to reach the city center.

Bus Stations Near Thessaloniki

The city has two major bus stations, the Macedonia and KTEL intercity bus stations, both in the heart of the city center.

Other Options

Thessaloniki is well-connected by train from other Greek cities. You can also drive from Athens or other cities but are not recommended for tourists due to poorly developed road infrastructure.

How to Get Around in Thessaloniki

The city has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and trams. You can also book a taxi or car rental to travel around the city.

Where to Go Next from Thessaloniki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thessaloniki is an excellent base to explore nearby places like:

  1. Halkidiki Peninsula - for gorgeous sandy beaches and blue water.
  2. Kavala - for its ancient ruins, white sandy beaches, and a vibrant nightlife.
  3. Mount Athos - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Greek Orthodox Church’s spiritual center.

Conclusion

Thessaloniki is a gem of Northern Greece, offering a cultural and natural experience to all kinds of travelers. With this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your stay in Thessaloniki, discover its history, scenic beauty, and local cuisine. Just remember to follow our safety tips, respect local customs, and traditions, and immerse yourself in the local culture for a memorable trip.

Aerial view of Thessaloniki Aerial view of Thessaloniki Macedonia Airport enjoys a seaside location, making approaches quite scenic Macedonia Airport enjoys a seaside location, making approaches quite scenic A taxi ride may be a quicker, but much more expensive way to get to the city than the bus A taxi ride may be a quicker, but much more expensive way to get to the city than the bus An OASTH bus leaving towards the ''A.S. IKEA'' terminal An OASTH bus leaving towards the ''A.S. IKEA'' terminal Ticket machine inside the bus. Ticket machine inside the bus. The White Tower of Thessaloniki is the city's landmark The White Tower of Thessaloniki is the city's landmark The Agia Sofia church The Agia Sofia church The Ancient Forum The Ancient Forum Thessaloniki's 'Ano Poli' (Old City) Thessaloniki's 'Ano Poli' (Old City) Aristotelous Square Aristotelous Square A street in the Ladadika neighbourhood A street in the Ladadika neighbourhood Kavala Port & Old Town Kavala Port & Old Town Thasos, Scala Potamia Thasos, Scala Potamia Halkidiki Halkidiki