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15 Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki (Greece)

A port, a place of higher learning and a cultural giant, Thessaloniki in Central Macedonia is Greece’s second largest city. For centuries Thessaloniki was also the second city of the Byzantine Empire, deferring only to Constantinople. From that time, the Christian and Byzantine monuments like the Hagios Demetrios and Hagia Sophia churches are part of one large UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Earlier, in the days of the Roman Tetrarchy at the turn of the 4th century, Emperor Galerius splashed out on a triumphal arch and a rotund, both of which have made it to modern times. And given that Thessaloniki was founded in the 4th century BC and has lived through the rise and fall of four great empires you can bet that the city’s museums are world beaters.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Thessaloniki :

1. White Tower of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki’s signature monument, the cylindrical, six-storey White Tower shows up on postcards and souvenirs and is the image many people in Greece call to mind when they think of the city.

Put up to reinforce the eastern end of the harbour, the tower is right on the water and went up in the 15th century after Thessaloniki was taken by the Ottoman Empire.

With a diameter of 23 metres the tower is 34 metres tall and hosts a museum about the history of Thessaloniki, laid out by the Museum of Byzantine Culture.

There’s a multilingual audio guide to explain the exhibits, and you can scale the spiral staircase to look over Thessaloniki and its harbour from the battlements.

2. Archaeological Museum

A priority for anyone coming to Thessaloniki, the Archaeological Museum has Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman-era artefacts brought to light in the city and across Macedonia.

There are finds from a 6th-century Ionic temple in the city, as well as a palace complex constructed by the early 4th-century emperor, Galerius.

There’s also a reconstruction of a Macedonian tomb uncovered not far away in Agia Paraskevi.

The “Gold of Macedon” exhibition has finds from cemeteries at Derveni, Sindos, Agia Paraskevi, Serres and Leti to name a few, while there’s also a recent exhibition covering prehistory to the end of the Bronze Age.

Notable exhibits are singled out for special attention, like the Derveni Krater, which dates to the 4th century BC, weighs 40kg and is ornamented with figures of Ariadne, Dionysus, satyrs maenads and a warrior who could be Jason (of the Argonauts), Lycurgus of Thrace or Pentheus.

3. Hagios Demetrios

After Thessaloniki’s Patron Saint Demetrius was martyred in the 4th century a church was built on the same site.

The early buildings here were repeatedly destroyed by fire until the current structure was constructed as a five-aisled basilica in the early 630s.

The church is famed for its mosaic panels dating to sometime between the 630s to the 730s, showing Demetrius with children and with the church founders are rare examples of art from the time following Emperor Justinian’s death.

Sadly a few other invaluable mosaics were lost in a fire in 1917. The crypt holds the Roman bathhouse in which Demetrius was imprisoned and killed, and was forgotten about during Ottoman rule until excavations after the fire in 1917. Since 1988 it has been an exhibition space, replete with sculptures, capitals, vessels and closure slabs from the early, middle and late-Byzantine period discovered during digs.

4. Aristotelous Square

As good a place as any to begin a walking tour in Thessaloniki, Aristotelous Square is on the city’s waterfront at Nikis Avenue.

This splendid plaza was conceived by the French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918 although it would be a few decades before the square was edged by its current mansion blocks, which are now all listed buildings.

Almost all of Thessaloniki’s public celebrations (Christmas and New Year), as well as cultural and political events and rallies are held on Aristotelous Square.

Several former Prime Ministers of Greece have given speeches here, including Andreas Papandreou and later his son George Papandreou.

On the northeast side, the Olympion Theatre Cinema hosts the Thessaloniki International Film Festival every March.

When the skies are clear you can stand on the square and see all the way to the Olympus Massif, some 100 kilometres to the southwest.

5. Ladadika

Behind the ferry port, a brief walk from Aristotelous Square is the historic district of Ladadika, with colourfully painted houses, workshops and warehouses on cobblestone streets with restaurant tables.

One of the best places to go out in Thessaloniki, Ladadika used to be a chaotic merchant district, settled by many of the city’s Sephardic Jews: The name “Ladadika” comes from the shops that used to sell olive oil and olive oil products in the quarter.

During the wars in the 20th century the quarter became a cosmopolitan red light district, crawling with spies, and with businesses and clientele from all over the world.

After a few decades of decline the quarter’s interwar architecture was restored in the 90s and 2000s.

Ladadika has come to the fore as a nightlife area once more, with “ouzeri” (taverns), Greek restaurants, diverse international eateries and a surplus of bars.

6. Museum of Byzantine Culture

In 11 galleries this extraordinary museum maps the history of the Byzantine Empire with pieces collected from around Macedonia . These come from all periods, from the empire’s foundation by Constantine in the 4th century and the introduction of Christianity as the state religion, to its demise at the hands of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.

In the museum’s collection are manuscripts, wooden icons, jewellery, fabrics going back to the 4th century, seals, mosaics, wall paintings, statues, early printed books and modern paintings inspired by Byzantine art.

There are also some staggering examples of stonemasonry, like inscribed stones and arches and piers from churches.

At the turn of the 4th century Roman Emperor Galerius ordered a rotunda and connecting arch, an ensemble that joined his palace to an imperial precinct at the crossing point of the city’s main axes.

This new imperial precinct was constructed as a new administrative base after the foundation of the Tetrarchy, when the Roman empire was split into four separate kingdoms, making Thessaloniki a new capital.

The UNESCO-listed Rotunda is a mesmerising space, with a dome 30 metres above the floor that was once pierced with an oculus like the Pantheon in Rome.

The building has been used as a pagan temple, Christian church and was a mosque throughout the Ottoman period (a minaret is still standing outside). On the walls are newly restored palaeo-Christian mosaics from the 5th century AD.

8. Arch of Galerius

On Egnatia & Dimitrios Gounari Street, the Arch of Galerius was raised to celebrate Galerius’ victory over the Sassanid Persians and conquest of the city of Ctesiphon.

The monument was an eight-pillared gateway with a triple arch that was coated in brick and then sculpted marble panels.

More than 1,700 years later you’ll be awed by the size of the main portal, 12.5 metres in height and more than 10 metres wide.

Although most of the marble panels have been lost, the remaining reliefs give you more than enough detail.

In one image you can see Emperor Galerius on horseback, dwarfing his Persian enemies, and in another he is shown offering mercy to his defeated opponents.

Come around to the north pillar of the arch where you can see representations of camels and elephants, adding some geographical context.

9. Hagia Sophia

Today’s Hagia Shophia took on its present architecture as long ago as the 8th century.

It was modelled on its namesake church in Constantinople, and from the capture of Thessaloniki in 1430 right through to its liberation in 1912 Hagia Sophia was a mosque.

The building is a shining piece of Byzantine middle period architecture, despite some of the mishaps to have befallen it, like fires in 1890 and 1917. After the second fire the dome wouldn’t be restored until 1980. This has a mosaic dating from the 9th century depicting the Ascension, with Jesus lifted by two angels and ringed by the 12 Apostles and Mary.

Above the iconostasis is another captivating image, from the 11th century and showing the Madonna with Child.

10. Atatürk Museum

In 1881, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the man who would become the founder and leader of the modern secular Turkish state was born at this three storey house on Apostolou Pavlou Street, now incorporated into the Turkish consulate.

In 1935 Thessaloniki gave the building to the Turkish state to turn into a museum about his life and career.

The house dates to 1870 and is decorated with mostly original furniture and personal belongings like clothing, eating utensils, smoking paraphernalia, crockery as well as photographs from different stages of Atatürk’s life.

You can see the room in which Atatürk was born, and find a pomegranate tree in the courtyard that was planted by his father.

11. Thessaloniki Science Centre Technology Museum

Not far southeast of the city centre is Greece’s foremost science and technology museum.

In the main exhibition halls on the ground floor are 40 interactive stations helping kids get to grips with topics like optics, magnetism, telecommunications, electricity and mechanics , all in fun, unexpected ways.

These are combined with exhibitions about the technological advances made in Ancient Greece and the history of motor transport from 1918 to today, with cars from all eras.

There’s also a digital planetarium, with 150 seats and a 25-metre dome, a three-platform motion simulator theatre and a 200-seat amphitheatre for live demonstrations.

But real secret weapon is the “Cosmotheatre”, projecting high-definition 3D movies about space and celestial bodies on the largest flat screen in Greece.

12. Alexander the Great Monument

Next to a fountain at Nea Parelia is an equestrian statue of Macedonia’s most famous son, part of a development that has regenerated the waterfront.

Thessaloniki was named in the 4th century BC after Thessalonike of Macedon, a half-sister of Alexander, and wife of King Cassander of Macedon.

The monument is six metres high and shows him on Bucephalus, one of antiquity’s most distinguished horses.

Along the promenade beside Alexander are rows of sarissas, the long pikes introduced by Philip II of Macedon and used to great success by Alexander at the Battles of Issus, the Granicus and Gaugamela.

13. Roman Forum

Also known as the Ancient Agora, the centre of public and political life in Roman Thessaloniki was excavated in 1966. The site, developed in two phases in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD is delineated by the streets, Makedonikis Amynis, Olympou, Filippou, Agnostou Stratiotou.

In Roman times the forum was at the intersection of the city’s two main streets, from north to south and east to west, and was just shy of 150 metres long and 100 metres across.

A real thrill is the Cryptoporticus, partially subterranean corridors, most likely used for storage and built into the natural slope.

These will lead you to an underground museum about the Forum, with artefacts and details about the excavation.

There are also remnants of a mint, a set of baths and the Odeon, a restored Roman-era theatre on the east side.

14. Jewish Museum

On Agiou Mina street is a small museum recounting Thessaloniki’s Sephardic heritage, where a Spanish-speaking community flourished for 450 years until the Holocaust.

Jews first settled the city at the end of the 15th century following their expulsion by Spain’s Catholic Monarchs.

Arriving from Western Europe, they brought valuable modern skills like cartography, weapon-making, printing and medical science, thriving in the Ottoman climate of religious tolerance.

In 2020 the museum will move into a brand new, six-storey building, plans for which were unveiled by Benjamin Netanyahyu and Thessoloniki Mayor Yannis Boutaris in 2017. The current modest but interesting gallery has Jewish gravestones, vintage photographs and information boards about key events like the 1943 deportation of 49,000 Jews, of whom fewer than 2,000 would survive.

15. Heptapyrgion

On high ground at the northeastern side of Thessaloniki’s acropolis is a Byzantine-era fortress that was the city’s main redoubt.

Despite the name “Heptagyrion” the fortress actually has ten towers instead of seven, five to the north and five to the south, all joined together by a wall.

The northern towers are from the 900s, while the southern towers were erected in the 12th century.

From the 15th century the Ottomans simply maintained the existing building, giving it a military purpose until the 1890s when it became a prison, a role it kept until 1989. Restorations are ongoing, but one reason to be here is for the scenery, as Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf look amazing from this spot around sunset.

15 Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki (Greece):

• White Tower of Thessaloniki
• Archaeological Museum
• Hagios Demetrios
• Aristotelous Square
• Museum of Byzantine Culture
• Arch of Galerius
• Hagia Sophia
• Atatürk Museum
• Thessaloniki Science Centre Technology Museum
• Alexander the Great Monument
• Roman Forum
• Jewish Museum
• Heptapyrgion

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.

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18 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Thessaloniki

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

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

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

Map of Tourist Attractions in Thessaloniki

18. Church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos

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

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

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

17. Monument of Alexander The Great

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

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

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

16. Ataturk Museum

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

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

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

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

15. War Museum of Thessaloniki

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

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

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

14. Nea Paralia

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

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

13. Church of Hosios David

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

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

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

12. Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

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

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

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

11. Arch of Galerius

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

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

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

10. Vlatadon Monastery

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

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

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

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

9. Ladadika District

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

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

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

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

8. Museum of Byzantine Culture

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

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

7. Aristotelous Square

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

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

6. Hagia Sophia

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

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

5. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

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

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

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

4. Heptapyrgion

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

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

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

3. Rotunda of Galerius

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

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

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

2. Agios Dimitrios Church

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

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

1. White Tower

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Thessaloniki

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

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

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

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

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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.

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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

15 Best Things to do in Thessaloniki (Greece)

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: September 30, 2020

Categories Greece

Home / Europe / Greece / 15 Best Things to do in Thessaloniki (Greece)

Here’s a list of the 15 best things to do in Thessaloniki in Greece, along with famous landmarks, museums, and other points of interest.

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece with a population of more than 1,1 million residents within the metro area. It’s a great weekend-destination with plenty of international flights from various European capitals and cities. 

It has long been an important city, and it was founded already in 315 BC by Cassander of Macedon. Since then, Thessaloniki has continuing to thrive during various eras, including the Roman period, Byzantine Empire, and even during the Ottoman rule from 1430 to 1912.

In this article, I will share some of the best places to visit in Thessaloniki as well as museums and activities that shouldn’t be missed while visiting. 

White Tower of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki’s White Tower serves as the symbol of the city and acts both as a monument and a museum. The tower is situated right on the Mediterranean Sea and is a great example of the interesting history of the region as it exchanged hands numerous times serving ancient Macedonia, the Ottoman Empire, and finally modern-day Greece .

The magnificent tower offers visitors a panoramic rooftop that allows great views over the sea, the waterfront promenade, and the city of Thessaloniki. The museum is a top-class institution as it combines modern presentation, interesting artifacts, and historical atmosphere in a fantastic way.

Church of Saint Dimitrios

The Church of Saint Demetrius is Thessaloniki’s main religious landmark and awes visitors with its fantastic Byzantine architecture. The Hagios Demetrios, as the church is also called, is dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki.

It is also him who is displayed on the famous six extant mosaic panels that the site is known for. The structure’s significance is highlighted by its listing as a World Heritage Site since 1988.

Atatürk Museum

The Ataturk Musem is the birthplace of Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern-day Turkey . The house consists of three stories and a beautiful courtyard and aims at educating its visitors about the political life and achievements of Atatürk.

There are many photos and historic artifacts on display. Much of the furniture and interior decoration has been conserved and adds a very historic atmosphere to the museum.  

Photo: Koraysa / Shutterstock.com

The Rotunda of Galerius is a magnificent cylindrical structure built in 306 AD. It was initially built as a mausoleum for the Roman emperor Galerius but never served that purpose as the emperor was buried elsewhere.

Instead, the Rotunda was converted into a Greek Orthodox Church and is today regarded one of the oldest remaining churches in Thessaloniki. Visitors can enter the insides of the structure and check out the interesting mosaics that can be found here.

Monument of Alexander the Great

The monument of Alexander the Great is situated next to the sea in Nea Paralis. The structure is around six meters tall and shows Alexander riding his famous horse Voukefalas.

The monument is located in proximity to the White Tower and shouldn’t be missed when coming to this part of the city. The many benches in the park surrounding this site invite for a few minutes of relaxation. Kids will love the many fountains located here.

Watch a game at Toumba Stadium

Thessaloniki is the home of a proud football club, A.C PAOK. The team has won multiple Greek Championships and is one of the most prestigious clubs in the country.

PAOK plays its home games in the Toumba Stadium, a local arena with a capacity of 29.000. Greek football is known for its fanatic fans and great stadium atmosphere so why not buy a ticket and experience what football means to the Greeks firsthand?

If you’re lucky, your visit might be timed with a date where PAOK plays one of their fierce rivals, such as Olympiakos or Panathinaikos, which are certain to provide a lively atmosphere in the area. 

Photo: Ververidis Vasilis / Shutterstock.co

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki display artifacts from many eras ranging from the Prehistoric to the Roman periods. The museum focuses on Thessaloniki and Macedonia.

It is a great source of information regarding the history of the area. Particularly interesting are the exhibits of Alexander the Great, telling the fantastic story of his conquests. Visiting the Archaeological Museum is one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki if you want to learn more about its long history. 

Photo: Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock.com

If you are looking for an atmospheric, historic area to have a walk, look no further than Ladadika, Thessaloniki’s most beautiful neighborhood.

The area is located in proximity to the Port of Thessaloniki and it used to be the most important commercial center of the city. For many decades this was the area where the foreign merchants were living and trading their goods.

What makes Ladadika so unique and interesting today is mainly thanks to its preserved 19th-century buildings and lively atmosphere. Apart from that, the area is also known for its many great bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making Ladadika a hotspot for Thessaloniki’s nightlife.

Photo: SIAATH / Shutterstock.com

Arch of Galerius

The Arch of Galerius is another landmark of Thessaloniki. It was built 298 AD, and the structure was dedicated to the victory of the Roman emperor Galerius, who beat the Sassanid Persians here in the same year.

Only the northwestern three of the previous eight pillars have survived to this day but that doesn’t make the arch any less impressive as plenty of its marvelous details are still visible today.

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the major religious sites in the city as it served as the metropolitan church of Thessaloniki for many decades. The Byzantine church is erected as a cubic structure that is almost square and features a tripartite sanctuary on the eastern end.

The interior of the church is also very impressive as many of the wall paintings are well preserved and show interesting scenes of the historic life in the area. 

Hagia Sophia in Thessaloniki has also earned its status as a World Heritage Site. A church has stood on this location since the 3rd century, although this modern version was built in 1205.

During Ottoman times, it was converted into a mosque, much like Hagia Sophia in Istanbul . It was re-converted into a church in 1912 after the liberation of Thessaloniki that took place in the same year.

Heptapyrgion

The Heptapyrgion is an Ottoman castle that is part of Thessaloniki’s old town. It used to house the commander of the Ottoman forces and acted as a major fortification for the city since its construction in the first century.

Thanks to the restoration work beginning in the 1970s the fortress is in very good shape today and serves as a major tourist attraction. Especially the fortress walls and gates give a great hint of the mighty past of this structure.   

Ano Poli is another historic neighborhood in Thessaloniki that is very inviting for a walk. Unlike many other areas of the city, Ano Poli survived the great fire of 1917 and much of the old buildings are largely intact.

While strolling around in this area, you’ll find a number of historic buildings and atmospheric alleyways. The neighborhood is situated just north of the Roman Agora and features interesting historic sites like the Alaca İmaret, the Church of Saint Catherine, and the Byzantine Baths.

Photo: stoyanh / Shutterstock.com

Yahudi Hamam and Bey Hamam

Thessaloniki offers several historic hammams dating to the Ottoman empire when the Ottoman invaders brought their Hamam-culture to Greece. One of the most interesting bathhouses is the Yahudi Hamam, which dates back to the 16th century.

The name stands for “Bath of the Jews” as this area was home to a large Jewish community at that time. Another interesting example is the Bey Hamam, it was constructed in the 15th century and used to be a very spacious and luxurious bathhouse.

Visiting its interior is a real highlight as many of the decorations have been perfectly conserved and continue to amaze in modern times. The Cupola, especially, is very impressive and should not be missed.  

Museum of Byzantine Culture

The Museum of Byzantine Culture opened in 1994 aiming at collecting, preserving, and exhibiting objects of the various eras of Thessaloniki’s history including the Christian, Byzantine, and medieval periods.

The facilities offer eleven differently themed rooms that are dedicated to the most interesting aspects of Thessaloniki’s history. The exhibits include many coins, mosaics, wall paintings, sculptures, and books.   

Thessaloniki International Film Festival

The Thessaloniki International Film Festival is an annual event organized by the Greek Ministry of Culture. The event takes place every November and is one of the oldest film festivals in Southeast Europe.

The TIFF is often considered the most significant film event in Greece and features several competitions as well as workshops, concerts, tributes, and exhibitions.

The festival attracts a large number of foreign visitors each year and offers film-lovers plenty of entertainment amidst the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

Photo: Ververidis Vasilis / Shutterstock.com

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Want more recommendations on things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece? Leave a comment below! 

15 Top Things to Do in Thessaloniki, Greece

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Thessaloniki is set to become the newest destination with bragging rights for independent travelers. Greece's second largest city is the gateway to Macedonia , with connections to Alexander the Great and his tutor Aristotle. Its two major universities attract a large student population and with them a youthful music, arts, and sports scene. The city's restaurant and cafe culture is eclectic. Thessaloniki, listed by UNESCO as an Open Museum of Early Christian and Byzantine Art, is also filled with a rich history, from 15th-century towers to amazing museums displaying treasures from long ago.

But maybe the reason this dynamic  Greek city is finally popping up on adventurous travelers' radars is that it's easier to get to than ever before. Various airlines offer one-stop flights from most major American and Canadian cities.

Attend a Feast of Festivals

Reworks Festival 

From high art to street art, popular culture to cultural excellence—Thessaloniki reels from one international festival to another throughout the year.

• Reworks :  This September event brings together a range of music, from modern classical and contemporary electronic dance to experimental sound. It's four days of performances by well-established and emerging Greek and international artists.
• The Street Mode Festival: A three-day celebration of over 20 events, this huge festival includes live, street-based performances in art, music, and sports. This late September festival has DJs, graffiti, and street art shows and competitions, plus street sports like parkour and BMX.
• Thessaloniki International Film Festival : This late October-early November celebration started in 1959 and features several days of the best in contemporary film-making with shows, forums, professional masterclasses, and discussions.
• The Dimitria Festival: In October, this major cultural event combines art exhibitions, music, theater and dance performances, films, discussions, and workshops with artists and experts from all over the world.

Stay out All Night

Nightlife is one of the main reasons Thessaloniki should be on your hot list. There is something for everyone, with the party going into the wee hours around the city.

Try Mylos , a vast entertainment and nightlife space that was once a flour mill in the warehouse area of Port. It's full of cafes and bars, restaurants, music venues, performance spaces, and hundreds of milling revelers. Or check out what's happening at the Fix Factory of Sound , a venue that has concerts and club nights and a kind of mosh pit scene.

For less hectic nightlife, stroll the historic district of Ladadika, where there are plenty of bars and cafes with music. And look for  rembetika , the traditional, political blues music of Greece , in  rembetadiko —small tavernas (Greek restaurants) where musicians sit on the edge of the stage and perform while people eat and drink.

Enjoy a Vibrant, Eclectic Restaurant Scene

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Thessaloniki's great variety of informal dining at reasonable prices has won the city the title of "Gastronomic Capital of Greece."

Try Ladadika for lively bistros and a casual, young atmosphere. In the seafood and vegetarian heaven that is Greece, Palati is a good restaurant for meat-eaters and there's usually bouzouki (a mandolin-like instrument) music.

The Port area is a bit pricier because of the seafront views, but the people-watching is great. And for a bust-the-budget blowout, try 7 Thalasses  for fresh and delicious seafood.

For some great views and smaller, family-run places, head uphill to Ano Poli (Old Town) where you can overlook the whole city and port, beside ancient castle walls. Downhill from there, Tsinari Square has airy, open cafes and accomplished, modern variations on traditional mezethedes (appetizers).

While in Thessaloniki, look for Eastern European-influenced dishes such as the puff pastries piroshki , and the local specialty known as trahana, a cracked wheat or couscous dish served with yogurt or sour milk.

Wander Great Ancient History Museums

Tilemahos Efthimiadis / Flickr

Considering the city's location at the crossroads of European and Ottoman culture, you'd naturally expect Thessaloniki to have some terrific museums of ancient history, and the city does not disappoint.

• The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, one of Greece's largest museums, traces the civilization of Macedonia from pre-history to late antiquity and is crammed with dazzling ancient treasures.
• The Museum of Byzantine Culture opened to much applause in the 1990s and is home to collections that cover the transformation of Roman religion and the early Christian Church to the 15th-century fall of Constantinople. 

Experience Contemporary Museums

If you're not into ancient history, there are several wonderful contemporary museums and galleries to check out in Thessaloniki.

• Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art : An architecturally interesting destination, this has over 2,000 works of photography, painting, sculpture, and engraving by Greek and international artists.
• MOMus-Thessaloniki Museum of Photography : This museum features regular Greek and internationally relevant exhibitions and events.
• Thessaloniki Cinema Museum : The only such museum in Greece and hub for the city's annual film festival, this small site has many significant and rare exhibits.
• The Olympic Museum of Thessaloniki : The only museum of its kind officially recognized by the Olympic Committee, this one has exhibits on the history of the games, the science of sports, and more.
• The ARIS Basketball Museum : This museum displays trophies, shirts, photos, and other items honoring the professional ARIS Thessaloniki team.

See Ancient Monuments in a Modern Setting

Like most major cities in the Balkans, Thessaloniki has suffered many war wounds. Much of the city has been built or rebuilt during the 20th and 21st centuries. But the evidence of ancient Byzantine and Ottoman architecture is dotted all around the city.

The White Tower  is a prominent symbol and was a 15th-century Ottoman fortification, built to replace an earlier Byzantine fortress. Only 70 visitors are allowed in at one time. Climb to the top (about 10 stories) for the views.

Others, like the Byzantine Baths , are found in hidden corners of residential districts. The baths were built around 1300 and, remarkably, were fully functional for almost seven centuries—until 1940.

Delight in an International Film Festival

SAKIS MITROLIDIS / Getty Images 

The Thessaloniki International Film Festival, taking place over several days from late October into early November, is Southeastern Europe's top film festival.

Starting as the Week of Greek Cinema in 1960, the festival went international in 1992 and is known for presenting some of the world's most innovative independent films. The event includes a non-competitive panorama of Greek films, an international competition, and more.

Venture to Thermal Baths and Waterfalls

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If you are up for an easy day trip, there are some guided tours to beautiful sites less than two hours from Thessaloniki. Relax at the Pozar Thermal Baths, natural hot springs with the lovely Mount Voras in the background. The adventure includes a traditional Greek lunch at a pretty village near Pozar and a stop at the local market. The final destination is Edessa, the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedon—you'll see the Balkan's biggest waterfalls, Edessa Waterfalls.

Hit Some UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Thessaloniki is listed with UNESCO as an Open Museum of Early Christian and Byzantine Art. There are 15 different sites in the listing that covers the transition from Roman through early Christian times to the Ottoman occupation.

You can follow the trail of the Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki around the city, or at least visit the Rotunda , one of the city's oldest and most remarkable buildings that has survived earthquakes and empires and has fragmentary remains of beautiful early mosaics. It is known as the Church of Agios Georgios but most people refer to it simply as the Rotunda. A huge and impressive example of late Roman architecture, it is a must-visit site.

Take a Walking Food Tour

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If the whole family wants to learn about the region's eats from expert insiders, go on a fun 2.5-hour “Thessaloniki tasty exploration” walking tour. Your guide will not only provide you with local brunch pastries, snacks, and coffees, but will teach you about Greek cuisine and traditions through interesting storytelling. The journey will include a visit to the colorful open market (Monday to Saturday); you just might feel like a local.

Explore Colorful Old Town

Αno Poli, the Old Town also known as Upper Town, is approximately 2,300 years old, making it the oldest part of the city. It's also the highest point of Thessaloniki and thus offers great views and a peaceful feeling from up above. From this area you can view the Byzantine wall with its towers, ancient religious sites with Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, and other historic remnants. Check out the narrow streets, stone-paved alleys, and traditional homes.

Stroll by the Waterfront

Naki Kouyioumtzis / Getty Images

Tourists and locals love walking, running, cycling, taking photos, and enjoying other recreational activities at the Waterfront of Thessaloniki, which is about 3.1 miles (5 kilometers) in length. The area is split between the Palia Paralia (Old Waterfront) and the Nea Paralia (New Waterfront). It includes several green spaces with themes such as the Garden of the Shadow and the Garden of Roses.

Check Out the Local Modiano Market

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Modiano Market is a historically significant destination for visitors and is the city's biggest indoor market. It was built between 1922 and 1930 by architect Eli Modiano, who was part of a renowned Italian-Jewish (Sephardic) Thessaloniki family.

Vendors sell everything from cheese to fish to fresh produce. New and traditional and restaurants, tavernas, and bars are inside the building. Note: the market is going through renovations, so confirm whether it is open before going.

Tour the Archaeological Site Pella

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About a 50-minute drive from Thessaloniki is an archaeological site called Pella, the capital of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedonia and the place Alexander the Great was born. Archaeological excavations found the Agora  (public open space) built in the fourth century BCE and featuring many mansions, sanctuaries, and shops in an area of about 10 city blocks. Pella is known for its pebble-mosaic floors; see the mosaics in the House of Dionysus and the House of the Abduction of Helen.

Visit Beautiful Beaches

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The Chalkidiki (Halkidiki) tourist area houses some nice peninsulas with gorgeous beaches that are within a few hours of Thessaloniki by car.

• Kassandra has public beaches in forested areas, luxury hotels, spas, and golf courts. Restaurants, bars, and taverns are found in this trendy area, as well. Sani Beach is a favorite, with white sand, turquoise water, and rare birds.
• Sithonia is known for its amazing scenery, from beaches to peaceful villages and great architecture, along with entertainment venues. Kartalia's rocky and quiet beaches impress visitors.
• Mount Athos is the farthest from Thessaloniki and is full of monasteries, only accessible to men. Women may visit other areas like the beaches, restaurants, and nightclubs, or go on a cruise around the peninsula.

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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.

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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.

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Must-see attractions in Thessaloniki

Archaeological Museum

Thessaloniki

Macedonia's prehistory, Hellenistic and Roman periods are charted in this wonderful museum, home to many of the region's major archaeological discoveries…

Church of Agios Dimitrios

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

Museum of Byzantine Culture

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

Church of Osios David

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

White Tower

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

New Waterfront

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

Monastery of Vlatadon

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

Thessaloniki Concert Hall

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

Arch of Galerius

South of the Rotunda on Egnatia, the Arch of Galerius (AD 303) celebrates the eponymous emperor's victory over the Persians in martial scenes carved into…

Rotunda of Galerius

In AD 306 Roman emperor Galerius built this harmonious 30m-high dome, comparable to Rome's Pantheon and possibly intended as his mausoleum. Marking the…

Eptapyrgion

A former Byzantine fortress repurposed as a prison by the Ottomans and only decommissioned in 1989, the Eptapyrgion (‘Seven Towers’) is a grim reminder of…

The kastra (castle) encloses Byzantine churches and timber-framed houses with overhanging upper storeys. Enjoy panoramic views from the tower by the…

Thessaloniki Museum of Photography

This 1910 port warehouse presents thought-provoking exhibitions of historic and contemporary photography in Greece's only dedicated photography museum…

Palace of Galerius

Sprawling in splendid incongruity amidst the souvenir shops and crêperies of Plateia Navarinou, the ruins of this 3rd- to 4th-century palace remain…

Roman Forum

As immaculately laid out as you'd expect of the Romans, this rectangular site was the centre of public and commercial Thessaloniki from the 1st to the 4th…

Villa Bianca

One of Thessaloniki's most famous mansions, built in 1912 by Pierro Arrigoni for Sephardic entrepreneur Dino Fernandez Siaz, the White House features art…

Church of Agia Sofia

Candlelight on gold chandeliers pierces the gloom in this stunning 8th-century church, modelled on its İstanbul namesake. Among many striking 8th- and 9th…

Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

This touching museum is housed in one of the few Jewish buildings to survive the great fire of 1917, the former office of Jewish newspaper L'Independent…

Plateia Aristotelous

Built after the great fire of 1917, this is where Thessaloniki looked away from its Ottoman and Byzantine past towards modernity, aspiring to the planned…

Church of the Panagia Achiropiitos

This basilica-style 5th-century Byzantine church, built over Roman baths and one of the oldest in Greece, has notable mosaics and frescoes. The name,…

Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art

One of the most respected modern-art institutions in Greece, MOMus grew from an initial bequest of 30 modern masterpieces in 1979, and now exhibits over…

Modiano Market

The city's largest indoor market sits on the ashes of former Jewish neighbourhood Kadi, which burned down in the 1917 fire. The architect Eli Modiano…

Church of Nikolaos Orfanos

This early-14th-century church, one of the most beautiful in a city heavy with stunning examples, has superb (though age-darkened) frescoes, many dating…

Experimental Center for the Arts

The wonderful programming at this old harbour space features fine art, video, installations, photography and all other forms of expression. Exhibitions…

Monastirioton Synagogue

The only surviving one of Thessaloniki's 45 pre-WWII synagogues owes its preservation to the fact that it was used as a warehouse by the Red Cross. Spared…

Yeni Hammam

An atmospheric 16th-century structure, this former Turkish bath has great acoustics. Today it houses a bar that's gone to great lengths to turn the lovely…

Although 6km east of town, this fascinating museum of science and technology, old and new, is worth visiting. There's a planetarium, a giant-screen cinema…

Atatürk House

Modern Turkey’s illustrious founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (1881–1938), was born here. Along with displays tracing Atatürk's life and career you'll see…

Museum of the Macedonian Struggle

Ground zero for Greek nationalism, this museum in a handsome late-19th-century mansion recounts how heroic Hellenes wrested Macedonia from both Turks and…

Bey Hammam was built in 1444, making it Thessaloniki’s oldest Turkish bathhouse and reputedly the largest remaining in Greece. Externally squat and…

Thessaloniki Cinema Museum

Delve into the history of Greek cinema at this well executed small museum, a legacy of Thessaloniki's 1997 stint as European Capital of Culture.

Villa Allatini

This ornate 19th-century red-brick mansion was built by a Jewish family in what was then a fashionably 'rural' corner of Thessaloniki. Its survival is…

Villa Mordoch

Actually built for a Turkish first owner, this handsome 1905 mansion takes its name from the Jewish family that later lived here. Now the Culture and…

Yad Lazikaron

Opposite the Modiano Market in the former Jewish quarter, Yad Lazikaron opened in 1984 as a practising house of worship dedicated to victims of the…

National Bank of Greece

This grand neoclassical temple of mammon is particularly graceful in design. You can pop inside during working hours.

Worldwide Walkers

20 Things to do in Beautiful Thessaloniki

In this blog post, we’re going to share all the best things to do in Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki was the very first stop in our trip to Greece, and we must admit, we were pleasantly surprised with what we found!

Tucked away in the North of Greece and often overlooked by its big brother in the South, Athens , Thessaloniki isn’t that popular a tourist destination. And that’s a shame. Because Thessaloniki is the perfect place to spend a weekend or a couple of nights during a trip to Greece.

So in this blog post, we’re going to share all the best attractions and things you can do in Thessaloniki, which will hopefully spark your travel lust to visit this beautiful city full of UNESCO monuments .

We’ll start by presenting what to do in Thessaloniki, then we’ll share our MUST SEE favorites, and end this article with a FAQ about stuff like how to get to the city center from the airport etc.

So when you’re done reading this blog post, you should be 100% ready to book your flight tickets, pack your suitcase, and GO!

AFFILIATE LINKS DISCLOSURE: Dear Reader, this blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here .

20 attractions, activites & things to do in Thessaloniki

All right! Let’s dive right into it. Here are the 20 best things to do in Thessaloniki.

1. Go for a stroll by the waterfront

One of the best ways to enjoy Thessaloniki is to head to the waterfront. Here you’ll find a promenade right next to the ocean.

Take a stroll towards the White Tower, enjoy the sound of the waves hitting the curb, and try to spot the old parts of town through the opening between buildings on the opposite side of the promenade.

The waterfront really is the best way to start your exploration of Thessaloniki.

2. Visit the iconic White Tower

While you’re at the waterfront, you’ll spot the iconic White Tower. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions and best things to do in Thessaloniki.

The White Tower was constructed by the Ottomans in the 15th century and is thought to have replaced an older tower from the Byzantine Period. Today it stands 33,9 meters tall and has a diameter of 22,7 meter.

But the White Tower is not just an impressive building, it’s also a museum, which you can easily visit on your trip to Thessaloniki. We unfortunately never made it inside the White Tower. But it definitely looks worth it as it not only provides a great exhibition inside, but also has a great viewpoint from the top deck.

Want to dive deeper into the history of Thessaloniki? Then go on a walking tour with a local .

3. Watch the sunset by the ocean

One of the most lively and atmospheric places in Thessaloniki is the waterfront during sunset.

By the White Tower, you’ll find many street vendors selling crunchy corn and delicious candy for the excited sunset spectators all the while happy, laughing kids are running around playing and lovers are holding hands.

It’s such a lovely place to enjoy the sunset, and we can 100% recommend it as one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki.

However, if you want to try and find a more serene and quiet sunset spot, then you might skip the oceanfront and instead head up the hill to one of the many great viewpoints in Ano Poli.

4. Watch the sunset from a boat

By the White Tower, you’ll also find a bunch of cruises and ships. These are purely made for tourism – and they’re actually bars. While We’re normally not into these things, we must admit it did look fun.

Jump on one of these boats before sunset, buy a drink, and let them take you around the bay of Thessaloniki. The sail trip is free as long as you pay for a drink. Actually a pretty cool concept.

You can also book a private sunset tour , which gives you the option to enjoy the beautiful sunset without the other tourists.

5. See the Umbrellas by the waterfront

Another great thing to do in the area by the waterfront of Thessaloniki is to see the “Umbrellas”.

The Umbrellas is an art installation created in 1997 by sculptor Georgios Zongolopoulos and is basically dozens of 13 meter high umbrellas situated right by the ocean. You’ll find the art installation only a stone’s throw away from the White Tower.

We unfortunately didn’t hear about these cool umbrellas until after we had left Thessaloniki… So make sure to walk a little further than the White Tower, so that you don’t miss out on this cool art.

6. Walk around the Ano Poli neighborhood

While downtown Thessaloniki is busy and bustling, the old part of Thessaloniki is calm and quiet. Ano Poli is the name of Thessaloniki’s old neighborhood, and it’s completely different than the city center.

If you want to visit some of the greatest viewpoints of Thessaloniki, see a whole different architecture than in the city center, and explore the history of the Byzantine era, then you should head to Ano Poli.

We absolutely LOVED getting lost in the small streets of Ano Poli, and if you ask us, it’s certainly one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki.

You can either walk up the steep hill (that way you get to see more of the city) or jump on a local bus.

7. Find Thessaloniki’s best viewpoints

There are so many great viewpoints in Thessaloniki!

Head up the hill from downtown towards the areas of Ano Poli or Agios Paulos. Here you’ll find some incredible viewpoints over downtown Thessaloniki with its beautiful, blue bay in the back.

One of the best viewpoints are located right by the Trigonion Tower, which is also one of the more popular things to see in Thessaloniki.

8. Check out the Byzantine city walls

Make sure to check out the Byzantine walls when you’re visiting Ano Poli.

These ancient city walls used to protect Thessaloniki from its enemies. And they must have done a great job seeing that they’ve been standing here since they were built in 390 AD.

With other Byzantine monuments in Thessaloniki, the Byzantine city walls have been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. The Byzantine walls are an important part of the history in Thessaloniki – and definitely worth a visit.

Want to dive deeper into the history of Thessaloniki? Then go on a private walking tour with a local .

9. Visit the Trigonion Tower

If you want to explore more of the Byzantine walls, then you can visit the Trigonion Tower (also known as Alysseos).

The Trigonion Tower is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thessaloniki, and it was built in the late 15th century to prevent invasion of the city. It was the perfect placement for an artillery tower because of its great overview of the city walls. With a tower like this, it wasn’t easy to invade Thessaloniki.

You can easily visit the Trigonion Tower on your trip to Thessaloniki. But whether you choose to go inside or not, a visit is till mandatory because of the great viewpoint you have by the entrance of the tower.

10. Visit the Eptapyrgion

The Eptapyrgion (Heptapyrgio) is a fortress built in the 14th century as the city’s last stronghold in case of invasion.

However, it has developed a rather interesting history over the years. It became a prison in the 1890’s, which it stayed for 100 years until the prison was closed in 1989. Today it’s a museum, which you can easily visit on your Thessaloniki trip.

The Eptapyrgion is located a 10-minute walk uphill from the Trigonion Tower, and it’s one of the must things to do in this area of Thessaloniki.

11. Explore Thessaloniki’s churches

Have you ever visited a Greek Orthodox church? They’re often beautifully decorated inside and very interesting to explore.

Luckily there are several churches to explore in Thessaloniki and visiting them also happens to be one of the best free things to do in the city!

During our trip to Thessaloniki, we visited a handful of churches. But we think that it was most impressed by the interior of the Agios Dimitros. A beautiful church from the Byzantine Era and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thessaloniki.

Apart from exploring this church, you can also visit the Church of Agia Sofia, the Church of Panagia Chalkeon, the Church of Panagia Acheiropoietos or the Monastery of Vlatadon – just to name a few.

Remember to dress appropriately when entering the churches, which means cover you knees and shoulders. And preferably wear a skirt if you’re a woman. While we found that the churches in the big Greek cities are more relaxed on dress code, you should still try your best to respect the norms of what to wear.

12. Visit the Rotunda

The Rotunda is one of the most popular landmarks and attractions of Thessaloniki – and certainly one of the best things to see!

It was built by the Romans in 306 AD as a mausoleum for Emperor Galerius.

However, the Rotunda never fulfilled its destiny as a mausoleum, and it stood empty for years until it was turned into a Christian Church in the late fourth century. Which is ironic because Emperor Galerius was known for his persecution of Christians…

Today it’s an important part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thessaloniki, and it remains the oldest church in the city.

13. Take a picture under the Arch of Galerius

A 2-minute walk away from the Rotunda, you’ll find the Arch of Galerius. It was built in honor of Emperor Galerius in the early 4th century after his victorious return from the war against the Persians.

The Arch of Galerius is an important piece of history in Thessaloniki, plus it’s one of the best free things to see in the city – so make sure to stop by on your trip!

14. Explore Thessaloniki’s 8 museums

Thessaloniki has the 8 following museums that you can visit on your trip:

• Archaeological Museum
• Atatürk Museum
• Byzantine Culture Museum
• Cinema Museum
• Noesis – Science Center and Technology Museum
• Jewish Museum
• Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art
• Thessaloniki Museum of Photography
• White Tower

The opening hours and ticket prices differ from museum to museum. So, we suggest that you choose whichever sounds the most interesting to you and go look up the times and prices for that specific museum.

Unfortunately, we don’t have museum recommendations for you because neither Glenn or I made it to any of the museums. So leave us a comment below if you want to share your experience with us, and hopefully we can visit some of these museums in our next trip to Thessaloniki.

15. Get your Greek goods at Modiano Market

One of the best things to do in Thessaloniki, if you’re a BIG foodie, is to visit the Modiano Market. The market is located in an old building from 1922, which was designed by architect Eli Modiano.

Here you can buy spices and herbs, nuts and beans, Greek olives, fruit, Feta cheese, fresh fish, meat – and much more!

So remember to stop by the Modiano Market if you want to bring some Greek goods home with you – just make sure that you can take it with you through customs when you return to your home country… So probably DON’T fill up your luggage with fish… Just a tip.

If you want to dive deeper into the food culture in Thessaloniki, then you can also join a food tour where you get to eat and drink your way through Thessaloniki, visit the local market, and learn about the culture and traditions from a local guide.

The Modiano Market is open every day of the week except for Sundays. The opening hours differ in the evenings and afternoons of the weekdays. So if you want to make sure to stop by the market while it’s open, then you should probably visit earlier in the day.

16. Explore the Ancient Agora of Thessaloniki

One of the best historical things to see in Thessaloniki is the Ancient Agora! Also known as the Roman Forum, this was probably one of the most important places in the city during the Hellenistic time period.

Several Roman baths, a stoa, and a small theater has been discovered in the area. You can either visit the Ancient Agora by paying the entrance fee to walk among the ruins, or you can just walk by and get some great (and free!) views from the outside.

*Please notice that the Ancient Agora may still be closed due to excavation, but it’s still totally worth it to go by and get the views from the outside – we visited in 2021*

17. Have a drink at Ladadika

Ladadika is a historical and hip district located close to the harbor of Thessaloniki. This is one of the best places to go in Thessaloniki if you’re looking for some cozy bars.

The neighborhood got its name from the olive oil merchants who had their shops in the area up until 1917.

Ladadika has a different architecture and atmosphere than the rest of Thessaloniki, which gives it a permanent spot on this list of the best things to do in the city. So make sure to have a walk in the neighborhood and stop by for a glass of Retsina or a pint of beer. Definitely a must see!

18. Go shopping

If we have to be totally honest, then we DON’T think that shopping is one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki.

Nonetheless, there are so many shops – both local and international stores, which you can visit on your trip if you want to do a little bit of shopping.

Just make sure to also enjoy some of the great attractions of Thessaloniki, which are mentioned on this list.

19. Go to the beach

Are you visiting Thessaloniki during the summer? Then make sure to take a trip to one of the many great beaches in the nearby area! I mean, going for a swim in the Aegean Sea surely must be one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki during the hot summer months.

We (unfortunately!) visited Thessaloniki during Fall, so we decided to skip the beaches this time around. So, we have no recommendations for you… But here is a link to a beach guide made by a fellow blogger: Best beaches near Thessaloniki .

20. Go on a day trip

Already seen enough of Thessaloniki? Then go on a day trip!

Greece has a great train, bus, and ferry network – so you can easily go on a 1- or 2-day trip from Thessaloniki to somewhere else in Greece.

You can visit or go on a tour to the bays and sandy beaches of Halkidiki, the incredible monasteries at Meteora , go relax in the Pozar thermal baths , or visit Dion and Mount Olympus .

Greece has so much to offer! You’ll never run out of things to see in this amazing country.

Related blog post: Full Guide to Visiting the Meteora Monasteries in Greece

Our favorite things to do in Thessaloniki – MUST SEE

All right. Before we put an end to this blog post about all the best things to do in Thessaloniki, we want to share our favorite places and moments in the city.

Thessaloniki has so much interesting history and culture, but it was honestly its beauty that did it for us… While downtown may not look that appealing, Ano Poli certainly is! You must not skip out on this neighborhood located on the hill. You’ll find some breathtaking views of the ocean and the city center, which are definitely a MUST SEE.

Apart from Ano Poli, we also really loved the waterfront. Walking in between the bustling city and the Aegan Sea was really nice. Especially during sunset when the sky turns orange. Just lovely!

So our advice to you is that while it’s easy to get lost in all the culture and history that the city has to offer, it’s also important that you get to appreciate the many beautiful places in Thessaloniki.

FAQ: Things to know before your trip to Thessaloniki

If it isn’t obvious by now, then we wouldn’t know how to convince you to visit. We think this blog post pretty much sums up all the great things to do in Thessaloniki and thus why it’s worth visiting. But in 3 words: The viewpoints, the history, and the food. Still doubting? Read this related blog post: Why visit Greece?

By Public bus: Follow the bus signs when you exit the airport and buy your ticket at the bus stop. We paid €2 per person and took bus X1. The public bus took around 45 minutes from the airport to Thessaloniki city center. By taxi: The price is around €20 and the trip takes 30 minutes. Need help? Book your private transfer on Viator .

Yes. There are criminal activities everywhere in the world – also in Thessaloniki. But don’t overthink safety issues here. We found it super safe! So as long as you use your common sense and take care of your belongings, then you’ll be just fine.

We paid €36 per night for a small apartment and €50 in total for food and drinks for 2 people. So you can easily live for under €100 as a couple per day. However, it also depends on how many attractions you want to see while you’re in Thessaloniki. The more sightseeing you do, the more money you spent.

We hope you enjoyed this blog post about all the best things to do in Thessaloniki! I feel like we still only scratched the surface of Thessaloniki, so Glenn and I will definitely be back some day to explore more of this beautiful city and update this blog post for you.

Please do share your experience or questions in the comment section below. Thanks for reading and happy travels!

• Check out this blog post before your trip to Greece: What is Greece famous and known for?
• Looking for an island getaway after Thessaloniki? Check out: Best things to do in Skopelos

Hi, I'm Cecilie! And I'm the writer behind our travel blog. I only write about places that we've personally been to and want to recommend to you. I'm passionate about creating truthful travel guides, which can help you plan your own trip. When I'm not traveling or writing, you'll find me on a hiking trail, in a coffee shop, or in a shoe store around Copenhagen.

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

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

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

Great idea!

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

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

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

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

Let’s find out!

1. The White Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Simply click on the button below to book it:

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

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

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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,

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• Thessaloniki

56 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki, Greece offers the perfect destination within the Hellenic republic to explore for yourself the incredible Mediterranean food markets, fascinating Byzantine culture, abundant art exhibits, and historic ruins at the turn of every corner.

A city located in the northern region of Greece, and with a name that combines the Macedonian princess’s name “Thessaly” with the word for victory, “Nike” – Thessaloniki is a city that truly lives up to its name with a history showcasing continuous triumph throughout the years.

From its stunning natural sights like Lake Kerkini to the buzzing Aristotelous Square, and youthful university scene, let’s take a look at this list of 56 fun and unusual things to do in Thessaloniki , Greece, to get your ideas flowing for your upcoming travels to Greece’s major northern city.

1 – Learn about the history of the city and its people at the White Tower of Thessaloniki

Step inside the 15th-century White Tower of Thessaloniki, built after the Ottoman Empire overtook the city of Thessaloniki.

Situated on the Palia Paralia (the old waterfront), the White Tower served as many things including a prison and place of execution, serving as an air defense against enemies, as well as housing a university’s meteorology center.

Today, visitors can step inside to view the White Tower Museum , holding relics from its past uses, the intricate history of the city, its people, religion, and more within its 6 floors.

Reach the balcony on top for stunning views of the sea and city.

• White Tower tours

2 – Take a journey through the archaeological past of Thessaloniki at the Archaeological Museum

Visit the fascinating and renowned Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.

Housing various exhibits and collections, spanning the different eras of the city, take your time strolling from the prehistoric era, all the way to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and the outdoor ruins.

Learn about and see different historical pieces found throughout the city and the neighboring countries, from a collection of golden wreaths from the 6th century to stone monuments, and lastly, go through an interactive exhibit giving you a closer look into specific works of mosaic art and sculptures.

Tickets for the museum start at 8 euros for adults.

• Archaeological Museum tours

3 – Walk around and under the Arch of Galerius

Known as the “Kamara”, the Arch of Galerius is a magnificent historical structure that is situated in the heart of the city, surrounded by shops and people living everyday life.

The Arch is most commonly known to have been built to commemorate the Roman Emperor Galerius’ win over the Persian army in the Battle of Satala in 299 AD.

Though the arch was much more detailed when it was first built, today, only a bit of the arch stands, with a few engravings still noticeable.

Be sure to book a city tour to stop at the Arch of Galerius, and learn more about the details of how it was built.

4 – Take a walk around Aristotelous Square

Donning a typical French and Byzantine architectural style is the Aristotelous Square, also known to locals as the heart of the city of Thessaloniki.

As an effort to add a large, open, gathering space for people to socialize at the beginning of the 1900s, the square, located on Nikis Avenue, is considered to be Greece’s most iconic and well-known square.

Take a stroll through the square, observing the different shops, restaurants, and cafes, while listening to the street performers nearby, and letting your gaze meet with the sea on the horizon.

Nearby are a few excavations like an ancient Roman Agora worth checking out.

5 – Take a day trip to the fascinating monasteries of Meteora

Book a day trip to the magnificent sight of the 6 Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched up on top of round mountains called Meteora, only a 2.5-hour’s journey from Thessaloniki.

Either drive up the mountains or brave the almost 4-hour hike to reach the top of the mountains, where you’ll be able to visit a few of the monasteries like the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, dating back to the 14th century.

At the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the villages below.

Make sure to dress conservatively if entering the monasteries, covering the shoulders and legs.

• Meteora day trips from Thessaloniki

6 – Get to know the dark history of the Heptapyrgion of Thessalonica

Visit what is known as the “Acropolis of Thessaloniki” a fortress built by the Ottoman Empire after taking over the city in the 1400s, and serving as a “stand-in” acropolis that had been destroyed previously.

Overtaken with memories of converting into a prison, tortured inmates, dictatorships, and even involvement with the Nazis, the Heptapyrgion of Thessalonica today doesn’t hold the best of memories for the citizens of Thessaloniki.

Although the prison finally closed in the late 80s, the site today has been restored to welcome visitors to step inside and around its 10 towers, and learn more about its ominous history, for free.

7 – Spend some time exploring the best churches in Thessaloniki

The Church of St. Demetrios is considered one of the most well-known churches in Thessaloniki for being named after the city’s patron saint, Demetrios. Visit inside to see what a traditional orthodox church looks like, as well as the ancient paintings of saints on the walls and pillars.

Step inside the Church of Panagia Chalkeon, translating to The Virgin of Coppersmiths due to its location in the city known to be home of the coppersmiths of the city in 1028. The Latomos Monastery – Holy Church of Hosios David is fascinating due to its majestic frescoes and mosaic interiors, which date back to the 5th century.

Visit the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Acheiropoietos, situated in the heart of the city, to view centuries-old corinthian style columns, frescoes on the inside of the arches on both sides of the church, and more.

Recognized for its red and white brick exterior, the Church of Prophet Elias dates back to 1360 and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not to miss in the city. See remnants of Islam and Orthodox religion inside the Church of the Holy Apostles, which was overtaken when the Ottoman Empire took over Thessaloniki in 1430.

Take in the different architectural influences from Byzantine and Neo-Classical inside the Saint Gregory Palamas Holy Metropolitan Church, often hosting social festivities.

8 – Visit the circular Roman monument called Rotonda

Take a walking tour to explore the Rotonda, right beside the Arch of Galerius, known to have been a space of various religious uses from originally being a temple dedicated to an unknown god, to converting into an orthodox church, a mosque, and then an orthodox again.

Today, the Rotonda, which dates to 306 AD, has been transformed after suffering a devastating earthquake in the late 80s into a cultural venue often housing temporary exhibits.

Also inside, you can expect to find a collection of sculptures and pieces that were part of important monuments in Thessaloniki like the intricate engravings of the Arch of Galerius.

• walking tours in Thessaloniki

9 – Admire the Agia Sofia Square and its recreational activities

Agia Sofia Square is a public square situated in the heart of the city, where people convene and get together to enjoy an ice cream or cool drink on a hot day.

Within Agia Sofia Square sits the emblem of the area, the Cathedral Church of Hagia Sofia, recognized as the most impressive Byzantine cathedral in the city and one of the oldest.

The Agia Sofia in Thessaloniki takes inspiration from the Hagia Sofia in Istanbul, which was built in the 7th century in the city.

Make sure to visit to view the magnificent dome adorned with frescoes, mosaics, the Iconostasis, and various icons inside.

10 – Sit back and relax on a hop-on hop-off bus tour

Tired of walking everywhere but you want to keep exploring the city?

Consider booking a relaxing, highly enjoyable, and educative hop-on hop-off bus tour, taking you through the city’s major avenues, streets, and sights, without having to leave your seat.

While on the bus tour, enjoy listening to facts spoken throughout the speakers inside the bus, as you sit back and take in the sights.

Hop-on hop-off bus tours also have stops along the way and allow you to get on/off at any of the stops whenever you want to step out and explore yourself, offering both free time and transport with 1 ticket.

• bus tours in Thessaloniki

11 – Visit the Museum of Byzantine Culture

Check out the Byzantine treasures inside the Museum of Byzantine Culture , and visit the 11 rooms of the permanent exhibition, shifting through many examples of Byzantine art, based on artifacts excavated throughout Thessaloniki.

From mosaics to tools, religious relics, personal items from people that lived during the era, and more can be found within the museum, and be learned and understood via technology installed in the exhibits.

Take a glimpse into everyday life and the early beginnings of Christianity in the city, and how the city was taken over during the Turkish occupation.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out the private collections of Byzantine art.

12 – Plan an exciting day trip to the home of the Greek gods at Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is known to be the highest mountain in Greece, and mythologically, the site where the Olympian gods settled after winning a war.

Various day trips are available, including stops in other places like Dion , known for its historical ruins, ancient theater, and walking the same paths that the gods did once.

When you get to Mount Olympus, there are dozens of activities awaiting you. Everything from hiking , canyoning , or appreciating the natural abundance and wildlife.

If you are looking specifically to book a hiking or canyoning tour without other stops, consider booking those separately and dedicating a whole day or two for those activities.

• Mount Olympus day trips from Thessaloniki

13 – Learn about the legacy of a Turkish hero at the Atatürk Museum

Learn about the life and achievements of the Turkish historical figure, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, leader of the movement to modernize the republic of Turkey between 1923-1938.

Inside the 3-floored building given by the city of Thessaloniki, go through the museum, noticing the furniture fitting in with the times of Atatürk’s lifetime, most imported from Turkey while browsing the interesting exhibits detailing his fascinating life story.

Step outside to enjoy the courtyard to take in the refreshing sight of beautifully manicured gardens and fresh air.

The Atatürk Museum is located beside the Turkish Consulate, a quick 4-minute drive from the Church of St. Demetrios.

14 – Feel like an ancient Roman at the Roman Forum of Thessaloniki

Easily identifiable near the Aristotelous Square is the Roman Forum of Thessaloniki, a place dedicated to social and political life, built by the Romans in the late 1st century AD.

See for yourself the remnants of what used to be an urban, buzzing center where life took place way back when, with the impressive condition of the theaters, and remnants of fountains, arches, and more.

For 2 euros visit the underground museum, viewing from within the forum maps and images of the grandeur of the forum.

Nearby is the statue of Eleftherios Venizelos known as one of the most important historical Greek figures during WWll, helping to modernize Greece.

15 – Spend your day market hopping around the best markets

A visit to Thessaloniki cannot be complete without a trip to the local markets, where the scents of fresh ingredients will tantalize your senses, and make you a bit hungry.

Stop by Kapani Market for a one-stop shop for fresh ingredients, prepared Greek foods, and even clothes and accessories, all under one roof – making it the perfect market to visit on a rainy day.

Check out the 75+ shops inside the Agora Modiano Market , another great, enclosed market, offering visitors a modern take on a classic Greek market. At this market, expect an even wider spectrum of food and ingredients, ranging from Greek, Mediterranean, and foods influenced by different populations in the city like the Sephardic Jewish people, and neighboring countries.

Bezesteni Ottoman Market is a bit of a different yet interesting market to check out. Dating back to the 15th century, this market is a local favorite, and the perfect cultural hub to reach for Ottoman-influenced products like tapestries, jewelry, shoes, and textiles.

16 – Plan a day trip to the sacred Orthodox Christian peninsula, Mount Athos

Consisting of approximately 20 monasteries, and housing around 200 monks is one of the most important religious hubs for the Orthodox Christian world, called Mount Athos. Those who live on Mount Athos dedicate their life to living their religion and separating themselves voluntarily from secular activities.

Due to its religious rules, for thousands of years, women have not been allowed to enter the religious peninsula, and today, the only way to see it whether you’re a woman or non-Orthodox is from a distance on a cruise.

Book a day cruise to this unique site in Greece, which also includes a stop at the quaint beach town of Ouranoupoli .

• Mount Athos day trips from Thessaloniki

17 – Find the best contemporary art in the city at the Museums of Visual Arts of Thessaloniki

Bringing together 4 of Thessaloniki’s leading contemporary art museums is the Museums of Visual Arts of Thessaloniki (MOMus) – with the main purpose of promoting visual art, and Greek culture to the country and the world.

The permanent exhibits inside show different areas of art, starting with the Museum of Modern Art , known for housing examples of the modernism art movement in Greece, to Russian avant-garde examples.

The Museum of Contemporary Art shares various examples of Greek visual arts, from private collections showcasing abstract arrangements, to sculptures, and paintings. It’s truly the best collection of contemporary art to see in the city.

The Thessaloniki Museum of Photography is a photographer lover’s dream come true, with various exhibits and collections showcasing not only Greek examples of photographic art but also showcasing some of the most important moments in Greek history via photography.

Lastly, the Experimental Center for the Arts is an art space where artistic expression of all kinds is exposed – new talent is promoted and showcased, and artistic innovation is encouraged.

18 – Get impressive views of Mount Olympus at the Byzantine Vlatadon Monastery

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vlatadon Monastery, known as one of the oldest and longest-surviving Byzantine structures, and for being in constant operation no matter the political and religious disputes and tumultuous times.

Visit the monastery to see the impressive interiors, still preserving their original engravings of Byzantine icons, as well as to get some of the best views of the city, and even a clear view of Mount Olympus in the distance on a sunny day.

The monastery is located near the Walls of Thessaloniki and only takes around 16 minutes to walk from the city center.

19 – Admire the statue of the legendary Alexander the Great and visit the Alexander the Great Garden

Want to get closer to the grandeur of Alexander the Great? Visit his statute, located just a 3-minute walk from The Umbrellas art display at Nea Paralia.

Alexander the Great was known for spreading Greek culture and influence through various countries from Greece to northern India and getting rid of the Persian Empire, making him one of the most impressive military commanders of all time.

The statue itself is impressive, measuring around 20 meters tall. When visiting this famous statue, stick around to enjoy the company of locals as they love to gather here to grab a coffee, spend time outside, and catch the sunset.

20 – Take a day trip to Alexander the Great’s hometown of Vergina

Located a little under 1 hour west of Thessaloniki is the city of Vergina in which Alexander the Great was born, and where he was proclaimed king after his father’s assassination.

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Pella to see the archaeological sites and remnants of mosaics, towering columns, statues, and frescoes, and stop by the tomb of Phillip ll, Alexander the Great’s father.

Book a day trip from Thessaloniki, which will take you to the sites with tremendous history, well-conserved ruins, and restored temples, while also stopping by the area of Pella , named after the ancient city and first capital city of Macedonia.

• Vergina day trips from Thessaloniki

21 – Learn about the Sephardic Jewish people at the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

Located in the heart of the city is the fascinating Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki , where you can learn about the history of the Sephardic Jewish people.

After being expelled from Spain, many people of the Jewish faith from Spain (Sephardic Jews) were forced to relocate, and some chose to move to modern-day Thessaloniki.

Currently, the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki serves as a physical home with artifacts and archives of their day-to-day life in Greece.

Situated within one of the last standing Jewish structures in the city, explore the scholar, medicinal, and cultural influence that the Sephardic Jewish people input into Greek culture.

22 – Get a picture of The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos

Found on the seafront promenade of Thessaloniki is the sight of an outdoor art display known as the Umbrellas, consisting of several umbrellas perched up 13 meters high on metal rods.

Created by Zongolopoulos, a Greek sculptor, The Umbrellas draw the attention of various people to view with their own eyes or take a photo or two. It has unofficially become a landmark in the city, and a site highly recognized on social media.

Make sure to stop by during the sunset or the evening, to see the display illuminated in bright lights, and of course, snap your own photo.

23 – Enjoy a sampling of Greek dishes on a food tour

A food tour is the way to go to be able to get a grasp on what exactly traditional Greek food is, specifically, in northern Greece.

Book a food tour with a local foodie, taking your taste buds on a culinary journey through some of the markets in Thessaloniki, where your senses will awaken with aromas of fragrant ingredients like dill, olives, oregano, and capers.

Enjoy the smell of freshly made Greek dishes like Koulouria (a sesame seed bread), Bougiourdi (baked feta and peppers), and a taste of Sephardic cuisine as well.

Food tours start at around $45 USD.

• food tours in Thessaloniki

24 – Experience a truly healing moment at Pozar Thermal Baths for the day

Explore a day trip up north 1.5 hours from Thessaloniki, to relax and enjoy the healing thermal waters at Pozar Thermal Baths.

Pozar, meaning “Beneath the Fire” in Slavic language, has 24-hour private baths available to enjoy the therapeutic and warm waters, or you can also enjoy the massage spas nearby, revitalizing your physical body after exploring the city.

The thermal baths also have various hiking trails that you can do, from easy to moderate in difficulty.

Prepare your body with a therapeutic massage, designed to work in conjunction with the baths, and to absorb the minerals of the water.

• Pozar Thermal Baths day trips

25 – Read about the bravery of Greek soldiers inside the War Museum of Thessaloniki

Take a moment to wander through the exhibits inside the War Museum of Thessaloniki , offering collections, archives, and memorabilia from war times in Greece, and more specifically, Thessaloniki.

Learn about the involvement of Greek soldiers in world wars including the Balkan Wars, WWl, and WWll, as well as national wars like the clashes with the Ottoman Empire, the Greco-Italian war and the Battle of Crete, and more.

Also inside are interesting facts regarding the Greek flag, its design, when it was established as the flag representing the country, as well as the Greek army, and what the world Hellenic really means.

26 – Get the best views of the city and sea from the Trigonion (Chain) Tower

Book a walking tour to visit the Anna Palaiologina Gate, and then arrive at the defense fortress connected to the Trigonion Tower, also known as the Chain Tower.

The Trigonion Tower was used previously to store military equipment and dates back to 390 AD, and today, the tower and the fortification can be reached best on foot, only taking around 15 minutes from the Arch of Galerius.

When you make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views of the city, and the sea, as well as be able to enjoy a relaxing ambiance above with locals typically gathering here during sunset.

27 – Have some fun at Magic Park

If you’re traveling with kids, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to spend some family time at Magic Park .

Magic Park is a local favorite theme park, featuring dozens of games and rides designed for children, from mini roller coasters, carousels, bumper cars, slides, and even a big Ferris wheel.

Come hungry to enjoy a variety of food options and fast service inside the theme park, geared towards children’s favorite foods and local classics.

The best way to get to Magic Park is either driving yourself 16 minutes south or taking a few buses from the city center, to the park.

28 – Check out the Gaudi-like Pasha’s Gardens

Take a moment of relaxation and pleasant vibes at Pasha’s Gardens, only a 4-minute drive from the city center.

Directly located beside the Agios Dimitrios hospital, visitors can walk around and explore the ruins inside the park, said by many to remind them of a creation designed by Spain’s Gaudi.

Take in the unique style of the fountain, cisterns, and stonework, not found in any part of the city, as you unpack a picnic and enjoy the green galore in this corner of the city.

If you have children, they will enjoy the playgrounds and running room within the park.

29 – Reconnect with nature at Lake Kerkini

Travel 1.5 hours north to Lake Kerkini for a day at the lake, birdwatching, and soaking up magnificent beauty you cannot get in the city.

Everything from pelicans, to eagles, and much more are present at the lake, and oftentimes, are even seen gathering together to catch fish to eat from the lake.

Aside from the natural beauty of the artificial lake, its creation in 1932 has proved to be beneficial to restoring the local biodiversity, and even extending the benefits to neighboring countries.

Visit the lake, and its charming nearby towns like Vyronia, where they have excellent restaurants, hiking, biking, and even an aquarium.

• Lake Kerkini day trips from Thessaloniki

30 – Challenge your own perceptions at the Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki

Look twice at everything inside the Museum of Illusions in Thessaloniki, where creativity leaps out to you, from kaleidoscope effects, massive holographic images appearing right before you, walking through the mysterious infinity tunnel, and so much more.

A great activity to do when it’s raining, the Museum of Illusions will take you for a loop with all its wacky and whimsical exhibits, forcing you to think outside the box, and triggering your imagination.

From the rotating room to the infinity wall, you won’t come out the same after this experience.

Tickets can be purchased online and start at 10 euros for general admission.

• Museum of Illusions tickets

31 – Relax and rejuvenate with Physis Massage Therapy

After so much sightseeing and possible bike riding, treat yourself and your body with Physis Massage Therapy , a massage center well known in Thessaloniki, and famed for its massages and whole body treatments.

Step inside the zen space, and immediately feel the essential oils in the air begin to relax your stresses away, preparing you for your treatments ahead.

Services offered at this massage space range from deep tissue massages, cupping therapies, hot stone therapies, Gua Sha lift massages, and more.

Bookings can be made on their main website, where you can select any services you’d like to get, and when you’d like to pop in.

32 – Walk the same paths that wealthy Romans walked through at Octagon Palace

Visit the Octagon Palace, said to be built to be an audience hall or a church in 311 AD.

Walk through as you read the plaques detailing more of the history, and imagine the almost 29-meter tall ceiling, as well as the remnants of the interior decoration, from the geometric-shaped motifs, and the blue and green colors of the floors.

Situated in the Galerian Complex, the Octagon Palace is surrounded by ruins that made up the rest of this rather luxurious socializing space in the early history of the city.

33 – Absorb abstract art and other forms of art inside the Teloglion Fine Arts Foundation

Search through the Teloglion Fine Arts Foundation , a collection of paintings that shares artistic representations of different events in Greece, as well as examples of abstract art specifically in Northern Greece.

The expansive collection, amounting to approximately 7,000 art pieces, was donated by husband and wife, Nestor and Aliki Telloglou, hence the name of the foundation.

View the different styles of art, from Baroque to Expressionism, to Neoclassicism, Surrealism, and more, while also checking out Roman pottery pieces, wood reliefs from Thailand, and samples of Arabic and Chinese art.

The Teloglion Fine Arts Foundation is located across from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

34 – Catch the sun rays at Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon on a day trip

Frolic through the powder white sands, and splash in the turquoise blue waters of Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon, situated 1 hour south of Thessaloniki.

Take a day tour, and comfortably arrive at the pristine location, where activities like snorkeling and swimming are awaiting you.

Take a cruise, and sail through the virtually uncharted waters and islands on the lagoon, with the sound of light splashes of water and Greek music in the background.

Relax and let your worries wash away on the shores, the only thing you need to remember is to bring your sunblock and beach towel, and you’re set.

• Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon day trips

35 – Enjoy a cup of traditional Greek coffee

While in Greece, do as the Greeks do, which involves ordering a typical Greek coffee for yourself.

Characterized by its strong and pungent taste, typically prepared without sugar, Greek coffee is composed of roasted beans, blended to a fine powder, and added to some boiling water until it creates a foam on the top.

Order your cup of Greek coffee at one of the many trendy and chill cafes in Thessaloniki, from the waterfront Cafe Nikis 35 serving cool vibes and an iced Greek coffee called Freddos to the vintage and classic Thermaikos also on the waterfront.

36 – Soar through the Greek atmosphere skydiving in Polykastro

Adrenaline junkies cannot miss the incredible opportunity to skydive in Polykastro, located 40 minutes north of Thessaloniki.

Get briefed on safety procedures, and understand the process of skydiving with a professional team, who answers any and all questions you may have to ease any nerves, and then take to the skies.

Drop back to earth some 3,500 meters, attached to a professional skydiver, taking in the incredible sights of the village of Polykastro, as well as the stunning nature surrounding the town of rivers and forests.

Make sure to know that many of the skydiving experiences are only available on the weekends.

• skydiving in Thessaloniki

37 – Splish splash around Waterland

Refresh and enjoy the fun at Waterland , Thessaloniki’s favorite water park, and Greece’s largest aquatic center, featuring fun for all ages.

Located only 30 minutes away from Thessaloniki, children can enjoy kiddie fun at the Kid’s Pool or the Wave Pool, while adults can also have their adventurous fun on the multi-slides, or balance their trek over a rope trail.

Those parents who are looking for a bit of relaxation can find it in the Zen Pools, featuring multiple hydro massage jets, and gentle, outdoor waterfalls.

Day passes can be reserved online, starting at 18 euros per day for adults and 14 euros for children between 4-12.

38 – Dive into the world of Greek technology at the Noesis Science Center & Technology Museum

Visit the central hub for all things science and technology at the Noesis – Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum .

Go to learn and experience technology at its best, starting with examples of ancient Greek technology like shipbuilding and long-distance communications, view various examples of cars throughout the years, and check out the Technopark, offering various interactive activities inside.

Make sure to check out the temporary exhibits, featuring shadow art exhibits, the influence of the internet and computers, and deep dive into AI technologies.

The technology museum is located south of the city, with tickets starting at 12 euros for individuals.

39 – Enjoy the musical stylings of talented Greek artists at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall

Book concert tickets to attend a show at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall , featuring talent both from Greece, as well as internationally.

Aside from live music concerts, plenty of other events take place at the concert hall, from theater and dance performances, live lectures, symphonic concerts, opera, choral music, and more.

For a cultural event, attend a Greek music concert, typically hosted in the concert hall.

Inside, you can enjoy dinner and a show, or even a brunch and midday performance at the restaurant serving high-quality food, with incredible hospitality.

Be sure to get your concert tickets can be directly purchased ahead of time, online.

40 – Enjoy the breeze on a boat tour

Sail the seas on a fantastic boat tour, cruising through crystal blue waters of the Thermaic Gulf, as you take in the spectacular sights and sun rays with a group of 6-7 other people.

Enjoy the light breeze, as you take a private boat tour, arriving at Navagio Beach, and getting the opportunity to snorkel down to the depths of the water where a shipwreck has been discovered, or simply swim, or sunbathe.

Boat tours start at $90 USD, and typically last 6+ hours. Make sure to pack your sunblock, towel, and bathing suit to enjoy the fullest this day in the sun.

• boat tours from Thessaloniki

41 – Check out the theatrical performances at the Lazaristes Monastery

Visit what used to be a functioning monastery called Lazaristes Monastery , located in the heart of Thessaloniki.

Inside, multiple cultural events take place on the 7 varied indoor and outdoor stages, offering everything from theater and dance performances, film screenings, educational programs, and other different cultural festivals offered mostly in Greek, but some in English.

Though most productions are for adults, children-specific performances are available too.

Tickets to the productions held inside the Lazaristes Monastery can be purchased ahead of time online, so be sure to check out the upcoming calendar of events, always bringing the most up-to-date information.

42 – Have a memorable dining experience at the modern OTE Tower

Built in 1966 the OTE Tower, a 76-meter high building towering over central Thessaloniki was previously used for television and communications in the 60s-70s, until receiving a renovation in 2005.

Today, the OTE Tower now holds various cultural events and is perhaps most widely known for its great Skyline Bar located on the top of the tower.

With its incredible sights of the city and water, and its rotating feature making it stand out from any other modern attraction in the city, make sure to stop by for a memorable dining experience , where you’ll get the best 360-degree views of the city, paired with a 5-star meal.

43 – Stop by one of the most important Ottoman Empire buildings, the Bey Hamam

Also known as Paradise Baths, the Bey Hamam is the oldest Ottoman bath in the city, dating back to 1444.

Other than serving as a space for personal hygiene, it was believed that the Ottoman Empire also placed importance on these spaces for socializing and spiritual rituals.

The Bey Hamam is currently undergoing renovations but has been open to the public to see the spectacular interior frescoes of plants and animals, as well as the mosaic works and marble floors.

Nearby are a few cafes, one of which is two stories, so be sure to climb up and get an even wider view of the baths, from a bird’s eye perspective.

44 – Walk through the Water Garden

Stroll through one of the promenade parks called Water Garden. Take a bike ride, walk, or quick jog, or simply take a seat on one of the benches overlooking the magnificent blue waters and feel the soft breeze.

Nearby there are cafes, beautifully manicured gardens, and newly planted trees, offering a slice of peace and tranquility right in the city.

The city is currently in the works of building more parks on the promenade that go along the water, and currently open is Water Garden. If you want to have a true moment of peace by the water, try going before 9 am.

45 – Take some time at the Folklife & Ethnological Museum of Macedonia & Thrace

Make sure to stop by the Folklife & Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace , where you can get a close-up view through the archives and materials collected, what life was like in earlier centuries, and the humble beginnings of the towns of the region.

Learn about some of the most common trades, the typical dress of various communities in Northern Greece, specifically Macedonia and Thrace, the agricultural practices, social norms, and organization.

Truly providing a complete snapshot of the past, this museum is considered one of the best ethnographic museums in the country. Stop by the museum’s gardens, flourishing with color, life, and extreme beauty.

46 – Do some off-roading in the wilderness of Halkidiki on a Jeep tour

Take a rugged yet exhilarating Jeep Tour through the breathtaking wilderness of Halkidiki’s Mediterranean forests, its stunning, natural peninsulas, and colors of turquoise blues and white sands.

A sight to take in yourself, you’ll want to add this activity to your list of things to do in Thessaloniki for its fantastic beaches, adrenaline-pumping fun, and fantastic terrain to do some off-roading on a Jeep Tour.

Jeep Tour packages include travel between Thessaloniki and Halkidiki, as well as protective gear, guides, and light snacks.

Make sure to wear clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, and that is comfortable to perform physical activity.

• jeep tours in Thessaloniki

47 – Learn about the tragic story behind the beautiful Villa Bianca

The Villa Bianca has Sephardi roots, belonging to a wealthy Spanish Jewish man, who after leaving Spain with his family, relocated to Thessaloniki, and built this prestigious mansion in the early 1900s.

Though their story doesn’t end well, the home today is open, allowing visitors to check out the new home of the Municipal Art Gallery, as well as to learn about the history and the first owners of their home.

The over 1,000 art pieces range from Thessalonian art to Byzantine works, and modern and contemporary pieces. Walk through the library, scanning the various publications and pieces of classical Greek literature.

48 – Have a fun time practicing water sports and activities on Greece’s best beaches

Water sports abound in Thessaloniki, with the multiple bodies of water nearby the city center, enjoy anything from stand-up paddleboarding on the Mediterranean waters or go a little more adventurous with windsurfing on Angelochori Beach.

Kitesurfing is another popular water sport to enjoy on Epanomi beach, with a professional sharing the perfect techniques and guidance.  Dive deep into the waters of Kalithea, where you’ll enjoy a bit of sailing before arriving at the diving spot, to swim with the wildlife in the crystal blue waters.

Plan a beach day at some of the best beaches near Thessaloniki, from Agia Trinidad Beach located south of the city, to Perea Beach which attracts both locals and visitors alike, and the family-oriented Epanomi Beach.

The best parts? You don’t have to be an expert at these water sports, only have an open mind to learn and the patience to get your balance.

Also, these water sports activities take place on various beaches in Greece known for watersports, so make sure to book your specific water sports experiences for an incredibly refreshing great time.

49 – Plan a cinematic evening at an outdoor cinema

Check out Summer Cinema Ellinis, creating a shady and fresh ambiance tucked into a lush garden away from the traffic of the city, dressed in the true Greek colors of blue and white.

Featuring a great variety of movies is Open Air Cinema Apollo, also situated in the heart of the city, surrounded by lush greenery, apartment buildings, and is known for its remarkably great sound system and movie-watching experience.

Lastly, Open Air Cinema Natalie is a crowd favorite, featuring newly released movies and for its prime location, right beside the well-known Umbrella art display. It’s the perfect plan for a romantic dinner and a movie date with your partner.

50 – Learn about sports history at the Olympic Museum Thessaloniki

Sports lovers must add the Olympic Museum Thessaloniki to their growing list of things to do in Thessaloniki to gain a true and fascinating perspective and cultural viewpoint of sports in Greek society and history.

From learning about the first Olympics in Greece to learning about some of the sports invented in Greece, see for yourself the most incredible sports moments in Greek sports history, and learn about a few contemporary sports played in Greece today.

The museum is open Monday-Friday from 9 am- 7 pm, and on weekends with closing hours between 2 pm – 4 pm.

51 – Plan a delicious dining experience at the best restaurants

Dine at some of the best restaurants in Thessaloniki, ranging from exquisite Greek food to cuisines representing the world in the city.

Seafood lovers plan to stop by Mourga, a specialty seafood restaurant, offering delicious locally prepared seafood dishes, enveloped in quintessential Mediterranean flavors.

To receive a menu topped with the best Mediterranean dishes in the country, you must go to Opsopoion Magganeaia, which literally translates to “the magic of the cooks’ offering the best service, and outstanding ingredient qualities in their foods.

For strictly Greek food dishes, visit Deka Trapezia , brimming with Greek classics, and a few Greek dishes with a modern twist not to miss.

52 – Have a moment to yourself surrounded by natural beauty at the Thermi Dam

Just 30 minutes from Thessaloniki sits the quaint and nature-filled Thermi Dam, a natural reserve that offers a stunning lake, surrounded by a leafy forest, and home to dozens of natural wild species.

A place for reflection, the Thermi Dam is often adored by locals and is often a hidden gem for visitors, as it’s a place that rarely has crowds. Though the Thermi Dam started as an artificial lake, the lake has now become the home of fish and turtles.

Relax as you listen to the sound of rustling leaves in the air, and you breathe in pure air and peacefulness.

53 – Pedal your way through the city on a bike tour

Enjoy the city on two wheels by booking an exhilarating bike tour, with a passionate local guide, ready to take you through various corners of the city not often seen by tourists.

Swerve in and out between local neighborhoods, and the main streets like Egnatia Street, bike your way through markets like the Kapani Market, and ask for recommended restaurants, as you pass fascinating ruins and historical markers.

The bike tours are suitable for anyone who knows how to ride a bike and doesn’t mind peddling for around 3 hours with breaks.

Bike tours begin at $30 USD.

• bike tours in Thessaloniki

54 – See the impressive half-sunken Shipwreck Epanomi

A sight to see to believe is the Shipwreck Epanomi, situated only 50 minutes away near the coast of Epanomi Beach, and surrounded by a beautiful aquamarine color.

Take a quick half-day trip to relax and unwind at Epanomi beach, while taking a close look at the iconic shipwreck, causing travelers and locals to see it with their own eyes.

The interesting part that the shipwreck is that you don’t have to snorkel to the depths of the water to go see it, as the shipwreck is submerged halfway, making it extremely visible just sitting on the beach.

55 – Try your gambling luck at the Regency Casino Thessaloniki

Looking for some gambling fun? Check out the Regency Casino Thessaloniki , offering more than just slot machines and poker, but also a complete movie theater, a spectacular outdoor garden, and fun entertainment options, aside from the classic casino games.

The casino is a great resort to spend time in from one evening to a whole weekend, offering warm hospitality, great dining options inside, and a few nice bars to complete an evening of casino fun.

Those who want to kill some time before their flight can take advantage of the closeness to the airport, only a 4-minute drive away, and 25 minutes from Thessaloniki.

56 – Have fun visiting the best bars

Finalize your nights at some of the best bars in the city, from modern and chic dance bars to classic and local watering holes.

Drink some of the finest wines in Greece and its neighboring countries at Vin, an upscale wine bar featuring new wine picks every week and located in the city center.

On The Road is a famous bar among locals, offering typical Greek cocktails, as well as other favorite drinks. By day, it is a cafe, offering typical Greek-style coffee and great food options.

If you’re looking for some dinner and dancing, don’t think twice about checking out Shark, located in the main entertainment district of Kalamaria. Order your favorite cocktail, or try a Mediterranean-inspired drink, as the DJ starts to get people on the dance floor.

How to get to Thessaloniki?

There is one main airport in the city called Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), and it is around 20 minutes south of the city center.

To get to the city center from the airport, there are two options, one of which includes taking a public bus that can take anywhere up to over an hour to get to the city center.

There is also a taxi or other pre-booked airport transfers that can take around 20-25 minutes depending on traffic, and drop you off at the front door of your accommodation.

Where to stay in Thessaloniki?

Enjoy the chic and minimalistic accommodations at the Porto Sea View Apartments , known for its central location in the city near sights like the White Tower and Rotonda, and amazing amenities inside each apartment.

Wake up every morning with a cup of coffee on your terrace at the Maroon Bottle Boutique Suites , where continental and buffet-style breakfast is available to guests. You can even rent a bike and car right from the hotel.

Situated in the fashion-forward avenue Egnatia Street, Mandrino Hotel offers clean and spacious lodging options during your stay, as well as a breakfast buffet option. The rooms come with views of either the city or inner courtyard.

Sky Studios is steps away from a few of the city’s open-air cinemas, as well as the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki, proving to have a spectacular location close to many more sights.

• best hotels in Thessaloniki

Visiting Thessaloniki on a budget?

Don’t hesitate to check out Thessaloniki’s best-hidden city gems, and learn about its most sought out sites with a professional guide on a free walking tour .

Though the tours are free, make sure to book your spot ahead of time to ensure your place on the list.

Where to go next?

If you’re looking for a seamless way to see multiple sites that you read about in this article, make sure to check out the best multi-day tours and trips from Thessaloniki, sure to help you plan your travel plans.

And while planning your visit to the wonderful northern city of Thessaloniki, consider extending your trip and stopping by the country’s capital, Athens , known as the birthplace of democracy, and its best day trips .

Also not to miss are the spectacular islands of Greece , consisting of the Cyclades Islands like Paros , Naxos , Santorini , and Mykonos , known for their beautiful blue and white homes, and unforgettable sunsets; the Dodecanese Islands Kos and Rhodes are not to be forgotten, closer to Turkey; as well as the Ionian Island of Corfu , offering a delicious slice of Greek island life and breathtaking beaches.

Thessaloniki’s location makes it a great starting point for exploring Greece’s neighbors, such as Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria or Turkey.

Bulgaria’s deep history and outstanding landscapes are just some highlights of what makes this country such a great destination, and with so many things to do in Sofia , its lively capital, the opportunity to explore it cannot be missed. A bit further away, standing between Europe and Asia, the incredible city of Istanbul offers a unique mix of ancient architecture and history, with bustling streets and markets full of life.

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed this complete list of 56 fun and unusual things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece, and that you got more than a few ideas to add to your itinerary.

Happy travels!

Two Tickets Anywhere

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

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

Wondering what to do in Thessaloniki?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Visit Thessaloniki Greece?

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

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

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

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

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

How Many Days To Spend In Thessaloniki?

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

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

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

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

Did you know…

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

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

What To Do In Thessaloniki For 3 Days: Full Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s get to it!

What To Do In Thessaloniki On Day 1

Explore, explore, and explore!

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

But first, Coffee

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

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

Visit The Roman Rotunda

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

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

See The Arch Galerius

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

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

Visit All The Museums

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

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

The White Tower Of Thessaloniki

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

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

Dinner At The Greek

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

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

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

What To Do In Thessaloniki On Day 2

Ready for a beach day or want a different adventure?

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

Halkidiki Pensinsula – Lay On The Beach

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

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

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

Meteora – See The Magical Monastery

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

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

Pella And/Or Kavala – Visit Towns Nearby

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Do In Thessaloniki On Day 3

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

Easy! Eat, shop and soak up the atmosphere.

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

Bougatsa For Breakfast

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

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

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

Shop At The Markets

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

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

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

Shop And Wander The City

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

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

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

Meze Dinner Or Dining By The Water

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

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

Don’t Wonder What To Do In Thessaloniki Anymore

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

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

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

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

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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.

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Best Things To Do in Thessaloniki, Greece

Are you looking for what to do in Thessaloniki?

PLACES TO SEE

Thessaloniki has some of the most beautiful Monuments in Greece that belong to the Byzantine Era. There are several museums, ruins, areas and places that are sure to be a delight to see. Needless to say, the list of things to see is long. Here are a few of the highlights:

• Aristotelous Square: Aristotelous Square is the central square and perhaps most important meeting place in Thessaloniki. This square by the looks of it might seem quite simple but there is always a lot of activity here that makes it a cultural center of sorts. It is named so after the famous Greek philosopher Aristotle whose statue sits in the square.
• Church of Hagia Sofia: This beautiful, imposing and memorable church in Thessaloniki is perhaps from the 6th or 8th Century. The old and stunning structure is also perhaps one of the oldest buildings to be found in the city as well. This church may not be as famous as its namesake and counterpart in Istanbul but its gigantic beauty surely makes it a lovely tourist attraction.
• Museum of Byzantine Culture: The Museum of Byzantine Culture is a wonderful tribute to the Byzantine Era in Greece’s history. The ancient Greek and the modern Christian come together in the Byzantine tradition which is absolutely fascinating to see.
• The White Tower: The White tower is a lovely buff colored, stalky cylindrical monument that is worth seeing in Thessaloniki. This fort was once used as a strategic vantage point. As a result it has been attacked and damaged several times. The current tower is a replacement for the original one that stood there but still retains its name.
• Old Town, Anopolis: The AnoPoli or old town of Thessaloniki is a fascinating place to visit while in the city. The area was a part of the ancient walled city. The place has survived the great fire and several years and you will be able to find wonderful examples of Ottoman Architecture, Macedonian Monuments and hence many historical sites in this area.

Below we have a list of things to do in Thessaloniki and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Thessaloniki getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Thessaloniki with confidence.

• Things to do with Family & Kids in Thessaloniki
• Leisure Activities in Thessaloniki
• Entertainment Activities in Thessaloniki
• Historical Places in Thessaloniki
• Museums in Thessaloniki
• Art & Cultural Attractions in Thessaloniki

Tourist Attractions in Thessaloniki

Here is the list of things to do in Thessaloniki and tourist attractions in city.

The White Tower

Landmark, Monument, Tower

The Archaeological Museum

Art And Culture, Museum, Specialty Museum

Walking Area, Restaurant, Architecture , Old Town

Museum Of Byzantine Culture

Art And Culture, Museum

Aristotelous Square

Waterfront, Entertainment, Square

Kapani Market

Hagios Dimitrios Church

Church, Religious Site, Historical Site, Architecture

The Arch Of Galerius

Walking Area, Historical Site, Architecture

Ataturk Museum

Museum, History Museum

Vlatadon Monastery Or Vlatadon

Religious Site, Architecture , Monastery

Church Of Hagia Sofia

Agia Katerini

Church, Religious Site, Architecture

Ancient Ruin, Architecture , Archaeological Site

Macedonian Museum Of Contemporary Art

Art And Culture, Art Museum, Exhibition

Thessaloniki Airport

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Unusual Things To Do in Thessaloniki, Greece

Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki, is rich in culture, cuisine and history. Beyond the ancient ruins and abundant tavernas, the city is full of offbeat activities that will make your trip even more memorable.

Once you’ve seen the iconic White Tower – the emblem of Thessaloniki – and gazed at the Arch of Galerius, try something a little bit different: discover the city’s Jewish history, enjoy stargazing in the forest and pick up a unique antique souvenir.

Dance to DJ sets at a Turkish bathhouse

Just above the St Dimitrios Church stands the Aigli Geni Hammam Turkish bathhouse , built during the Ottoman period. The bathhouse closed after Thessaloniki’s liberation in 1912 and has since functioned as a warehouse, a cinema and now a staple of Thessaloniki’s nightlife scene. Today it is one of the most spectacular places to grab a bite to eat and a signature cocktail, as well as enjoy live DJ sets until morning. Street Outdoors Soundsystem, a Greece-based DJ and events organisation, has been hosting winter parties at the bathhouse for the past five years. Member and DJ John Petaliotis expresses the importance and singularity of Aigli’s atmosphere, saying: “Its environment often inspires us to experiment musically and follow diverse music paths.”

Go antique shopping at Bit Bazaar

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Stargaze at Seich Sou

Thessaloniki is a city in every sense of the word, and urban life is not for everyone. Nonetheless, there are some opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Hop on bus line 15 from the centre of town and after five minutes you’ll arrive in Saranta Ekklisies. From here you can enter the Seich Sou forest and enjoy a hike with a magnificent view of the city. If you’re even more daring, you can join the Thessaloniki Hikers Team at night, embarking on a stargazing adventure. Gabriel Vanakas, an outdoor activities and extreme sports expert and founder of Hikers Thessaloniki, leads stargazing hikes throughout the year. “Hidden from our senses, away from everything ordinary that happens in the city, is the Seich Sou Forest. These hikes allow people and stars to meet, making it impossible to want to stop walking,” he says. If you need to clear your head during your stay in Thessaloniki, this is definitely the way to do it.

Visit the Jewish Synagogue and Museum

To the surprise of many visitors, Thessaloniki has a rich Jewish history. The city’s pre-World War II population stood at close to 60,000, with Thessaloniki nicknamed La Madre de Israel (‘the mother of Israel’) and ‘the Jerusalem of the Balkans’. Today, the city has a small yet vibrant Jewish community of fewer than 2,000. The Jewish Synagogue on Syggrou Street is the only functioning synagogue to have remained in its pre-Holocaust state, since it was used as a warehouse by the Red Cross during the war. Follow your tour of the synagogue with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki , located a 10-minute walk towards the sea on Agiou Mina Street. To delve more into the city’s Jewish history, you can visit the Holocaust Memorial on Venizelou Street; the Old Railway Station used for the deportation of the Jewish community during the Holocaust, found in the northwestern part of the city; and Villa Bianca, a mansion formerly owned by Jewish community member Dino Fernandez Diaz and now home to the Municipal Art Gallery.

Sip on cocktails at a 21st-century speakeasy with a twist

Get a taste of the Prohibition era at the Three Pieces speakeasy, found in the buzzing Valaoritou district of Thessaloniki. Three Pieces appears to be nothing more than a street-food eatery, but it conceals something more exciting. Divided into three parts – hence its name – Three Pieces sees visitors first enter the apparent canteen. Then, at the push of a hidden door, they find themselves in a photo booth and ultimately at the speakeasy, which is big enough to fit just 15 people. Their craft beers and signature cocktails alone are worth a visit. Co-owner Achilleas Plakidas describes it as a concept business. “In just 45 square meters you can engage in three different activities: eat street food, take a photo and have a drink,” he says. This isn’t just a bar, it’s an experience –but don’t forget to grab a bite before you leave.

Watch movies at an open-air cinema

Everyone enjoys dinner and a movie. Why not do it in the open air, under the stars? Opening during the warmer months, Natali Cinema is an oasis amidst the urban jungle, and the perfect place to while away a summer evening. The cinema screens a range of films, both local and international. For the ultimate in cinematic relaxation, you can also enjoy a drink from their bar while watching the movie.

Have a glass of wine at… well, anywhere

Unlike in many countries, drinking outside in Greece is legal and rarely frowned upon. This means that you can enjoy your favourite bottle of wine or beer practically wherever you please. Local residents enjoy their drinks on the fortress walls above the city, the grass beside the White Tower and on the waterfront by the old port. Here to facilitate your al fresco (and cost-efficient) tipple is Modbar Street Coffee Bike, set on the new stretch of Thessaloniki’s waterfront promenade (running south from the White Tower). In addition to coffee, this mobile bar offers a range of cocktails and beers. The waterfront is your oyster – find a spot and watch the sunset over the Thermaic Gulf.

Find out your future with a coffee reading

Traditional Greek coffee leaves a thick layer of coffee grounds at the bottom of the cup. These mystical coffee remnants are believed (though perhaps not by everyone) to depict your future according to the shapes they form. While it’s fun to have a go at this yourself, for a more ‘professional’ reading, have your coffee cup interpreted by a fortune teller. A number of cafés on Navarinou Square offer this unusual service, including the charming Karma Café.

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