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Thessaloniki, Greece

Destination Guide

Thessaloniki

Greece

Best things to do in Thessaloniki

28 curated attractions in Thessaloniki, Greece. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - October

Average temp

15°C/59°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Take care

About Thessaloniki

Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki is a cultural hub shaped by its long and diverse history. The city has been continuously inhabited for over 2,300 years, resulting in a mix of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences visible in its architecture and historic sites, such as the Rotunda of Galerius and the White Tower. The waterfront area along Aristotelous Street is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, who come for the café culture and the fresh seafood markets. The Modiano Market stands out as a lively hub, showcasing local produce and delicacies. Despite being a major city, it retains a laid-back vibe, making it easy to explore, especially for food lovers seeking out authentic Greek cuisine. People visit for the rich historical experience, from museums to streets steeped in stories and flavors.

Who it's for

Good for those who enjoy a mix of history and local life, especially if you have a penchant for food. If you’re looking for pristine beaches or an overly polished tourist experience, this might not be your ideal spot. The city can also get crowded, especially near popular sites, which may frustrate those seeking tranquility.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The city center is walkable in about thirty minutes from end to end, making it easy to explore on foot
  • Public transport is reliable, with buses covering most areas, including the airport
  • The train station is in the city center, connecting you to other parts of Greece fairly easily
  • Taxis are available but may be more expensive than public options
Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square

Squares & plazas
Modiano Market

Modiano Market

Food markets & food halls
Ladadika District

Ladadika District

Streets & neighbourhoods
Ataturk Museum

Ataturk Museum

Historic houses & mansions
Waterfront Promenade (Nea Paralia)

Waterfront Promenade (Nea Paralia)

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
OTE Tower

OTE Tower

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Valaoritou Street

Valaoritou Street

Nightlife districts
Thessaloniki Concert Hall

Thessaloniki Concert Hall

Concert halls
Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

History museums
Rotunda of Galerius

Rotunda of Galerius

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Villa Bianca

Villa Bianca

Historic houses & mansions
Holy Cathedral Church of Hagia Sophia

Holy Cathedral Church of Hagia Sophia

Religious
Aristotelous Street waterfront

Aristotelous Street waterfront

Streets & neighbourhoods
Arch of Galerius

Arch of Galerius

Monuments & memorials
Ano Poli (Upper Town)

Ano Poli (Upper Town)

Old towns & historic quarters
St. Theodora Monastery

St. Theodora Monastery

Religious
Church of Saint Demetrius

Church of Saint Demetrius

Churches & cathedrals
Acheiropoietos Church

Acheiropoietos Church

Churches & cathedrals
Alexander the Great Statue

Alexander the Great Statue

Historical Attractions
Trigoniou Tower

Trigoniou Tower

Historical
White Tower

White Tower

Monuments & memorials
Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos

Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos

Arts and Entertainment Venues
Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum

Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum

History museums
Museum of Byzantine Culture

Museum of Byzantine Culture

History museums
Eptapyrgio

Eptapyrgio

Historical
Agios Pavlos Church

Agios Pavlos Church

Churches & cathedrals
Navarinou Square

Navarinou Square

Squares & plazas
Aretsou Marina

Aretsou Marina

Beach & Coastal Attractions

Where to eat in Thessaloniki

The places worth planning a meal around.

Skyline Tower

Skyline Tower

Mediterranean · $$$

★ 4.6 · 5,192 reviews

Senol Croissant

Senol Croissant

Greek Pastry · $5–$15

★ 4.6 · 1,597 reviews

Bord de l'eau Bar

Bord de l'eau Bar

Mediterranean · $$

Ergon Agora Thessaloniki

Ergon Agora Thessaloniki

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