During my 6-week adventure through Europe this year, I took a 3-day trip to Thessaloniki, Greece, for my first long weekend getaway from my home base in Sofia, Bulgaria. Greece has always been one of my favorite destinations, and I was thrilled to explore new areas that I hadn’t visited before. Thessaloniki was the perfect choice as its proximity to Bulgaria made it a very convenient option for a quick escape!
While we technically could have driven down, we opted for a more relaxed journey and took a flight from Sofia. There is no direct flight to Thessaloniki even though it borders Bulgaria, so our route included a layover in the very busy Athens International Airport, before continuing to Thessaloniki – still, it wasn’t bad. Flying was a convenient choice, offering us the chance to unwind and enjoy the journey without the hassle of a long drive.
With Thessaloniki’s vibrant mix of history, culture, and stunning seaside views, there’s plenty to explore. Here I’ll share some tips on how to navigate this charming city, the best places to stay, and must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.
A Little History Of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece with a vibrant blend of history of over 2,300 years, culture, and modern life, making it an ideal destination for a 3-day getaway and boasts a rich and diverse history that spans over 2,300 years. Founded in 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedon, the city was named after his wife Thessalonike, who was the half-sister of Alexander the Great. Due to its strategic location on the Thermaic Gulf and along the Via Egnatia – a major Roman road connecting Rome to Byzantium – Thessaloniki quickly became a prominent trade and cultural hub in the ancient world.
Over the centuries, Thessaloniki has been shaped by various culture, religions, and civilizations. It flourished under Roman rule, becoming an important administrative center, and later played a significant role in the Byzantine Empire, serving as a second capital. The city is renowned for its Byzantine art and architecture, with numerous well-preserved churches, such as the Hagios Demetrios and Hagia Sophia, which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Thessaloniki’s rich history also includes periods of Ottoman rule that lasted over 500 years, during which it became a multicultural city with significant Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities coexisting. In 1912, during the First Balkan War, Greece allied with Bulgaria, Serbia, and Montenegro to fight against the Ottoman Empire, which had dominated the Balkans for centuries. This coalition sought to free their lands from Ottoman control and restore their national sovereignty. During World War I, Thessaloniki became a crucial Allied base on the Macedonian Front, hosting British and French troops who fought against Central Powers in the region. The city’s strategic location made it an essential supply and military hub throughout the war. In World War II, Thessaloniki endured Nazi occupation from 1941 to 1944, which brought significant hardship, including the tragic deportation of the city’s Jewish community to concentration camps. Despite these challenges, Thessaloniki emerged resilient, and its recovery after the war marked a period of rebuilding and cultural revival. The city’s diverse past is still evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in exploring Greece’s rich heritage.
When To Visit Thessaloniki, Greece
We visited Thessaloniki in summer, during the first week of July and it was very hot during the day, to the point it can be very uncomfortable to walk (and there will be a lot of walking). The best time to visit Thessaloniki is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) months when the weather is mild with pleasant temperatures that allow for easy and comfortable exploration of the city. Winter (December to February) is the off-season with cooler temperatures and occasional rain, and it will give you a quieter, and more relaxed experience as there are fewer visitors. Ultimately, Thessaloniki is a year-round destination if you don’t mind the heat!
How To Get Around Thessaloniki, Greece
Navigating Thessaloniki is pretty easy, making it one of the most enjoyable cities to explore in Greece – especially by foot. However, the city does have an efficient public transportation system and it’s easy to use and very affordable. The main mode of transportation is buses and you can hop on a bus almost anywhere in the city and the routes cover all the major sites you’d want to see during your visit. For those who prefer more flexibility and convenience, taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. You can also rent a bike or scooter if you still want a little fun and still be able to explore on foot but at a faster pace.
Where To Stay In Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s style and budget, from luxury hotels to cozy boutique stays, or something in between. Here are some of the best areas to consider for your stay:
City Center – for those who want to be in the heart of the action, the City Center is the ideal choice. You’ll be steps away from the famous Aristotelous Square, surrounded by shops, cafes, and historic sites. You’ll be in the heart of the bustling energy of Thessaloniki, with easy access to major attractions and a lively nightlife scene. This area is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the city’s dynamic atmosphere up close. We stayed at Polis Apartments and it was large and spacious with a welcoming and hospitable staff, although the bathroom was surprisingly very small. They also had air conditioning which is a plus.
Ana Poli (Upper Town) – if you preferred a more relaxed and authentic experience, considering staying in Ano Poli, Thessaloniki’s historic Upper Town. This charming neighborhood is known for its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, traditional Macedonian houses, and breathtaking views over the city.
Waterfront Escapes – Although there isn’t a convenient beach to get to in Thessaloniki, there are still several fantastic seaside hotels where you can wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy a view of the Aegean Sea and are just a short distance from the City Center and within walking distance of key sites. If you want beachfront, the nearby suburb of Perea as well as the areas of Agia Triada and Nei Epivates offer some excellent beachfront hotels that are a 20 to 30-minute ride from the City Center.
The Best Things To Do In Thessaloniki, Greece
Now you can spend anywhere between 2 to 4 days in Thessaloniki, and I found that 3 days was perfect, although you can really fit everything into two full days if you really need to. If you want a more leisurely time, split my itinerary down below into 3 days if you’d like. It was actually nice taking my time to explore esepcailly in the summer heat.
Thessaloniki is a treasure trove of history, culture, and great hospitality with much to keep you entertained from morning until night. Whether you’re strolling along the picturesque waterfront, exploring ancient landmarks, or immersing yourself in the local culinary scene, there’s always something fascinating to discover. From its lively squares and bustling markets to its serene churches and historical monuments, Thessaloniki boasts a wealth of attractions that showcase its rich heritage and dynamic spirit. Here are some of the best places to visit to make the most of your time in this captivating Greek city:
First Day In Thessaloniki, Greece
1 – Thessaloniki Waterfront
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – The Thessaloniki Waterfront is a must-see for its picturesque views of the Aegean Sea and coastal vibes. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, especially during sunset. Spanning about 5 kilometers, you’ll come across many restaurants, cafés, and shops. Here, you’ll also be able to visit different landmarks right by the water.
2 – Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Time Spent – 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – if you love history, this is the perfect place to delve into the rich archaeological heritage of Macedonia with artifacts from prehistoric times to the Roman period. As one of the largest museums in Greece, there are even collections from the royal tombs of Vergina, which is believed to be the final rest place of Phillip II, father of Alexander the Great.
3 – White Tower
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – Thessaloniki’s most famous landmark, it was once part of the city’s fortifications, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea at the top of the tower. Constructed by the Ottomans in the 15th century and once used as a prison, it now houses a museum dedicated to the city’s history from Roman times to the present. The exhibits are all in Greek, but they will provide free Wi-Fi and access to their translations so that you can understand the historical details here. The views at the top are gorgeous and it’s worth visiting when you’re visiting Thessaloniki.
4 – Navarinou Square
Time Spent – 20 to 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Located in the heart of Thessaloniki, Navarinou Square is a lively and picturesque spot that captures the city’s unique blend of ancient history and modern life. Built around the ruins of the Palace of Galerius, an ancient Roman complex that once served as the imperial residence, the square provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman past. Today, it is a vibrant area filled with cozy cafés, boutique shops, and colorful street art, making it a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors.
5 – Ladadika District
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – The Ladadika District is Thessaloniki’s go-to spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. With its charming, colorful neoclassical buildings and cobblestone streets, Ladadika is more than just an entertainment district—it’s a journey back in time with a modern twist. Once a bustling hub for olive oil merchants, this historic area has been transformed into a lively cultural hotspot, filled with an eclectic mix of restaurants, traditional tavernas, chic bars, and upbeat clubs. By day, Ladadika exudes a laid-back vibe, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing lunch at one of its many outdoor cafes. By night, it comes alive with music, dancing, and a lively crowd, making it the perfect place to experience the local nightlife.
6 – Aristotelous Square
Time Spent – 1 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – This is Thessaloniki’s main square, designed by a French architect and named after the famous philosopher Aristotle. I found it to be the liveliest area, especially at night with the hustle and bustle of the shops, restaurants, cafés, great views of the waterfront, and live entertainment. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city, especially during cultural festivals and events.
7 – Agora Modiano
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – This market was built in 1922 and is named after its architect Eli Modiano. It is Thessaloniki’s oldest and most famous covered market where you can explore local foods and flavors, spices, and other delicacies. Here you can sample fresh Greek produce and street food. If you’re a foodie, this is the place to try out many different culinary delights in one place.
8 – Arch of Galerius
Time Spent – 15 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Also called Kamara by the locals, this 4th-century triumphal arch commemorates the victory of Emperor Galerius over the Persians and it stands proudly as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a popular historic site and the details on this arch tell the story of Galerius’ military campaigns and provide a look into the art and politics of that time. Surrounded by a lively array of cafés, shops, and street vendors, it is perfectly positioned as a convenient point for exploring other nearby historical landmarks. Plus, its location near the waterfront means you can enjoy the sea breeze as you take in the sights. Whether you’re diving into the past or simply people-watching with a coffee in hand, the Arch of Galerius offers a perfect blend of history and modern-day Thessaloniki charm.
9 – Rotunda
Time Spent – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – Only steps away from the Arch of Galerius, the Rotunda was originally built in the early 4th century as a mausoleum for Galerius and it is one of Thessaloniki’s oldest monuments and was converted into a Christian church and then served as a cathedral until it was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. In 1912, the Rotunda was once again converted into a Christian place of worship and then dedicated to St. George in 1914. Inside was extravagant with marble slabs and mosaic art which was replaced by wall paintings instead during the Byzantine period. Today, you can still see some of the stunning mosaics, just look up at the ceiling! Often compared to Rome’s Pantheon due to its massive circular structure, it is one of the best-preserved Roman Structures in Thessaloniki.
Second Day In Thessaloniki, Greece
1 – Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
Time Spent – 20 minutes to 1 hour (if you take the tour)
Why You Should Visit – Without taking the tour inside, you can just view this ancient forum by the street. It was a social and administrative center of Roman Thessaloniki and has well-preserved remains of public buildings, baths, and an underground museum. This site was discovered accidentally in the 1960s during construction work and provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman past.
2 – Holy Church of St. Demetrius
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This is the largest church in Greece and it is dedicated to the city’s patron saint, St. Demetrius. The church is built on the site where St. Demetrius was martyred. It’s a significant religious site with stunning mosaics and an underground crypt – which was the highlight of my visit here, I felt like I was in Indiana Jones! The crypt was rediscovered in 1917 and ancient relics and artifacts were found as well. There is also a silver casket with St. Demetrius’ bones and in 1987, his casket was found to be bathed in myrrh and it wouldn’t stop flowing. This was called the myrrh-gushing miracle and also why he’s known as the Myrobelite, the exuder of myrrh.
3 – Ano Poli (Upper Town)
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Ano Poli is Thessaloniki’s old town, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and Byzantine walls. Unlike the rest of Thessaloniki, Ano Poli was not destroyed by the Great Fire of 1917, making it one of the most historic and picturesque parts of the city. The views of the city from this elevated area are also stunning. Here are also a few local restaurants to indulge in the traditional Greek cuisine.
4 – Latomos Monastery
Time Spent – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in the 5th century offers stunning views of the city and features beautiful frescos from the Byzantine period. It is one of the few remaining active monastic sites in Thessaloniki and is dedicated to David the Dendrite, a saint of Thessaloniki. Keep in mind that they do require your shoulders and knees to be covered when visiting – I know that’s hard especially in the summer.
5 – Trigonion (Chain) Tower
Time Spent – 45 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This defensive tower, also called the balcony of Thessaloniki, is part of Thessaloniki’s ancient city walls and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The tower dates back to the Byzantine era in the late 15th century and was part of the city’s fortifications around the medieval city to prevent invasion and help during a siege as it offers panoramic views. When the skies are clear, you can even see Mount Olympus from 150 kilometers away.
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