Thessaloniki
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1:02 PM
Thessaloniki
Byzantine churches, crumbling ruins, modern architecture, intense nightlife and the stunning sea — this is the essence of Thessaloniki. The second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki combines more than 2,300 years of history with young student population. The city is a perfect destination for urban explorers and a gateway to the prefecture of Halkidiki in the southeast, with the characteristic shape of the three 'legs' — Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos — a favorite vacation destination for locals. Pristine beaches and charming villages aplenty.Find your trip
The White Tower is the most iconic symbol of the city. The tower was constructed by the Ottomans sometime in the early 15th century and once guarded the eastern end of the city's sea walls. In the 19th century, this tower was used as a notorious prison. Nowadays, it is a welcoming museum of art and local history. The museum offers a rapid lesson in the history of the city. Ideally, you'll take in this well-dosed overview before continuing to the more specialized museums and archeological sites. For best results, grab the free audio guide at the entrance. The last floor of the tower gives you a wonderful view of the city.
The region of Halkidiki lies southeast from Thessaloniki. It is known for its jutting peninsulas, Mediterranean forests and sandy beaches in warm, sheltered bays. The region is often described as having three 'legs' — Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos peninsulas. Kassandra, the westernmost peninsula, is the most developed, offering modern resorts and nightclubs. Sithonia, also known as Longos, offers over a 100 beaches, cute villages and is a popular destination for families. Athos is an important centre of Eastern Orthodox church. It's main point of interest, Mount Athos, is home to 20 monasteries.
While exploring the historic Ano Poli — the Old City or Upper Town — you will stumble upon the old city wall and the Heptapyrgion. It is a Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress. You can pay to see the renovated. interior part, which used to serve as a prison in 1890–1990. It's not a must thought: enjoy your urban hike up to the monument, check out the panoramic views and sip a frappe in one of the charming cafes in the area. Edy Kulѐ or Eptapirgio (Seven Towers) is a medieval fortress with towers in the northeastern part of Thessaloniki. Despite its name, the fortress has ten towers. The fortress was built in the IX century, and some parts of it were built later. Like the White Tower, it was used as a prison from the late 19th century to 1978. Lots of history and beauty in one place, worth a look!
Thessaloniki's waterfront is a long boardwalk that stretches about 4.5 km, all the way from the First Pier to the Thessaloniki Concert Hall. Enjoy a stroll, a jog or a a bike ride, ideally in the morning or closer to sunset. You'll make your way past the Ladadika district, the White Tower and Alexander the Great statue, parks, gardens and sports facilities. Ornate boat tours departing from around the White Tower give you an opportunity to see the city from a new angle.
The mythical Mount Olympus can be seen on the horizon from the waterfront in Thessaloniki. Many visitors choose to spend a day on a trip to the ancient Dion and Mount Olympus. You'll see the Dion Archaeological Park with city ruins dating from the 6th century BC and the most important spot in Greek mythology itself. If you're looking to go on a hike, there are guides that will take you along Enipeas Gorge in the foothills of Mount Olympus with spectacular waterfalls, numerous endemic species and picnic opportunities.
The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki presents the history of Sephardic Jews and Jewish life in the region after the 15th century. It is one of the rare Jewish buildings that survived the fire of 1917. The museum is subdivided into several sections, where you can see the photo exhibit “Thessaloniki, Sephardic Metropolis", appreciate religious artefacts and memorabilia, look at tombstones from the ancient Jewish cemetery of Thessaloniki. There is also a part dedicated to the Holocaust in Thessaloniki.
The Atatürk Museum is the birthplace of the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk — "Father of the Turks", who was born here in 1881. It is a three-storey house with a courtyard, complete with original furniture. Any missing items were replaced with items from Kemal's mausoleum and from Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. Naturally, the museum is very popular with visitors from Turkey. A replica of the house has been constructed in Ankara.
MOMus Museum of Photography is currently housed in Warehouse A at the Port of Thessaloniki, next to the Cinema Museum of Thessaloniki. The museum's mission is to collect photographs, especially historical and artistic photographs of Greece. The venue regularly holds exhibitions and events, publishes books on photography. Check MOMus website for latest exhibition details.
The White Tower is the most iconic symbol of the city. The tower was constructed by the Ottomans sometime in the early 15th century and once guarded the eastern end of the city's sea walls. In the 19th century, this tower was used as a notorious prison. Nowadays, it is a welcoming museum of art and local history. The museum offers a rapid lesson in the history of the city. Ideally, you'll take in this well-dosed overview before continuing to the more specialized museums and archeological sites. For best results, grab the free audio guide at the entrance. The last floor of the tower gives you a wonderful view of the city.
The region of Halkidiki lies southeast from Thessaloniki. It is known for its jutting peninsulas, Mediterranean forests and sandy beaches in warm, sheltered bays. The region is often described as having three 'legs' — Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos peninsulas. Kassandra, the westernmost peninsula, is the most developed, offering modern resorts and nightclubs. Sithonia, also known as Longos, offers over a 100 beaches, cute villages and is a popular destination for families. Athos is an important centre of Eastern Orthodox church. It's main point of interest, Mount Athos, is home to 20 monasteries.
Smack in the centre of Thessaliniki sits Full tou Meze — a wildly popular and forever crowded restaurant. Take the opportunity to try an array of small dishes like dolmas, fresh tzatziki, spicy grilled peppers, fava and all sorts of grilled meatballs, meats, seafood and vegetables with delectable sauces. The food pairs nicely with local beer, wine or ouzo. No need to reserve a table, but you might need to wait. a bit to be seated.
Mia Feta is a cheese bar that’s all about the salty and crumbly Greek delicacy. Grab a bite right there of get a delicious bundle to go. This shop/bar combo uses ingredients delivered daily from their organic farm, giving old traditions a modern reinterpretations. Try the creamy yogurt swirled with pomegranate and linseed, bite into a black olive cookie filled with feta cream and studded with beetroot pearls. Pair exceptional Greek wines with sweet-and-sour desserts.
Palati is a delightful restaurant that serves traditional Greek dishes and has live music every day. The atmosphere is authentic and the service outstanding. You won't find anything too experimental here: just good old classics cooked with skill and dedication. A great place to try some ouzo, too!
Molyvos restaurant and meze bar is described as 'eclectic'. It is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building reminiscent of a 1900s Greek high society. Authentic Lesbos cuisine with oriental touch: try their aubergine rolls and clay pot cooked feta with tomatoes. For dessert, get honey beignets with sesame — it's a must.
Nea Diagonios is well-known for their gyros, soutzoukakia (a local type of meatballs). They also offer gluten free menu with special handmade cheeseburger. Enjoy your dinner with a beer from artisanal breweries like Nissos from Tinos and Donkey from Santorini. The prices are quite democratic compared to the neighbouring restaurants.
The vegetarian/vegan rOOTS is a cute little restaurant in the centre of Thessaloniki, near Aristotelous Square. They serve meatless versions of beloved Greek dishes as well as delightful adaptations of international cuisine. Tried the vegan gyros (seitan) — the best option for vegans who still want to have a taste of the traditional gyros. Every dish seems to have been made with Instagram in mind. Cocktails and wines are delicious, too.
Combine your visit at the Byzantine Museum with a meal at the upscale B. Restaurant (pronounced 'veta') or stop by in the evening to feel the romantic atmosphere over a dinner. The menu with Mediterranean dishes is changed on a regular basis and is seasonal.
Negroponte is a small and cozy place serving traditional dishes and meze. Charming service, great prices and a wonderful atmosphere at a quieter end of a string of outdoor restaurants. You can participate in the nightlife without without having to raise your voice to be heard. Try their fava as a starter and enjoy beautifully cooked mains with inventive touches.
Smack in the centre of Thessaliniki sits Full tou Meze — a wildly popular and forever crowded restaurant. Take the opportunity to try an array of small dishes like dolmas, fresh tzatziki, spicy grilled peppers, fava and all sorts of grilled meatballs, meats, seafood and vegetables with delectable sauces. The food pairs nicely with local beer, wine or ouzo. No need to reserve a table, but you might need to wait. a bit to be seated.
Mia Feta is a cheese bar that’s all about the salty and crumbly Greek delicacy. Grab a bite right there of get a delicious bundle to go. This shop/bar combo uses ingredients delivered daily from their organic farm, giving old traditions a modern reinterpretations. Try the creamy yogurt swirled with pomegranate and linseed, bite into a black olive cookie filled with feta cream and studded with beetroot pearls. Pair exceptional Greek wines with sweet-and-sour desserts.
Jumbo is the nation's largest toy retailer in Greece including baby items, stationery, seasonal products and home decor items. It’s made of joy, fun and carelessness. There are two more Jumbo stores south of Thessaloniki, close to 16 and 24 highways. If you're planning to take a. car trip to Halkidiki or to the beach, they are conveniently on you way.
Exploring local markets is an excellent way to discover the city's culture. Foodies will appreciate seasonal fruits and veggies, regional cheeses and street food. Additionally, you can find anything from modern necessities of life to artisanal handmade cosmetics. Here are some of the main markets you should check out: Kapani Market — the oldest open public market in Thessaloniki. Focused on Greek delicacies, traditional cafes, tavernas and bakeries. Smack in the city centre, it sprawls over several pedestrian streets and some parts are covered. Athonos Square — a spot for small traditional shops that offer spices and food products, handmade patio furniture and wicker crafts. Some jewelry, clothing and craft designer shops have sprung up in the last few years. Modiano Market — was build in the 1920s and resembles some Parisian markets. Here. you'll find traditional food items and a good selection on modern and old-fashioned tavernas. Bezesteni Market — a former Turkish bath with from the 15th century now houses housing clothing, florist and jewelry shops. You can take the stairs to the attic and have a closer look at the six domes. Worth a visit for the architectural value alone. Martiou Market — takes place every Saturday at Martiou, a neighborhood at the eastern part of the city. Fishermen bring fresh catch from the Northern Aegean and from around the Halkidiki region. Fish of all sizes, mussels and octopuses won't stay on the counters long! Come early.
One Salonica Outlet Mall offers about 60 stores with great deals. Individual travelers, fashionistas, teenagers and families can gain access to the most popular brands of designer, fashion, sports and lifestyle at prices up to 70% less than the market throughout the year.
There are plenty of gorgeous jewellery stores in Thessaloniki, selling beautiful and elegant handmade designs. Buy something for yourself as a long-lasting reminder of your trip of get a little something for your loved one back home. Most jewellery shops in Thessaloniki are located in the Ladadika area, along and around Tsimiski street. To get you started, check out Katerina Ioannidis Jewerly — great selection of modern, handmade jewellery with character, and the name carries weight, too.
Mega Outlet consists of four levels which house 80 independent shops with fashion brands, clothes, footwear and accessories at very low prices all year round. It has all the infrastructure for people with disabilities (parking spaces, WC, easy access) as well as special treatment rooms for small kids, Cafe Bar, card phones, ATM cash withdrawals, Information Desk, as well as free internet access for their guests.
Public is a Greek chain of entertainment store. You are welcome to drop buy and try out what's on offers even if you don't end up buying anything. See how you like the new gaming hardware, play new titles and meet other gamers at events and competitions. It is located in main street Tsimiski.
Mediterranean Cosmos is a well-organized mall with colour-coordinated aisles, a wide variety of shops and a food court offering an extended selection of food, drinks and snacks. After shopping, treat yourself to a cinema visit. There's also small river outdoors next to the amphitheatre, where you can enjoy an iced. drink from one of the many cafes.
Notos Galleries is one of the largest department stores in Greece. Here you will find big brand clothing, footwear and everything when it comes to beauty. After your shopping, relax on the 7th floor food court.
Jumbo is the nation's largest toy retailer in Greece including baby items, stationery, seasonal products and home decor items. It’s made of joy, fun and carelessness. There are two more Jumbo stores south of Thessaloniki, close to 16 and 24 highways. If you're planning to take a. car trip to Halkidiki or to the beach, they are conveniently on you way.
Exploring local markets is an excellent way to discover the city's culture. Foodies will appreciate seasonal fruits and veggies, regional cheeses and street food. Additionally, you can find anything from modern necessities of life to artisanal handmade cosmetics. Here are some of the main markets you should check out: Kapani Market — the oldest open public market in Thessaloniki. Focused on Greek delicacies, traditional cafes, tavernas and bakeries. Smack in the city centre, it sprawls over several pedestrian streets and some parts are covered. Athonos Square — a spot for small traditional shops that offer spices and food products, handmade patio furniture and wicker crafts. Some jewelry, clothing and craft designer shops have sprung up in the last few years. Modiano Market — was build in the 1920s and resembles some Parisian markets. Here. you'll find traditional food items and a good selection on modern and old-fashioned tavernas. Bezesteni Market — a former Turkish bath with from the 15th century now houses housing clothing, florist and jewelry shops. You can take the stairs to the attic and have a closer look at the six domes. Worth a visit for the architectural value alone. Martiou Market — takes place every Saturday at Martiou, a neighborhood at the eastern part of the city. Fishermen bring fresh catch from the Northern Aegean and from around the Halkidiki region. Fish of all sizes, mussels and octopuses won't stay on the counters long! Come early.
The Macedonian airport, at the area of Mikra, is the second largest airport of Greece and is linked with most destinations of Europe and Balkan countries in particular. Getting from the airport to the city centre will take you from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the traffic. You can go to the centre of Thessaloniki using bus route X1 “KTEL – Airport”. It runs every 30-ish minutes and it takes approximately 45 minutes. You can buy a ticket at the kiosk before boarding or pay using a machine inside the bus (90 cents, exact change)
You can cover most of the distances in the city on foot or using local buses. Tickets can be bought either at the kiosks or from the vending machines on the bus (90 cents, exact change). If you buy the ticket on the bus, remember to have coins. All tickets must be validated and are usable for 70 minutes. Different kind of day passes are also available. Google Maps is blissfully unaware of the bus system in Thessaloniki, so you'll have to install an app like Moovit to figure out how. to get places.
Uber does operate in Thessaloniki, but it's simply used to call a municipal taxi to your location and does not give you acost estimate. From the smaller streets taxis can be hailed whenever you need one. On the major city streets there are points signed "TAXI". You also find taxis standing on piazzas or outside the hotels. You can also book online through Taxi Way:
Each pharmacy in Thessaloniki has a notice in the window showing which ones are open out of normal hours and their addresses. Wherever there is a doctor you may see a sign with a cross most of the times. On some signs, there are also phone numbers to the emergency room.
Country code: +30 Area code: 231
230 V, 50 Hz Power outlets type C and F — the usual European ones.
The Macedonian airport, at the area of Mikra, is the second largest airport of Greece and is linked with most destinations of Europe and Balkan countries in particular. Getting from the airport to the city centre will take you from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the traffic. You can go to the centre of Thessaloniki using bus route X1 “KTEL – Airport”. It runs every 30-ish minutes and it takes approximately 45 minutes. You can buy a ticket at the kiosk before boarding or pay using a machine inside the bus (90 cents, exact change)
You can cover most of the distances in the city on foot or using local buses. Tickets can be bought either at the kiosks or from the vending machines on the bus (90 cents, exact change). If you buy the ticket on the bus, remember to have coins. All tickets must be validated and are usable for 70 minutes. Different kind of day passes are also available. Google Maps is blissfully unaware of the bus system in Thessaloniki, so you'll have to install an app like Moovit to figure out how. to get places.
