Macedonia

📍 Overview

Thessaloniki (also known as Salonika) is Greece’s second-largest city, located in the north along the Thermaic Gulf. It’s famous for its unique blend of cultures, ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, Ottoman influences, and a youthful vibe thanks to its large student population.

🗺️ Top Attractions

🏛️ 1. White Tower

  • Symbol of the city
  • A 15th-century Ottoman fortress offering panoramic views of the city and waterfront.
  • Includes an excellent museum about Thessaloniki’s history.

🕍 2. Rotunda of Galerius

  • Originally a Roman mausoleum, later a church and mosque.
  • One of the oldest religious sites still standing.

🏰 3. Ano Poli (Upper Town)

  • Historic district with traditional houses, narrow alleys, and stunning views.
  • Visit the Heptapyrgion fortress and walk the old Byzantine walls.

⛪ 4. Church of Agios Dimitrios

  • The city’s patron saint.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site with crypts and religious art.

🏛️ 5. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

  • Explore artifacts from Macedonia’s ancient past, including gold from royal tombs.

🖼️ 6. Museum of Byzantine Culture

  • One of the best in Europe for Byzantine art and relics.

🏙️ 7. Ladadika District

  • Charming neighborhood with old buildings now turned into restaurants, bars, and shops.

🌊 Seafront Walk (Nea Paralia)

  • A beautiful promenade stretching several kilometers.
  • Ideal for walking, cycling, or relaxing in cafes with a sea view.
  • Home to the iconic Umbrellas sculpture.

🍽️ Local Food to Try

Thessaloniki is a culinary paradise with both traditional Greek and multicultural influences.

  • Bougatsa – Sweet or savory filo pastry, often with cream or cheese.
  • Gyro/Souvlaki – Classic Greek street food.
  • Koulouri Thessalonikis – Sesame bread rings, a local favorite for breakfast.
  • Seafood – Especially fresh in coastal tavernas.
  • Meze – Small dishes meant for sharing, often with ouzo or tsipouro.

🛍️ Shopping

  • Tsimiski Street – High-end boutiques and global brands.
  • Modiano & Kapani Markets – Bustling traditional food markets.
  • Bit Bazaar – Antique and vintage shops.

🎭 Culture & Nightlife

  • Thessaloniki has a thriving nightlife, with beach bars, live music venues, and hip cafes.
  • Cultural events include the Thessaloniki International Film Festival (November) and Dimitria Festival (autumn).
  • Many jazz and rebetiko music bars in Ladadika and Valaoritou areas.

🏖️ Nearby Day Trips

  • Mount Olympus – Legendary home of the Greek gods.
  • Halkidiki – Gorgeous beaches and resorts, just 1.5 hours away.
  • Vergina – Royal tombs of Macedonian kings, including Philip II (Alexander the Great’s father).

🚍 Getting Around

  • Walking: The center is very walkable.
  • Public Transport: City buses are available but can be crowded.
  • Taxi: Affordable and widely available.
  • Bike/Scooter Rentals: Ideal for the seaside.

🏨 Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Electra Palace, Makedonia Palace (seaside luxury).
  • Mid-Range: City Hotel, Hotel Olympia.
  • Budget: RentRooms Thessaloniki, Stay Hybrid Hostel (very popular among backpackers).