
π 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.
πΊοΈ Top Attractions
ποΈ 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.
π 2. Rotunda of Galerius
- Originally a Roman mausoleum, later a church and mosque.
- One of the oldest religious sites still standing.
π° 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.
βͺ 4. Church of Agios Dimitrios
- The cityβs patron saint.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site with crypts and religious art.
ποΈ 5. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
- Explore artifacts from Macedoniaβs ancient past, including gold from royal tombs.
πΌοΈ 6. Museum of Byzantine Culture
- One of the best in Europe for Byzantine art and relics.
ποΈ 7. Ladadika District
- Charming neighborhood with old buildings now turned into restaurants, bars, and shops.
π 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.
π½οΈ Local Food to Try
Thessaloniki is a culinary paradise with both traditional Greek and multicultural influences.
- Bougatsa β Sweet or savory filo pastry, often with cream or cheese.
- Gyro/Souvlaki β Classic Greek street food.
- Koulouri Thessalonikis β Sesame bread rings, a local favorite for breakfast.
- Seafood β Especially fresh in coastal tavernas.
- Meze β Small dishes meant for sharing, often with ouzo or tsipouro.
ποΈ Shopping
- Tsimiski Street β High-end boutiques and global brands.
- Modiano & Kapani Markets β Bustling traditional food markets.
- Bit Bazaar β Antique and vintage shops.
π 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.
ποΈ Nearby Day Trips
- Mount Olympus β Legendary home of the Greek gods.
- Halkidiki β Gorgeous beaches and resorts, just 1.5 hours away.
- Vergina β Royal tombs of Macedonian kings, including Philip II (Alexander the Greatβs father).
π 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.
π¨ 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).