2025 Thessaloniki Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, not only boasts a wealth of historical sites but also features its iconic landmark - the White Tower. Today, I will take you on a journey through the White Tower of Thessaloniki, exploring its history, planning the best sightseeing route, and tasting the local cuisine. White Tower Historical Overview📜 The White Tower of Thessaloniki is a symbol of the city and one of the tallest buildings in the Balkans. Its history dates back to the 15th century when it was originally built as a military defense tower for the Ottoman Empire. The White Tower has witnessed the historical changes of Thessaloniki, from the smoke of war to the tranquility of peace, and now serves as a city museum, showcasing the history and culture of Thessaloniki. Best Route to Visit the White Tower🗺️ 1. White Tower Entrance Start your tour at the entrance of the White Tower, where you can learn about its history and visitor information. 2. Museum Inside the Tower Enter the tower and visit the museum's exhibits to learn about Thessaloniki's history. 3. Observation Deck Climb to the top of the tower's observation deck, where you can overlook the entire city of Thessaloniki and the surrounding harbor. 4. White Tower Park After the tour, take a stroll in White Tower Park, which features beautiful gardens and fountains. 5. Surrounding Exploration There are many other cultural and historical attractions around the White Tower, such as the Archaeological Museum and the Byzantine Culture Museum, where you can continue your exploration journey. Thessaloniki Food Recommendations🍽️ Thessaloniki's cuisine combines Greek tradition with Mediterranean flavors. Here are some local specialties: Moussaka: Greece's national dish, made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and minced meat, topped with béchamel sauce and baked. Greek Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese create a simple yet delicious staple on Greek tables. Seafood: As a coastal city, Thessaloniki's seafood is incredibly fresh, offering a variety of grilled fish and seafood platters. Tips📝 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn seasons offer pleasant weather, suitable for outdoor activities. Dress Suggestions: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for strolling around the White Tower and surrounding areas. Food Exploration: Be adventurous in trying local specialties and experiencing Thessaloniki's culinary culture. Conclusion The White Tower of Thessaloniki is not only a city landmark but also a window into the city's history and culture. I hope this guide helps you plan a Thessaloniki trip filled with historical and culinary delights!🏛️🍽️ I hope this guide is helpful to you. If you like it, don't forget to like and share! For more travel guides, follow me and let's discover the beauty in life together! #Thessaloniki #WhiteTower #GreekCuisine

Thessaloniki is easy to fall in love with – it has beauty, chaos, history and culture, a remarkable cuisine and wonderful, vast sea views. This is Greece’s second city, which, like the rest of the country, has suffered the hit of the economic crisis, but the streets remain full of life and vibrancy. The different neighbourhoods are little worlds unto themselves, and when you climb up to the Byzantine walls and take in the whole of Thessaloniki at sunset, you see what a sprawling, organic city it is. Old and new cohabit wonderfully: the Arch of Galerius, an intricate 4th-century monument, overlooks the busy shopping drag of Egnatia, while Thessaloniki’s most famous sight, the White Tower, anchors a waterfront packed with cocktail bars. The revamped waterfront area breathes life and is great for walking and cycling. By night, the city reverberates with music and nightlife. #mynovgetaway #mynovgetaway

#summervacay Facing the Thermaic Gulf, this upscale hotel balances modern elegance with coastal relaxation. Waking with the sea breeze and dining by the front‑row promenade was a highlight. The rooftop spa and pool area felt exclusive yet not overly formal. The lobby bar offered cocktails at sunset, while evenings brought soft promenading music and sea scents. From the spacious, light‑filled rooms to the attentive staff, I felt comfortably pampered during my Greek city‑beach summer blend.

Not many people have Thessaloniki on their list of places to visit when travelling to Greece. But I found myself in Greece’s second city when travelling for a wedding. And I was pleasantly surprised at what there was to see and visit here! Dating back a couple of millennia, this city was key in Roman and Byzantine times; with it being a major city in the founding of Christianity. So much of this history is on show in the city. In fact, there’s that much ancient history here that you can blink and miss some of it! One of the main tourist attractions is the White Tower along Thessaloniki’s sea front. This Byzantine fortification has become the de facto symbol of the city and it’s well worth a visit. Other key areas to visit include the Arch of Galerius and Heptapyrgion. It’s a cultural wonder, and you’ll enjoy a few days stopping over in this metropolis. #greece #thessaloniki #europe #travel #holiday #vacation #history #greekislandhopping

Come to Thessaloniki, Greece's 🇬🇷 second-largest city, and experience the splendor of the Roman Empire! Here, you'll find world-renowned ancient Roman ruins alongside stunning seaside views, making it the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty🌟 📍Must-Visit Attractions: ◾ The White Tower – The iconic landmark of Thessaloniki, offering panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea from the top🌊 ◾ Ancient Agora of Thessaloniki – Well-preserved Roman ruins where a stroll feels like stepping back 2,000 years🏛 ◾ Church of Saint Demetrius – One of Greece's most important Orthodox churches, featuring breathtaking mosaics inside⛪ ◾ Aristotelous Square – The central square surrounded by neoclassical buildings, perfect for street photography📸 ◾ Nea Paralia – A 5-kilometer seaside promenade, especially romantic at sunset🌅 🍽 Food Recommendations: ✔️ Lambropsomo Bakery – A must-visit for traditional Greek bread and pastries🧁 Location: Mitropoleos 76 ✔️ Thermaikos Seafood Restaurant – A local favorite for fresh seafood🦞 Location: Navmachias Limnou 7 ✔️ Bougatsa Giannis – A must-try Greek dessert🥮 Location: Egnatia 112 🚌 Travel Tips: 1. From the airport to the city center, choose between the airport bus or taxi—the "78X" bus is the more budget-friendly option. 2. Most attractions are within walking distance in the city center. 3. For suburban sights, take the bus or a taxi.

#mediterraneanvibes #greece #thessaloniki Vlatadon monastery is a must stop in your day walk around Thessaloniki! It is a lovely small monastery with a beautiful view over the town. It is easy to reach and include in your route when you’ll be hiking uphill to Acropolis. The place is small and compact, yet it worth a walk around it in as well you can sit on one of the benches and enjoy the stunning view over Thessaloniki. I came during the mass, so I listened the singing for a little bit, but I did not take any pictures inside out of respect to the people who are praying there.

#greekislandhopping 📍 Address: Thessaloniki, Macedonia Region, Greece Thessaloniki captivates with a dynamic blend of history, vibrant street life, and coastal charm. Stroll along the iconic waterfront on Nikis Avenue toward the 15th‑century White Tower, then explore the atmospheric Old Town (Ano Poli), where Byzantine walls and Ottoman-era homes overlook the city. Dive into its rich past at the Archaeological and Byzantine museums, or lose yourself in the colorful lanes and tavernas of Ladadika, the city’s historic olive oil and nightlife district. ✨ Tip Highlights: • Culinary Capital: Greece’s first UNESCO “City of Gastronomy,” famed for meze, bougatsa pastries, koulouri snacks, and frappé. • Festivals & Events: Home to the International Film Festival in November, lively Carnaval Sztukmistrzów, and a youthful arts scene . • Walkable & Waterfront: Perfect for seaside walks, with ferry rides from the White Tower and scenic promenades at sunset . • Metro Arrival: A new metro line is easing traffic and improving access across the city. • Day‑trip Bonus: Ideal base for visiting nearby gems like Mount Olympus, Halkidiki beaches, Vergina’s tombs, Axios Delta, and ancient Ano Poli . 🛡️ Heads‑Up: Traffic and parking can be challenging—opt for a central hotel or park‑and‑walk . Public transport is improving, but buses remain the primary option until metro expansion continues . #Thessaloniki #WhiteTower #AnoPoli #Ladadika #GreekGastronomy #CityOfFestivals #WaterfrontWalk #MetroComingSoon #HiddenGreece #TravelGreece#historicallandmarks #trip #localguides #familytrip

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece It is simple but it is a must! Thessaloniki’s embankment is especially charming in the evening - during sunset with sun rolling into the water behind the port and afterwards when the sky turns dark - that’s when famous installation The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos gets illuminated and looks especially pretty. Start at one of numerous waterfront cafes or bars and sit for a drink, then walk all the way to the White Tower and check local street musicians, then go take a photo of The Umbrellas. The place is full with locals and I loved to he part of everyday beautiful life of Thessaloniki.

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece Holy Church of Saint Nicolas Orphanos is my favorite temple in Thessaloniki. It sits high uphill and provides stunning view of the city. Exterior is beautiful with many details to admire. Interior is peaceful and really calls to sit on a chair and think for a minute, no matter if you are religious or not. Tip: it is better to come around sunset when it is cooler and when the light is glowing gold and scenery is especially stunning.

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece Uphill with a stunning view over the city of Thessaloniki located Acropolis complex consisting of many different buildings: some are ruins, some underwent reconstruction and restoration. I went during the golden hour right before the sunset and it was beautiful. It is a quite large area to walk around and you can see stunning view pretty much to 360 degrees all around. Locals were walking with dogs and teenagers were sitting and laughing on the ancient ruins overlooking the city. The vibe is very nice and chilled, I was surprised that it wasn’t too touristy - maybe because it’s a steep climb uphill.

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece Embankment in downtown of Thessaloniki is not to be missed! It turned out to be one of my favorite places after walking around the city for a few days. The embankment is quite long and it normally takes me about an hour of leisure stroll one way. It is really nice because of the breeze from the sea, and even though the rest of the city is melting in summer - walking along the waterfront is absolutely lovely! On Sunday evenings, they do close the road and the entire area is dedicated to the pedestrians. Many restaurants are open and it’s lovely to sit in one of them and enjoy a drink with the view of the Mediterranean Sea. A few of historical buildings are right by the water and the quick stop by White Tower is an absolute must! More to that in the evening, there’s usually some street bands, playing music, which I absolutely enjoyed.

#summervacay I just visited Thessaloniki, and I have to say, I absolutely fell in love with it! This vibrant city in Northern Greece offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, and a lively atmosphere, without being as overwhelmingly crowded as some of Greece's more famous destinations. From its ancient ruins and Byzantine churches to its bustling waterfront and delicious food scene, there's so much to explore. The energy of the city, combined with its rich past, truly captivated me. If you're looking for a Greek experience that's a bit off the main tourist trail but still incredibly rewarding, Thessaloniki is a must-visit! #Thessaloniki #Greece #HiddenGem #OffTheBeatenPath #TravelGreece

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece Visiting the Arch of Galerius (Kamara) in Thessaloniki was a cool stop on my city walk. Tip: it is hot, so bring sunhat and sunscreen. You fan buy water in one of many shores in the area. The arch is massive and way more impressive in person than in pics. All those detailed carvings telling ancient stories? Amazing. It’s crazy to think it’s been standing since like 300 AD! The square around it is lively, with people chilling and taking photos. Definitely a must-see, but go early or late—midday sun is no joke. So glad I didn’t skip it!

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece The Galerian Complex at first glance is just a small archaeological site, but there's something special about how these ancient ruins blend into the everyday life of modern Thessaloniki. You can easily walk the whole site in about 15-20 minutes, but I'd recommend coming early in the morning when it's cooler and quieter. There's practically no shade here, so midday visits can get uncomfortably hot. What really stayed with me was the contrast - massive stone fragments that survived centuries standing just meters away from ordinary apartment buildings with balconies. It's this unpretentious mix of ancient and modern that makes the place feel alive rather than just another museum piece. The palace makes for a perfect short stop during a walk around the city center. It's located right in the heart of things, so you can easily combine it with other sights or a coffee break. And don't be surprised if you find yourself sharing the ruins with some local cats - they seem to consider themselves the true heirs to this imperial complex. All in all, it's a small but memorable piece of Thessaloniki's layered history.

#mediterraneanvibes #thessaloniki #greece Old port in Thessaloniki is an excellent starting point for a city walk. It is a nice chilled place with the promenade leading to the city center along the coast. The place itself is very relaxed and tranquil. There is a couple of the cafes playing Latin music and serving cold drinks in the shade. If you walk to the very end, you will get a chance to see a museum warship which looks pretty impressive. Cobblestone, old buildings and the breeze from the Mediterranean Sea - all that add to the atmosphere of this place. Tip: if traveling during the summer - make sure to bring sunhat, and sunblock, and water. The heat is crazy, and you’ll be walking, mostly under the bright sun.

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and faces the Aegean Sea. Here is a schedule for a day of perfect walking 🗓️ ① Archaeological Museum ② Along the Aegean Sea ③ Trigonion Tower ① First thing in the morning 📍 To the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. Manoli Andronikou 6, Thessaloniki 546 21 Greece Foreigners can enter for half price, which is great ^ ^ You can listen to the audio guide with an app, but it is only in English The name "Macedonia" is a country (kingdom) that you hear about in world history, and Thessaloniki is in that area, so there were many exhibits related to ancient Macedonia. There was a wide range of exhibits, including ancient board games, death masks, ancient Roman recipes and sheet music, and it was worth seeing. ② There is a statue of Alexander the Great by the sea. This will also be exciting for people who like world history. There is also a mysterious umbrella monument placed there just for Instagram. Unfortunately, it matches the blue sea and sky and looks great. The White Tower (4th photo) is so famous that it is even used as a postcard in souvenir shops in the city. There are several restaurants and stylish cafes along the sea, so it is nice to eat while looking at the sea✨ ③📍 Trigonion Tower Agios Pavlos 546 34 The fortress itself is said to have been there since around 4 B.C., and various additions and destructions were made under the rule of various countries to form the current shape (super summary) Among them, the eye-catching Trigonion Tower was built in the 15th century and used as an armory and a turret. As with all fortresses, it is located at a high altitude like a mountain climb, so it is recommended to wear sneakers when going there⭕️ You can see the whole city in a panoramic view, and it was worth climbing even if the weather was a little bad. #AbsolutelyFreeTrip

[Arch of Galerius and Rotunda | Highlights of a historical walk in Thessaloniki, where Roman ruins remain] — An overwhelming presence in the city that touches on history from nearly 2000 years ago — The Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda, located in the center of Thessaloniki, are historical buildings built in the early 4th century during the Roman era, and can still be seen in the city today. ■ Arch of Galerius A stone gate built to commemorate the Roman Emperor Galerius' victory in the Persian expedition. The fineness and scale of the carvings are impressive, making this a famous spot where you can feel the breath of history. ■ Rotunda A circular building with a multi-layered history, said to have been built by Galerius as his own mausoleum, and later used as a Christian church and mosque. The mosaics on the ceiling are particularly noteworthy, and it is registered as a World Heritage Site. ⸻ 📍【Location】 ・Arch of Galerius: Egnatia 144, Thessaloniki 546 22 ・Rotonda: Platia Agiou Georgiou Rotonta, Thessaloniki 546 35 The two buildings are about a 3-minute walk away, so we recommend visiting them together! 🕰【Opening hours】 ・Rotonda has opening hours (closed on Tuesdays, morning to evening on other days) ・Gate of Galerius can be viewed outdoors 24 hours a day 🎫【Admission fee】 ・Rotonda: 6 euros for adults (combined ticket available) ⸻ ✨【Recommended points】 ・A ​​valuable experience of touching the remains of ancient Rome directly, even in the center of the city ・The mosaics and dome ceiling inside the Rotunda are a must-see!・A great route to take a walk and soak up history ⸻ 🎒【Tips】 ・We recommend visiting in the morning or evening when it's cooler ・The two are very close to each other, so it's efficient to visit them together◎ ・The inside of the Rotunda is surprisingly quiet, making it a hidden gem where you can relax and enjoy the view ⸻ #Arch of Galerius #Rotonda #Thessaloniki #Greece #AbsolutelyFreeTrip

[Kapani Market | Thessaloniki's oldest market, where local life lives on] — A vibrant market area where you can experience the "real Greece" that is not just a tourist spot — "Kapani Market" is a local market located in the center of Thessaloniki, an energetic space lined with meat, fish, vegetables, cheese, olives, spices, and other ingredients that support Greek food culture. With a different atmosphere from tourist spots, you can experience a "real market" where locals shop on a daily basis✨ It is said to have a history of the 16th century and is known as one of the oldest markets in Thessaloniki. ⸻ 📍【Location】 Vlali 546 24, Thessaloniki, Greece About a 5-minute walk from Aristotle Square, right next to Agora Modiano 🕰【Opening hours】 Monday-Saturday: From early morning to around 14:00 (varies by store) *Please note that many stores are closed on Sundays! ⸻ ✨【Recommended points】 ・You can experience fresh local ingredients and the Greek kitchen up close ・It's also convenient for finding souvenirs! A large selection of spices, herbs, olive products, etc. ・There are many colorful sales areas that look great in photos, so it's a different kind of fun from sightseeing◎ ⸻ 🎒【Tips】 ・The morning is the busiest time, and there is a wide variety of products ・It's full of local atmosphere, so there are times when it's difficult to communicate in English, but you can still enjoy it by pointing! ・There are many local cafes and snack spots around the market, so it's recommended to visit them as a set #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #Greece #Thessaloniki

[Agora Modiano | History and trends intersect! A modern indoor market in the center of Thessaloniki] — A stylish market space with everything from local gourmet food to cafes and miscellaneous goods — Agora Modiano is a new cultural spot in Thessaloniki that reopened in 2022 after renovating a historic building built in 1922. As the name "Agora" means "market" in Greek, it is an indoor market lined with gourmet food, sweets, bars, cafes, shops, and more. It's stylish and comfortable, and the best thing about it is that you can enjoy it regardless of the weather 🌤️ There is a wide variety of local ingredients, Greek small plates (meze), wine bars, sweet shops, and more! ⸻ 📍【Location】 Egnatia 2, Thessaloniki 54624, Greece About a 5-minute walk from Aristotle Square in the center of Thessaloniki 🕰【Opening hours】 Basically 10:00-24:00 (varies by store) *Cafes and bars are open until late at night ⸻ ✨【Recommended points】 - Historic building x modern interior, just walking around is fun - Convenient spot with everything you need for food, cafes, alcohol, and souvenirs - A calm space perfect for snacks and breaks during your trip ⸻ 🎒【Tips】 - If you go from lunch to the evening, you can enjoy food, tea, and shopping ◎ - It's crowded with locals on weekends, so if you want to take your time, weekday mornings are the best - English menus are also available, so even tourists can enjoy it with peace of mind! #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #Greece #Thessaloniki

Alexander the Great Garden | A healing space along the Thessaloniki Sea. A stroll at dusk is exceptional. -- A quiet and memorable evening stroll while feeling the Mediterranean breeze -- The Alexander the Great Garden, which spreads along the seaside of Thessaloniki, Greece's second largest city, is a place of relaxation for locals and tourists located along the promenade near the White Tower. 🌊 The equestrian statue of Alexander the Great, the symbol of the city, has an impressive presence, and the surrounding area is filled with benches, fountains, and green lawns, making it the perfect space to relax. Especially in the evening, when the sky and sea are dyed orange, it is the perfect time for a stroll and photos. 📸 ⸻ 📍[Location] Leof. Nikis, Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece The seaside just near the White Tower in the center of Thessaloniki 🕰 [Recommended time] Evening to sunset (around 19:30 to 20:30 in summer) *The refreshing morning time is also great ⸻ ✨ [Recommended points] ・A spacious park where you can enjoy the sea and sky with the statue of Alexander the Great at the center ・Just sitting surrounded by the sunset is soothing ・A great place to take a break or change your mood between walking around the city◎ ⸻ 🎒 [Tips] ・There are shaded areas and benches, so it's recommended to relax with a drink in hand ・The wind gets cooler at dusk, so it's comfortable to have a jacket ・There are cafes and food stalls in the area, so you can take a walk with a drink or ice cream in hand◎ #Absolutely free trip #Greece #Thessaloniki

#GetDiscountNotRelyingOnLuck Thessaloniki (Thessaloniki) or Salonika is the second largest city in Greece after Athens and is considered a city of great historical, artistic and cultural significance, especially in the Balkan region and southeastern Europe. Important and interesting places to visit include: *** White Tower – the symbol of the city on the Aegean Sea, used to be a city defense tower and used as a prison during the Ottoman era ** Rotunda – a 1,700-year-old circular building that used to be a Roman temple, Byzantine church and mosque ** Arch of Galerius – a triumphal arch built by Emperor Galerius ** Ano Poli (Old City) – a hilltop city that survived the great earthquake of 1917, full of old Greek-Ottoman houses and beautiful views ** Many Byzantine churches – such as Agios Demetrios (the city's beloved saint), Agia Sophia, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites #thessaloniki #greece #europetrip

Walking along the Thessaloniki waterfront, you’ll find your gaze quietly drawn to a tall, white structure standing proudly. The White Tower. It’s a place that holds the time and memories of this city within its walls. 🌬️ Though its exterior is simple, inside lies centuries of stories, from the Ottoman Empire to modern Greece, layered one upon another. As you slowly ascend through the exhibition halls, the view of the Aegean Sea through the windows speaks volumes without uttering a word. 🌊🌤️ The sparkling sea under the sun, the noise of the streets, and the tranquility within the tower. It felt like the past and present were meeting in harmony. The White Tower is not just an observation deck; it feels like a symbol of time embracing the city of Thessaloniki itself. A view to remember for a long time, a moment to quietly treasure in your heart. 🤍⏳

🗓️ Day 1: Timeless Landmarks & Seaside Strolls Start your day at the White Tower, Thessaloniki’s famous symbol. Walk the waterfront promenade, passing sculptures and street performers. Then explore the Rotunda, Arch of Galerius, and Roman Forum. Wrap up with a sunset view from Ano Poli, the Upper Town. What to eat: Grab a warm bougatsa with custard for breakfast. Later, savor soutzoukakia (spiced meatballs in tomato sauce) and horiatiki (Greek salad) at a traditional taverna. 🗓️ Day 2: Markets, Museums & Mezze Magic Start with the Museum of Byzantine Culture, then head to the bustling Kapani and Modiano Markets for a real taste of local life. In the evening, dive into Thessaloniki’s vibrant nightlife in Ladadika, where old warehouses now house trendy taverns and bars. What to eat: Snack on koulouri, then explore flavors like gyros, grilled halloumi, dolmadakia, and fava - all best paired with a glass of tsipouro or local wine. 🗓️ Day 3: Chill Morning & Sweet Farewell Relax in Nea Paralia, Thessaloniki’s scenic seaside park, dotted with gardens, cafes, and bike paths. Visit the Thessaloniki Contemporary Art Center or pop into a local gallery. Before you go, treat yourself to a classic Thessaloniki dessert. What to eat: End on a sweet note with trigona Panoramatos (crispy pastry triangles with custard cream) or a thick Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts. Bonus Tip: Thessaloniki is a city best explored slowly - walk, taste, and take in every corner. You’ll leave with your heart (and stomach) full. #greece #thessaloniki #Saloniki

lavanda field

loving Greece

The city of Thessaloniki was founded in 316/315 BC and it was named in honor of the princess by its founder, Cassander. He was the infamous ruler of Macedonia to whom Thessaloniki was forced to be married after he executed her stepmother Olympias in 316 BC.

Thessaloniki is a Greek port city on the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea. Evidence of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history remains, especially around Ano Poli, the upper town. The ruins of Roman Emperor Galerius’ 4th-century palace include the Rotunda that has been both a church and a mosque. Much of the city center was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1917. The rebuilt 20th-century city has a modern European layout.

#greece #thessaloniki