Thessaloniki, one of Greece’s most vibrant and historic cities, is home to a plethora of attractions that will captivate any traveler. From ancient ruins to gastronomic delights, sprawling shopping malls to walking tours, this city has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or an avid shopper, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do in Thessaloniki. In this post, we’ll explore the top attractions that Thessaloniki has to offer, so pack your bags and join us on a journey of discovery through this enchanting city.

The 6 Best City Walking Tours in Thessaloniki

1. From Thessaloniki Meteora Small Group Day Trip
2. Two Day Train Journey from Thessaloniki to Meteora
3. Explore the Mountain of the Gods in a Day Trip
4. Vergina Pella Day Trip to the Greek Kingdom of Macedonia
5. Thessaloniki Scavenger Hunt and City Walking Tour
6. Skyline Cafe Bar Restaurant

The 6 Best City Walking Tours in Thessaloniki

1. From Thessaloniki Meteora Small Group Day Trip

The trip to the Meteora cliffs starts from Thessaloniki early in the morning. After a 2.5 to 3-hour drive, the group will reach the little town of Kalambaka right under the cliffs. From there, visitors will head to Kastraki, the closest village to the monasteries. During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to visit inside two of the monasteries and see the life of the monks. An experienced guide will share local history and stories with the visitors. The first monastery to visit is Gran Meteoro, which is the largest of all the monasteries. The group will then visit a second monastery according to their liking. Visitors will also have the chance to enjoy the magnificent views from the peaks of the cliffs and the great panorama that the area offers. After the visit, the driver will take visitors to Kalampaka where they can have a rest and enjoy a coffee drink or snack. Later, visitors can start their return drive to Thessaloniki. The tour includes transfer from/to Thessaloniki, a driver/local guide, VAT local taxes, travel insurance, and meals. It’s a perfect opportunity to see Meteora, an UNESCO World Heritage site, and delve into local history and culture.

2. Two Day Train Journey from Thessaloniki to Meteora

On this two day train journey, explore the beauty of Greece as you travel from Thessaloniki to Kalabaka. Choose between first or standard class train tickets and enjoy an overnight stay in a 3-star or 4-star hotel. Join a local tour guide for two guided tours of the magnificent monasteries and take in the best panoramic viewing spots. The package includes transportation in a minibus with Wi-Fi, a Meteora Rocks sunset tour, a panoramic Meteora and Holy Monasteries tour or a Meteora Hike with a guide, and a panoramic Meteora map. All taxes are included, along with a transfer between your accommodation in Thessaloniki and Thessaloniki Train Station, and an entrance fee to the Holy Monasteries. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the stunning beauty of Meteora with a knowledgeable local guide.

3. Explore the Mountain of the Gods in a Day Trip

Explore the Mountain of the Gods in a day trip and discover the ancient sanctuaries and picturesque villages that lie just over an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki. Follow in the footsteps of Zeus and Hera as you visit Mt. Olympus and photograph wooden bridges, classical ruins, and a Christian monastery. On this great-value private tour, onboard Wi-Fi, snacks, and bottled water are provided, while entrance fees and food are at your own expense. Your itinerary includes a stroll past a crystal waterfall to the cave of St. Dionysius, a visit to an idyllic Greek village, and much more. With private transportation and a flat fee that covers up to 12 travelers, this tour is a great choice for larger groups. Visit the Dion Archaeological Park, Old Monas, and other star attractions, and see Thessaloniki’s best on this unforgettable day trip.

4. Vergina Pella Day Trip to the Greek Kingdom of Macedonia

Embark on a journey to Pella by bus from Thessaloniki and explore the land of Alexander The Great and the Macedons. Start by visiting the Archaeological Museum of Pella, the capital of the kingdom of Macedon, and take a sightseeing tour (with an extra fee) of the Pella Archaeological Park. Next, visit the Museum of the Royal Tombs and New Museum of Aigai in Vergina, where you can discover the history, culture, and artifacts of the ancient Greeks. Afterward, enjoy traditional Greek lunch at a local tavern in the area. The tour ends with the bus/ coach ride back to Thessaloniki. Experience the fundamental periods of Greek history with this full-day tour.

5. Thessaloniki Scavenger Hunt and City Walking Tour

Get ready to explore Thessaloniki in a unique and dynamic way with our scavenger hunt and walking tour! This tour combines the excitement of a scavenger hunt with the leisure of a walking tour, allowing you to discover the city at your own pace. Through a mobile app, you will decipher riddles, interact with important landmarks, and unlock interesting legends and facts about Thessaloniki. This tour is great for first-time visitors, couples, families, and groups, and can also serve as a team-building activity. For your convenience, this tour includes a self-guided audio tour, tour guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. However, please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Book now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure discovering the best of Thessaloniki!

6. Skyline Cafe Bar Restaurant

Skyline Cafe Bar Restaurant offers a wonderful dining experience with a stunning view of Thessaloniki. Enjoy a delicious meal with options such as Wine Glass & Fruit Platter, Individual platter with a variety of Cheese & Cold Cuts with Dried Fruit, Club Sandwich & Beer or Refreshment, and Bottle of Wine & Cheese/ Fruit Platter. This tour includes dinner and all fees and taxes, as well as private transportation with the meeting point at OTE Tower. The activity ends back at the meeting point. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is provided, and most travelers can participate. Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance. Book now for a memorable dining experience at Skyline Cafe Bar Restaurant.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is a place steeped in history, marked by acts of creativity and survival, and surrounded by natural beauty. For tourists, Thessaloniki offers an unforgettable vacation experience. As a result, tourists typically have several questions about the city. In this post, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Thessaloniki, providing detailed answers to each question.

Q: What is the Best Time to Visit Thessaloniki?

A: The best time to visit Thessaloniki is from mid-April to mid-June, and from mid-September to late October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner than in the peak summer months. If you prefer the summer months, July and August are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and partying. However, the beaches can be crowded, and the heat can get overwhelming.

Q: How Do I Get to Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is well-connected to other major European cities by air, road, and rail. If you are travelling domestically, you can take a train from Athens or a long-distance bus from any major city in Greece. If you’re planning an international trip, you can fly directly to Thessaloniki, as the city’s airport serves several international destinations.

Q: What are the Must-See Sights in Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is a city filled with history and culture, with plenty of must-see sights. Some of the best sights to visit in Thessaloniki include:

• The White Tower of Thessaloniki – a symbol of the city’s history
• The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki – a treasure trove of ancient artifacts
• The Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki – one of the best-preserved medieval fortress walls in the world
• The Rotunda of Galerius – an impressive circular structure built in 306 AD
• The Aristotle Square – the city’s main square and a hub of activity

Q: What are the Best Beaches Near Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is surrounded by several beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Some of the best beaches near Thessaloniki include:

• Peraia Beach – a sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, just 20 minutes away from Thessaloniki
• Halkidiki Beaches – a group of magical beaches with clear waters, situated about 1-2 hours away from Thessaloniki
• Sithonia Beaches – a long coastline with stunning beaches, and a family-friendly atmosphere
• Potamos Beach – a serene sandy beach with turquoise waters, just outside Thessaloniki

Q: What is the Local Food in Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is famous for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of local dishes to try while you’re here. Some of the must-try local dishes include:

• Bougatsa – a pastry filled with cheese or cream, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar
• Souvlaki – a Greek fast food consisting of meat cooked on a skewer
• Gyros – kind of like a wrap that’s stuffed with pork, chicken, or lamb and vegetables
• Koulouri – a circular bread twisted into a knot and covered with sesame seeds
• Tzatziki – a creamy dip made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic, usually served with bread

Q: How Can I Get Around Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is an easy city to get around either by foot or by public transportation. If you want to get around the city quickly, you can take a bus, tram, or a taxi. Buses run frequently, and there are plenty of taxi stands around the city. If you prefer the convenience of driving your own car, there are several car rental companies in Thessaloniki, although parking can be challenging in some areas.

Q: What Souvenirs Should I Take Home from Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is famous for its traditional crafts, and there are plenty of souvenirs to take home to remember your trip. Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Thessaloniki include:

• A bottle of Ouzo – the traditional Greek liquor made from anise
• Komboloi – Greek worry beads, used for stress relief and relaxation
• Tsoureki – a sweet, braided bread usually eaten during Easter
• Koulouri – a circular bread twisted into a knot and covered with sesame seeds
• Icons and religious artifacts – Thessaloniki is a religious center, and there are plenty of shops selling religious icons and mementos

Q: What Kind of Accommodation is Available in Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. There are plenty of hotels, hostels, apartments, and guesthouses in the city center, as well as in the suburbs. If you prefer the convenience of staying in the city center, choose a hotel or apartment close to the main attractions, such as Aristotle Square, the White Tower, or the waterfront.

Q: What are Some Safety Tips for Tourists Traveling to Thessaloniki?

A: Thessaloniki is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any other place, it’s always best to take precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while travelling to Thessaloniki:

• Avoid wandering around alone at night
• Be wary of pickpockets and keep your valuables in a safe place
• Take a taxi at night instead of walking to your destination
• Be cautious in crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings
• Don’t leave your bags unattended in public places

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece, located in the northern part of the country. With its rich history, cultural heritage, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery, Thessaloniki is a must-visit destination for any tourist. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in Thessaloniki.

1. Visit The White Tower

The White Tower is the most famous landmark in Thessaloniki. This tower has stood in the city since the 15th century, and today it serves as a museum. Here, you can learn all about the tower’s history and its significance to the city. Moreover, the tower offers stunning views of the city from the top, which is a must-see.

2. Explore the Historic Neighborhood of Ano Poli

Ano Poli is the oldest neighborhood in Thessaloniki, located on a hill overlooking the city. The neighborhood has narrow streets, traditional houses, and gorgeous gardens, making it an ideal place for a leisurely walk. Moreover, this area offers an excellent view of the city.

3. Discover the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is a must-visit for any history or archaeology enthusiast. The museum houses a huge collection of sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts from ancient Macedonia, including exhibits from the famous King Philip II and Alexander the Great. Visitors can also learn about the history of Thessaloniki city and the surrounding area.

4. Eat Delicious Greek Food at the Ladadika District

Ladadika is the historic district of Thessaloniki, located near the port. Here, you will find a variety of restaurants and tavernas that serve delicious Greek food. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and feta cheese.

5. Enjoy the Sunset at the Waterfront

Thessaloniki’s waterfront stretches along the city’s coastline and is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a coffee or a cocktail, and watch the sun go down over the Aegean Sea.

6. Visit Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square is the main square of Thessaloniki, located in the heart of the city. This square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

7. Explore the Byzantine Churches of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is famous for its numerous Byzantine churches, which have immense historical and cultural significance. The most famous ones include the Church of Agios Dimitrios, the Church of Agia Sophia, and the Church of Panagia Chalkeon. These churches have unique architecture, beautiful frescoes, and stunning mosaics that are a must-see for any visitor.

8. Discover the Heptapyrgion Fortress

The Heptapyrgion Fortress is a defensive structure that stands on a hill overlooking the city. This fortress served as a prison during the Ottoman occupation and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its walls and towers and learn about its rich history.

9. Relax in One of Thessaloniki’s Parks

Thessaloniki has several parks that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The most famous ones include the Gardens of Pedion tou Areos, the Seih Sou Forest, and the Park of Agios Dimitrios. These parks have lush greenery, walking trails, and outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

10. Go Shopping in Tsimiski Street

Tsimiski Street is the main shopping street in Thessaloniki, with a variety of stores that sell everything from clothes to souvenirs. This street is also home to several cafes and restaurants where you can rest and take a break from shopping.In conclusion, Thessaloniki is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in the city and experience its rich history, culture, and food.