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Thessaloniki is one of those cities that surprises people… in the best possible way.
As the city I’ve called home the longest, of all the places I’ve lived in, I’ve seen friends, visitors, and even tourism clients arrive with modest expectations, only to be wowed by how much this city has to offer. The biggest mistake people make is giving Thessaloniki too little time.
They rush through on their way to somewhere else, tick off a couple of landmarks, and miss the layers that make this city special.
This guide is designed to change that.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time and want the classic highlights, or you’ve been here before and are looking for cultural gems, religious heritage, foodie adventures, or just unusual things to do, this list covers it. It’s grouped into easy sections so you can pick what matches your mood — or mix and match for a deeper, more varied experience.
Each activity includes budget notes (or free options), so you can plan your trip without surprises. And because I know the city like a local, I’ve slipped in tips and details you won’t find in every guidebook.
If you’re planning your first visit, you’ll leave knowing why Thessaloniki wins over so many travelers. If you’re coming back, you might just see it in a whole new light.
You can find all the activities mentioned in this article in this map. You can also request to get a Google Maps copy to have on your phone.
Where to Stay in Thessaloniki
I’ve seen a lot of visitors — and even some travel blogs — recommend staying near the train station. On its own, this isn’t terrible advice. The area is definitely up-and-coming, which is why you’ll see so many new apartments and Airbnbs popping up there. But it’s also one of the spots where petty crime is more common, and walking around late at night doesn’t always feel the most comfortable.
If you’re looking for a base that’s both well-located and enjoyable to spend time in, here are my top recommendations instead.
I’ve either stayed or seen the rooms and services of all of these hotels I recommend:
** Where to Stay in Thessaloniki ** Quick Links
Kastra / Ano Poli (Upper Town)
The old town has the cute, cobblestone streets-vibe, Ottoman and Byzantine architecture plus amazing views over the city. It’s also quieter than other parts of town and still close enough if you don’t want to walk/travel far.
- Beyond the Castle: cute fully refubirshed 1 bedroom apartments with kitchen
Central Thessaloniki (Mid-Range to Luxury Options)
Staying in the heart of the city puts you close to Aristotelous Square, Ladadika, the waterfront, and most major attractions.
You’ll find plenty of stylish boutique hotels, luxury classic options and small Airbnbs.
Staying in the heart of the city puts you close to Aristotelous Square, Ladadika, the waterfront, and most major attractions. You’ll find everything from stylish boutique hotels to classic favorites:
- The Caravan – A boutique stay with stylish rooms and warm service.
- Pillow Urban Stay – Modern, comfortable, and right in the thick of the city.
- Zeus is Loose Hostel – Budget-friendly beds, a great atmosphere, and a rooftop bar with one of the best views in town.
- Mediterranean Palace – A long-standing luxury choice in the center of Thessaloniki.
Nea Paralia Toward Kalamaria
If you want a quieter, more modern setting with sea views, head toward the newer part of the waterfront in Nea Paralia. From here to Kalamaria, you’ll find higher-end hotels and apartments, as well as plenty of cafés, parks, and walking paths along the water. It’s a great choice if you enjoy evening strolls and a more relaxed vibe while still being just a short taxi ride from the center.
- Macedonia Palace Hotel – Comfortable rooms and a breakfast that’s worth waking up for.
- Metropolitan Hotel Thessaloniki – A classic hotel with good service and easy access to the waterfront.
You can use the map below to browse the latest prices for hotels in Thessaloniki.
Do You Need a Car in Thessaloniki?
Ultimately, no — at least not for the days you’ll be spending in the city itself. Thessaloniki is compact enough that you can reach most major attractions on foot, and for the rest, there are affordable transport options.
While Thessaloniki isn’t famous for its public transportation, the buses and the newly established (though still short) metro line will get you around if you need a budget-friendly solution.
The second-best option, and my personal go-to when I’m not walking around, is taxis — especially if you use a metered service booked through an app like FREE NOW or Uber.
Tip: It really sucks but sometimes taxi drivers will quote different prices to foreigners (or locals) and avoid putting on the meter. Always insist on the meter being on (if you grab a taxi from the street) and ask for a receipt at the end. Make sure you know your rights and if you’re quoted something much higher than what the app says keep a record of the license.
They’re reliable, and you won’t have to worry about haggling or route misunderstandings.
When you’re ready to explore beyond the city — whether it’s the beaches of Halkidiki, Mount Olympus, or Lake Kerkini — that’s when a rental car becomes incredibly handy. I always recommend Discover Cars (affiliate link) because I’ve used them personally and had great service. They also offer plenty of choices for every budget and type of trip.
I use and compare prices for car rentals, with Discovercars.com. It is a giant rental and comparison site on the market and it has a lot of perks that make sense if you travel often.
Once you head to Discover Cars, you’ll find an easy search engine to filter by location, dates and pick up location.
Tip: Always check a few different pick up locations when booking a rental car.
The Classics to Do in Thessaloniki
1. Go Up the White Tower: Thessaloniki’s most iconic landmark. Climb to the top for city and sea views, and explore the small museum inside.
2. Check Out the Arch of Galerius: Known as Kamara, it’s been the city’s meeting point for generations. Also a key spot in modern protest history.
3. Stroll Around Ano Poli: A different side of the city. Best explored with a guide or local to fully appreciate its layered history.
4. Visit the Statue of Alexander the Great: The city’s second most iconic landmark. A good starting point for learning Thessaloniki’s history.
5. Snap a Photo at the Umbrellas: Created by Greek artist Zongolopoulos in 1997 when Thessaloniki was European Capital of Culture.
6. Explore the full length of Aristotelous Square: The beating heart of the city, perfect for people-watching, grabbing a coffee, and soaking up Thessaloniki’s mix of neoclassical architecture and sea views. Make sure to walk downhill from Egnatia street) to the waterfront to enjoy the architecture and views.
Budget for activities:
- White Tower of Thessaloniki: free to walk around. Admission to museum is 8 euro in high season and 4 during off season.
- Arch of Galerius: FREE
- Alexander the Great: FREE
- Umbrellas Zongolopoulos: FREE
- Aristotelous Square: FREE
Things to Do Near the Water in Thessaloniki
7. Go Inside the Megaron Concert Hall: Even if you’re not catching a show, step inside to see the architecture and enjoy views from the waterfront location. You can also take the elevator to the top for a coffee with a view.
8. Walk the Full Nea Paralia: This 5 km seaside promenade is perfect for walking, cycling, or just people-watching. You’ll pass gardens, playgrounds, and cafes along the way. It is the most popular activity of locals all year around.
9. Visit the Cinema Museum at the Port: Located at the far end of the port, this small museum celebrates Greece’s film history and is a quiet escape from the busy waterfront.
10. Pop Into a Naval Exhibition: The port often hosts temporary naval or maritime exhibitions worth checking out if you’re interested in Thessaloniki’s seafaring history, like Velos the ship or other military vessels.
11. Have Coffee on Nikis Avenue: Nikis Avenue is the most expensive part of the city and features most of the nightlife and daytime cafes and brunch spots frequented by locals as well as visitors. I am partial to a little underrated spot called Thermaikos.
12. Drive to Perea for Fresh Fish: A short drive or boat ride takes you to Perea, a seaside town on the east side of the city where you can eat freshly caught fish right on the beach with your toes on the sand.
Budget for activities:
- Megaron Concert Hall: FREE
- Nea Paralia Walk: FREE
- Cinema Museum: Ticket 3 euro // reduced 2 euro.
- Naval Exhibition: Depends on the season // free to 5 euro.
- Coffee at Nikis Avenue: from 3-5 euro.
- Perea Tavernas: Try Taverna tou Vasili if you are feeling like fresh fish or Anestis Steakhouse for meat.
Things to Do in Thessaloniki for Foodies
13. Eat Bougatsa: I could write poems about the joy that is bougatsa. The debate has always been between custard or cheese, but there are also options of spinach, mince, or chocolate. My favorite of course is cheese (feta). A great central spot is Giannis – a favorite of late-night drinkers since it opens at 5 a.m.
14. Have a Freddo Espresso: The city is the birthplace of the cold coffee craze. Try it at a busy cafe for the full local experience. You can also go for a freddo cappuccino which adds a layer of frothed milk at the top. You won’t have this coffee anywhere else.
15. Try Trigona Panoramatos: If Thessaloniki had to choose one pastry to claim as its own, it would be the trigona panoramatos. These crisp, syrup-soaked triangles are filled with creamy custard and best enjoyed fresh. The most famous spot to try them is Elenidis, a pastry shop that’s been making them for decades.
16. Eat at a Taverna in Ladadika: This historic district is packed with colorful tavernas serving classic Greek dishes and meze and is also full of great restaurants.
17. Try a Small Ouzeri in Ano Poli: Pair ouzo or tsipouro with seafood and meze in a cozy setting with a view.
18. Grab a Koulouri on the Street: This sesame-covered bread ring is a quick, cheap, and filling snack you’ll see sold everywhere. It’s the most common on-the-go snack. You should grab it from Koulourades.
19. Have a Roof Garden Night: Book a table at a rooftop bar or restaurant for views over the sea and city lights like To Palio Hamam or Orizontes Roof Top Bar.
20. Enjoy a Drink Near Vasilissis Olgas: This area has a mix of modern cocktail bars and traditional cafes away from the main tourist streets. The most popular ones are Casablanca, Dendro sto Bar, and Morocco Mansion.
21. Dine at Deka Trapezia: One of the city’s best restaurants, offering a modern take on Greek cuisine with an intimate atmosphere. This is a place that is an absolute experience and a highlight.
22. Try Classic Souvlaki at Delicatessen: This casual spot serves one of the best souvlaki experiences in the city — perfectly grilled meat, fluffy pita, and fresh toppings.
23. Have a Craft Beer at a Microbrewery: Thessaloniki’s beer scene has quietly grown over the last decade, with microbreweries experimenting with flavors beyond the standard lager.
24. Have Chestnut-Filled Tsoureki from Terkenlis: Tsoureki (a sweet bread and a classic during Easter) is a Thessaloniki classic, and Terkenlis is the undisputed king of making it. While you can find tsoureki year-round, the chestnut cream–filled version is a local winter favorite, especially around Christmas.
Weird and Unique Things to Do in Thessaloniki
25. Go Up the OTE Tower: The city’s version of the needle is less impressive but it does have great views and coffee for a special occasion spot. Make sure to book ahead.
26. Enjoy a Summer Cinema Night: If you’re here during the summer months, then a local-approved thing to do is to catch a film at one of Thessaloniki’s open-air cinemas. You’ll see a view of Nea Paralia, like the famous Natali.
27. Take a Sunset Cruise from the Port: The ultimate hop-on-hop-off vehicle of the city is the ferry that takes you across the harbor. Some are quite touristy but I’ve been on them more than once as a local on a coffee date with friends. The pirate one (ARABELLA) is a local favorite.
28. Visit the Planetarium at NOESIS: An educational and entertaining stop for astronomy fans of all ages.
29. Work from a Digital Nomad-Friendly Café: Thessaloniki has a growing number of coworking spaces and laptop-friendly cafés with great coffee and views. Pick one to work from for the day if you’re here for a while. Here is a full list.
30. See a Theatre Show: Check what’s on at the National Theatre of Northern Greece or smaller local venues for a different night out.
31. Pop into the Museum of Illusions: A fun, interactive space for all ages and a great rainy day activity, especially if you’re visiting with kids.
32. Take a Cooking Class: What’s better than eating Greek food? Learning how to make it. There are a lot of great spots like this one where you can try your hand at traditional dishes.
** Book a Cooking Class Experience at a Farm near Thessaloniki.
33. Visit a Hammam: There are a few remaining hammam houses in Thessaloniki, remnants of its wide Ottoman past, like Polis Hammam and Hammam Baths.
34. Visit the Train Cemetery of Thessaloniki: Often listed among the city’s more unusual attractions, the Train Cemetery of Thessaloniki is exactly what it sounds like — a sprawling yard of old, rusting train carriages. While it might sound like an urban explorer’s dream, it’s not an official or approved attraction. The trains are heavily vandalized, and the area is still in use, which means it’s not always the safest place to wander around. If you do go, treat it as a “look from afar” curiosity rather than something to actively explore.
Budget for activities:
- OTE Tower: Tickets start from around $15- $21 for coffee. Book it here.
- Summer Cinema: Tickets start at $6-$10 for a screening.
- Sunset cruise: You will pay a slightly higher coffee price so budget $5-$10.
- Planetarium at NOESIS: Tickets start at $14 for a single adult ticket. More information here.
- Museum of Illusions Ticket: Starts at $13. Book a ticket here.
- Take a cooking class: Lots of different options, around $100 per person. This 4-hour food tour around Thessaloniki is another good experience.
- Hammam Spa: Polis Hammam runs a lot of different packages and specials for a spa and massage. Find more information here.
- Train Cemetery of Thessaloniki: FREE
For Shopping
35. Walk and Shop on Tsimiski Street: This is the city’s main shopping street, lined with big-name brands, boutiques, and department stores. A great place to start from.
36. Visit Modiano Market: A recently renovated historic market offering everything from spices and cheeses to fresh fish and gourmet delicacies. At night it gets a more upbeat vibe. Overall, I was not a fan of the redesign (mostly because I think it stripped some of the character of the past) but it’s still worth popping in.
37. Browse Kapani Market: A more traditional open-air market with stalls selling produce, nuts, meat, and household goods — perfect for a taste of daily life.
38. Head to Mediterranean Cosmos Mall: If you want a proper mall, then Mediterranean Cosmos is the place to visit. It is the biggest in the city and covers everything from department stores to restaurants.
Cultural and Religious Things to Do in Thessaloniki
39. Visit the Roman Agora: For locals, this area is synonymous with finding a parking spot, but if you give it a chance and go with a guide you’ll discover layers of history you didn’t realize were hidden all around you.
40. See Trigonion Tower: This small 15th-century fortress with panoramic views over Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf is a must during your visit to Ano Poli.
41. Go Inside Yedi Kule (Heptapyrgion): While in Ano Poli, make sure to pop into this Byzantine-Ottoman fortress that later became a prison.
42. Visit Pasha’s Gardens: A lesser-known spot you can stop by on your way to Ano Poli, this whimsical stone structure park has a Gaudi-like feel and unique features you won’t find elsewhere.
43. See the Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum: A classic museum choice right in the center of town for a rounded view of the city’s history.
44. Learn at the Ataturk Museum: If you didn’t know Greece was under Ottoman occupation for 400 years, or how that history is still reflected in the city, you might want to pop into the museum dedicated to Ataturk, the father of modern-day Turkey.
45. Go Inside the Rotunda: One of Thessaloniki’s most impressive and oldest monuments, built by the Romans in the 4th century AD. Over the centuries, it has served as a pagan temple, a Christian church, and an Ottoman mosque — and you can still see traces of each era inside.
46. Visit Agios Dimitrios Basilica: The city’s most important church, dedicated to its patron saint, with beautiful mosaics and an underground crypt. A guided tour here often reveals how central this church and the Great Fire of 1917 were to the city’s story.
47. Hagia Sophia Church: A stunning 8th-century church inspired by its famous namesake in Istanbul.
48. Panagia Chalkeon: Known as the “Red Church” for its brick construction, this 1028-built church is small but beautiful.
49. Acheiropoietos Church: An early Christian basilica from the 5th century, with intricate marble work and mosaics. A lesser-known fact is that this church, like others in the city, incorporates stones from Thessaloniki’s former Jewish cemetery.
50. Visit the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki: If you visit just one museum to truly understand Thessaloniki, make it this one. It tells the story of the city’s once-thriving Jewish community, which was almost entirely lost during the Holocaust, and how their influence shaped the city we see today.
Budget for activities:
- Roman Agora: 2 euro
- Trigonion Tower: FREE
- Yedi Kule (Heptapyrgion): 3 euro
- Pasha’s Gardens: FREE
- Archaeological Museum: 8 euro in high season and 4 in low season
- Ataturk Museum: FREE
- Rotunda: 6 euro in high season and 3 in low season
- Agios Dimitrios Basilica: FREE
- Hagia Sophia Church: FREE
- Panagia Chalkeon: FREE
- Acheiropoietos Church: FREE
- Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki: 8 euro in high season and 3 in low season
Day Trips to Have From Thessaloniki
51. Go Wine Tasting in Lake Kerkini: Just an hour and a half from Thessaloniki, Lake Kerkini is one of Greece’s most important wetlands and a paradise for birdwatchers. Depending on the season, you might see flamingos, pelicans, herons, and over 300 other bird species. You can take a boat tour, go cycling along the dikes, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery. It’s a great escape from the bustle of the city, especially for nature lovers.
52. Relax at Pozar Thermal Baths: The Pozar Thermal Baths are about two hours from Thessaloniki and are a local favorite for year-round relaxation. The hot springs are set against a backdrop of mountains and forest, with both outdoor pools and natural river sections. In winter, sitting in the warm water while snow falls around you is a magical experience. Bring swimwear and towels, and be prepared for a small entrance fee.
53. Hike to Edessa Waterfalls: Edessa, about an hour and a half away, is famous for its dramatic waterfalls that tumble right through the city. The biggest one, Karanos, is an impressive 70 meters high. You can walk behind the curtain of water, explore small caves, and stroll through the surrounding park. The town itself is charming, with cafes and restaurants perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
54. Spend Two Days Exploring Mount Olympus: If you have more than a day, head to Mount Olympus — the mythical home of the Greek gods. The lower slopes can be explored in a single day, but serious hiking enthusiasts can stay overnight in one of the mountain refuges to reach higher altitudes. Even if you don’t plan to summit, there are plenty of scenic trails and villages like Litochoro to explore.
55. Visit Pella and Learn About Alexander the Great’s Legacy: The ancient capital of Macedonia, Pella, is only 45 minutes from Thessaloniki. This is where Alexander the Great was born and raised, and today it’s home to an excellent archaeological site and museum. You can see the remains of the palace, intricate mosaic floors, and exhibits that give insight into life during the height of the Macedonian kingdom.
56. Climb Platamon Castle: Perched above the Aegean Sea, Platamon Castle offers incredible coastal and mountain views. It’s about an hour and a half from Thessaloniki and is a great stop if you’re heading towards Mount Olympus or the southern beaches. The climb is short but steep, and the well-preserved medieval walls are worth the effort.
57. Enjoy Local Cuisine in Palaios Panteleimonas: This traditional mountain village near Platamon is a must for food lovers. Stone-built houses, cobbled streets, and panoramic sea views make it the perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal. Try local specialties like wild boar stew, hearty bean soups, and mountain herbs in homemade pies.
58. Visit Meteora’s Monasteries: Although it’s around 3 hours from Thessaloniki, Meteora is one of Greece’s most unique destinations and worth the drive. Monasteries here are built atop towering rock pillars, creating jaw-dropping views. You can visit several monasteries in a day, but for the best experience, stay overnight in nearby Kalambaka or Kastraki.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Must Know When Visiting Greece
- Emergency: Dial 112 for all emergencies. For police, dial 100. For ambulance 166. For fire dial 199.
- Language: English is widely spoken in most tourist areas. Common phrases to learn are “Kalimera” (Good morning), “Yia” (Hello and Bye – informal), and “Efharisto” (Thank you).
- Water: Tap water is safe in Athens, mainland Greece and a small number of islands. Always ask beforehand.
- Driving: Right-hand side, international driving permit recommended. Book your rental car with Discover Cars for the best rates and comparisons across all major and local companies.
- Accommodation: Booking.com for the most options on hotels, apartments and hostels. Free cancellation in a lot of places and no need to pre-pay. Great for their rewards points system.
- Islands: There are a lot of islands, spread out around the country. Start with a map or ferry service to get an idea of travel times. Ferry Scanner is the best for ferry bookings to the Greek islands.
- Activities: From cultural sights to day trips, food tours and city guides, use Get Your Guide.
- Public Transport: For Athens, use the Athens Metro. If you are not renting a car, use Trains (Hellenic Train) or KTEL (Public Buses) services.
- Domestic Airlines: The main airlines for air travel are Aegean Airlines and Sky Express. I recommend Aegean Airlines and its rewards program.
- Taxi: Always use a taxi app, instead of flagging down a taxi from the road. Use FREE Now (formerly BEAT).
- Culture: A siesta nap is still common in less touristy areas. This also means businesses will close between 2 PM – 5 PM. Except for hospitality businesses, everything is closed on Sundays.
