Tripmi
Tripmi★★★★★ Use it free online · Web & iOS
Open
Thessaloniki
Home / Destinations / Greece / Thessaloniki
🇬🇷 Greece

Thessaloniki

Byzantine beauty meets vibrant Balkan spirit — Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern energy. Its rich Byzantine heritage is evident in its UNESCO World Heritage sites, while its bustling waterfront and lively nightlife offer a distinctly contemporary vibe.

▶ Video guide

Thessaloniki in 60 seconds

A cinematic tour of the top sights, food and local tips. Get your own AI voice guide and a trip planned just for you in the Tripmi app.

  • 📍Top places to visit: White Tower, Rotunda, Arch of Galerius
  • 🍽️What to eat: Bougatsa, Gkouzouleles, Gyró
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for…

Good to know

Best time to visit
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for exploring, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot, while winters are cool and occasionally rainy.
Getting around
The city center is walkable, but local buses are frequent and cover most areas. Taxis are also readily available and relatively affordable.
Currency
Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for smaller purchases or local markets is advisable.
Language
Greek. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, making communication easy for visitors.
Safety
Thessaloniki is generally a very safe city. Standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas are recommended.
Daily budget
Budget: $60-90, Midrange: $90-150 per day
💶 Travel money in ThessalonikiCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Thessaloniki
Read tips →

Top places to visit

1Landmark

White Tower

The iconic symbol of Thessaloniki, offering panoramic city and sea views from its upper floors.

2Temple

Rotunda

A massive cylindrical building, originally a Roman temple, later converted into a church and then a mosque.

3Landmark

Arch of Galerius

A triumphal arch commemorating Roman Emperor Galerius's victory, adorned with intricate relief carvings.

4Temple

Hagia Sophia Church

A stunning Byzantine church, part of a UNESCO World Heritage complex, known for its beautiful mosaics.

5Museum

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Showcasing artifacts from the Byzantine period, offering insights into the art, religion, and daily life of the era.

6Museum

Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

Houses significant finds from Thessaloniki and the wider Macedonian region, spanning prehistoric to late antiquity.

7Viewpoint

Ano Poli (Upper Town)

Explore the charming old town with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and breathtaking views over the city.

8Park

Thessaloniki Waterfront (Nea Paralia)

A modern promenade perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, and enjoying sunset views over the Thermaic Gulf.

9Market

Modiano Market

A vibrant covered market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, spices, and traditional goods.

10Nightlife

Ladadika District

Once a traditional olive oil market, now a lively area filled with tavernas, bars, and entertainment venues.

11Landmark

Aristotelous Square

The city's main square, a grand public space ideal for people-watching, events, and accessing shops and cafes.

12Museum

War Museum of Thessaloniki

Dedicated to Greece's military history, featuring indoor and outdoor exhibits.

13Landmark

Odeon of Roman Agora

A well-preserved Roman theater used for performances and public gatherings within the ancient Agora complex.

14Landmark

Ano Poli Walls

Remnants of the ancient city walls offering historical context and stunning elevated views.

15Temple

Moni Vlatadon Monastery

A historic Byzantine monastery located in Ano Poli, offering a tranquil atmosphere and impressive architecture.

Make Thessaloniki a real tripBuild a personalized Thessaloniki itinerary in seconds — free with the Tripmi app.
🌐Free · no downloadUse Tripmi online

Things to do

Walk the Waterfront Promenade

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the revitalized Nea Paralia, taking in the sea breeze and iconic sculptures.

Explore Ano Poli

Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town, discovering hidden churches and enjoying panoramic vistas.

Experience the Nightlife in Ladadika

Discover the buzzing atmosphere of this historic district, known for its numerous tavernas and bars.

Visit the Modiano Market

Immerse yourself in local life by browsing the stalls filled with fresh produce and regional specialties.

Climb the White Tower

Ascend to the top of the city's landmark for unparalleled views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf.

Take a Boat Trip

See the city from a different perspective with a relaxing boat tour along the coast.

Where to stay

Ano Poli

Suits history buffs and those seeking charming streets and stunning city views.

Center (Aristotelous Square area)

Ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to main attractions, shopping, and nightlife.

Ladadika

Perfect for travelers looking for a lively atmosphere with numerous tavernas and bars.

Nea Paralia

Appeals to those who enjoy walking, cycling, and relaxing by the sea.

What to eat

Bougatsa

A delicious sweet or savory pastry, often filled with cream or cheese, perfect for breakfast.

Gkouzouleles

Small, savory fried dough balls, a popular meze (appetizer) often served with dips.

Gyró

Pita bread filled with seasoned meat (pork or chicken), tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.

Moussaka

A rich, baked dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Seafood

Being a coastal city, Thessaloniki offers incredibly fresh seafood, from grilled octopus to sea bream.

White Wine from Epanomi

Try the local Assyrtiko or Malagousia wines, particularly those from the nearby Epanomi region.

Day trips

Mount Olympus

The mythical home of the gods, offering hiking trails and stunning natural beauty, about a 1.5-hour drive.

Pella

The ancient capital of the Kingdom of Macedon and birthplace of Alexander the Great, a 45-minute drive.

Halkidiki

A peninsula with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, reachable within 1-2 hours depending on the destination.

Insider tips

  • Embrace the 'meze' culture – order small plates to share and try a variety of local flavors.
  • Visit the Modiano Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and lively atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the city center and Ano Poli are best explored on foot.
  • Enjoy a coffee or drink along the waterfront, especially during sunset.
  • Take advantage of the city's numerous public fountains for free, clean drinking water.
  • Learn a few basic Greek phrases like 'Yassas' (hello) and 'Efcharisto' (thank you).

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
E
Elena K.
Russia
★★★★★
last month

Thessaloniki is a hidden gem! We loved wandering through the Ano Poli, getting lost in its charming streets and enjoying the incredible views. Don't miss trying the bougatsa for breakfast – it's divine!

M
Mark T.
United Kingdom
★★★★☆
in June

A vibrant city with a rich history. The White Tower is iconic, and the Roman Agora gives you a real sense of the past. The food scene is fantastic, especially the seafood tavernas by the waterfront. Could have used a bit more green space, but overall a great trip.

A
Anya S.
India
★★★★★
a few weeks ago

Absolutely fell in love with Thessaloniki! The energy of the city is infectious. We spent hours people-watching at Aristotelous Square and exploring the fascinating museums. The local pastries are a must-try, especially the syrup-soaked ones!

J
Javier M.
Spain
★★★★★
last autumn

Thessaloniki surprised us with its beauty and history. Exploring the Byzantine walls was breathtaking, and the mosaics are stunning. The city has a wonderful laid-back vibe, and the food, oh, the food! Absolutely delicious and so affordable.

C
Chloé D.
France
★★★★★
earlier this year

What a city! Thessaloniki has a unique blend of cultures. We enjoyed a sunset drink with views of the Thermaic Gulf and indulged in some of the best souvlaki we've ever had. The friendly locals made our stay even more special.

Good to know — FAQ

What is Thessaloniki famous for?
Thessaloniki is renowned for its rich Byzantine history, evident in its numerous UNESCO World Heritage churches and monuments. It's also celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene, lively waterfront, and dynamic nightlife.
Is Thessaloniki a walkable city?
Yes, the city center, including most major attractions and the waterfront, is very walkable. However, for longer distances or exploring hilly areas like Ano Poli, local buses or taxis are convenient options.
What is the best way to experience local food?
The best way is to explore the local markets like Modiano and explore the tavernas in areas like Ladadika. Ordering 'meze' (small shared plates) is highly recommended to sample a variety of dishes.
Are there beaches near Thessaloniki?
While Thessaloniki itself is a port city, beautiful beaches can be found within a short drive. The Halkidiki peninsula, easily accessible for day trips, offers numerous stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Find the best places, ranked

Top food, cafés, nightlife and sights in any city — all free in the Tripmi app.

Popular destinations

🌐Use Tripmi free online