Thessaloniki is Greece’s second city and, for many travellers, its most enjoyable. It has 2,300 years of history, a long seafront promenade, a famously relaxed café culture and some of the best food in the country – all at prices well below Athens or the islands. This Thessaloniki travel guide picks out the highlights, the best places to shop and ideas for day trips.
What to see in Thessaloniki
The White Tower and the waterfront
The White Tower is the city’s best-known landmark, and its museum tells the story of Thessaloniki through the ages. From here, the seafront promenade stretches for kilometres, lined with cafés, restaurants and public art such as the Umbrellas sculpture. Come at sunset, when the whole city seems to be out for a walk.
Roman and Byzantine landmarks
The Rotunda, a massive circular Roman building later used as a church and a mosque, is one of the city’s emblems. Close by stands the Arch of Galerius, decorated with carvings of the emperor’s victories. Thessaloniki’s Byzantine churches, including the Church of Agios Dimitrios, are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Archaeological Museum completes the picture with treasures from ancient Macedonia.
Ano Poli (the Upper Town)
Climb up to Ano Poli for picturesque lanes, colourful Ottoman-era houses, sections of the old city walls and sweeping views over the city and the Thermaic Gulf.
Jewish heritage
Thessaloniki was once home to one of the largest and most important Sephardic Jewish communities in the world, so much so that it was known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”. The Jewish Museum and the Monastirioton Synagogue tell the story of the community, which was almost entirely destroyed in the Holocaust.
Markets and food
Food is a big part of any visit. Kapani Market is a lively maze of stalls selling fresh produce, olives, cheese and spices, while the restored Modiano Market combines traditional shops with restaurants and bars. Do not leave without trying bougatsa, a flaky pastry filled with cream or cheese, for breakfast.
Beaches and day trips
The best beaches are in Halkidiki, about an hour’s drive away, with turquoise water and pine-fringed coves. Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the Greek gods, is also within easy reach and offers great hiking.
Where to shop in Thessaloniki
- Tsimiski and Mitropoleos: the main shopping streets, with well-known international and Greek brands.
- Ionos Dragoumi: a popular street with fashion stores, souvenir shops and cafés.
- Modiano Market: the place for local food products, spices and Greek sweets. See our guide to Modiano Market.
- Mediterranean Cosmos: a large modern mall with international brands, restaurants and cafés.
Practical tips
- Getting around: the city centre is walkable, and the new metro makes it easier to get across town.
- When to go: spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing. Summer is hot but perfect if you want to combine the city with Halkidiki’s beaches.
- Eat late: Greeks dine late, and tavernas really get going after 9 pm.
Planning your trip
For a base, read where to stay in Thessaloniki, and our round-up of tavernas in Thessaloniki will sort out dinner. Exploring more of Greece? See our guides to Rhodes and Crete.
