Top Things to do in Thessaloniki
Table of contents
- 1. The White Tower, Thessaloniki
- 2. The Church of Saint Demetrius of Solunsky, Thessaloniki
- 3. Roman Agora or Forum, Thessaloniki
- 4. The Rotunda and The Arch of Galerius, Thessaloniki
- 5. Kastro or Ano Poli, Thessaloniki
- 6. Aristotle Square, Thessaloniki
- 7. Ladadika area, Thessaloniki
- 8. Thermaikos Gulf Cruise, Thessaloniki
- 9. Skyline Сafé Bar, OTE Tower, Thessaloniki
- 10. The Umbrellas Installation, Thessaloniki
- The best way to explore the sights of Thessaloniki and its hinterlands
- Where to stay in Thessaloniki
- How to get to Thessaloniki
- Which Greek Islands you can get from Thessaloniki
- Like it? Pin it!
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is a lively mix of history, culture, and modern energy. Known for its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere, it offers visitors a special experience with ancient monuments, busy markets, and a growing arts scene.
The city is filled with history, displaying landmarks from ancient Greece, Rome, the Byzantine Empire, and Ottoman times. New archaeological sites are still being uncovered on its lively streets, adding even more character. Some of Thessaloniki’s greatest treasures are its early Christian and Byzantine monuments, celebrated for their architecture and art that greatly influenced Christianity in the Balkans and beyond.
While a single day only touches the surface of Thessaloniki’s sights, we’ve selected the top 10 must-see places to help you make the most of your visit.
1. The White Tower, Thessaloniki
The majestic, 34-meter-high White Tower is a symbol of Thessaloniki. Positioned at the start of the city’s long seaside promenade, it is a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists.
The tower’s name carries a sad history. During the Ottoman period, it was used as a prison where many Greeks were executed. After Greece gained independence, the “bloody” tower was painted white to erase memories of its grim past. Although the whitewash has long since worn away, the name remains.
Today, the tower’s seven floors house a new multimedia museum that explores Thessaloniki’s history. Visitors ascend the tower in a gradual spiral, eventually reaching the observation deck, where sweeping views of the city and the Thermaikos Gulf await.
The White Tower’s opening hours
- 08:00 — 20:00 (summer season)
- 08:30 — 15:30 (winter season)
The White Tower closed
- January 1, March 25, May 1, Sunday Easter, December 25 and 26.
Free admission days to the White Tower
- Every first Sunday of the month from the 1st of November until the 31st of March
- On the National holiday of the 28th of October
- On the 18th of April (International Day of Monuments)
- On the 18th of May (International Day of Museums)
- During the weekend of European Days of Cultural Heritage (the last weekend of September
- On the 6th of March (Memory of Melina Mercouri)
The White Tower ticket price
- from 01.04 till 31.10 – € 6 (children under 5 years are free, from 6 to 25 years – € 3)
- from 01.11 till 31.03 – € 3 (children under 5 years are free)
2. The Church of Saint Demetrius of Solunsky, Thessaloniki
The majestic temple, located in the center of the city, was built in the 5th century in honor of Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki. Demetrius lived in Thessaloniki in the 3rd century, and was a Roman proconsul, but was baptized, preached, and did not hide his faith. He was martyred in this place in 306 by order of the emperor Galerius Maximian, who was famous for his persecution of Christians.
The relics of the Saint were probably taken to Italy in the 12th century and returned to Thessaloniki only in 1978. The relics are housed in a silver shrine located in the underground crypt of the temple. The crypt is open throughout the day and during special services on Friday evenings.
During Ottoman rule, the Turks turned the church into a mosque and plastered the frescoes. Later the plaster was removed and the frescoes, which are masterpieces of early Christian art, became visible again. In fact, the saint is not only loved and venerated by the Greeks. Pilgrimages to the holy relics are made from all parts of the world, and miracles still happen nowadays.
Church of Saint Demetrius opening hours
- Every day: 06.00-20.00
- Admission to the Church of Saint Demetrius is free.
3. Roman Agora or Forum, Thessaloniki
Right next to the church of St. Demetrius is the Roman Agora, which occupies an area of about two hectares in the center of the Roman city. It was built at the end of the 2nd century in place of the market that existed here before.
Public buildings, shops, and an amphitheater that could hold 2500 spectators were built according to a unified architectural concept. The complex was the economic and commercial center of the city but also had an administrative and entertainment character.
Nowadays, you can see the walls of the close-standing shops and fragments of mosaics on the floor. Of the market buildings a covered gallery has been restored, where exhibitions are held. An amphitheater with a capacity of 350 people has also been restored, where concerts are held in the summer.
Roman Agora’s opening hour
- 08.30-15.30, closed on Tuesday
Roman Agora ticket price
- Full ticket – € 2, reduced – € 1
4. The Rotunda and The Arch of Galerius, Thessaloniki
The Rotunda, as well as the Arch of Galerius, are part of the palace complex of Emperor Galerius and are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
At the end of the 3rd century, Thessaloniki was one of the important financial and administrative centres of the Roman Empire. Therefore, it was decided to build a large Palace Complex in the city, which consisted of a palace, reception rooms, a hippodrome, and a rotunda. All the buildings were connected by a street decorated with columns, which passed through the triumphal arch.
The Rotunda
The Rotunda has a shape completely unusual for Greece – cylindrical. Its height is almost 30 meters, the inner diameter is 25 meters.
During the Roman period, it was used as a place of worship for Zeus. In 400, the Rotunda was transformed into a Christian church and decorated with unique mosaics, some of which have survived to the present day. 1200 years later, during the Ottoman Empire, a minaret was added to the building and the rotunda was converted into a mosque. In 1912, after the liberation of the city from the Turks, the Rotunda became a Christian church again, and since 1920 it has housed collections of Christian and Byzantine sculptures. After the restoration was completed, a museum was opened in the Rotunda, but a church service is held here once a month.
The Rotunda’s opening hours
- 08.30-15.30, closed on Tuesday
The Rotunda’s ticket price
- Full ticket – € 2, reduced – € 1
The Arch of Galerius (Kamara)
The Arch of Galerius or Kamara, was built in honour of the triumphant victory of Emperor Galerius over the Persians. It is located on the busy central street of Egnatia.
Of the original eight columns, only three remain today. The central arched opening is about 10 meters wide and 12.5 meters high. The width of the side openings of the arch is about 5 meters.
On four central pillars are marble panels with relief images. The bas-reliefs depict Roman soldiers fighting against the Persians. One can see figures of men, camels, and horses, battle scenes, and sacrifices. In the center, the Emperor himself and the imperial family. Pay attention to the disproportionate figures. The Persian soldiers are much smaller compared to the Roman ones, while the figure of Emperor Galerius is significantly larger than all the other participants.
5. Kastro or Ano Poli, Thessaloniki
The narrow, winding streets of Kastro, also called Ano Poli (Upper Town), are filled with pastel-colored traditional houses with projecting upper floors. The walls of Kastro were built by Emperor Theodosius in the 5th century and were intended to resemble the walls of Constantinople.
You will enjoy the walk here as the old fortress walls have remained untouched by time. At the top, you have a breathtaking view of the whole city and the Thermaikos Gulf. In Kastro, there are several good old-style tavernas and excellent cafes.
6. Aristotle Square, Thessaloniki
Aristotle Square is, certainly, the central and busiest square in Thessaloniki. It was designed by the French architect Ernest Emprar in 1917, immediately after the great fire in the city center.
On both sides of the square, there are two buildings with a semicircular façade, one of which is a 5* hotel Electra Palace.
From the south, the square opens onto a long city promenade with panoramic views of the Thermaikos Gulf. Walking along the pedestrian zone on the south side of the square, one reaches the Ancient Agora, the Roman Forum, and the Church of St. Demetrius of Thessaloniki.
At the heart of the square stands a monument to the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, founder of the natural sciences and teacher of Alexander the Great. According to legend, anyone who rubs the big toe of Aristotle’s left foot will gain wisdom and intelligence, almost like the philosopher himself. This tradition draws many visitors, and there’s often a line to join in. The toe itself has been polished to a bright sheen from so much touching.
7. Ladadika area, Thessaloniki
If you walk from Aristotle Square along the promenade to the right, you will find yourself in Ladadika, one of the oldest parts of the city. Definitely, the most charming and vivid districts of Thessaloniki.
The district got its name from the Greek word “ladi” – “oil”. In the middle of the 19th century, there were warehouses with olive oil and wholesale. The old shops have been restored, but the architectural style of the 19th-century buildings has been preserved.
Today Ladadika is the hot spot of the city’s party and food life. During the day you can enjoy a coffee or a snack here. In the evening, tavernas rush in to treat locals and guests of the city to delicious traditional Greek cuisine. At night, numerous clubs and bars invite you to enjoy varied nightlife, discos, and concerts with live music. There are entertainments here to suit all tastes and budgets. Take a walk in the evening hours, when the streets are lit with romantic yellow light, and feel its atmosphere.
Once you are here, one of the best ways to explore local delicious Thessaloniki cuisine is through a taste and food tour. Wander around the city center of Thessaloniki and try out different types of food in the colorful local open markets placed all over the city center, such as “Kapani Street”. You’ll find a great variety of herbs and spices as well as a diversity of meat, cheese delicacies, and much more. Try it out!
8. Thermaikos Gulf Cruise, Thessaloniki
If you want to explore Thessaloniki from the sea, the most pleasant and inexpensive way is to take a small cruise.
There are several ships moored on the waterfront next to the White Tower. Stylized as a pirate ship, on which you can take a 30-minute walk along the Thermaikos Gulf. During the season, the ships take turns making the trip every 30 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long.
The cruise is free, you just for a drink at the bar of the ship for € 5 – 10, and you can enjoy the beautiful view and take nice photos.
9. Skyline Сafé Bar, OTE Tower, Thessaloniki
The most famous café bar in Thessaloniki, SKYLINE, is located on the top floor of the tower of OTE, the main telecommunications company in Greece.
The main feature of the bar is a gradual rotation of the tower which lasts 60 minutes, at a height of about 150 meters. During this time you can see every corner of one of the oldest cities in Europe – Thessaloniki.
In an elegant environment, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the main attractions of Thessaloniki during the day and the most beautiful sunset of the city in the evening.
10. The Umbrellas Installation, Thessaloniki
Not far from the monument to Alexander the Great, you’ll find the unique “Umbrellas” installation. Added in the late 1990s, this artwork fits seamlessly into the landscape of the waterfront and quickly became a favorite among locals.
Naturally, it’s one of Thessaloniki’s most photographed spots. Tourists often line up for memorable photos in front of the umbrellas, and thousands of these snapshots fill social media.
The sculptor Georgos Zongolopoulos designed this installation to represent the salvation of the modern world. It features 39 umbrellas (originally 40, with one mysteriously missing) floating like transparent domes above the Greek sky, as if swept up by the wind. At night, gentle lighting enhances its charm, creating an ideal scene for atmospheric photography.
The best way to explore the sights of Thessaloniki and its hinterlands
Thessaloniki guided tour
Although Thessaloniki is not a very large city, the distances between points of interest are still big. A tour around Thessaloniki by car, minibus, or bus with a licensed guide offers an immersive experience of the ancient city and lets you see its main attractions in just a few hours. The route covers historic and iconic sites, such as the Church of Saint Demetrios, the Roman Forum, the Arch and Palace of Galerius, the waterfront, the White Tower, and the Monument to Alexander the Great. You’ll also stop at the viewpoint by the fortress walls of the Upper Town, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city and the bay.
Top Excursions from Thessaloniki: Meteora, Vergina, Pella, Edessa, and Aridea Hot Springs
From Thessaloniki, you can set out on a variety of excursions that cover both cultural and historical landmarks, as well as scenic natural sites. Here are some of the most popular excursions among visitors:
- Meteora – Unique monasteries built on the tops of steep cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage site impresses with both its architecture and stunning natural landscapes.
- Vergina – World-renowned for being the site where the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, was discovered. This complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list and is one of Greece’s most important archaeological monuments, providing unique insight into ancient Macedonian culture and royal traditions.
- Pella – An ancient city, birthplace of Alexander the Great and the capital of the ancient Macedonian kingdom. Here you can find palace ruins, ancient mosaics, and an archaeological museum that displays unique artifacts.
- Edessa – A charming town known for its picturesque waterfalls, including Karonos Waterfall, the largest in Greece. Perched at a high elevation, the town offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and valley.
- Aridea – Known for its thermal springs in Loutraki, also called the “Pozar Springs.” Visitors can enjoy bathing in natural hot springs amidst scenic mountains and nature. The spring water temperature is around 37°C, allowing for therapeutic baths year-round.
Where to stay in Thessaloniki
Book a hotel in Thessaloniki
Looking for a hotel to stay in Thessaloniki? Check the best options in different locations at great rates. Choose the best hotel for you here.
Booking.comRental villas, houses, and apartments in Thessaloniki
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How to get to Thessaloniki
Flight to Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki International Airport “Macedonia” (IATA code: SKG) handles both international and domestic flights and is located just 15 km from the city center. We typically purchase airline tickets through AVIASALES, one of the largest online flight search engines globally. This platform allows us to compare airfares from hundreds of airlines and various travel agencies, helping us find and book the best-priced tickets available.
VIP services at Thessaloniki airport
We’re here to make your journey through Thessaloniki Airport as smooth and comfortable as possible. Let us take care of all the details for your arrival, departure, and any transit needs with VIP concierge services. Plus, enjoy the exclusive VIP lounge while you wait for your flight.
Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport
Whether it’s your first visit to the country or not, there’s comfort in knowing someone is waiting just for you at the airport. This assurance means you’ll reach your destination smoothly, avoiding the hassle of taxi lines and the risk of unexpected charges. Our prices are fully transparent, covering all fares, VAT, and any required fees, so you can trust that the amount quoted is the final price for your transfer. We prioritize comfort and safety—especially important when traveling with children—which is why we provide transfer services with professional drivers and a modern fleet of cars. All vehicles, including cars and minivans, come equipped with air conditioning for a comfortable journey.
Rent-a-car in Thessaloniki
For the ideal car rental for your trip, we recommend using DISCOVER CARS, a top choice for online car rental reservations. DISCOVER CARS compares rental offers from multiple companies, allowing you to find the best deal for your needs. The platform includes all mandatory charges, taxes, and extras in the quoted price, so there are no surprises when you arrive at the rental desk.
Which Greek Islands you can get from Thessaloniki
Traveling from Thessaloniki to the Greek Islands by ferry
The seasonal ferry service connects Thessaloniki with several Greek islands. One ferry per week runs from Thessaloniki to the Aegean Islands—Chios, Fourni, Ikaria, Lemnos, Lesbos, and Samos—as well as to the Cycladic Islands, including Mykonos and Syros. Another route links Thessaloniki to the Sporades islands: Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos.
You can check the schedule and buy your ferry tickets here:
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Updated: November 2024
