Is Thessaloniki worth visiting? Top 15 Reasons Why Visit Thessaloniki
Our trip to Thessaloniki was a blast. When we arrived, we had no specific expectations and did only a little research. Nevertheless, we were happy to explore a city that is often considered an off the beaten path destination in Greece, away from the usual crowds. The question of whether is Thessaloniki worth visiting often…
Our trip to Thessaloniki was a blast. When we arrived, we had no specific expectations and did only a little research. Nevertheless, we were happy to explore a city that is often considered an off the beaten path destination in Greece, away from the usual crowds.
The question of whether is Thessaloniki worth visiting often arises when people search for affordable flights to Greece. Despite being the country’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki remains undiscovered by many, especially if compared to other Greek destinations.
In this article, you will discover numerous reasons why Thessaloniki is worth visiting; with its vibrant nightlife and abundance of historical and cultural attractions, Thessaloniki is a must-see destination in Greece.

Is Thessaloniki worth visiting?
Yes, we both found Thessaloniki to be an incredible and surprising destination. Our expectations were exceeded during our trip to Greece, as Thessaloniki has so much to offer. The city is filled with fascinating museums, archaeological sites, tall buildings with stunning views, and a beautiful promenade where you can take a stroll and enjoy life.
At night, Thessaloniki was even more impressive, with the lively Ladadika district bustling with activity all night long. We used Thessaloniki as a base for a longer trip through North Macedonia, where we also explored the unspoiled beaches and villages of the Halkidiki peninsula.
10 Amazing Reasons to Visit Thessaloniki
Fun facts about Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, boasts a rich history spanning over 3,000 years. The Old Town is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites that showcase early Christian and Byzantine architecture.
The Romans established the city’s greatness, while the influence of Ottomans and Jews has contributed to its unique character, shaping both its history and modern identity.
In 2022, Time magazine recognized Thessaloniki as one of the world’s greatest places to visit.
Where is Thessaloniki?
Situated in the region of Central Macedonia, Thessaloniki is a city located in Northern Greece. Unlike the popular tourist destinations on the islands, Thessaloniki is located on the mainland, which sets it apart.
The city, which was formerly known as Salonika, is situated on the Aegean Sea. Thessaloniki is conveniently located just 310 miles or 499 km from Athens, and the two major Greek cities are well-connected by flights, trains, and roads. With a flight, you can travel between Thessaloniki and Athens in just 40 minutes.

Is Thessaloniki worth visiting? Top 10 Reasons Why Visit Thessaloniki!
Affordable trip
Compared to other popular destinations in Greece, Thessaloniki is an affordable trip. You can easily visit the city on a low budget, with accommodations and daily expenses ranging from €50 to €100 depending on your travel style.
With plenty of budget accommodation, Thessaloniki is perfect for backpackers who want to explore the Balkans and Southern Europe.
Less touristy than Athens
Thessaloniki is a less touristy destination in Greece compared to Athens, but it offers a more compact and authentic Greek experience. It is perfect for young travellers who want to enjoy the nightlife, local food, and quiet promenades.
Despite being less popular than the islands, Thessaloniki is picturesque and attractive. If you want to experience the local culture, Thessaloniki is an off-the-beaten-path destination worth visiting.

Walkable city centre
The city centre of Thessaloniki is walkable, and it is the best way to get around. The Onoma Hotel is beautiful and centrally located, and it takes about 20 minutes to walk to the old town, which is the centre of the action.
Aristotele Square is the centre of the old town, and from there, you can reach the bars, promenades, fashion boutiques, and cultural heritage places.
Vibrant at night
Thessaloniki is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The lively atmosphere gets you in the mood, and the presence of many universities and students that all meet in the old town adds to the excitement.
If you want to enjoy the nightlife in Thessaloniki, you should head to Ladadika, a picturesque quarter near the port that hosts many bars and clubs with live music and fresh cocktails. If you want to hang out and not get crazy, you can sit at a lounge or one of the many cafes open until late.
Life in Thessaloniki lasts all night, and you’ll find places to eat even late. The first place you should check out is Bulldog and the Beast Pub, a few meters after Pulp. These two locations are where locals meet up and start the night with a couple of beers.

Delicious Greek food
Greek cuisine may require a separate blog post, but let’s mention it in this guide to provide a reason to visit Thessaloniki. Greek cuisine is well-known worldwide and renowned for many dishes. In Thessaloniki, you can experience the authentic taste, not the artificial Westernized version found in other touristy locations.
So now, check out the below list of the best Greek food to try in Thessaloniki:
- Olives and olive oil
- Kolokythokeftedes (Courgette balls)
- Loukoumades
- Dolmades
- Moussaka
- Melitzanosalata
- Souvlaki
- Pastitsio
- Tzatziki

Gateway to Halkidiki
Thessaloniki is already an uncommon destination in Greece, but we always strive to take local experiences to the next level. You might be mistaken if you thought that Thessaloniki was just another city in Greece.
You can spend endless summers in Thessaloniki, enjoying the beach every day and catching a glimpse of the best of Greece in Halkidiki. Halkidiki is a peninsula in the Macedonian region consisting of “three legs” and has been off the tourist map for a long time, but it is now making headlines.
We were taken aback by the number of activities available in such a small area. From excellent vineyards to luxurious resorts, Halkidiki could be the ideal location for your next holiday in Greece.
NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GREECE?
For further recommendations about Athens, see this guide.
Visiting Athens? Read our guide!
Rich culture
We’ve mentioned the cultural aspect many times, attempting to persuade you that Thessaloniki is worth a visit. However, it’s always worth emphasizing this point. The mix of cultures in Thessaloniki is incredible.
Within a few miles of walking, you can see Byzantine, Roman, and Greek ruins and remnants. Additionally, the modern architecture is stunning. Walking through the streets of Thessaloniki, you’ll come across many architectural styles that will remind you of the Belle Epoque, French, Baroque, and more.

Vineyards all around
Thessaloniki is also known for its vineyards. You’ll find many vineyards surrounding the city, picturesque and picture-perfect places to try the best wine in the world.
Check out Ktima Gerovassiliou Vineyard, just 20 minutes away from Thessaloniki. Further away, you can find Marianna’s vine leaves on the route to Halkidiki. The last farm produces Dolmades, a Greek kind of snack produced by rolling grape leaves stuffed with herb and rice mix.
Perfect for a slow workation in Europe
If you’re looking for a slow workstation in Europe, check out our guides on the perfect workstation in Europe. You’ll find Thessaloniki, a wonderful city in the northeast of Greece that’s perfect for taking it slow, enjoying the local life with delicious food, strolling around the old town, and relaxing on the seaside.
The prices for apartments, hotels, and hostels are perfect for planning a month or two in Greece. The city may be chaotic, but it’s all part of its character. You’ll have a work vacation like nowhere else at a fraction of the price compared to other Western locations.
Sail to the Aegean
If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can take a cheap flight to Thessaloniki and then take the ferry to the dreamy islands in the Aegean. For example, to get to Skiathos, one of the most famous islands, you can take a ferry from the Thessaloniki harbour with Seajets.
The journey takes about 4 hours on board a nice ferry. You’ll experience incredible turquoise-blue water. Another fantastic experience you should consider is sailing on a yacht, sleeping in the middle of the sea, and waking up with an incredible view.

15 Incredible things to do in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki impressed us with the number of activities, cultural locations, architecture, museums and archaeological sites.
We have created a complete list of top sights in the second city of Greece and for sure you will find many reasons to visit Thessaloniki.
Enjoy the sunset in Thessaloniki
We chose to start with this activity because we were amazed by the beautiful colours and shadows of the stunning sunset in Thessaloniki. This is one of the best free things to do in Thessaloniki.
There are many viewpoints throughout the city, and some of them are truly impressive. From the top of Thessaloniki, you can enjoy the entire landscape, and the White Tower is also an excellent observation point. Alternatively, you can take a stroll along the promenade, perhaps sipping a beer and enjoying the sunset.

Admire the Roman Ruins | Roman Agora in Thessaloniki
The ruins of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations are a popular attraction in Thessaloniki, with the Roman Forum being located in the city center, also known as the Roman Agora of Thessaloniki.
The excavation site is situated just a few meters away from Aristotelous Square. Within the complex, you can explore the Roman baths, an old theatre, a few houses, the arcade, and the agora space.
The ruins are accessible to the public, and you can view the remains from the open space visible from the outside.
Other Archeological sites in Thessaloniki worth a visit
The Rotunda
The Rotunda is an impressive archaeological site in Thessaloniki. The Church, which is dedicated to Saint George, has stood the test of time thanks to its strong structure. The walls are 6 meters thick, and the building rises almost 30 meters, making it resilient to earthquakes and invasions.
Originally built in 300 AD by the Romans as a mausoleum for Galerius, the building was later converted into a Christian Church. It eventually became an Orthodox Christian Church but still retained its unique mosaics from the previous period.
In the 14th century, when the Ottomans occupied the area, it was transformed into a Mosque, which also altered the structure. Today, you can see the minaret that was added during this time. It was only in 1912, when the Turks liberated Thessaloniki that the mosque was reconverted back into a Church.
Arch of Galerius
Another Roman remains is the Arch of Galerius, which is right next to the Rotunda. Both buildings are Unesco world heritage sites and a prominent example of a well-preserved Roman site in Europe. The arch is often referred to as Kamara.
The Galerius Palace
During the Roman Empire, Thessaloniki was a significant city because of its location midway between Rome and Constantinople, eastern Rome.
This strategic location made Thessaloniki a focal point for emperors and powerful Romans. Today, the Galerius Palaces still showcase impressive majolicas that reflect the best of both worlds – the Byzantine and Roman cultures.

Visit The Fabulous Museums In Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is renowned for its museums due to the abundance of ruins, remains, and artefacts in the city. Below is a brief overview of the top museums in Thessaloniki, which will give you more reasons to visit the city.
- The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki displays Greek artefacts
- The Museum of Byzantine Culture showcases over 3,000 artefacts, mosaics, and jewellery from the Byzantine period.
- The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki provides insight into the history of the first Jewish people who settled in Thessaloniki. You can learn about the Sephardic Jews who lived in Thessaloniki through photos, inscriptions, and more.
- The Thessaloniki Olympic Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of the Olympic games, which originated in Greece.
Other museums you might be interested in visiting while in Thessaloniki:
- MOMus, the Photography Museum
- MOMus Contemporary Art Museum
- The Museum of Cinema
- Thessaloniki War Museum
- NOESIS The Science Center & Technology Museum
- Contemporary Art Center of Thessaloniki
- Folklife and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia

Get lost in Thessaloniki’s Old Town: Ano Poli
Explore the oldest neighbourhood of Thessaloniki and get lost in its maze of streets. Walking through the picturesque streets of the upper town is a must-do activity that won’t cost you a penny.
But if you need more reasons to plan a trip to Thessaloniki, then wandering around the cobblestone alleys and traditional Greek/Balkan-styled houses might catch your attention.
Thessaloniki’s old town, also known as the Upper town, is the city’s historical centre. However, Ana Poli, the only neighbourhood that survived a massive fire in 1917, still maintains its exemplary character.
During the Byzantine and Ottoman occupation, Ana Poli was the citadel, and Vlatadon Monastery was its masterpiece. The building, which has been standing since 1351, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers one of the most beautiful views in Thessaloniki.
Another tall building worth seeing is Trigoniou Tower, from where you can spot Mt. Olympus on a clear day and enjoy the stunning bay view.
Explore Aristotelous Square
The heart of modern Thessaloniki is Aristotelous Square, which is an impressive space that left us speechless. The entire surface area stretches from the Roman ruins to the promenade.
This is the place where locals gather, and it is the most visited spot in Thessaloniki. Kapani market is located right next to Aristotelous Square, as well as the main shopping streets, popular cafes, and bars.
What to see in Thessaloniki

Don’t miss the Beautiful Churches In Thessaloniki
We have already introduced some of the best churches in Thessaloniki, but the city’s long history suggests that there might be several more worth exploring.
Over thousands of years, many churches, mosques, and Orthodox complexes have been built. Here are some of the best churches you should consider adding to your list of things to do in Thessaloniki:
- Hagios Demetrios
- Hagia Sophia (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Latomos Monastery (4th century AD)
- Agios Pavlos
- Church of Panagia Chalkeon (Byzantine Church)
Special mention to Agia Sophia
A special mention goes to Agia Sophia. Although it is not the Hagia Sophia of Istanbul, it is still impressive. This is one of the oldest churches in the city, dating back to the 7th century and still standing today.
Hagia Sophia in Thessaloniki has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988 because it preserves outstanding Byzantine features and a unique mix of architectural styles and details.

Roam around Thessaloniki markets | Kapani Market and Modiano Market
Kapani market is the lively part of Thessaloniki during the day. We were lucky enough to visit the market twice during our three days in Thessaloniki.
In a few square kilometres, the raw local culture is preserved. The best way to experience Thessaloniki is through its market, roaming the alleys filled with local products, freshly baked bread, vegetables, fish, meat, and more.
The other market to visit is Modiano market, next to Kapani. The two places are perfect for a lunch break, grabbing quick bites, or roaming around. Since December 2022, there has been an excellent addition to Modiano Market.
The homonymous area once featured a covering spot, which got in disuse and destroyed. However, thanks to some local entrepreneurs, the old market that has given the name to the neighborhood is revived in a modern style, more European.
Unwind at the Modiano Market
We have introduced you to Modiano Market as a historical landmark of Thessaloniki, but also a new addition to the landscape of the old town. Therefore, it is necessary to spend a few more words about Modiano Market.
The remarkable building is housed in a basilica-style structure and was initially opened in 1925. The refined and charming style was a signature of Modiano, distinguishing the market from the nearby Kapani, which was more chaotic.
Today, the Modiano market is reopening to mark the conclusion of the Greco-Turkish war. Also, consider that the Modiano market is an iconic sign of the city’s diversity, where Sephardic Jews, Christians, and Muslim cultures have lived peacefully, coexisting and respecting each other for centuries.

Visit The White Tower Of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki’s White Tower has a huge, unpleasant history behind it, even though it is seen as an iconic building. Often referred to as the Tower of Blood or the Red Tower, the rounded building was once used as a prison, constructed in 1530 by the Ottomans during their invasion.
Legend has it that the name changed when a prisoner painted the whole building in white in exchange for his freedom. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy one of the best landscape views of Thessaloniki.
The gorgeous 360° view shows you all the best, from mountains not that far away to spoiled beaches. The ticket to access the tower costs €3, and it is open from 8 AM to 3 PM.
Cool things to do in Thessaloniki
Skyline Cafe Bar Thessaloniki
One of the coolest things to do in Thessaloniki is to enjoy the city from above. As you may have noticed, the White Tower closes at 3 PM, which means there isn’t enough time to catch the sunset from there. However, we have a solution that will make your holiday in Thessaloniki unforgettable.
The Skyline Cafe Bar offers an incredible 360° view of the city, which is perfect for watching the sunset. You can sit comfortably while enjoying a meal or a drink, and the slow rotation of the bar will give you a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings.
Hangout in Thessaloniki at night | Explore Ladadika
The city of Thessaloniki is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many clubs and bars that attract both locals and tourists. One of the best areas to experience the nightlife is Ladadika, located near the city port. This district has narrow, walkable cobblestone alleyways filled with lively bars and clubs.
Although Ladadika used to have a bad reputation in the past, it has now become a popular and safe neighbourhood, especially among young people. However, if you’re planning to stay in Thessaloniki, it’s best to avoid booking accommodation in Ladadika, as the area tends to be noisy throughout the night.

Go on a guided walking tour
When we visit a new city, we always take interesting walking tours. It was the same when we visited Thessaloniki. The tour helped us to get to know the city better, learn about its history, and discover the best local food products.
We recommend checking this tour that takes you around the city with a local guide. Who better than a local to show you the traditions and cultural facts of the place? We enjoyed going around with experienced guides who helped us interact with their culture and ask direct questions, allowing us to compare our knowledge and background with theirs.
Some of our highlighted walking tours in Thessaloniki:
Spend some times on Thessaloniki Promenade
As we have mentioned before, the promenade in Thessaloniki is a popular attraction. Few European cities have such beautiful seaside scenery, and the locals take great pride in it.
If you’re visiting Thessaloniki, make sure to take a stroll along the 5 km promenade. The waterfront has always been an integral part of the city, with people coming and going and leaving a part of their culture behind.
The waterfront offers many sights to see, with the White Tower and the famous “The Umbrellas” being the most popular. Be sure to check out the Thessaloniki promenade at sunset, as it showcases some of the most beautiful colours.
If you’re looking for a fun activity, you can rent a bike in Thessaloniki. Cycling along the promenade is a fantastic way to see more in less time. Check out this bike tour of Thessaloniki for more information.


See The Ancient Hammam Baths In Thessaloniki
Did you know that Thessaloniki has its hammam baths? During the Turkish occupation, the Ottomans built many bathhouses in the city, with the most famous ones being the Yahudi Hamam (Bath of the Jews) and Bey Hamam (Bath of Paradise).
You can visit the remains of these buildings and learn more about the history of this part of Greece. It’s fascinating to see how the city’s past has influenced its present.
Meteora from Thessaloniki
Do you know what Meteora is? If not, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to Thessaloniki. Located just a few hours away from Thessaloniki, Meteora offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
We recommend visiting Meteora only if you plan to stay in the city for at least 4 to 5 days. The area is home to thousand-year-old monasteries situated on top of mountains in north Macedonia, creating a picturesque landscape.
These religious buildings are located in an astonishing area of the Greek countryside, on top of rock formations. The nearby town of Kalambaka is the starting point for a 2-day tour to Meteora from Thessaloniki.
We suggest checking out this tour from Thessaloniki, as DIY tours can be time-consuming to organize. While on this tour, you will pass by the foothills of the mythical Mt. Olympus.
Where to stay in Thessaloniki


Onoma Hotel Thessaloniki
We have only one suggestion for the best place to stay in Thessaloniki. Onoma Hotel was our choice, and we stayed wonderfully. The concept of this new hotel is unique, with unique high-tech features that left us speechless.
The hotel is perfect for travellers seeking a relaxing atmosphere while touring Greece. RESERVE NOW!
Best time to visit Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki receives less rainfall compared to Athens due to its location. Therefore, the ideal time to visit Thessaloniki is towards the end of Spring or the beginning of Summer.
July is the hottest month in Thessaloniki, with temperatures soaring above 30°C. While winters can get cold, the temperatures never drop below freezing on average. January is the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 12°C.
You can check out the average temperature and what to expect during each season when visiting Thessaloniki.
Summer in Thessaloniki
The ideal time to visit Thessaloniki is in the summer season, when you can relish the open-air clubs and bars, along with the sandy beaches.
Despite the generally high temperature in Greece during summer, Thessaloniki has a moderate climate, and it is seldom scorching, with an average temperature of 30°C/32°C. During this time, the streets are packed with tourists who come to enjoy the parties.
Summer Events in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki hosts several famous festivals during the summer, including the Street Mode Festival and the Urban Picnic Festival. In late May, the Thessaloniki Street Food Festival is a must-attend event where you can experience the local cuisine and its fusion with culture, spices, and ingredients.
Thessaloniki In the Shoulder Seasons | Spring and Autumn
The shoulder season can indeed be a great time to visit Thessaloniki and Greece in general. The end of spring and the beginning of autumn can be more budget-friendly and less crowded with tourists.
Additionally, Thessaloniki is known for hosting some of its most lively events during the shoulder season. The weather in Thessaloniki during spring is ideal for outdoor activities, with temperatures gradually rising from March and averaging around 15°C.
If you’re considering an autumn visit, October can be a great time to go, with some very warm days reaching an average of 28°C. However, November can bring some rainy days and a drop in temperature towards the end of the month.
Events in spring in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki’s Documentary Festival – March
Autumn Events in Thessaloniki
Voroina Festival | Northern Greece vineyards – September
Reworks | International Music Festival – September
Thessaloniki International Film Festival – November
Winter in Thessaloniki
Although Greece is not typically thought of as a winter destination, Thessaloniki is an excellent place to explore during the colder months.
The city boasts mild temperatures, making it a great option for those looking to escape the harsh winter weather. In fact, Thessaloniki was included in our guide to the best winter destinations in Europe for those seeking some sunshine.
Despite the temperature drop, the city’s vibrant nightlife and incredible sightseeing opportunities are sure to keep you warm. If you’re looking for a winter getaway in Greece, Thessaloniki is the perfect choice.
Expect temperatures between 5°C and 10°C from December to January, with temperatures rarely dropping below zero. Additionally, the city experiences very little rainfall, making it a more desirable destination than others.
How to get to Thessaloniki
The main airport in Thessaloniki is the Macedonia International Airport (SKG). It serves many routes from all over Europe, and there are cheap flights available from London Heathrow with British Airways and Easy Jet. We were surprised to find that the airport has an international feel and is quite large, with many restaurants and shops. The fact that the city is easily accessible from many European capitals was one of the main reasons we decided to visit Thessaloniki.
If you’re looking for alternative airports, Skiathos Island National Airport (216 km) and Kavala International Airport (203 km) are both options.
Getting from Thessaloniki Airport to the City Centre
The most common question when travelling to a new destination is, “Is the airport well connected to the city centre?” Fortunately, the connection between Thessaloniki Airport and the city centre is easy and affordable.
You have multiple options to reach the city centre, and we’ve made it simple for you to choose:
Take the express bus line n.78. You can purchase tickets on board, but make sure you have the exact change. The ticket costs €2, and there is a night bus, the n.78N. Buses run every 30 minutes from the arrival exit of the terminal, and the journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.
The mid-range option to reach Thessaloniki city centre is by taxi. The fare will cost about €20/25 depending on the season and time of day, and it’s just for one way. Uber doesn’t work from the airport and is only available within the city.
A private transfer is the most convenient option to reach the Thessaloniki city centre from the airport. For just €30, you will have a personalized service that will pick you up upon your arrival. The car will drop you off at your accommodation faster than a taxi or bus.
Book a private transfer and save up sharing with your friends.
Travelling to Thessaloniki by train from Athens
There are several ways to travel from Athens to Thessaloniki, but the most convenient and affordable option is by train. The train journey from Athens Central Station to Thessaloniki takes approximately 4 hours and is a comfortable way to travel.
Taking a train is the cheapest way to travel between Athens and Thessaloniki. It is recommended to avoid taking a bus, even though it is sometimes the preferred mode of transport for long trips.
The cost of a train ticket ranges from €10 to €30 ($11/$35 | £9/£28), and booking early can save you some money. You can check ticket prices here.
Trains depart from Athens Train Station to Thessaloniki every 2 hours. If you want a faster option, you can stop at Larissa, which takes approximately 4 hours. The slower option takes about 4 and a half hours and stops at more places in the countryside.
The train stops at various locations on the route from Athens to Thessaloniki (Slow Train).
- Oinoi
- Thiva
- Levadia
- Lianokladi
- Palaeofarsalos
- Larissa
- Katerini
- Platy
To Thessaloniki by Bus from Sofia
Did you know that Thessaloniki is an excellent location to use as a hub for your travels to nearby destinations, such as Sofia, Bulgaria, or as a stopover on your way to Athens? Several companies offer transportation services from Sofia to Thessaloniki.
You can check out the ticket prices here. With approximately 2 buses per hour departing from Thessaloniki to Sofia, taking the bus is a cheaper and more sustainable option for your long-term travel plans compared to taking flights.

How to get around Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is a large city that is still undergoing underground metro line construction. However, the heart of Thessaloniki is located around the old town, and all the major attractions can be reached within 20 minutes of any hotel. If you’re feeling fit, you can walk to the upper town in about 20 to 30 minutes, where you can enjoy the best view of Thessaloniki.
The main roads in Thessaloniki can be chaotic and are reminiscent of Naples in Southern Italy. The only public transport option available is buses, which we found to be the most convenient method of getting around, despite being slower due to traffic.
A bus ticket costs just €1 and can be purchased from street vendors next to the bus stops or on board for 10p more than the regular price. Remember to validate your ticket when boarding.
We strongly recommend exploring Thessaloniki on foot to appreciate the architecture, open-air ruins, and nice bars. Taxis are also available and use meters, making them relatively affordable. You can check the tariffs on Uber to get an accurate estimate of the cost for your destination.
Hop-on-hop-off Bus in Thessaloniki
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore Thessaloniki without worrying about public transport or expensive taxis, the hop-on-hop-off bus is the perfect solution. For just €13, you can purchase a ticket that provides you with unlimited access to the route for 24 hours.
Additionally, an audio guide is available to provide you with information about the history and stories behind the monuments and districts you’ll be visiting. From the upper deck of the bus, you can also enjoy the stunning views of the city. Don’t wait; book your ticket now!
Bus Stops:
- Archaeological Museum
- Church of Agios Dimitrios
- Ano Poli (Upper Town)
- Port of Thessaloniki
- Lefkos Pyrgos (White Tower of Thessaloniki)
- Makedonia Palace Hotel
Day Trips From Thessaloniki
There are many fantastic day trips that you can take from Thessaloniki, a city located in northern Greece. The area surrounding the city is of great interest, with Mt. Olympus myths being at the top of the list.
While in Thessaloniki, you can also organize day trips to the Halkidiki Peninsula and enjoy its beaches, visit the Monasteries of Meteora, or even take a whole day trip to Sofia and return.
- Meteora Monasteries | This breathtaking landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to visit in the country. Join a full-day, highly-rated tour to Meteora with an expert guide. Check the tour here:
- Day trip to Meteora Private Tour
- 3-day tour + Entrances and Hotels (Just €270)
- Small Group tour
- Mount Olympus and Dion | Learn the myths of Mt. Olympus and the glorious Gods. Enjoy the stunning view on a tour that includes a visit to Dion. Reserve your spot here!
- Halkidiki Peninsula | The highlighted part of our tour in Northern Makedonia – Check out the day cruise from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki Blue Lagoon.
- Sofia Private day trip from Thessaloniki | Check the itinerary here!





