Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece, located in close proximity to the Aegean sea. The city offers a rich history, founded in 315. Over the course of its history, it was occupied by various forces, resulting in a mix of various cultures contributing to the city. Check out our guide to learn more about this historic city.
How to Get to Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki has a large airport, which is the easiest way to get to Thessaloniki. You can get here via a wide range of European cities. However, if you are coming from the United States, you may need to travel via Athens or another European destination first.
9 Sites to See in (and Around) Thessaloniki
1. Visit the White Tower of Thessaloniki
The White Tower is located right at the Port of Thessaloniki. The tower was constructed by the Ottomans to replace a Byzantine fortification. It later became a prison and was even nicknamed the “Tower of Blood” due to the practices of the prison guards.
When the Greeks reclaimed the city, it was whitewashed to indicate a cleansing. It also became a symbol for the city. Today, it is a museum and has great views of Thessaloniki and the surrounding Thermaikos Gulf.
2. Take a Boat Ride Around the Harbor
Near the White Tower are ships that you can take around the harbor. You can either pay the entrance fee or buy a drink. These are a lot of fun, all with different themes. When we went, there was a pirate ship and a South American ship. Boat tours last about 30 minutes.
3. Have a Drink in the Ladadika District
Ladadika District was a very important marketplace during the reign of the Ottomans, where olive oil and other goods would be exchanged. However, during a fire in 1917, much of it was destroyed, resulting in the area experiencing a series of setbacks.s, However, it was declared a place of cultural importance in 1985 by the Ministry of Culture. Today, it is famous for its pubs, restaurants, live music, and clubs.
4. Soak in Views from Ano Poli
Ano Poli (also known at the Upper Town) is as the name would suggest, an uphill climb. However, the views are worth it. This part of the city also boasts a number of well preserved Byzantine and Ottoman structures, making it a really interesting place to walk around.
5. Walk Along the Heptapyrgion
The Heptapyrgion is a Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress. Although this structure has ten towers, the literal translation of its name is “Fortress of Seven Towers”. It was likely named after Yedi Kule Fortress, located in Constantinople.
6. Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
These famous archeological sites were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988. They are both important examples of Byzantine art and architecture.
7. Aristotle Square
This is a popular square in the city, filled with shops and restaurants. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Mount Olympus!
8. Museum of Byzantine Culture
This museum showcases the works, art and culture of Byzantium. There are several rooms to explore, filled with notable works of art and mosaics.
9. Mount Olympus
Mount Olympus, the home of the gods, may be a big reason you are stopping through Thessaloniki. As one of the iconic mountains in Europe, it’s well worth a visit. You can either do a day trip here or stay overnight to reach the summit (However, you will need to book the lodge in advance).
What to Eat in Thessoniki
10. Explore the Local Cuisine
Thessaloniki is famous for its cuisine, having been added to the UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy in 2021. Be sure to try the following:
Saganaki
Feta is a big ingredient in Greek cuisine and saganaki is one of the best ways to sample it. Saganaki is fried feta cheese. It’s paired perfectly with some slices of pita bread.
Fava Bean Dip
Fava bean dip has a similar consistency to hummus, but is made with split yellow peas. It can be served either cold or hot. It’s very delicious and a very traditional Greek dish, although it can be harder to find in other parts of Greece.
Moussaka
Moussaka includes layers of eggplant, almost resembling a pie. It usually includes meat, but many restaurants will also have a vegetarian version.
Bouyiourdi
This is an appetizer, which includes staple ingredients such as feta cheese and olive oil.
Frappe
This coffee drink is less popular now, but I still make sure to get one every time I am in Greece. Frappes are not to be confused with the Starbucks variation. Instead, this is an espresso drink with some foamed coffee and a little milk. Delicious!
Bougatsa
“Bougatsa is really old, possibly Byzantine,” Bougatsa Bantis owner Philippos Bantis told writer Anya von Bremzen. “The original pastry was just this phyllo—sketi, meaning plain, without filling.” Today, this pastry can be filled with a variety of options, including custard, cheese, or meat.
Chef, George Palisidis, also recounted to Anya von Bremzen that these cuisines developed in the aftermath of the Greco-Turkish war. Christians were forced out of Turkey, while Muslims were forced out of Greece. This exodus resulted in a mix of cuisines that spans across the Thessaloniki food scene, including this pastry.
Seafood
As a vegetarian, I’m not a seafood fan. However, as a coastal town, Thessaloniki will have really fresh seafood. Kalamaria is a good spot to get some high-quality fish.
Bonus: In Thessoniki, many restaurants also offer free dessert (which we were big fans of)
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for another reason to visit Greece, Thessaloniki offers beautiful views, delicious food, and a rich history. Have you been to Thessaloniki or is it on your list? Any places we missed? Be sure to add it in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thessaloniki known for?
Thessaloniki is very well known for its cuisine, rich culture, and interesting history
Is Thessaloniki expesnive?
If you’re looking to travel cheaply around Europe, Thessaloniki may be a perfect destination for you. Accommodation, food, and sites were all relatively inexpensive.
How far is Thessaloniki from the beach?
Thessaloniki is only about 10 miles from the closest beach
Leave a Reply