Thessaloniki, Greece

Things to do

2 days in Thessaloniki

Day 1

  1. MorningClimb the White Tower for views over the bay.
  2. AfternoonVisit the Rotunda and the Byzantine churches, then walk to the upper town, Ano Poli.
  3. EveningHave dinner in the Ladadika district, then walk the waterfront to the Umbrellas sculpture.

Day 2

Visit the beaches of Halkidiki, or the royal tombs at Vergina.

What to eat

Bougatsa pastry for breakfast and koulouri bread rings.

Local tips

Make the most of Thessaloniki

Beat the crowds

Thessaloniki is lively all year. The seafront is at its best in the evening.

Best photo spot

The White Tower and the long seafront promenade at sunset, with the umbrellas sculpture.

Getting there

Buses connect the airport with the centre. The new metro makes getting around easier.

Don't miss nearby

Mount Olympus, about an hour away, and the beaches of Halkidiki.

Good to know

Thessaloniki has great street food; try bougatsa, a custard or cheese pastry, for breakfast. The upper town has Byzantine walls and great views.

Secret spots

2 secret spots near Thessaloniki

Our most hidden places around Thessaloniki: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of Thessaloniki to take with you.

64 km away
70 km away
Unlock the secret spots · €2.99+ VAT · one payment, valid for a year

Plan your visit

Getting to Thessaloniki

Getting there

  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)14 km away
  • Skopje195 km away

The centre is best explored on foot. Distances are in a straight line.

At a glance

Best timeAll year
TypeCity
Good forFood, Coast, Old towns & architecture
Getting thereCar or public transport
Stay2 nights
CountryGreece

Questions

Thessaloniki: good to know

Is Thessaloniki worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you like food, the coast and historic old towns. A waterfront city with Byzantine churches and some of Greece's best food.

How many days do you need in Thessaloniki?

Plan 2 nights. Our free 2-day plan above shows how to spend your time.

When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki?

You can visit all year. Thessaloniki is lively all year. The seafront is at its best in the evening.

How do you get to Thessaloniki?

The nearest airport is Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), about 14 km away. Buses connect the airport with the centre. The new metro makes getting around easier.

What is there to see near Thessaloniki?

Nearby hidden places include Mount Pelion (138 km), Bansko (141 km) and Kastoria (142 km).

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