30 Things To Do In Thessaloniki
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1. White Tower of Thessaloniki
4 km from city center
Monument
The White Tower of Thessaloniki, built in the 15th century, stands as a historic landmark on the city’s waterfront. Originally part of the Ottoman fortifications, it now houses a museum showcasing Thessaloniki's rich history and offers panoramic views from its top. Located on Nikis Avenue, it is a popular spot for history enthusiasts and visitors seeking a vantage point over the city and Thermaic (Read More)Gulf.
2. Thessaloniki Waterfront
5 km from city center
Waterfront
The Thessaloniki Waterfront stretches along the Thermaic Gulf, offering a 5-kilometer promenade with parks, cafes, and cultural landmarks like the White Tower. Located near the city center, it is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying the views of the sea and Mount Olympus. Highlights include the themed gardens and the iconic "Umbrellas" sculpture by Zongolopoulos.
3. Aristotelous Square
4 km from city center
Commercial Street
Aristotelous Square, located in the heart of Thessaloniki along Nikis Avenue, is a vibrant hub of the city, designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918. Its grand symmetrical layout is lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The square often hosts events, festivals, and markets, while its pr (Read More)oximity to the city's waterfront offers picturesque views and easy access to nearby attractions.
4. Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
5 km from city center
Historical Site
Right at the centre of Thessaloniki, between Agiou Dimitriou Street and Egnatia Street at the upper side of Aristotelous Square, lies the Roman Forum. Also known as the Ancient Agora of Thessaloniki, it is a multi-terraced forum that was accidentally dug up in the 1960s while preparing the land to be the site of the Thessaloniki Municipal Courthouse. The excavations include a two-storey stoa, Rom (Read More)an baths, and a small theatre presumably used for gladiatorial events.
5. Arch of Galerius
5 km from city center
Monument
The Arch of Galerius, also known as Kamara, stands south of Thessaloniki’s iconic Rotunda on the modern-day intersection of Egnatia and Dimitriou Gounari streets. Credited as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988, the Arch is an exemplary monument of early Byzantine architecture and a must-visit archaeological site in Thessaloniki. It is about 1 km from the Roman Forum of Thessaloniki.
6. Rotunda
5 km from city center
Monument
The Rotunda of Galerius is one of the oldest structures in Thessaloniki and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located just north of the intersection of two main axes of the city - Egnatia and Dimitriou Gounari streets - where the Arch of Galerius stands. A massive circular structure built in 306 AD by Roman Emperor Galerius, it later served as a Christian church and an Ottoman mosque before beco (Read More)ming a museum.
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7. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
5 km from city center
Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is the central museum of Northern Greece and one of the primary attractions of Central Macedonia. Standing on Manoli Andronikou Street, the museum has its collection divided into eight units starting back from prehistoric Macedonia. The Derveni krater, the statue of Harpocrates, the Head of Serapis, the Marble food from the Macedonian tomb of Agia Paraskev (Read More)i, and the gold coins, diadems, disks and Medusa heads are among the most notable exhibits on display.
8. Museum of Byzantine Civilization
5 km from city center
Museum
The Museum of Byzantine Culture is located at 2 Stratou Avenue in Thessaloniki. It houses eleven galleries showcasing artifacts from the early Christian, Byzantine, and post-Byzantine periods, primarily from Thessaloniki and the broader Macedonia region. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring coins, seals, sculptures, icons, and everyday objects, providing insights into Byzantine art, architectur (Read More)e, religion, and daily life.
9. Church of Saint Demetrius
5 km from city center
Church & Cathedral
The Church of Saint Demetrius is a 7th-century Byzantine basilica dedicated to the city's patron saint, Saint Demetrius. Known for its exquisite mosaics and crypt housing ancient relics, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage spot. Visitors explore its historical architecture, vibrant frescoes, and the underground chambers where Saint Demetrius was believed to have been mar (Read More)tyred.
10. Ladadika
4 km from city center
Shopping Market
Ladadika, a historic district in Thessaloniki near the port, is known for its vibrant nightlife, traditional taverns, and cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings. Once the city's hub for olive oil trade, this area has been transformed into a lively entertainment district, popular for dining, music, and bars. Visitors come to enjoy Greek cuisine, live performances, and the charming atmosp (Read More)here of this pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. Its proximity to Aristotelous Square makes it an easily accessible cultural hotspot.
11. Nightlife
3 km from city center
Nightlife
Thessaloniki's nightlife thrives in the bustling neighborhoods of Ladadika and Valaoritou, offering a mix of traditional taverns, modern bars, and lively nightclubs. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the city caters to diverse tastes, with live music venues, rooftop bars, and late-night clubs scattered throughout. Popular spots include the historical Aristotelous Square area and Ano Poli for a mor (Read More)e laid-back vibe with stunning views. Thessaloniki’s nightlife typically starts late and continues until the early hours.
12. Upper Town of Thessaloniki
3 km from city center
Neighborhood
The Upper Town (Ano Poli) of Thessaloniki, located on the northern slopes of the city, is the most historic and picturesque area, offering panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf. Known for its Ottoman-era architecture, Byzantine walls, and charming cobblestone streets, it is a popular spot for exploring traditional tavernas, historic churches like St. Nicholas Orphanos, and cultural landmarks such a (Read More)s the Trigonion Tower. The area is accessible year-round and is ideal for walking tours that combine history and stunning vistas.
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13. Take a Day Cruise
5 km from city center
Boating & Cruises
Perched on the shore of Thermaikos Bay, Thessaloniki offers several day cruises to stunning locations on nearby islands. The monastery-dotted peninsula of Mount Athos is one of the most popular destinations for full-day cruises from Thessaloniki. These trips usually include bonus commentary on the history and heritage of the local communities and onboard folklore shows along with meals. Another mu (Read More)st-experience trip is a private cruise to Shipwreck Bay and Navagio Beach on the coast of Zakynthos Island on the Ionian Sea.
14. Modiano Market
4 km from city center
Shopping Market
Modiano Market, Thessaloniki's largest indoor market, was designed by architect Eli Modiano and opened in 1930. Located next to Aristotelous Square, it features a Parisian-style glass roof and houses shops selling produce, cheese, meat, and fish, as well as traditional and modern tavernas, restaurants, and bars. There are approximately 75 shops in the new floor plan, with restaurants and cafes in (Read More)the northern and southern parts. It can be accessed via Vasileos Heraklion and Ermou Streets.
15. Meteora
147 km from city center
Historical Site
Meteora, located about 230 km southwest of Thessaloniki, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic rock formations topped with centuries-old monasteries. Originally established by monks in the 14th century, six active monasteries remain, accessible via winding roads and steps carved into the cliffs. Visitors can explore the monasteries, hike scenic trails, or enjoy panoramic views of (Read More)the surrounding landscape. Day trips from Thessaloniki often include guided tours to fully experience this spiritual and geological marvel.
16. Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki
6 km from city center
Forts & Palaces
The Heptapyrgion is a Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress situated on the northeastern corner of the Acropolis of Thessaloniki in the Ana Poli region. Towering over the city for more than 1500 years, the fortress that once served as a redoubt for Thessaloniki is now a major historical site to explore. The name suggests it is a fortress with seven towers, but Heptapyrgion has ten. Be prepared to wal (Read More)k quite a bit uphill to be compensated with a beautiful panorama of the city from the top.
17. Ataturk Museum
5 km from city center
Museum
The Ataturk Museum in Thessaloniki, located at 24 Apostolou Pavlou Street, is the birthplace of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of modern Turkey. Established in 1935, the museum showcases personal belongings, photographs, and documents related to Ataturk's life and legacy. Visitors explore the three-story house, preserved with period furnishings and artifacts, gaining insight into the early life of (Read More) this influential leader.
18. Triangle Tower
6 km from city center
Monument
The Trigoniou Tower, also known as the Triangle Tower, is a 15th-century artillery fortification located in Ano Poli (Upper Town) of Thessaloniki. Built during the Ottoman era, it provides sweeping views of the city, the Thermaic Gulf, and Mount Olympus on clear days. Visitors often explore the tower as part of the surrounding Byzantine walls, which are a popular spot for photography and historica (Read More)l sightseeing.
19. Noesis Thessaloniki
11 km from city center
Museum
Noesis is a science and technology museum located in Thessaloniki, Greece. It features interactive exhibits on topics such as energy, communication, transportation, and robotics and also has a planetarium and an observatory. Noesis also hosts events and workshops, such as science festivals and robotics competitions. It offers visitors a chance to learn and explore in a fun and interactive way and (Read More) is a must visit for science enthusiasts.
20. Vlatadon Monastery
5 km from city center
Church & Cathedral
As the last standing Byzantine monastery in Thessaloniki that is still functioning, Vlatadon Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated next to the Byzantine Portara in northern Ano Poli, the monastery is believed to be located at the site where Apostle Paul preached Thessalonians during his second voyage. Out of the original monastery, only a limited number of architectural elements have (Read More) been preserved to date, including pediments, semi-columns, and curved arches.
21. Kapani Market
4 km from city center
Shopping Market
Located a minute from Agora Modiano, Thessaloniki’s Kapani Market comprises multiple pedestrian streets like Vlali, Menexe, Chalkeon, Spandoni, Askipou, and other smaller gullies encased by the main streets of Egnatia, Ermou, and Aristotelous. Garments, accessories, household items, fresh meat, vegetables and other food products are available. It is one of the places to find hand-picked Mediterra (Read More)nean olives from Halkidiki, Volos, and Thassos, and special pelagic fish not available in most places. There are cafes and taverns as well.
22. Holy Church of Hagia Sophia
4 km from city center
Church & Cathedral
The Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, located at the intersection of Agias Sofias and Ermou Streets in Thessaloniki, Greece, is a significant Byzantine monument dating back to the 7th century. Built on the site of an earlier 3rd-century basilica, it mirrors the architectural design of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia, featuring a central dome and intricate mosaics. It is one of the oldest and most important Ear (Read More)ly Christian monuments in Greece and the Orthodox world.
23. Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki
4 km from city center
Museum
Located on Agiou Mina Street in Central Macedonia, the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki honours the history of Sephardic Judaism that took root in the city after the 15th century. The collection includes remains of a destroyed Israeli necropolis, parts of Jewish synagogues destroyed during Nazi occupation, rare books in Hebrew, religious artefacts, costumes, and several personal belongings of Jewish (Read More)citizens, including letters sent during World War 2.
24. The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
5 km from city center
Landmark
The Umbrellas, a notable seafront attraction in Thessaloniki, is a piece of standout artwork by the renowned sculptor Giorgios Zongopoulos. The stands as the centre of attention outside the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art on the Nea Paralia promenade overlooking the Thermaikos Gulf. The sculpture is illuminated on special occasions, giving it an even more magical look.
25. Acropolis of Thessaloniki
6 km from city center
Landmark
The Acropolis of Thessaloniki lies in the northernmost part of the city, enclosed by the walls, just beyond Vlatodon Monastery. Two massive gates, called ‘portares’ lead into the Acropolis. The Tower of Trigonio, a medieval-era arsenal and weaponry that now offers a stunning view of Mount Olympus, also stands here.
26. War Museum of Thessaloniki
5 km from city center
Museum
An annexe of its Athenian counterpart, the War Museum of Thessaloniki is a preservation of Greece’s military history through time. It is located in the wider area of the Ares Field Camp, the headquarters of the 3rd Army Corps. The permanent exhibitions include more than ten thousand historical exhibits on display that give insight into the milestone military campaigns of Greece and Macedonia.
27. Folklife and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace
39 km from city center
Museum
The Folk Life and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace in Thessaloniki is a cultural display spread over four levels. It is housed in the Old Government House, which is historic itself. The museum collects, researches, preserves, and puts on display items about the traditional and contemporary culture of Macedonia and Thrace, a region between the Balkan Mountains and the Aegean Sea now spli (Read More)t between Bulgaria, Turkey, and Greece.
28. Olympic Museum
6 km from city center
Museum
Thessaloniki’s Olympic Museum celebrates the glorious past and present of Greek sporting culture upheld within glass enclosures. The attraction is next to two athletic and cultural giants, the Kaftanzoglio National Stadium and Aristotle University. It displays historical archives - documents, pictures, medals, flags, and other items relevant to Greece’s participation in the Olympics and other spor (Read More)ting events over the years.
29. Museum of Contemporary Art Thessaloniki
5 km from city center
Museum
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Thessaloniki, also known as the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art, is a place for tourists interested in contemporary art. It boasts a collection of over 7,000 works of art by Greek and international artists. Visitors can explore a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, and photography, and also participate in educational programs and special events (Read More). One of the highlights of the Museum is its focus on Greek artists, offering a unique perspective on contemporary art in Greece. The museum also frequently hosts exhibitions of work by international artists, providing diverse artistic perspectives. It also has a café and gift shop.
30. Photography Museum Thessaloniki
4 km from city center
Museum
The Photography Museum in Thessaloniki features a wide range of exhibits showcasing the evolution of photography over the years. The collections include works by some of the most famous photographers in history and contemporary pieces by emerging artists. One of the museum's highlights is the permanent exhibit, which traces photography's development from the daguerreotype's early days to the moder (Read More)n digital age. Visitors can also enjoy temporary exhibitions focusing on specific photographers' themes. In addition to the exhibits, the Photography Museum also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for children and adults.