Heptapyrgion Fortress

The Heptapyrgion Fortress, also known as Yedi Kule, is an impressive structure located on top of a hill in the northeastern part of Thessaloniki. Built during the Byzantine era, it served as a fortress and prison. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the bay, as well as learn about the fascinating history of this site, which witnessed many significant events.

A beautiful viewpoint!

Opening hours: daily from 08:30 AM to 03:30 PM, closed on Tuesdays

Ticket: €6

Acropolis Castle

The Acropolis Castle in Thessaloniki is a majestic structure located at the highest point of the city. Since ancient times, it has served as a defensive site and the residence of rulers. Today, it is a tourist attraction offering a magnificent view of the city and the Aegean Sea. A walk along the castle walls takes visitors back to the medieval times.

Hosios David Church

The Hosios David Church, also known as the Monastery of Latomos, is a Byzantine gem from the 5th century. Located in the Ano Poli district, it is famous for its exceptional mosaics and frescoes that have survived for centuries. The interior of the church captivates with its spiritual atmosphere and artistic beauty, while also being an important pilgrimage site.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM, Saturdays from 09:00 AM to 03:00 PM, Sundays from 07:00 AM to 01:00 PM

Tickets: Free entry

St. Theodore’s Church

The Church of St. Theodore is another treasure of Byzantine architecture in Thessaloniki, dating back to the late 13th or early 14th century. Located in the picturesque Ano Poli district, this church stands out for its exceptional frescoes and mosaics depicting scenes from the lives of Saints Theodore, the church’s patrons. Its intimate atmosphere and artistic details make it a fascinating site for lovers of sacred art and history. Although less known than some of the city’s other landmarks, this temple offers a unique insight into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Byzantine Thessaloniki.

Ano Poli District

Ano Poli, or Upper Town, is the oldest part of Thessaloniki that survived the fire of 1917. The district is characterized by picturesque narrow streets, traditional houses, and numerous tavernas serving local delicacies. Walking through Ano Poli, you can experience the authentic Greek atmosphere and discover many hidden corners full of history.

St. Demetrius Basilica in Thessaloniki

The Basilica of St. Demetrius is the largest church in Greece, dedicated to the city’s patron, St. Demetrius. Built in the 5th century, the basilica impresses with its magnificent architecture and rich history. The catacombs in the basement are a site of pilgrimage. The church is not only a religious but also a cultural center of Thessaloniki.

Basilica opening hours: daily from 07:00 AM to 09:00 PM

Crypt opening hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM, Fridays from 08:00 AM to 09:00 PM, Saturdays from 07:30 AM to 02:30 PM, closed on Tuesdays.

Ticket for the crypt and basilica: Free entry

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum in Thessaloniki is an archaeological complex from ancient times, featuring the ruins of public buildings, theaters, and markets. It stands as a testament to the city’s former glory as an important Roman center. A walk through the forum is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into life in ancient Thessaloniki.

Bazar Kapani

Kapani Market is one of the oldest and most distinctive commercial spots in Thessaloniki. It features numerous stalls offering fresh produce, spices, meat, and fish. The place is lively and vibrant, and a walk through the market is a great opportunity to experience the local cuisine and culture.

Bazar Athonos

Athonos Market is a charming place full of small shops, cafes, and tavernas. It’s the perfect spot to buy local products, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. The market’s atmosphere invites you to spend time here, enjoying Greek coffee and delicacies.

Agora Modiano

Modiano Agora is a covered market in the heart of Thessaloniki. It features stalls with food, spices, wines, and cheeses. It’s the perfect place for culinary enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of local specialties and high-quality products.

Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square is the central point of Thessaloniki, surrounded by elegant buildings and cafes. The square is a meeting place for locals and tourists, and its spaciousness and architecture are impressive. It’s worth sitting here to enjoy the view of the Aegean Sea and the bustling city life.

Hagia Sophia Church

The Hagia Sophia Church is a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture from the 8th century. The interior of the church is adorned with beautiful mosaics and frescoes that attract both worshippers and art lovers. The church is one of the most important religious landmarks in Thessaloniki.

Opening hours: daily from 08:30 AM to 08:00 PM

Tickets: Free entry

Galerius Palace

The Galerius Palace is an extensive palace complex built by Emperor Galerius in the 3rd century. The remains of the palace testify to its former grandeur and role as an administrative center. Walking through the ruins, one can feel the atmosphere of imperial luxury.

Galerius Arch

The Galerius Arch, also known as Kamara, is a monumental gate from the 4th century, erected in honor of Emperor Galerius. The reliefs decorating the arch depict scenes from his victorious campaigns. The arch is one of the most important symbols of the city.

Rotunda

The Rotunda, originally a mausoleum, later a church and mosque, is an impressive 4th-century structure. The interior of the rotunda is adorned with magnificent mosaics, and its enormous dome is an architectural marvel. The Rotunda is one of the most fascinating landmarks in Thessaloniki.

Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday from 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM

Tickets: Regular €6, Reduced €3

White Tower

The White Tower is the most recognizable symbol of Thessaloniki. Built in the 15th century as part of the city’s fortifications, it now serves as a museum. From its top, there is a breathtaking view of the city and the bay.

Opening hours: In summer, Mondays from 01:00 PM to 07:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday from 08:00 AM to 07:30 PM; in winter, daily from 08:30 AM to 03:30 PM

Tickets: Regular €8, Reduced €4

Alexander the Great Monument

The Alexander the Great Monument is a monumental sculpture commemorating one of the most famous rulers of antiquity. It is located on the waterfront and is a popular meeting spot as well as a symbol of Macedonian heritage.

Umbrella Monument

The Umbrella Monument is a modern art installation by George Zongolopoulos. Located on the seaside promenade, it is one of the most photographed spots in Thessaloniki, symbolizing the city’s creativity and modernity.

Agioi Apostoloi Church

The Church of Agioi Apostoloi, or the Church of the Holy Apostles, is an exceptional example of Byzantine architecture from the early 14th century. Located on the western edge of the old town, it is known for its beautiful frescoes and mosaics that adorn its interior. This church, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an important location for art history researchers and those interested in Byzantine heritage. Its richly decorated interiors and historical significance make it one of the most important landmarks in Thessaloniki.

Opening hours: daily from 07:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Tickets: Free entry

Accommodation in Thessaloniki: Comfort and Affordable Prices in the City Center

Accommodation in Thessaloniki is not expensive. I paid 75 euros for a two-day stay in a one-bedroom apartment with a kitchenette and private bathroom. The apartment was located in the city center, just 10 minutes from the station and a 10-minute walk from the promenade. Thessaloniki offers a wide range of accommodation at good prices, including both hotels and apartments. I personally used Booking.com.

If you’re looking for accommodation in Thessaloniki, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, by booking in advance, you have a chance for better prices and a wider selection of places. It’s also worth reading reviews from other travelers to ensure that your chosen place meets your expectations. Location is crucial – by choosing accommodation in the center, you’ll have easy access to the city’s main attractions. Additionally, pay attention to the amenities offered by the accommodation, such as access to a kitchen, Wi-Fi, or air conditioning, which can significantly impact the comfort of your stay. By using popular booking platforms like Booking.com, you can easily compare offers and find the perfect place to stay in Thessaloniki.

“Free Boat Trip”

Near the White Tower, while strolling along the promenade, you’ll notice three ships alternately docked at the waterfront. Boarding the ship is free, but the condition is to purchase a drink on board, of course, at an inflated price. By boarding the ship and purchasing a drink, you can enjoy a free 30-minute cruise around the bay.

Each ship has information about the departure time of the next cruise. If you missed one, you can board the next one. Personally, I think that paying 10 euros for a beer and the chance to take a cruise is not too expensive, which is why I took advantage of this attraction twice (I especially recommend the pirate ship!).

Public transportation in Thessaloniki

Public transport in Greece can be somewhat challenging. Greeks still do not have an app that makes ticket purchasing and getting around cities easier. Tickets can be bought from machines, but their locations are not always obvious. They are usually found at main stations and larger bus stops, but not always. What to do then? You need to look for nearby kiosks or small shops where tickets may be sold. Tickets can also be purchased directly at the airport.

In Thessaloniki, for a two-day stay, I only needed three tickets: one from the airport (€1.8) and two for traveling around the city (€0.9 each). It’s worth using public transport to get to the Heptapyrgion Fortress (climbing to the top can be quite exhausting) and to have one ticket for the possible return to the hotel after a long and tiring day.

Timetables in Greece are mostly theoretical, unless it’s the metro, which arrives on time. In large cities, there are often traffic jams, and the street traffic is chaotic: buses overtake cars, vehicles run red lights, and speed limits are often ignored. It’s worth seeing this with your own eyes to fully understand the chaos.

Buses that are scheduled to arrive in 10 minutes sometimes show up in 2 minutes, and sometimes in 20. It’s best to simply go to the bus stop, stay calm, and wait for your line. I used Google Maps to get around Thessaloniki, and it worked great for finding public transport connections.

The last option is the Hop On Hop Off buses, which allow for quick and convenient sightseeing around the city and its surroundings. If you’re not a fan of using public transport, don’t want to deal with Greek signage, or think taxis are too expensive, this solution will be perfect for you. Tickets can be purchased on Tiqets and Get Your Guide at good prices!

Thessaloniki: The Perfect Base for a Longer Stay

Thessaloniki is not only a fascinating city full of history and culture, but also an excellent base for a longer stay in Greece. With its great location and excellent transport connections, Thessaloniki provides easy access to many interesting places in the surrounding area.

Places worth visiting around Thessaloniki:

Vergina – This ancient city, about an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, is famous for the tombs of Macedonian kings, including Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. A visit to the archaeological museum in Vergina is a journey into the history of ancient Macedonia.

Pella – About a 45-minute drive from Thessaloniki, Pella was the capital of ancient Macedonia. You can see the ruins of ancient palaces, houses, and perfectly preserved mosaics.

Halkidiki – A picturesque peninsula with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water, about 1-2 hours’ drive away. Halkidiki offers both peaceful places to relax and lively resorts.

Dion – Located at the foot of Mount Olympus, this ancient city was an important religious center for the ancient Macedonians. You can see the ruins of temples, theaters, and baths, and also visit an interesting archaeological museum.

Meteora – Although a bit farther, about 3 hours by car, this is one of the most spectacular places in Greece. Meteora is a complex of monasteries perched on rocky peaks, offering breathtaking views and an incredible atmosphere. Tickets at good prices can also be purchased HERE!

Edessa – Known for its impressive waterfalls, Edessa is a charming city, perfect for a day trip. A walk through the city and a visit to the park with waterfalls is a great way to relax.

Thessaloniki: The City of Cats

Thessaloniki, in addition to its rich history and culture, is also famous for the incredible number of cats. While strolling through the streets of this Greek city, it’s impossible not to notice the numerous cats lounging in the sun, darting between ancient ruins, and watching passersby from walls and parks.

Cats are almost everywhere in Thessaloniki – from the picturesque alleys of Ano Poli to the bustling waterfront and markets. The city’s residents treat these animals with great affection, often feeding and caring for them. The cats have become an integral part of the urban landscape, adding charm and a unique character to Thessaloniki.

For tourists, the cats are an additional attraction and a reason to smile. It’s worth bringing a camera, as these adorable creatures often pose for photos, creating unforgettable memories of your visit to Thessaloniki.

Cats in Thessaloniki symbolize freedom and independence, which perfectly aligns with the spirit of this cosmopolitan city. During your stay in Thessaloniki, it’s worth taking a moment to stop and admire these elegant, mysterious animals, which certainly add to the city’s special charm.

By train to Athens

After two days in Thessaloniki, when everything has been explored, what’s next? Time for the train to Athens! Several trains depart daily from Thessaloniki to the capital (about 5 hours of travel), and the price is quite affordable: 48 euros for a second-class ticket and 52.5 euros for a first-class ticket. I decided to pay an extra 5 euros for first class and set off on my journey to Athens.

The train departs from the main station in Thessaloniki and arrives at the main station in Athens, right in the city center. The first-class seats are very comfortable, with plenty of space, reclining tables, few passengers, free water, and the option to purchase food. The journey is pleasant and peaceful.

You can purchase train tickets HERE! The website is available in both Greek and English.

Planning to visit Athens and don’t have a plan? Don’t know how to get around or where to buy tickets? No worries! Here: Athens in Three Days: Your Complete Greek Odyssey you’ll find everything you need. Information on how to get from the airport to the city center, where to buy tickets, how to navigate the city, where to eat well, all mapped out for you. With this guide, you’ll discover Athens without stress and make the most of your time in this extraordinary city.

Thessaloniki to the Max: 48 Hours of Sightseeing and What It Costs!

I bought my flights a month before the trip, after checking hotel prices. From Thessaloniki, I only brought magnets to avoid damaging souvenirs during the rest of my journey through Greece. The biggest expense was food, including lunches in restaurants and breakfasts and dinners prepared in the apartment. I think the price for two days in Greece’s second-largest city was quite affordable.

• Attractions: €38
• Souvenirs: €15.6
• Accommodation: €75
• Flight: €99.2
• Public Transport: €3.6
• Food: €90.8

Total: €322.2

If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!