Things to do in Thessaloniki

Activities, attractions and tours

Thessaloniki showing general coastal views and a city
Thessaloniki showing general coastal views and a city
Thessaloniki which includes a sunset, a city and general coastal views
Thessaloniki showing general coastal views, a garden and a city
Thessaloniki featuring a sunset and general coastal views as well as a small group of people
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Top places to visit

1. Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square is the beating heart of Thessaloniki. Lined with shops, restaurants, bars and hotels, it’s the perfect place to get a feeling for the pace of life in this city. Stretching down to the waterfront, the square opens up to reveal beautiful views of the Thermaikos Gulf. As one of the city’s centre’s only open outdoor spaces, this square is frequently chosen as the site for large public events, from Christmas markets to political speeches.
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Aristotelous Square which includes general coastal views, a square or plaza and a coastal town

2. White Tower of Thessaloniki

Depicted on almost every Thessaloniki travel guide and souvenir, the White Tower of Thessaloniki is by far the city’s most recognizable attraction. The tower is known for its characteristic cylindrical shape and the panoramic harbour views its top level affords. The tower’s role has changed dozens of times over the years, and today it serves as an exhibition space of the Museum of Byzantine Culture.
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White Tower of Thessaloniki which includes heritage elements

3. Church of Saint Demetrius

Saint Demetrios Church, also known as Agios Dimitrios, is a historic 5th-century church that is part of the UNESCO-listed Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki. Learn about the early spread of Christianity in Thessaloniki and marvel at the intricate mosaics, which date back as far as the 8th century.
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Thessaloniki showing street scenes, religious aspects and a church or cathedral

4. Church of Hagia Sophia

One of the oldest churches in the city, Agia Sophia represents a characteristic example of middle-Byzantine architecture. Although its exterior may appear modest, its expansive interior is home to a number of centuries-old mosaics and frescoes that are worth taking the time to see.
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Church of Agia Sophia showing a church or cathedral

5. Arch of Galerius

The Arch of Galerius, also known as the Kamara, dominates the landscape of central Thessaloniki. In addition to its impressive size and beautiful carvings, the arch serves as a powerful reminder of how the city has changed over the centuries. Today, you’ll find the historic Roman arch surrounded by the shops and restaurants of modern Thessaloniki.
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The Arch of Galerius in Thessaloniki, Greece, was built in 198 A.D. with detailed stone relief. This and the nearby Rotunda are must sees in the city to understand its history. #history #greece

What to do in Thessaloniki

Popular places to visit

Aristotelous Square which includes general coastal views, a square or plaza and a coastal town

Aristotelous Square

4.5/5(49 reviews)

Visit Thessaloniki’s main square, a busy gathering place for locals and the site of major events throughout the year.

Aristotelous Square
Thessaloniki, Greece night view of Christmas holidays decorations above a main road. Festive instalments of illuminated hanging lit stars at Tsimiski street with less traffic.

Tsimiski Street

5/5(1 review)

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Tsimiski Street during your stay in Thessaloniki.

Tsimiski Street
White Tower of Thessaloniki which includes heritage elements

White Tower of Thessaloniki

4.5/5(45 reviews)

This distinctly shaped tower has evolved alongside Thessaloniki over the centuries and now houses a museum dedicated to the city’s history.

White Tower of Thessaloniki
Aerial view of White Tower in Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki Port

4/5(30 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Thessaloniki with a trip to Thessaloniki Port. Savour the top-notch restaurants and lively bars while in town.

Thessaloniki Port
Thessaloniki showing street scenes, religious aspects and a church or cathedral

Church of Saint Demetrius

4.5/5(27 reviews)

Pay homage to Thessaloniki’s patron saint, the Roman martyr Dimitrios, whose relics are held in this ancient church, which is considered one of the most important in the city.

Church of Saint Demetrius
Church of Agia Sophia which includes a church or cathedral

Church of Hagia Sophia

4.5/5(28 reviews)

See the city’s largest Byzantine church to discover a centuries-old religious site and the striking artwork found in its interior.

Church of Hagia Sophia
Ataturk Residence where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was born

Ataturk Museum

3.5/5(2 reviews)

You can study the exhibits at Ataturk Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Thessaloniki. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Ataturk Museum
Arch of Galerius showing heritage elements

Arch of Galerius

4.5/5(30 reviews)

See one of Thessaloniki’s most famous monuments, a symbol of the city and an intriguing example of 4th-century Roman architecture.

Arch of Galerius
Museum of Byzantine Culture featuring outdoor art

Museum of Byzantine Culture

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Home to one of the country’s finest collections of Byzantine art, this museum presents an overview of a significant period in Thessaloniki’s history.

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Areas of Thessaloniki

The Zongolopoulos Umbrellas and the Greek blue sky! #BVSBlue

Thessaloniki City Centre

4.5/5(94 area reviews)

If you're spending time in Thessaloniki City Centre, check out sights like Tsimiski Street or Nikis Avenue and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Agias Sofias Metro Station or Venizelou Metro Station.

Thessaloniki City Centre
Night photo of Ladadika a historic district and iconic landmark in Thessaloniki, known for its vibrant atmosphere, traditional charm, and lively nightlife.

Ladadika

5/5(3 area reviews)

Travellers come to Ladadika for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Nikis Avenue and Place Katouni while you're in town.

Ladadika
Thessaloniki, Greece - August 16, 2018: The Arch of Galerius, better known as the Kamara, Thessaloniki, Greece. It was built to honor the Roman Emperor Galerius.

Kamara

If you're spending some time in Kamara, Ataturk Museum and Church of Saint Demetrius are top sights worth seeing.

Kamara
Aerial panoramic view of the main symbol of Thessaloniki city and the whole of Macedonia region - the White Tower. Concept of travel and sightseeing attractions in Greece

Old Town Thessaloniki

5/5(2 area reviews)

Travellers like the historical sites in Old Town Thessaloniki, and Vlatadon Monastery is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Old Town Thessaloniki
Church of St. Paul in Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece.

Ano Poli

You'll enjoy the gardens and monuments in Ano Poli. You might want to make time for a stop at Eptapyrgio Castle or Vlatadon Monastery.

Ano Poli
Panoramic View during sunset from old city wall with Saint Paul church Ano Poli Thessaloniki in Central Macedonia in Greece

Vardaris

3/5(9 area reviews)

Vardaris is positively reviewed for its shopping, bars and spas, and you can quickly pop around to sights in the larger Thessaloniki area at New Railway Station Metro Station or Dimokratias Metro Station.

Vardaris
Church of Saint Dimitrios in Thessaloniki, Greece

Evosmos

Frequently asked questions

Is Thessaloniki worth visiting?
Renowned for its history and culture, finding fun things to do in Thessaloniki is simple. Make sure to add White Tower of Thessaloniki to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Thessaloniki?
Once you've checked off leading attractions like White Tower of Thessaloniki and Ataturk Museum, spend some time experiencing Thessaloniki's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Thessaloniki?
White Tower of Thessaloniki is one of the top tourist attractions in Thessaloniki and should be high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Thessaloniki?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out some popular city sights, such as White Tower of Thessaloniki, Ataturk Museum and Thessaloniki Concert Hall. The average stay in Thessaloniki is three days. If you have the time to extend your break, Thermi isn't far away.
Is Thessaloniki a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Thessaloniki, including White Tower of Thessaloniki and Ataturk Museum, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometres from the city centre of Thessaloniki is Thessaloniki City Centre and Vardaris is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Thessaloniki with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Thessaloniki with kids.

What to do in Thessaloniki for adults?
Tsimiski Street and Nikis Avenue are just two of the things to do in Thessaloniki. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Thessaloniki?
In Thessaloniki, Ataturk Museum is a top spot for anyone planning to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Thessaloniki.

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