I love the concept of a European city break. The idea of taking a long weekend and heading somewhere just a short hop from London for a change of scenery and some amazing local food sounds dreamy, don’t you think?
But in practice, city breaks can be stressful and exhausting! Many European capitals are enormous and crowded, and with so many sights to cram into just a couple of days, you can end up rushing around like a blue-arsed fly and return home exhausted and frustrated.
That’s why I think it can be better to swerve major capitals like Madrid and Berlin and head somewhere a bit calmer instead – like Thessaloniki.
As a long weekend destination Thessaloniki has it all: a safe and easily-walkable city center, cute neighbourhoods, sea views, masses of excellent bars, restaurants and shops, historic sights, and the golden beaches of Halkidiki within easy reach.
Note: I did my Thessaloniki city break as part of a trip that also included two days in Halkidiki. The trip was supported by the Greek Tourism Board, but I was not required to write this post. All opinions are my own and I don’t accept payment or freebies in exchange for positive reviews. I wrote this with my own fair fingers, no AI was involved, so any mistakes or typos are mine!
Where is Thessaloniki?
Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-biggest city after Athens. It sits on the coast in the north of the country, about 190 miles north of Athens and about 40-50 miles from the borders with North Macedonia and Bulgaria. The sea it overlooks is called the Thermaic Gulf, which is part of the Aegean Sea.
During my 3 days Thessaloniki city break I quickly discovered that it’s a young, buzzing port and university city with a cool, relaxed vibe, fantastic weather and views, and plenty to see and do – but not so much that you’ll get overwhelmed.
And the best part is that because it’s not the capital, it isn’t nearly as crowded or expensive as other top city break destinations.
So here are some of the many things to see and do on a Thessaloniki city break.
Hate planning? Try this 3 days Thessaloniki tour!
1. Do a walking tour around Thessaloniki City Center
The easiest way to get your bearings after you first arrive in Thessaloniki is to go for a wander. This could be by yourself (armed with your phone and map app of choice!), or take a guided walking tour. There are plenty available, themed to suit all tastes – from tours that take in the city’s 2,300-year-old history, to foodie experiences and tours of the markets.
- Thessaloniki Culinary Walking Tour
- Thessaloniki Scavenger Hunt and City Tour
- Walking Market Food Tour and Tasting
Thessaloniki’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout make it an easygoing place to wander on foot. As you get your steps in, you’ll stumble across a mishmash of historic ruins, Byzantine architecture, modern influences and waterfront views that give Thessaloniki its unique character.
It’s also pretty easy to keep your bearings as you walk around Thessaloniki because the whole city centre is sandwiched between the hilltop Upper Town (Ano Poli) and the waterfront. This means that if you’re in doubt, you can just look up to the Acropolis on the hill or towards the sea and know which way you’re facing.
Here are a few of Thessaloniki’s key landmarks to look out for, some of which I’ll explore in more detail later in this post.
- Ano Poli (Upper Town): The historic upper town is perched on a hill overlooking the rest of the city. In 1917, a huge fire devastated much of Thessaloniki City Center, but the Upper Town escaped unscathed. This resulted in a city of two halves – with the charming Upper Town retaining its colourful cobbled streets, historic architecture and magnificent Acropolis topped by the Heptapyrgion Fortress (also known as Yedi Kule), and the Lower Town being rebuilt in 20th-century style.
- Aristotelous Square: This bustling square in the heart of the city is lined with grandiose neoclassical buildings, cafes, and shops, and is a great place to people watch.
- The White Tower: The iconic White Tower is a symbol of Thessaloniki. Climb to the top for fantastic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf.
- Rotunda: Just a short walk from Aristotelous Square you’ll find the Rotunda, an impressive cylindrical building that was originally constructed as a mausoleum for the 4th-century Roman Emperor Galerius. Today, it serves as a museum and hosts exhibitions.
- Arch of Galerius: Explore the surrounding area to discover the Arch of Galerius, a Roman triumphal arch, and the ruins of the Galerius Palace, one of the city’s most important archaeological sites.
- Church of Agios Dimitrios: Dedicated to the patron saint of Thessaloniki, the city’s largest church (and a UNESCO World Heritage site) has gorgeous frescoes and mosaics.
- Ladadika District: End your walking tour in the vibrant Ladadika district, known for its lively nightlife and huge variety of bars and restaurants with pavement seating.
2. Try Thessaloniki’s many restaurants and bars
One of the things I loved about Thessaloniki is that there are restaurants and bars everywhere. And they all look amazing! It’s such a foodie city – I mean, Greek food is fantastic anyway, right? But when you add in a pavement café culture, with cute squares and side streets packed with al fresco seating, as well as wall-to-wall sunshine and sea views, you really can’t go wrong.
I’d argue that drinking and dining are really at the heart of a Thessaloniki city break. Yes, there are sights and museums, but if you really want those you should probably just go to Rome or Paris. Here, the foodie culture is an integral part of the city’s social fabric, and there’s no better way to spend your weekend than hopping from cocktail bar to taverna to restaurant, filling your face with incredible Greek dishes.
We did an incredible foodie walking tour that took in half a dozen different places and more amazing dishes than I can name or remember. By the end I was so stuffed! I’m sorry I didn’t write all the names down, but you can easily recreate this experience for yourself either by booking a food tour or just creating your own restaurant crawl.
A great place to start is Aristotelous Square, which is lined with dozens of places offering outdoor seating. Here you can enjoy mouthwatering Greek mezze (small plates) accompanied by a glass of ouzo or wine, or try traditional (and cheap!) dishes such as souvlaki and spanakopita.
In the evening, another area to check out is the Ladadika district, with its narrow streets and historical buildings. Hop from one bar to another, enjoying live music performances, DJ sets, and mingling with locals, students and fellow visitors.
Here are some places you could try – though frankly I’d suggest just wandering and seeing what takes your fancy. There are so many to choose from!
- Mamalouka: We had dinner here on the first night and it was the best meal of the whole trip. Stunning Greek food made with the freshest ingredients and a buzzing atmosphere. Don’t miss it.
- Ergon: Located in the heart of the city, Ergon offers a unique culinary concept that combines a restaurant, deli, and grocery store. It focuses on Greek cuisine with a modern twist, showcasing high-quality local ingredients.
- Argofageio: a cosy joint specializing in Greek cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options. It’s highly-rated on TripAdvisor.
- Manoir: a modern and stylish cocktail bar and restaurant serving Greek and European dishes.
3. Explore Thessaloniki’s café and coffee culture
While I’m on the subject of eating and drinking, something else you can’t fail to notice is how many cafes, bakeries and coffee shops there are in Thessaloniki. I’m not a coffee fan but I do have a sweet tooth, so I loved all the cafes and cake shops.
In Thessaloniki coffee is not just a beverage; it is a ritual, a social experience, and a way to connect with others. Thessalonians take their coffee seriously, and they like to spend hours chatting with friends and enjoying a coffee and a traditional bougatsa (Greek custard-filled phyllo pastry).
One of the most beloved coffee traditions in Thessaloniki is the Greek frappé. This refreshing iced coffee is made by shaking instant coffee, sugar, and water together until it forms a froth, which is then poured over ice and enjoyed through a straw – a great way to get your caffeine fix during the hot summer weather!
4. Take a stroll or go for a jog along the promenade
No self-respecting coastal city is without a promenade, and Thessaloniki is no different. Known as Nea Paralia (New Waterfront), Thessaloniki’s promenade stretches for just over two miles along the Thermaic Gulf. Its development was part of a major urban revitalisation project that was completed in 2013, transforming the city’s former industrial harbour into a pedestrian-friendly recreational hub.
As you stroll along the promenade, look out for some iconic landmarks, including the White Tower, a symbol of Thessaloniki, and the Umbrellas sculpture, a cloud of metal and mesh umbrellas suspended above the promenade. It’s a popular place to come for sunset, when you can get fabulous photos of the sun setting behind the sculpture (unfortunately I didn’t make it there at the right time, so you’ll have to google if you want to see what I mean!)
Nearby, the statue of Alexander the Great, the famous Macedonian king, stands proudly overlooking the waterfront, paying tribute to the city’s ancient heritage. And a bit further along you’ll come across the impressive Thessaloniki Concert Hall which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances.
At the opposite end of the promenade is Pier A, sometimes referred to as Thessaloniki Pier. Part of the Old Port of Thessaloniki, the pier and its former warehouses have been transformed into a cultural space, home to the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography, the MOMus–Experimental Centre for the Arts, and Kitchen, a super cool restaurant and bar which enjoys scenic views of the waterfront.
5. Explore the Upper Town and watch the sunset
The Upper Town (Ano Poli) is situated on the hill above the modern city centre of Thessaloniki. Its exact founding date is uncertain, but it’s thought to have been established during the Byzantine period, around the 9th century AD – making some of the structures here over 1000 years old!
The Upper Town was built as a defensive fortification, providing strategic advantages due to its elevated position. It was once the heart of the city, housing the grandest palaces, churches, and aristocratic residences. Over the centuries, the area has witnessed various historical upheavals, including Byzantine rule, Ottoman occupation, and the devastating Great Fire of 1917, which significantly altered its architectural landscape.
One of the top places to visit in Ano Poli is the Heptapyrgion Fortress. Climb its walls to enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape, the surrounding countryside, and the sea.
I particularly loved coming here at the end of the day when we were treated to a spectacular sunset over the city and the bay. After sunset, it’s an easy walk back downhill through the colourful historic streets to Thessaloniki City Center for dinner.
6. Seek out Thessaloniki’s history
Founded in 315 BCE by King Cassander of Macedonia, a former general of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki was an important hub of trade, culture, and civilization in the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman eras. Its strategic location on the Aegean Sea and its role as a major port city contributed to its prominence throughout history.
And despite the fire that destroyed much of the city, plenty of evidence of Thessaloniki’s 2,300-year history has survived.
Key sights history lovers won’t want to miss include the Roman-era triumphal Arch of Galerius, Rotunda mausoleum and old Roman Forum, the magnificent Agia Sofia church, and the church of Agios Dimitrios which houses beautiful frescoes depicting the life of St. Dimitrios, the patron saint of Thessaloniki.
There are museums too, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture home to religious artefacts, icons, and artwork from the Byzantine era; the Jewish Museum charting the city’s Jewish history and influence; and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki which showcases sculptures, pottery, jewellery, and other relics dating all the way from prehistoric times to the Roman era.
7. Enjoy the views from the White Tower
The White Tower gets its own separate mention because it’s an iconic landmark and the symbol of Thessaloniki.
Originally built in the 15th century as part of the city’s fortifications, the tower has undergone several transformations. Its current form dates back to the Ottoman period when it was reconstructed and used as a prison and a place of execution.
Local legend says that there were so many executions here that the walls were stained red with blood, so around 1890 or 1910 they painted them white to cover up the evidence – and that’s how it got its name.
The tower is about 34 metres tall, with 231 steps to reach the top. On the way up, there are 6 floors of exhibits featuring artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays showing Thessaloniki’s history. From the viewing deck, you’re rewarded for your stair-climbing efforts with fantastic 360-degree views over the city and the sea. At the time of writing, entry cost 6 Euros.
8. Visit the buzzing markets
As a foodie destination, Thessaloniki is known for its markets – both covered and open-air. A stroll through the markets, buying and tasting some of the city’s best and freshest local produce, is a brilliant way to forage for breakfast treats or graze your way through lunchtime.
One of the most famous is Modiano Market. Open from early morning until late afternoon, Modiano Market’s covered halls are crammed with fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, and specialty food items. Don’t miss the chance to taste traditional Greek cheeses, olives, and pastries – or pick up some virgin olive oil or local honey to take home.
Another top market is Kapani Market, which also offers everything from fresh produce and aromatic spices to clothing and household items, antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts.
9. Take a boat cruise around the bay
If you’re anything like me, you won’t be able to spend too long on your city break in seaside Thessaloniki without wanting to get on the water.
Several boat tours and cruises operate in Thessaloniki, and they’re a fun and super chill way to see the city from a different perspective while enjoying the sunshine and sea air.
Typically, Thessaloniki boat tours take about one to two hours, giving you time to relax, enjoy the views, and take photographs. Timings can vary depending on the tour provider, but cruises are generally available throughout the day and into the evening if you prefer a sunset or night-time and city lights atmosphere.
You’ll see boats lined up beside the White Tower – these usually depart as soon as they fill up – and you can travel in style on a more modern boat or a historic-style Greek ship.
Some of the boats are free – with the only catch being that you have to buy at least one drink. This makes the trip a bargain if you just get a soft drink – my Diet Coke cost 7 Euros – but you could find yourself racking up quite a bill if you turn it into a booze cruise and buy a tonne of cocktails.
10. Take a day trip to Lake Kerkini
The list above is plenty to keep you busy on a long weekend in Thessaloniki, but if you’ve got more time, one of the other things I loved so much about the city is that it’s within easy reach of some other picturesque bits of Greece.
One very popular place nearby is Lake Kerkini – where I was lucky enough to lead a wildlife photography workshop with some fellow travel bloggers.
Located roughly 50 miles northeast of Thessaloniki, Lake Kerkini is a manmade reservoir set in the picturesque landscape of the Serres region.
The lake is renowned for its rich biodiversity, making it a hotspot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The lake and its surrounding wetlands are home to over 300 species of birds, including the famous Dalmatian pelicans with their orange bills and evil glares, as well as herons, cormorants, and even flamingos!
I was particularly keen to photograph the legendary pelicans – but sadly when we were there, there were none to be seen. I will have to try to go back – ideally during winter when the sun is low in the sky and sunrise (the best time for bird photography) is at a more civilised hour!
Aside from birdwatching, Lake Kerkini offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. There’s also a herd of buffalo, which you can see by doing a jeep safari or horseback riding excursion.
How to get from Thessaloniki to Lake Kerkini
To reach Lake Kerkini from Thessaloniki, you can either rent a car or take a bus. By car, the journey takes approximately one and a half hours, and the route offers picturesque countryside views along the way. Buses operate regularly from Thessaloniki’s main bus station to the nearby town of Serres, from where you can arrange a taxi or a guided tour to Lake Kerkini.
11. Spend a couple of days in Halkidiki
While you could easily just visit Thessaloniki for a couple of days on a weekend Greece city break, I highly recommend doing what we did, which is a couple of days sightseeing and exploring in the city followed by a few more days chilling out on the gorgeous beaches of nearby Halkidiki.
Just 50 miles from Thessaloniki, Halkidiki is one of Greece’s unsung heroes. Often overlooked in favour of the more celebrated Greek Islands, Halkidiki offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, glamorous resorts, making it perfect for weekend trips from Thessaloniki.
Halkidiki is made up of three peninsulas (sometimes referred to as ‘legs’): Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. Kassandra is known for its resorts, vibrant nightlife, water sports, and some of the best beaches near Thessaloniki. Sithonia offers a more natural setting, with secluded beaches, pine forests, and picturesque fishing villages. The third, Mount Athos, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; home to a closed-order monastery where access is heavily restricted, and women aren’t allowed to visit. You can, however, take a cruise along the coast to look at the monastery from the outside.
With its beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters for snorkelling and diving, and hidden bays waiting to be explored, Halkidiki provides a brilliant way to relax and wind down after your days in the city.
Or if you prefer to be more active, Halkidiki is home to fascinating historical sites, such as Stageira, the birthplace of the philosopher Aristotle, as well as hiking opportunities through pine forests and along scenic coastal paths.
Where to stay in Halkidiki
There are loads of resorts and hotels to choose from, but we stayed in the Porto Carras Meliton Grand Resort, located on the middle peninsula of Halkidiki. The Porto Carras Meliton is an expansive beachfront resort with wide sea views, spacious rooms, a private beach, three pools, beach bar, a spa, golf course, and several dining options. At the time we went it was just about to undergo major renovation.
How to get from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki
The easiest way to get from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki is to rent a car and drive the 50-60 mile journey – this should take about 1-2 hours, depending on your final destination. The route is well-marked, and you’ll enjoy scenic views as you traverse from the city to the beautiful coastline. If you’re travelling with a group, it may also be worth getting a taxi or private transfer.
If you want to take the bus, there are regular buses run by KTEL from Halkidiki Bus Station in Thessaloniki, in the eastern part of the city centre, to various destinations in Halkidiki. The bus network covers the region extensively, providing connections to towns such as Kassandra and Sithonia.
Where to stay on your city break in Thessaloniki
Any decent city break destination will have a whole range of places to stay, from hostels to five star hotels, and Thessaloniki is no exception. Just head to booking.com and see what suits your taste and budget.
But if you want a little helping hand, here are a couple of suggestions:
- Onoma Hotel: This is where we stayed – close to Thessaloniki city centre, within easy walking distance of everything, and brand new. Onoma has been created with quirky touches to create a unique ambiance. The rooms feature contemporary design, and the hotel offers a super cool rooftop bar and pool, a games room and even a small basketball court!
- Electra Palace: Located in the heart of the city, Electra Palace is a luxury hotel that combines elegance with modern amenities. It provides easy access to Thessaloniki’s top attractions, including the White Tower and Aristotelous Square. The hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a spa, and excellent dining options.
- The Excelsior Hotel: Situated in the historic Ladadika district, The Excelsior Hotel is a boutique hotel housed in a beautifully restored 1920s building. It offers good-sized rooms and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city.
How to get to Thessaloniki
One final reason why I think Thessaloniki makes a really excellent city break destination, especially for my British readers, is that it’s so incredibly easy to get to.
There are direct flights from Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted or Manchester from as little as £30 return if you book far enough in advance and don’t take luggage. Plus the flight time from the UK is only 3 hours 20 minutes.
How to get from Thessaloniki airport to the city centre
It’s super easy to get from Thessaloniki Airport to the city centre:
- Taxis: Available outside the terminal. A taxi ride from the airport to the city centre typically takes around 25 minutes and will cost about 20 Euros. Make sure to use official taxis with a meter and ask for an estimate of the fare before starting your journey.
- Public buses: Operate between Thessaloniki Airport and the city centre. The journey takes around 40 minutes to an hour, and costs 2 Euros. The main buses are the OASTH Buses 1X (daytime) and 1N (night time).
- Car Rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, car rental services are available at Thessaloniki Airport.
- Airport Shuttle: Some hotels in Thessaloniki offer airport shuttle services for their guests. If you have booked accommodation in advance, it’s worth checking if your hotel provides this service.
A Greece city break in Thessaloniki: some FAQs
Here are some popular questions about visiting Thessaloniki on a city break in Greece that people ask the internet. Hopefully I can help answer yours!
When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki and Halkidiki?
Thessaloniki’s Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant weather throughout the year, so the best time to visit depends on your personal preference. The spring and autumn seasons offer milder temperatures (typically 12°C (54°F) to 21°C (70°F)), fewer crowds, and a comfortable climate for exploring the city’s landmarks. However, if you prefer full-on hot weather and buzzing summer festivities, the peak season of June to August might be better for you.
When we went, in October, it was still sunny and warm during the day, with slightly cooler evenings after the sun went down, and it was much less crowded.
How long should I spend on a Thessaloniki City Break?
If you’re planning a short city break in Thessaloniki, I’d say 2-3 days is a good amount of time to soak up the atmosphere in this relaxed city. However, if you have more time to spare, I’d highly recommend making a long weekend of it and staying four or even five days so you have time to venture a bit further afield and enjoy some relaxation time in Halkidiki as well.
Is Thessaloniki a good holiday destination?
Thessaloniki can be a fantastic holiday destination, depending on your interests and preferences. It has rich history and culture, a thriving food scene, a lively nightlife, beautiful beaches nearby, and it’s more affordable than many other European city break destinations. What more could you want?
Is Thessaloniki safe?
Thessaloniki is generally considered a safe city for tourists. While it experiences typical urban issues like petty theft and occasional instances of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation, the overall crime rate is relatively low compared to many other European cities. Of course it’s still a city, so you should take the usual precautions, be aware of pickpockets and avoid dark and deserted areas at night, but most Thessaloniki holidays are trouble free.
Is Thessaloniki worth visiting?
Whether Thessaloniki is worth visiting ultimately depends on your individual preferences and travel style. However, as I’ve already mentioned, it has an awful lot going for it. Personally, I wouldn’t spend more than a week here but for a short Greece city break it’s got just about everything you’d want.
To improve your experience, I’d recommend avoiding the hot and crowded peak summer months and visit in spring or fall instead.
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Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.
