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Less well-known to tourists than the iconic Cyclades, Thessaloniki is nonetheless one of Greece‘s most vibrant cities – the second largest in population after Athens – renowned for its Byzantine history, delicious cuisine, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Located in the north of the country, bordering the Aegean Sea, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. From the iconic White Tower to the lively Ladadika district, this Mediterranean gem has plenty of surprises in store, as you’ll see. Looking for things to do in Thessaloniki? Follow the guide.
🗒️ Dates and hotels: what you need to know before visiting Thessaloniki
Before we get into things to do in Thessaloniki, here are some useful tips.
When to go to Thessaloniki?
Located in the north of Greece, Thessaloniki enjoys a moderate Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The ideal time to visit is generally between April and June, and between September and October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius, and tourist crowds are not at their peak. If you’re still unsure what to do in Thessaloniki during the winter, keep in mind that the days are shorter and sometimes rainy, but the city retains a certain charm: museums are less crowded, and cafés welcome you to enjoy a piping hot Greek coffee.
July and August, on the other hand, can be very hot (often exceeding 35°C), which can make daytime walks difficult. However, the sea breeze remains pleasant, and the nightlife is vibrant in the lively districts. Don’t forget that in the height of summer, you can also take excursions to the beaches of the Halkidiki peninsula, located nearby.
Three popular hotels in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki offers a perfectly adequate range of hotels for a city of its size. But here are three particularly popular establishments.
- Electra Palace Thessaloniki
This 5-star hotel stands proudly on Aristotle Square, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the vibrant city. The building’s neoclassical architecture adds to its charm. Guests can enjoy a spa, a rooftop pool, and a gourmet restaurant. - Located on the seafront, the Makedonia Palace
is a luxurious establishment that impresses with its elegance and prime location. It offers spacious rooms, some with balconies overlooking the Aegean Sea. Breakfast is renowned for its variety of local products. - The Modernist Thessaloniki,
in a more contemporary and urban style, offers designer rooms with an emphasis on minimalist décor and high-quality materials. The hotel is just a short walk from Aristotle Square and the shopping district. Its trendy atmosphere attracts travellers seeking a modern stay close to the action.
Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel or more modest accommodation, the city is full of options to suit all budgets, including short-term flat rentals. Do your own search.
🔝 What are the must-see things to do in Thessaloniki?
Now let’s get to the heart of the matter and see what there is to do in Thessaloniki. Only the must-sees, of course.
Visit the White Tower
An undeniable symbol of the city, the White Tower stands proudly on the waterfront. Built in the 15th century by the Ottomans, it served first as a defensive fortress, then as a prison. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to the history of Thessaloniki, offering an interactive tour and exhibits on daily life in bygone days. From the top, the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the modern city is spectacular. Beyond its historical significance, the White Tower is also a popular meeting place for locals, especially in the evenings when the seaside promenade comes alive. To extend your exploration, take a stroll along the waterfront, known as “Nea Paralia,” where you’ll find a concentration of trendy cafés and bars.
Discover the Galerius Rotunda
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rotunda is a circular structure dating from the early 4th century, originally designed as a temple or mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Galerius. Later converted into a Christian church and then a mosque, it testifies to the religious and architectural complexity of the region. The interior, with its exceptional Byzantine mosaics, is worth the visit alone. For those seeking historical and architectural activities in Thessaloniki, the Rotunda is a must-see. Furthermore, right next door is the Arch of Galerius, another Roman remnant marking the entrance to an ancient triumphal road.
Explore the church of Agios Dimitrios
The Church of Agios Dimitrios is the largest church in Greece dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki. Destroyed and rebuilt several times after various fires, this Byzantine basilica nevertheless contains crypts and ancient mosaics that are well worth a visit. Located in the historic centre, it is particularly crowded on October 26th and 27th when the city honours its patron saint. The atmosphere is very festive. To immerse yourself even further in the local spirituality, take a few moments of quiet reflection within this sacred monument. History enthusiasts can explore the crypt, renowned for the remains of Roman baths and its legend surrounding the miracle of the holy oil.
Take a walk in the Ladadika district
Once a district of oil merchants (hence its name “ladadika”, derived from “ladi”, meaning oil in Greek), Ladadika has experienced a remarkable boom in tourism since its restoration. Today, its cobbled streets are teeming with bars, tavernas, restaurants, and small shops. The colourful architecture of the buildings, blending neoclassical facades with Ottoman influences, gives the district a unique charm. In the evenings, live music and bustling terraces create a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to sample local specialities, such as moussaka, souvlaki, or tsipouro, the iconic Greek brandy. If you’re still wondering what to do in Thessaloniki after dark, Ladadika is certainly the most obvious answer.
Admire the view from the upper town (Ano Poli)
Perched on the hills above Thessaloniki, the Ano Poli district is one of the few to have survived the devastating fire of 1917. Its narrow streets, Ottoman-style houses, and breathtaking views of the Thermaic Gulf make it a must-see. Here you can visit the Heptapyrgion, a Byzantine fortress with imposing walls, as well as other picturesque medieval churches. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Ano Poli offers an almost village-like atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls. Traditional cafés invite you to pause and sip a Greek coffee with a honey pastry. Among the many things to do in Thessaloniki, this escape to the hills provides a true breath of fresh air and an immersion into the city’s Byzantine soul.
Relaxing in Aristotle Square
Aristotle Square is the vibrant heart of Thessaloniki. Designed by the French architect Ernest Hébrard after the devastating fire of 1917, it is characterized by its European style and monumental buildings. Cultural events, concerts, and markets are held here regularly. Lined with cafés and restaurants, it’s ideal for relaxing on a terrace and watching the world go by. With the sea as a backdrop and a gentle sea breeze, it’s also a perfect spot to admire the sunset. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous boutiques nearby, while those with a sweet tooth can stop and enjoy a bougatsa (a Greek pastry) at one of the surrounding bakeries.
Strolling through the Modiano market
The recently renovated Modiano Market is one of the city’s most famous covered markets. Built in the 1920s by the Jewish architect Eli Modiano, it has retained its old-world charm while offering a diverse array of food, spices, cheeses, wines, and even a few street food stalls. Mediterranean aromas mingle in an authentic, bustling, and convivial atmosphere. Among the fresh produce stalls, you’ll find a few typical bars and restaurants where you can enjoy meze. This market is a living testament to Thessaloniki’s rich cultural diversity, a city long considered a crossroads between East and West. If you’re looking for things to do in Thessaloniki to discover local cuisine, the Modiano Market is a must-see.
Discover the cuisine in a traditional tavern
The tavernas of Thessaloniki are renowned throughout Greece for the quality and freshness of their ingredients. Grilled fish, a variety of meze, Greek salads topped with local feta, and of course the famous bougatsa, offer a feast for the taste buds. You can also sample typical street food, such as koulouri (a round sesame bread) or gyros. Sharing is a strong tradition: it’s common to order several small dishes to place in the centre of the table, so everyone can enjoy them together. The tavernas come alive in the evenings, often to the sounds of rebetiko music. Between the convivial atmosphere and generous portions, you’ll find plenty to do in Thessaloniki if you’re a food lover.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
To delve deeper into Macedonian history, a visit to the Archaeological Museum is a must. There you’ll discover collections spanning prehistoric times, antiquity, and the Roman era. The museum boasts a particularly rich collection of Macedonian artifacts, including jewellery and gold funerary crowns unearthed from the region’s royal tombs. Temporary exhibitions are regularly held, focusing on diverse subjects such as Byzantine art and traditional Macedonian culture. The museum is spacious, air-conditioned, and perfectly suited for families. Allow at least two hours for your visit, and don’t miss the prehistoric hall, which is filled with rare pieces.
Enjoy the nightlife on Valaoritou
Thessaloniki is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, largely thanks to its student population. The Valaoritou Street area is packed with bars, clubs, and cafés, each offering a different atmosphere. You’ll find trendy spots, rooftop bars with city views, and more alternative venues that regularly host live music and DJ sets. The evening often starts around 10 pm and continues into the early hours, especially on weekends. It’s the perfect place to party, meet locals, and experience the famous Greek hospitality. And if you’re still looking for things to do in Thessaloniki after midnight, don’t worry: the city is full of options to keep the fun going, from karaoke to a taverna that stays open for the night owls.
So, we hope you now know what to do in Thessaloniki during your trip. Any other ideas? Leave them in the comments.