20 Must-Visit Attractions in Thessaloniki, Greece
Beautiful and complex, Thessaloniki is a treasure trove awaiting discerning travelers. With a load of ancient monuments, museums, old churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a plethora of picturesque cafés and bars, and a fascinating food scene, Thessaloniki is a great destination for a city trip. Here are some of the top attractions.
White Tower of Thessaloniki
Thanks to its prominent position on the city’s waterfront, the White Tower is Thessaloniki’s main symbol and most famous monument. Built in the 15th century, the White Tower was used as a fort, enhancing the harbor defenses, and also served as a garrison and a prison, which earned it the nickname of the “Tower of Blood” (Kanli Kule) or “Red Tower” during the Ottoman Empire. When the city became part of the newly established Hellenic State in 1912, the tower was whitewashed and received its new name, White Tower. From the top, visitors get to enjoy 360-degree views of the city and the Gulf.
1. Ladadika
Conveniently located near the port of Thessaloniki, Ladadika is a historic neighborhood now listed as a heritage site by the Ministry of Culture. Once an area where oil shops were legion, Ladadika features 19th-century colorful buildings that exude the old charm of the city. After going through a period of gentrification in the 1980s, the district is now home to good tavernas, cool bars, and clubs.
2. Ataturk Museum
Museum
3. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Museum
4. Museum of Byzantine Culture
Museum
5. Olympic Museum of Thessaloniki
Museum
6. Church of Agia Sofia
Church
7. Temple of Osios David
Church, Monastery
8. Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace
Museum
Housed in Villa Modiano, built in 1906 by the Jewish architect Eli Modiano, the Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace is home to a rich collection of artifacts and remnants from these two regions of Northern Greece. The collection includes about 15,000 objects, including textiles, traditional costumes, weapons, as well as domestic articles, musical instruments, wood items and metalworking equipment.
Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace, Filippou Nikoglou 1, Thessaloniki, Greece, +30 231 088 9840
10. Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos
Church
Up in the old city, or Ano Poli, the church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos (the Orphan), or Agios Nikolaos o Orfanos, is an early 14th-century Byzantine structure mostly known for its frescoes, which covers the entirety of the interior. The church continued to function during the Ottoman era; it was only in the 20th century that its frescoes were rediscovered and restored.
Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos, Irodotou 1, Thessaloniki, Greece, +30 231 021 3627
11. Ano Poli and The Heptapyrgion
The only part of Thessaloniki that survived the great fire of 1917, Ano Poli (Upper Town) is a place where time has stood still. Boasting a charming character and a unique style, Ano Poli is home to graphic streets and beautiful Ottoman-styled houses. It is where you will find the city’s main fortress (Heptapyrgion), offering spectacular panoramic views over the city.
12. Vlatadon Monastery
Monastery
Arch of Galerius (Kamara) and the Rotunda
Erected to celebrate the victory over the Persians in 279 AD, the Arch of Galerius was part of the palace of Roman emperor Galerius. Standing at the heart of major axes, the Arch is an important meeting point for Thessalonians. Less than 125 meters (410 feet) away, the Rotunda of Galerius (or Church of Agios Georgios) was built in 306 AD and connected to the Arch via a processional road. Its interior features splendid mosaics still visible today, and it is one of the oldest Paleo-Christian edifices in the world.
Rotunda, Pl. Agiou Georgiou Rotonta 5, Thessaloniki, Greece, +30 231 096 8860
13. Roman Forum
Building
14. Church of Agios Demetrios
Church
15. Church of the Acheiropoietos
Church
16. Bey Hamam
Museum
17. Alaca Imaret
Mosque
Thessaloniki waterfront
Although not technically a monument, the waterfront of Thessaloniki is a must-see. It covers five kilometers (3.1 miles) and includes a series of green spaces, bike lanes, and footpaths along the sea, split between the Palia Paralia (Old Waterfront) and the Nea Paralia (New Waterfront). Walk along the waters, admire the colors of the sky and observe the scenes that unfold before your eyes. You will have the chance to capture a few Instagram-worthy moments.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.