Thessaloniki Holidays

Top attractions

Thessaloniki holidays has it all, from its lively modern city bustling with life to its relaxed beaches and easy-going atmosphere. Many of Thessaloniki’s must-sees relate to a mosaic of cultures and its fascinating historic heritage. Take a step back in time to discover ancient artefacts and long-forgotten monuments. You’ll find the iconic 15th century White Tower, by Aristotelous Square in the city centre known as the symbol of city. Originally part of the city’s defences, it served as a prison for condemned prisoners awaiting execution during the Ottoman period. Presently, its walls preserve memories of the past and you’ll find a museum space on each floor of the tower with insights to its history. Spectacular views of the coastline can also be appreciated from the top floor.

Thessaloniki is also a paradise for those who enjoy crowded concerts, film screenings and theatres, all located within this historically charged city. 

Beaches

Though famous for its historic heritage and lively atmosphere, there are endless sandy beaches with crystal clear shores, perfect for hours of peace and relaxation away from the noise and bustle of the city centre. Agia Triada Beach, one of the most popular beaches for its tranquil waters and golden sands, is only a 15 minute drive from Macedonia Airport. The coast provides sun beds for basking in the heat of the sun and umbrellas for retreating under the cool of the shade. You’ll find plenty of taverns, camping sites and open-air entertainment sites to be enjoyed under the summer sun. In the evening, you’ll experience night time entertainment from musical spots to fine dining. If you’re looking for some action on the waves, Asprovalta Beach has perfect conditions for water sports. Enjoy several activities from sailing and kite surfing to water skiing and volleyball. With its youthful vibe, long sandy stretches and care-free atmosphere, Asprovalta is particularly popular with beach-goers.

Eating out

Thessaloniki may be the country’s second city, but it’s the culinary capital. As you would imagine, the traditional cuisine plays a major part in having the full authentic greek experience. Thessaloniki is a gourmet paradise home to a banquet of Mediterranean flavours with its own distinct tastes, spices and aromas. The city is crammed with busy tavernas, tasty tapas bars and fine restaurants all serving savoury delicacies. Be prepared to tuck into traditional plates like moussakas and baklava, exquisitely prepared using only the freshest of ingredients. Vegetarians can also enjoy their slice of paradise as many vegetable dishes include salads, spinach pie and white bean soup. Street markets are a big part of Greek culture and no trip would be complete without visiting Kapani and Modiano, two of Thessaloniki’s main markets.  Jam-packed with fresh vegetables, meats, herbs and spices of all colours as well as many small stand-up eateries, it makes for a great way to experience Greece’s culinary delights. The most famous feature of Thessaloniki food culture are the bakeries. Every side street veers off to reveal a multitude of patisseries, serving up pastries of all flavours and sizes. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

Nightlife

If you think the daytime hustle and bustle of the city is something, just wait until nightfall. When the sun goes down, Thessaloniki truly comes alive with its many bars, clubs and music halls for all tastes and ages. If you’re looking for live music performances, dancing and entertainment, the streets of Valaoritou and Syngrou are packed with venues that open late and party hard until the early hours of the morning. You’ll also find Bouzoukia nightclubs dotted around the city that host bands and new music artists for exciting live performances. Greek nightlife is not only associated with up-all-night entertainment, but also with fine dining. Many of the vibrant areas that are busy during the night are also renowned for their taverns and restaurants. For a more relaxed evening of enjoyment, why not wine and dine at Thermaikos Bar, located directly on the seafront where you can enjoy the sunset view and ocean breeze. Afterwards, take a gentle stroll on the promenade before heading to the bar scene for cocktails and conversation.

Family holidays

Thessaloniki is considered one of the most friendly and exciting destinations for family holidays. Day trips to seaside villages, fascinating museum visits, promenade bike rides and nature walks are just some of the family friendly activities Thessaloniki has to offer. Enjoy sightseeing bus tours with plenty of hop-off stops to explore the most famous landmarks of the city, great for small children who tire easy. For a fun filled day out, why not visit Thessaloniki’s Zoo? Inside you’ll find a variety of animals, a museum of natural history and engaging exhibits that provide learning opportunities. If that’s not enough excitement, take a step back in time to visit the Dinosaur Park for hours of entertainment. While exploring the Mammoth Museum, the Water Life Park and the Mammal Park you’ll be sure enough to work up an appetite. You’ll never have to worry about hungry mouths to feed with cafes, snack bars and restaurants at every corner, all with a variety of delicious dishes to satisfy even the fussiest eater.

Couples holidays

Holidays in Thessaloniki will certainly give you unforgettable romantic moments with its tailor-made occasions for wine tasting on vineyard patios, ancient site discoveries and long scenic strolls on the promenade. Wander the narrow, winding roads lined with small shops, cafes and restaurants as songs from old gramophones fill the air, encapsulating the charm of the city. Explore the timeless beauty of long forgotten ruins, magnificent castles and historic monuments.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a boat tour guaranteeing magnificent views and serene sailing. Sit back, relax and sip Sangria as the waves carry you into paradise. It simply wouldn’t be a romantic holiday if a trip to the beach wasn’t on the horizon. Picnics on the sand, dips in the ocean and gazing into spectacular sunsets are intimate moments not to be missed out on. You don’t have to stray too far from the beach to find an intimate spot for fine dining. Clochards Restaurant, renowned for their authentic Mediterranean dishes and beautiful decoration, really set the mood for a romantic rendezvous.

Action & Adventure

Thessaloniki is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery, historic heritage and remarkable terrain just waiting to be explored. You’ll find day trip expeditions to Dion, home of the ancient Greek Gods, situated at the footsteps of Mount Olympus. Take a tour through the picturesque villages, archaeological sites and walk through the valley of Enipea on the low slopes of the mountain. Halkidiki provides an excellent base for nature lovers whom enjoy long hikes while admiring the landscapes natural beauty. Known for its warm water sand beautiful beaches, Halkidiki is a paradise of pure bliss. If you’re eager to release some energy, take a trip to the Mediterranean sea for some adrenaline-fuelled water sport activities like wind surfing and banana boating.

Thessaloniki doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the vast array of shops found all over the city centre. For the ultimate shopping experience, visit the Mediterranean Cosmos. The biggest mall in the city, it features 11 screen multiplex cinemas, cafes, restaurants, family entertainment options and hundreds of international and local independent brands. Wherever you find yourself in Thessaloniki, you can be sure that there will always be a new adventure around every corner.

Culture

Thessaloniki is built upon the memories of 4000 years of history and civilisation, paving the way for a variety of cultures and languages. It’s easy to find traces of history in every part of the city, not only from its churches, monuments and roman buildings, but in the fine details of the narrow streets, old houses and market places. Walking through any part of the city will make for fascinating discoveries. The Archeological and Byzantine museums contain many interesting exhibits sure enough to paint a picture of Thessaloniki’s historic past. Lefkos Pyrgos, symbol of the city, also known as White Tower contains a wealth of history displayed in its art and history museums. Today, Thessaloniki is a lively modern city culturally enriched with numerous festivals, music halls and events throughout the year. Not forgetting that the allure of Thessaloniki’s past and present culture is greatly reflected through its authentic cuisine, friendly atmosphere and charming character.