Thessaloniki, also known as Thessalonica or Saloniki, is the second-largest city in Greece and the
capital of the region of Macedonia. It is known as "the co-capital," due to its historical status as
a co-reigning city of the Byzantine Empire alongside Constantinople.
Located on the Thermaic Gulf at the northwest corner of the Aegean Sea, Thessaloniki is a major
economic, industrial, commercial, and political center for Greece and southeastern Europe. It is
also a significant transportation hub, particularly through the Port of Thessaloniki. The city is
renowned for its vibrant cultural life and hosts events such as the Thessaloniki International Fair
and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. In 2014, it was named the European Youth
Capital.
The city was founded in 315 BC by Cassander, who named it after his wife Thessalonike, daughter of
Philip II of Macedon and sister of Alexander the Great. Thessaloniki was an important metropolis
during the Roman period and was the second largest and wealthiest city of the Byzantine Empire. Over
the years, it remained a significant seaport and multi-ethnic metropolis, blending ancient Greek
culture with Byzantine, Roman, Ottoman, and Jewish influences.
Thessaloniki became the European Capital of Culture in 1997 accompanied by a majestic project of
renovation and rebuilding of historical monuments. Thessaloniki is known for its Byzantine
architecture, including numerous Paleochristian, Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman monuments, which are
recognized as a World Heritage Site. Briefly, Thessaloniki features:
1.1 million citizens
6 million international arrivals in 2022
30 Museums & 15 UNESCO world heritage sites
hosts ~140,000 students
is home to Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
100+ Hotels
19 Conference & Exhibition Venues
The city is a popular tourist destination and was included in National Geographic Magazine's top
tourist destinations worldwide in 2013. In 2014, Financial Times FDI magazine declared Thessaloniki
as the best mid-sized European city of the future for human capital and lifestyle. In 2022,
Thessaloniki was listed in the World's Greatest Places. Thessaloniki is one of the 50 Creative
Cities of Gastronomy by UNESCO.
What to see
Aristotle Square
The heart of the city beats in Aristotle Square. Some of the most beautiful pieces embracing
the square, are the impressive hollow building of the Electra Palace hotel on the west side
and the Olympion cinema. The cafés are crowded all day long while dozens of happenings and
events are held in the square throughout the year.
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Ladadika
Ladadika is the ultimate experience of all day and night entertainment. The two-storey vivid
colored warehouses became cafes, stylish bars, restaurants, pubs, bistros, clubs, etc. and
the pedestrian area flooded with sounds from all musical trends. The night is long at
Ladadika and the fun lasts until morning, so arm yourself with fun and good mood and
experience in ultimate extent what means Thessaloniki by night!
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Seafront of Thessaloniki
Take a walk along one of the longest city seafronts in Europe. Along the coastal route
you’ll see The White Tower, the imposing symbol of the city, the Statue of Alexander the
Great on horseback, the umbrellas, the 12 thematic gardens to relax and work out, with
lakes, small waterfall, tennis courts, a skateboard track, playgrounds, cafes, refreshment
stands and kiosks.
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Valaoritou
Valaoritou, formerly a thriving commercial area primarily known for its fabric stores and
manufactories, has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis into a dynamic and trendy hangout in
the city and has transformed into a vibrant hangout with repurposed shops now housing
diverse cafes, restaurants, and bars. The energetic atmosphere, offering a range of music
genres, makes bar hopping a must-do activity, while the surrounding architecture captures
the historical essence of old Thessaloniki.
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Modiano-Kapani-Louloudadika
Discover Thessaloniki’s markets!
The revamped Agora Modiano in Thessaloniki's center brings a fresh and contemporary concept
that harmonizes past glamour, present dynamism, and future aspirations. This new generation
aims to provide visitors with exceptional Greek and multicultural experiences, offering a
blend of products, flavors, events, and entertainment in a uniquely designed space that
blends tradition and modernity. With its rich architectural and historical value, Agora
Modiano reflects the cultural vibrancy and culinary heritage of Thessaloniki.
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Rotunda – Navarinou Square
The area from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki to Navarinou Square has become a popular
hangout for students, with cafes around the Rotunda monument offering relaxation, coffee,
and board games. Navarinou Square itself is a vibrant meeting place, where young people
enjoy the lively atmosphere of cafes, bars, and restaurants, while also having the
opportunity to admire the archaeological site of the Roman palace complex built by Emperor
Galerius.
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Ano Poli (Upper Town)
As you walk away from the bustling city center, a different side of Thessaloniki unfolds—a
nostalgic and timeless atmosphere. Along Agiou Dimitriou Street, you'll encounter
significant monuments and UNESCO World Heritage sites, including churches like Saint
Catherine, Vlatadon Monastery, Agios Nikolaos Orfanos, as well as landmarks such as the
Alatza Imaret Mosque and the Eptapyrgio fortress. The journey is accompanied by the city
walls, symbolizing security, and the impressive Trigoniou Tower, while the breathtaking
panoramic view of the city embracing the sea leaves an indelible impression.
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Find the 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Thessaloniki
White Tower
Rotunda
Church of Panayia Chalkeon
Church of Aghios Panteleimon
Church of Aghios Dimitrios
Church of Aghioi Apostoloi
Church of Aghios Nikolaos Orphanos
The Walls
Vlatadon Monastery
Chrurch of Aghia Sophia
Chrurch of the Acheiropoirtos
Chrurch of Profitis Elias
Chrurch of Aghia Ekaterini
Trigonion Tower / Alysseos Tower
