What to Do in Thessaloniki: 19 Fun Ideas for the Best Time
Searching for ideas on what to do in Thessaloniki? Whether you want to discover Roman monuments, classic Palaces, Ottoman ruins or charming waterfront diners, the best attractions in Thessaloniki cater to all preferred travel styles and interests.
Thessaloniki’s history dates back millennia. And while there are plenty of fascinating museums that detail this city’s fascinating story, you can also follow in the footsteps of ancient Greeks, Persians, Romans and Byzantines while exploring some of Thessaloniki’s most famous landmarks and attractions.
If you want to journey through time to the city’s origins as a major hub of trade, art and culture, I’d suggest visiting monuments like the Roman Forum and the Rotunda. If you just want to travel back a mere few centuries in time, you can visit the White Tower, Aristotelous Square or the Thessaloniki Waterfront.
Prefer to get your fill of history from museums?
You’re spoilt for choice in Thessaloniki – the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Atatürk Museum all provide insights into the city’s fascinating heritage. Prefer to find out what’s in store for the future? Browse the interactive exhibits at the Thessaloniki Science Centre Technology Museum.
As you can see – there really is something for everyone in this Macedonian urban paradise. Here’s what to do in Thessaloniki to make the most of your getaway.
Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki
From exploring ancient Roman monuments and centuries-old fortifications to sipping cocktails by the waterfront under the Mediterranean sun, here are 12 of the best things to do in Thessaloniki.
1. Thessaloniki Waterfront
Spending a few nights in the beautiful and historic city of Thessaloniki? In between visiting museums, local eateries and historical landmarks, you might want to take a stroll along the gorgeous Thessaloniki Waterfront.
Given a stunning facelift just a few years ago, the Thessaloniki Waterfront runs for around five kilometres by the seaside. Along the route, you’ll walk by a plethora of bars and restaurants that provide ideal settings to kick back with a drink and a bite while taking in ocean views.
You’ll also bump into a few of the city’s most famous attractions, including the White Tower, the Thessaloniki Concert Hall and the Photography Museum. A modern sculpture park called “The Umbrellas” is just half a kilometre from the White Tower.
2. White Tower of Thessaloniki
The most famous monument in Thessaloniki is the White Tower by the coast. Back in the 15th century when the Ottomans took over the city, the White Tower was constructed to defend the city’s eastern harbour.
Today, this 34-metre-tall, cylindrical tower now hosts a museum (White Tower Museum) that was installed by the nearby Museum of Byzantine Culture, giving you insights into the history of the tower and the city of Thessaloniki from the Roman era to the present day.
While exploring the museum inside the White Tower, you’ll hear fascinating stories about historic battles using an audio guide. You can also ascend the spiral staircase to take in sprawling city and ocean views from the tower’s battlements.
3. Pirate ship in Thessaloniki
The pirate ship in Thessaloniki is an iconic floating ship set against the backdrop of the city’s famed waterfront. Get on board and you’ll get a historical glimpse into maritime lore and a unique sightseeing experience, this replica vessel transports visitors on an enchanting journey across the Thermaikos Gulf.
As the ship sets sail, you’re immersed in an ambiance reminiscent of ancient seafaring tales, all the while enjoying panoramic views of Thessaloniki’s skyline and the White Tower. It’s a must-visit for those looking to combine history with adventure in Greece’s cultural heart.
It’s free to get on, but you have to buy drinks, and they’re pretty expensive. We had a great time on board though, toddler included, and I’d definitely recommend you do it as a top Thessaloniki attraction.
4. Thessaloniki Old Town
Thessaloniki’s Old Town, or ‘Ano Poli’, is a historic gem nestled above the modern city. Characterised by narrow, winding streets and traditional Ottoman-era architecture, this area offers a journey through centuries of layered history. Byzantine churches stand alongside quaint taverns, while panoramic views of the Thermaikos Gulf unfold from its elevated vantage.
This is one of the best areas in Thessaloniki to explore.
5. Main square in Kalamaria
Kalamaria is a suburb of Thessaloniki, about 20 mins from the city. It’s a lovely place to relax and soak up the sun and atmosphere. The main square there is also a great place to hire these cars for kids to ride. Reggie was 14 months here and loved it. It works by remote control so we were stood very close while he (thought he) was driving around.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Thessaloniki for kids, the main square in Kalamaria is a great shout. There are also some great restaurants here and it’s just a fun place to relax in the evening, for the whole family.
6. Holy Church of Saint Demetrius (Hagios Demetrios)
The Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, otherwise known as Hagios Demetrios, was built in the 4th century CE on the site where Patroin Saint Demetrius was martyred. While the early structure was destroyed by multiple fires in the first couple of centuries of its life, the five-aisled basilica you can see today was mostly built during the 630s.
It took about 100 years staring from the year 630 to add the building’s famous mosaic panels that contribute to its distinctive design. While many of the mosaics were destroyed by a blaze in 1917, artworks that depict Demetrius and the church founders with children remain mostly intact.
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7. Eat at ERGON Agora
Just a few minutes out of the city ERGON Agora is one of the best dining experiences in Thessaloniki for sure. It’s an ole warehouse on the coast with a beach, food and drink stalls set up outside, occasional music, a great shop and a huge restaurant inside the main building. There’s lots to do and see here, all centred around food and drink.
Visiting here is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Thessaloniki, and you get a nice full belly too. Oh, there are also some great gelato options for dessert too. You’ll get an amazing feed with all the Greek food here, and hopefully a wonderful sunset like we did too!
8. Go to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Fancy browsing a diverse array of artefacts that date back to the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman eras? You won’t regret perusing the fascinating exhibits at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.
Some of the most notable displays at this museum include finds from one of the city’s 6