You might not have considered Thessaloniki, Greece, but here's why it deserves your attention.

Often overshadowed by Athens, Thessaloniki – the second-largest city in Greece – is worth discovering.

This vibrant student city offers a laid-back atmosphere, lively nightlife, historic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and nearby wineries, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or an extended stay any time of the year. Is Thessaloniki a tourist-friendly destination? Absolutely.

Here are some essential travel tips for exploring Thessaloniki, the coastal gem.

A culinary hub

Food enthusiasts will find plenty to savor in Thessaloniki, recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2021 for its rich culinary heritage shaped by diverse cultures. The blend of Ottoman, Balkan, and Mediterranean influences has given rise to unique dishes like bougatsa, a beloved cream-filled pastry introduced to the city by refugees from Asia Minor in the 1920s.

Don’t miss out on Greek coffee and local street snacks such as koulouri, a sesame-encrusted bread ring that has roots in Thessaloniki's refugee history. As you indulge in traditional handmade treats – including pumpkin-and-leek pies, sheep and goat milk cheeses, cured meats, olives, and high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, alongside small fish mezes – you'll appreciate the region’s rich culinary diversity. Kapani Market, the oldest market in the city, is the perfect place to explore a variety of fresh fish, meats, fruits, vegetables, sweets, nuts, and spices. Consider joining a gastronomy tour with local company Chef Stories to enjoy exquisite flavors while learning about the city’s historical center.

A walkable city for exploration

Thessaloniki's compact layout makes it a delight to explore on foot, with the waterfront just a 15-minute walk from the city center. This size allows for an easy journey into the city's rich history and architectural marvels. The iconic 34m (111ft) tall White Tower, once a prison and execution site during Ottoman rule, now stands as a centerpiece of the New Waterfront, offering stunning views across the bay to Mt Olympus.

The city is brimming with archaeological treasures. The 7th-century Church of Agios Dimitrios is dedicated to Thessaloniki’s patron saint, whose remains rest in the church's crypt. Mirroring the renowned Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the earlier (6th-century) Agia Sofia showcases a blend of Roman and Byzantine architecture, adorned with radiant gold leaf that shines in candlelight.

Enjoy a coffee break at Aristotelous Square, where the statue of the ancient philosopher stands prominently. Then make your way to the historic Ano Poli (Upper Town), with its charming narrow streets safeguarded by remnants of the Byzantine and Ottoman fortress walls. Although the ascent is steep, the breathtaking views of the lower city and sea are worth the effort. (We suggest taking a taxi up and walking back down.)

In the new city, delve deeper into Thessaloniki’s history. The Archaeological Museum highlights Macedonia’s prehistoric era, alongside the Hellenistic and Roman periods, while the Museum of Byzantine Culture features over 3000 Byzantine artifacts. For a more personal touch, Guru Walk offers free walking tours led by local guides.

Experience wine tasting at family-owned wineries

Just a few kilometers from the city, you’ll find Ktima Gerovassiliou, a family-run winery spanning 118 acres, producing wine since 1981. Guests enjoy sampling a variety of whites, reds, and rosés, as well as exploring the small on-site museum, which showcases viticulture, winemaking, and bottling tools collected by the family since 1976.

To sample single-grape spirits crafted from hand-picked, organic grapes, visit the Abelon Distillery, located just a half-hour’s drive from Ktima Gerovassiliou. Both of these family-run establishments uphold local traditions in a picturesque setting overlooking the sea and the snow-capped peaks of Mt Olympus.

Explore the region's illustrious past

If ancient Greek history and archaeology pique your interest, make your way to a quaint village about an hour from Thessaloniki. Vergina is home to the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of the Royal Tombs of Aigai, where you can visit the main tomb that served as the burial chamber of Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. It stands as one of the most significant historical sites in Northern Greece.

Venture down the tunnel beneath the burial mound to view the tomb entrance. The adjacent museum showcases an array of treasures, including silver chalices, an ornate ivory-and-gold shield, a gilded quiver, an entire suit of gold-plated armor, and numerous other artifacts buried alongside the king.

Not far from here is the expansive Polycentric Museum of Aigai, featuring artifacts from the era of Alexander the Great. This museum highlights the restored sections of Macedon’s Royal Palace, which was once three times larger than the Parthenon. Such Alexander-related history is unique to this location in Greece.

To explore Vergina (and the nearby wineries), renting a car is advisable if you prefer an independent tour. However, consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the grandeur of the sites. Discover Greece can assist with arrangements.

Experience art by the waterfront

Back in Thessaloniki, visit Pier A along the harbor to find the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography and the Experimental Center for the Arts, both ideal spots for enjoying art. They regularly feature photography exhibitions focusing on social and political themes, showcasing works from international artists that rotate approximately every three months. These venues are part of the Metropolitan Organisation of Museums of Visual Arts (MOMus), which also includes the Museum of Contemporary Art, located just a nine-minute walk from the White Tower.

At the pier’s entrance, indulge in a coffee at the Maritime Cafe and Cocktail Bar. Whether you choose to sit indoors or outdoors, you can enjoy the vibrant waterfront atmosphere and gaze at Mt Olympus in the distance.

Dining options in Thessaloniki

You'll have an abundance of restaurants and tavernas to select from here. Ladadika, the historic area to the west of the port, features charming cobbled streets and neoclassical architecture, serving as Thessaloniki’s nightlife hotspot. It's filled with coffee shops and bars popular among students, along with a variety of restaurants to explore.

Located in the heart of Ladadika, Kazaviti is a fantastic local spot, offering classics like moussaka and wine served in jugs, accompanied by live music. For a more upscale experience, Mamalouka caters to meat lovers, vegetarians, and vegans alike. Don’t miss the incredible tarama fish roe dip! In the city center, Poster attracts the business crowd; be sure to try the delectable focaccia bread topped with chili butter and hot honey.

Olympos Naoussa Restaurant at the On Residence Hotel marries gourmet cuisine with cherished family recipes. The award-winning Greek chef prepares dishes like moussaka served with a side of béchamel sauce. For an exciting experience, let your server choose your dish for a delightful surprise.

Accommodation options in Thessaloniki

No matter where you stay in central Thessaloniki, you'll be close to the promenade and key attractions. Accommodation options range from luxurious five-star hotels like the beautifully renovated On Residence, offering stunning views of Mt Olympus, perfect for a romantic getaway. For a more budget-friendly yet central option, the Teight Hotel is conveniently located near shopping areas and major sights.

For those planning an extended stay, Thess Residences is housed in a former factory that once crafted traditional pots and the iconic briki for brewing Greek coffee. Now, it features 25 self-catering apartments in a lively neighborhood, ideal for independent travelers wanting to immerse themselves in local life while being just a 15-minute walk from the waterfront.

Getting to Thessaloniki

Flights from Athens take approximately 35 minutes, with the airport located just 13 km (eight miles) from the city center. A taxi ride lasts about 30 minutes, costing between €24 during the day and €32 from midnight to 5 a.m. Alternatively, the airport bus takes 40 minutes and is available for €1.80 at any time; tickets can be purchased on board, but only in cash.

Direct buses from Athens run every couple of hours and take around five hours, costing €40 for a one-way trip. Driving yourself is slightly quicker, but be aware that tolls and fuel costs can exceed €100 one way.