Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Travel Guide

Greece's second-largest city and cultural capital — a waterfront city where Byzantine churches, Ottoman markets, and contemporary art coexist. The cafe culture of Aristotelous Square, the lively nightlife of Ladadika, and sunsets along the Paralia promenade leave a lasting impression. Less touristy than Athens and widely regarded as Greece's gastronomic capital, it is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic local atmosphere.

Essential Thessaloniki Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Thessaloniki

★ 4.5

White Tower

Thessaloniki's iconic landmark, a 34m circular tower built as a coastal fortification in the 15th-century Ottoman era. Once used as a prison and nicknamed 'the Blood Tower', it was whitewashed in 1890, earning its current name. Today it houses a museum of Thessaloniki's city history, and the rooftop terrace commands views across the Thermaic Gulf to Mount Olympus. Standing at the heart of the Paralia waterfront promenade, it is especially beautiful at sunset. Admission about EUR 6. 2-minute walk from YMCA bus stop.

Hours08:00-20:00 (winter 08:30-15:00; closed Mondays)

LocationWaterfront, Thessaloniki

TipsThe sea view from the rooftop terrace at sunset is particularly stunning. Combine it with a stroll along the Paralia promenade.

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★ 4.6

Ano Poli (Upper Town)

The Upper Town sits on the hillside above Thessaloniki and is the only district to have survived the Great Fire of 1917. Byzantine walls encircle the quarter, and Ottoman-era wooden houses line narrow lanes. The Heptapyrgion (Seven Towers) fortress commands a sweeping panorama of the city and Thermaic Gulf, while Byzantine churches and small tavernas hide around every corner. Several UNESCO-listed Byzantine monuments are found here. Free to explore. Bus 23 from the centre or about a 20-minute uphill walk.

HoursOpen 24 hours (Heptapyrgion: 08:00-20:00, winter 08:30-15:00)

LocationAno Poli, Thessaloniki

TipsWear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk. The sunset panorama from Heptapyrgion rivals the view from the White Tower.

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★ 4.4

Modiano Market

Thessaloniki's central marketplace since 1922, extensively renovated in 2023 into a space that blends a traditional market with a modern food hall. It is a treasury of Greek ingredients — fresh olives, feta cheese, spices, and seafood — while the upper level houses a variety of restaurants and bars. Visit alongside the adjacent Kapani Market for a full dive into Thessaloniki's culinary culture. It sits at the heart of a city widely regarded as Greece's gastronomic capital. Free entry. 3-minute walk from Aristotelous Square.

Hours07:00-23:00 (Sundays 10:00-18:00; individual shop hours vary)

LocationCity Centre, Thessaloniki

TipsMorning visits catch the market at its liveliest. Try fresh seafood meze at the small tavernas in the adjacent Kapani Market.

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Must-Try Food in Thessaloniki

Bougatsa

🍰 Dessert

Thessaloniki's signature dessert of crispy filo pastry filled with custard cream and dusted with cinnamon. About EUR 3-5 per serving. Bougatsa Bantis near Aristotelous Square has been the original since 1969.

Koulouri

🍢 Street Food

A sesame-crusted ring bread, Thessaloniki's favourite morning snack. About EUR 0.50-1 each. Available from street vendors everywhere — enjoy with a Greek coffee.

Soutzoukakia

🍱 Traditional

Oval meatballs seasoned with cumin and garlic, stewed in tomato sauce — a Greek classic. About EUR 8-12. Best enjoyed with ouzo at a traditional taverna in the Ladadika district.

Thessaloniki Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki?

April-June and September-November are ideal. Summers are hot but the coast keeps it more pleasant than Athens, and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in October is a highlight.

How much does it cost to travel in Thessaloniki?

Around KRW 70,000-150,000 per day (lodging 40-80k, food 20-40k, transit and entry fees 10-30k).

How do I get around in Thessaloniki?

Bus 1X from Thessaloniki Airport reaches the centre in about 40 minutes. Get around by bus and on foot. Prepaid SIMs are available at the airport (Cosmote, Vodafone, etc., about EUR 10/week). Card payments are widely accepted. Tipping 5-10% at restaurants is standard.

Do I need a visa to visit Thessaloniki?

Korean passport holders can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days.

Is Thessaloniki safe for tourists?

Generally safe, but exercise caution around the train station area and quiet alleys at night. Watch for pickpockets at tourist sites.

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