Thessaloniki, the second metropolis of Greece, is a full of life college city the place Byzantine church buildings rub shoulders with stylish bars and cafes. We cowl the perfect issues to do in Thessaloniki, from the breezy waterfront and cosmopolitan meals scene, to layers of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman historical past.
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An introduction to Thessaloniki’s historical past
Thessaloniki’s location in northern Greece made it a key metropolis throughout Byzantine instances. It was a part of the Macedonian empire and town’s favorite son, Alexander the Nice was born close by – his statue could be seen on the seafront.
In the previous couple of centuries Thessaloniki was a melting pot of various cultures with folks of Greek, Turkish and Jewish heritage residing collectively. Till WW2 as much as 50% of the inhabitants right here was Jewish. The town was marked by a horrible fireplace in 1917 which destroyed a lot of the decrease metropolis and an earthquake in 1978 which broken many older buildings.
However the Thessaloniki of as we speak has a buzzing, affluent really feel. It makes an excellent metropolis break vacation spot or place to discover earlier than you head to the seashores of Halkidiki.
High issues to do in Thessaloniki – when you have simply someday
- Stroll alongside the seafront promenade between the Previous Port and the White Tower
- Wander by way of Aristotelous Sq. and go meals buying on the Kapani Market or Modiano Market
- Go to the Jewish Museum
- Take a taxi up the hill to the outdated city of Ano Poli go to the Trigonion Tower and Previous Metropolis Partitions
- Stroll down the hill by way of the cobbled streets of Ano Poli and cross by the Roman Discussion board
- End the day with drinks or dinner within the buzzing nightlife space of Ladadika
1. White Tower of Thessaloniki
Let’s begin with one of many prime Thessaloniki points of interest, the White Tower. It’s simply essentially the most photographed metropolis landmark. Sitting at one finish of the seafront promenade on a busy pedestrian plaza, that is additionally one of the vital touristy spots in Thessaloniki.
The tower was constructed within the fifteenth century by the Ottomans, on the spot the place the Jap metropolis wall met a fortified wall alongside the seafront. It glided by numerous names over the centuries, and within the nineteenth century grew to become a jail and place of execution, often called the Tower of Blood. Nonetheless within the Eighteen Eighties, at a time of Ottoman modernisation, the jail was moved and the tower was whitewashed to rehabilitate its grotesque fame.
You may go to the White Tower, which is now a museum in regards to the historical past of Thessaloniki. As you ascend, every ground takes a distinct theme from town, such because the industrial buying and selling routes, multicultural society and historic monuments. We particularly loved the views from the rooftop terrace over the seafront and metropolis streets.
The White Tower is open day by day and tickets value €6 in excessive season. For those who plan to go to the Rotunda, Archaeological Museum or Byzantine Museum, it’s value shopping for a mixed ticket which is legitimate for 3 days and prices €15.
If in case you have restricted time and wish to get a very good overview of Thessaloniki, take into account taking a hop on hop off bus tour which begins from the White Tower.
Pirate cruise in Thessaloniki
Close to the white tower it’s possible you’ll discover the pirate ship Arabella, which is a well-liked vacationer bar. It leaves the harbour each 1.5 hours for a 30 minute cruise alongside the seafront. The cruise is free however the price of drinks is sort of excessive, so take into account your beer as the price of your ticket!
2. Previous Port and Seafront Promenade
On the different finish of the seafront is the Previous Port, the place the First Pier has been made right into a hub of arts and tradition. In one of many outdated warehouses you’ll discover MOMus, Museum of pictures. An outdated crane is preserved close by as a historic landmark.
The favored and classy Kitchen Bar has a waterfront terrace and is a superb place for drinks or brunch. For those who simply need a espresso, there’s the Maritime Museum and cafe, with a lot of seats to sit down and hang around on the entrance of the pier.
It’s additionally value realizing that the Previous Port is the place you will get a ferry to the islands of Limnos, or the Sporades islands of Skiathos, Skopolos and Alonnisos.
From the Previous Port, stroll alongside the seafront promenade of Nikis Avenue, which is lined with stylish bars and eating places looking to sea. Whereas these pavement tables are a lot wanted, I personally assume the busy highway that divides them from the ocean considerably spoils the environment. But it surely’s a nice stroll and there are cycle lanes to take you on to the Thessaloniki waterfront past the White Tower.
3. Aristotelous Sq.
Main up from the seafront promenade is the principle sq. of Thessaloniki – Aristotelous Sq.. After the nice fireplace of 1917, the slim streets and smaller squares of the Ottoman metropolis had largely been destroyed.
A brand new grid sample was laid out by French architects, with the vast boulevards standard in different European cities. Aristotelous Sq. was a part of this plan, with an expansive house and views from the ocean so far as the Roman Discussion board.
The sq., with its spectacular facades constructed within the Nineteen Fifties, is used for public occasion reminiscent of New 12 months celebrations, carnivals and protests (being Greece). Look out for the statue of the thinker Aristotle which is near the waterfront and offers the sq. its title.
There are many cafes and patisseries across the sq. and it’s a well-liked place to hang around and meet buddies. You should definitely try the eye-candy muffins at Terkenlis patisserie and the 5 star Electra Palace Resort with a well-liked rooftop bar overlooking the sq..
If you wish to go style buying in Thessaloniki, the 2 streets that run at proper angles from Aristotelous Sq.: Mitropoleos and Tsimiski, supply a variety of outfitters.
The Electra Palace is a luxurious lodge with rooftop restaurant and pool, in a first-rate place overlooking the principle sq.
4. Kapani Market Thessaloniki
Within the coronary heart of Thessaloniki’s decrease city is town’s important market, with recent produce, fish, meat, deli counters and even a sections promoting clothes. Kapani Market is likely one of the prime locations to go to in Thessaloniki, loved by locals and guests alike.
The lined market was often known as the “Turkish Market” to distinguish it from different markets close by such because the “Greek market” and “Jewish Market”.
You may go to the market any day besides Sunday when it’s closed. Issues are busiest within the morning for the reason that meat and fish stalls begin early and have a tendency to wind down after lunch.
The meat and fish sections are notably atmospheric, with stall holders joking and calling out to their prospects. They appear good humoured and tolerant of these like us who had been “simply trying” as long as you don’t get in the best way of the shopping for prospects.
If you wish to purchase some olives or different deli produce for a picnic, that is additionally a market the place you may typically strive before you purchase. A great way to discover the market is on a meals tour like the one we took with Let’s Meet in Thessaloniki.
Vatikioti Market – Athonos Sq.
For those who cross Aristotelous Sq. from the principle entrance of Kapani Market you’ll additionally discover Vatikioti Market, resulting in Athonos Sq.. The specialty right here is herbs, spices and deli counters, with some fruit and veg stalls. There are just a few basket weavers and artisan outlets, with quite a few eating places that are packed within the night however had been largely closed throughout the day.
5. Modiano market Thessaloniki
Previously often called the “Jewish Market”, Modiano Market is simply throughout the road from Kapani, however has a very completely different really feel. The elegant constructing previously housed a conventional market, however has been renovated and full of meals companies of a extra trendy fashion aimed toward a excessive degree of gastronomy.
It is a place to browse, style, purchase presents and absorb the most recent foodie developments reasonably than to buy the components on your night meal. A few of the stalls promote avenue meals and there’s a complete part of tables on the higher degree the place you may sit down and eat.
The 2 cafes at both finish of the market get busy within the night when the music quantity is turned up, and there are gastronomic occasions all year long. I can suggest taking this meals tour, the place we visited Modiano Market and tried some glorious native cheese, vibrant Loukoumi sweets and noticed the finely floor Greek espresso being made.
For those who take pleasure in meals and wish to perceive the varied meals tradition of Thessaloniki, we extremely suggest taking this Culinary strolling tour for meals lovers which we loved, ending with a conventional lunch at one of many market cafes.
Louloudadkia Flower Market
Simply throughout the road from the Modiano market is a captivating sq. with the outdated Hammam and several other flower stalls, often called the Louloudadika market. There are just a few cafes across the sq. so it’s a nice place to take a espresso break.
The Greek Market of Thessaloniki
Tucked away subsequent door to Modiano Market is the “Greek Market”, which has just a few stalls however appears fairly run down as compared. It’s mainly recognized for the lined passage of eating places – you will discover it by finding Serraikon which is on the doorway nook and has a fame for the perfect bougatsa in Thessaloniki.
We walked by way of the passage that runs from Vasilios Irakleiou to Ermou and located a lot of fascinating eating places serving recent fish and residential cooked dishes based mostly on market produce.
Keep at The Excelsior – a small luxurious lodge in a neoclassical constructing with a central location
6. Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki
Whereas Thessaloniki’s main museums are clustered near the White Tower, I’ll point out the Jewish Museum right here because it’s so near Kapani and Modiano Market. The constructing is situated within the Jewish Quarter of town and was constructed in 1904 as a industrial arcade. It was one of many few buildings on this neighbourhood to outlive the nice fireplace of 1917 and was made right into a museum in 2001.
The museum covers the day by day lifetime of Jews within the metropolis, with objects used within the dwelling and for non secular observance, musical devices and details about work and social life. On the bottom ground are headstones from the outdated Jewish cemetery which was destroyed to make approach for the college. Through the holocaust and genocide of WW2, 49,000 members of the Jewish group had been deported to Auschwitz and Birkenau.
Visiting the museum not solely permits you to admire the elegant constructing but in addition perceive the historical past of the necessary Jewish group in Thessaloniki.
From the sixteenth century Thessaloniki was a protected haven for Jews escaping persecution elsewhere in Europe. Till the twentieth century they numbered as much as half town’s inhabitants and had been absolutely built-in right into a multicultural society that included folks of Greek and Turkish heritage.
No pictures are allowed contained in the museum, however you will discover extra data on the web site. The museum is open day by day besides Saturday till 2pm and there’s a small entrance cost.
7. The Greek Agora and Roman Discussion board
Stroll by way of Aristotolous Sq. to the purpose the place the decrease city begins to transition to the higher city and also you’ll arrive on the archaeological stays of the Roman Discussion board.
The Romans constructed their discussion board (public sq.) on the positioning of an earlier historical Greek market (Agora), including a theatre, tub home and outlets alongside one facet. Between the first and 4th centuries AD this was the centre of business life in Thessaloniki.
The discussion board was solely found and excavated within the Sixties when there have been plans to construct on the positioning. Now you may stroll across the perimeter and look down on the stays of Roman buildings.
There are just a few data indicators however not a lot else to see, so it can possible be a fast go to as you’re passing by. On one facet of the positioning is a small museum, however it was closed after we had been there.
The Caravan is a vibrant and classy small lodge with classic touches near the Roman Discussion board
8. Ano Poli – the Previous City
Constructed on the slopes of the hillside, Ano Poli is the Previous City or Higher City neighbourhood that survived the hearth of 1917. Wandering the cobbled streets and stepped alleyways offers a glimpse of how the entire metropolis will need to have seemed till the nineteenth century.
It’s a primarily residential space the place new and outdated buildings mingle with Byzantine church buildings and outdated mansions in various states of restore. The winding streets are typically slim and though native residents do convey their automobiles by way of the realm, I’d not suggest it as a customer since there’s little or no parking.
We stayed in an house in Ano Poli and really a lot loved exploring on foot and absorbing the environment of actual life occurring round us. Lots of the homes have an overhanging higher ground within the Ottoman fashion, which along with the cobbled lanes is paying homage to villages in Northern Greece.
If you wish to take pleasure in dinner on this areas, there’s a captivating cluster of tavernas and cafes within the Tsinari space of Ano Poli. Search for Ouzeri Tsinari, the place we loved their Meze plates, Cafe Ezrio who’ve a fairly outside terrace for espresso and Rediviva the place their tackle “Cucina Povera” or peasant dwelling cooking was scrumptious.
Keep at 7PocketHouse – a captivating price range visitor home with classic fashion in Ano Poli
From right here you may simply wander by way of the streets previous the little sq. with a Mausoleum of Musa Baba. Make your option to the church of St Nicholas Orphanos, earlier than heading up the hill to town partitions. I’ll cowl a number of the important issues to see in Ano Poli later on this article.
9. Metropolis Partitions and Trigonion Tower
The town partitions of Thessaloniki date again to Byzantine instances and as soon as encircled the entire metropolis, together with the seafront. Massive sections alongside the harbour and on the east and west facet of town had been demolished within the nineteenth century by Ottoman authorities in search of to modernise and develop town.
The very best preserved remaining sections at the moment are on the excessive floor to the north the place you may go to the Trigonion (Chain)Tower and a piece of wall with gateways and inexperienced house behind. Trigonion Tower is situated the place the northern and japanese partitions met, offering further fortification and a lookout level.
You may go to the tower to see the development inside and get views from the highest throughout town. From right here it’s simple to see the place the terracotta roofed homes of Ano Poli merge into the newer house buildings of the decrease city that had been constructed after the 1917 fireplace.
Within the space across the tower are just a few cafes, together with a pair with rooftop bars for espresso or cocktails. For lunch we suggest strolling by way of the park on the higher facet of the wall to search out the charming taverna Wall by Wall (Toixo Toixo) which serves tasty and properly priced native dishes.
If you’re in need of time, take a taxi from town centre as much as the Trigonion Tower to discover the partitions, then stroll down by way of the Ano Poli neighbourhood. The tower can also be a cease on the cheap No 50 “Cultural Route” sightseeing bus that runs in a loop from the White Tower on the seafront.
Eptapyrgio Fortress – the Yedi Kule fortress
Set on the hill above the Trigonion Tower is the Heptapyrgion or Eptapyrgio citadel, additionally recognized by its Ottoman title of Yedi Kule. Constructed within the Byzantine interval, the fortress served as a garrison throughout the Ottoman interval till the nineteenth century.
It was later used as a jail, particularly housing political prisoners, and is talked about in lots of Rebetika songs, the Greek style of standard music that’s all in regards to the protest of the poor and downtrodden.
Your ticket for the Trigonion tower additionally covers a go to to the Eptapygrio citadel and there are even higher views over the entire metropolis from the highest of its tower.
10. Eat out within the Ladadika District
One of the crucial standard elements of Thessaloniki to eat out within the night is Ladadika, the charming outdated neighbourhood that’s tucked away behind the Previous Port. The community of cobbled streets with neoclassical buildings are quiet throughout the day, however develop into full of life at night time as eating places replenish and the tables are set out on the squares and pavements.
Ladadika takes its title from the quite a few olive oil outlets and warehouses that saved items destined to be exported by way of the close by port. Within the Nineteen Seventies the neighbourhood grew to become run down and was town’s purple gentle district. However its outdated buildings had been preserved and the realm’s develop into gentrified as one in all Thessaloniki’s important nightlife districts for bars and eating places.
It’s tough to suggest one restaurant right here, as there are such a lot of and all appear to be busy. Higher to reach a bit of early within the night to wander round and see what catches your eye, as there’s a variety of restaurant types and costs.
Colours City Resort – a vibrant trendy lodge with city fashion within the Ladadika neighbourhood
We had a superb dinner on the upscale Charoupi / Haroupi (Doxis 4), which specialises in fantastically introduced Cretan and Greek sharing dishes, and in addition a espresso in one of many many cafes that encompass Emporiou Sq..
For those who take pleasure in meals and wish to perceive the varied meals tradition of Thessaloniki, we extremely suggest taking this Culinary strolling tour for meals lovers which we loved, ending with a conventional lunch at one of many market cafes.
11. Thessaloniki Waterfront
I’ve already talked about the seafront promenade that runs between the Previous Port and the White Tower, however there’s a extra intensive part of the Thessaloniki waterfront that runs past right here. When you cross the White Tower, a broad boulevard opens out, which is right for strolling and biking so far as the Thessaloniki Live performance Corridor and past.
Rent a motorcycle on the BikeIT kiosk (together with 4 seater bikes) by the Makedonia Palace Resort, or use an app to hire one of many RideMovi bikes which might be discovered close to the White Tower.
Alexander the Nice statue
Not removed from the White Tower you’ll first cross the statue of Alexander the Nice on his rearing horse. It was designed by the Italian sculptor Evangelos Mousatkas and represents Thessaloniki’s most well-known king, who’s a supply of nice native satisfaction.
Alexander III ascended the throne of Macedonia on the age of 20, following the dying of his father King Phillip of Macedonia. He was properly educated, finding out beneath Aristotle, and conquered an enormous empire in Egypt and Asia Minor as much as his premature dying from suspected poisoning on the age of 32.
Umbrella sculpture
Just a little additional is the perfect recognized sculpture on the waterfront of the Umbrellas by Greek sculptor Georgios Zongolopoulos. It was situated on the waterfront in 1997 when Thessaloniki was made European Capital of Tradition. The sculpture is a favorite spot for images and appears lovely within the late afternoon and night because the solar is setting.
Gardens of the Thessaloniki Waterfront
As you proceed alongside the waterfront, the realm closest to the ocean is open and paved, however additional again is a shady walkway and behind this a sequence of gardens. Every backyard has a distinct theme, such because the Water Backyard, Mediterranean’s Backyard and Rose Backyard.
It’s a well-liked space for households, since there’s a kids’s playground and a lot of kiosk cafes for refreshments inside the backyard areas. In direction of the top of the waterfront is HS Velos, a museum ship which served in WW2.
When you arrive on the finish of the waterfront, should you don’t wish to stroll again it’s simple to discover a taxi should you stroll onto the Leof. Vasillisis Olgas avenue that runs parallel to the waterfront however a few blocks again.
Excursions in Thessaloniki
To profit from your time in Thessaloniki, these are a number of the excursions we suggest:
Hop on hop off bus tour – This tour which begins on the White Tower is right when you have restricted time and wish to get a very good overview of Thessaloniki’s many sights. The hop on hop off bus stops at 8 completely different metropolis landmarks with an audio commentary in 8 completely different languages.
Culinary strolling tour of Thessaloniki – This 3 hour tour which we tried takes you across the markets and specialty meals outlets with a number of tastings and a lunch in one of many conventional tavernas.
Strolling open market meals tour and tasting – This 2 hour strolling tour takes you to the open air markets of Thessaloniki to strive a Greek espresso and pattern a number of the conventional meals and produce.
Thessaloniki Experience and Chunk tour – For those who like to remain energetic, this 3 hour tour combines biking round a number of the metropolis highlights, with a go to to town markets and meals outlets for tastings.
12. Rotunda
The Rotunda was a part of a fancy created by the Roman Emperor Galerius in 306AD and was thought to have initially been used as a temple. It was later transformed to a Christian church devoted to St George, throughout which era the mosaics depicting the saints and martyrs had been created. Through the Ottoman occupation the Rotunda grew to become a mosque, and the minaret survives from that point.
Getting into the lofty house to go to it appears a bit of naked, till you flip your head upwards to admire the designs of gold and turquoise that will need to have as soon as lined the entire inside. A few of the mosaics additionally stay on the arches of the niches the place an altar stands. There’s a small entrance cost and you can too purchase a mixed ticket that covers the White Tower and different close by monuments.
The Rotunda now stands in nice gardens and there are some nice bars close by that are standard with college students, because it’s so near the college. Try Hippopotamus, a cool bar the place we had a espresso on the tables outdoors in St George’s Sq. simply behind the Rotunda.
13. Arch of Galerius
From the Rotunda a colonnaded walkway would have led right down to the Arch of Galerius, by way of which ran a highway, one of many main axis of the Roman metropolis, because it nonetheless is as we speak. Additionally constructed by the Roman Emperior Galerius, the triumphal arch was created to rejoice his victory towards the Persians on the Battle of Satala, when appreciable territory was received by the Romans.
The figures in marble reduction on the perimeters of the arches present the emperor himself on horseback, trampling his enemies, though there was in all probability a big aspect of inventive licence. At present the Arch of Galerius sits beside the busy Egnatia Avenue that runs by way of town and could be freely visited.
14. Galerian Complicated & Octagon Palace
Proceed just a few blocks additional down the hill to search out the archaeological web site of the palace that Galerius constructed, as soon as an enormous complicated of which simply half has been excavated. The positioning is surrounded on all sides by outlets, cafes and house buildings and being so near the college, there are quite a few pupil bars within the space.
Strolling across the web site are indicators with fascinating details about the palace complicated that included colonnaded courtyards and reception halls, Roman baths and a Hippodrome used for chariot racing. The archaeological stays are additionally open to go to, with extra data on this web site.
The place to remain in Thessaloniki
A few of the important neighbourhoods you must take into account when in search of lodging in Thessaloniki are:
The Seafront and metropolis centre – Nice for first time guests with many mainstream inns, a simple stroll from buying, eating places and points of interest, but in addition fairly busy and probably noisy. We suggest Electra Palace or Excelsior Resorts
The Previous Port and Ladadika – A classy, boho vibe with boutique inns and flats in a number of the older neo-classical buildings. Quiet throughout the day however some areas could also be noisy at night time when eating places and bars open. We suggest Colours City Resort.
Roman Discussion board – This neighbourhood is about again from the seafront and a bit of quieter, with loads of flats to hire, but simple strolling distance to all of the points of interest. We suggest The Caravan Resort
Ano Poli, the Higher City – Probably the most charming and genuine neighbourhood with largely flats to hire. You’ll expertise native life and the realm has some fascinating points of interest, however it’s a little bit of a stroll up and down the hill and there’s little parking. A superb price range choice is 7PocketHouse.
Kalamaria – The suburbs backing the Thessaloniki waterfront are good for longer stays or for households who need a quieter location. Nonetheless it’s not excellent for sightseeing should you’re in need of time because it’s a bit outdoors town centre. We suggest the 5* Makedonia Resort that’s proper on the seafront.
High Museums in Thessaloniki
If you’re serious about historical past and tradition, there are a number of the prime museums in Thessaloniki that I’d suggest visiting. Most guests head for the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki due to its assortment of gold, however I additionally loved the Museum of Byzantine Tradition for the vary of displays and properly designed museum constructing.
If in case you have restricted time I’d in all probability select to go to simply one in all these museums and they’re situated very shut to one another close to the White Tower of Thessaloniki.
15. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
The Archaeological museum is likely one of the largest and most complete in Greece, overlaying the historical past of Macedonia. This province of northern Greece was as soon as a part of a a lot bigger kingdom. Count on to see sculpted marble figures, funeral reliefs and properly preserved mosaic flooring among the many displays.
What most guests come to see nonetheless, is the exhibition of gold artefacts that are taken from numerous hoards discovered within the area. The array of pure gold wreaths, jewelry and ornament for clothes relationship again to Byzantine instances is spectacular and fantastically introduced.
As a lover of style I loved taking a look at historical jewelry, questioning in regards to the events on which these items had been worn. I had enjoyable deciding which I’d select myself if I had the choose of them! So when you have restricted time, I’d skim by way of the remainder of the museum after which head for the galleries with the gold, since that is the spotlight of the gathering.
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is open day by day, tickets are €8. The Museum can also be included in a joint ticket legitimate for 3 days for €15, which additionally covers the Byzantine Museum, White Tower and Rotunda.
16. Museum of Byzantine Tradition
The Museum of Byzantine Tradition is contained in a constructing designed by Greek architect Kyriakos Krokos and is taken into account one in all his best works. It’s a harmonious constructing of brick, stone and concrete, with a central atrium and ramps that step by step spiral up by way of the constructing.
The Byzantine Empire was the portion of the Jap Roman Empire that between the first and fifteenth centuries AD was dominated independently from Constantinople. It was predominantly Christian, and through this era Thessaloniki was the second metropolis of the empire after Constantinople. Throughout these centuries, the Byzantine Empire was essentially the most highly effective pressure within the Mediterranean area.
The 11 galleries of the museum replicate the richness of day by day life, with galleries overlaying early Christian worship, burial customs and complicated mosaic flooring. Through the interval castles had been construct to take care of management inside the empire and there are shows of icons and work from the Christian church buildings of the twelfth to fifteenth centuries.
The museum offers a superb understanding of the rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire. It helped me perceive why the folks of Thessaloniki take such satisfaction in being a part of the dominion of Macedonia and town’s place on the coronary heart of the Byzantine Empire.
The Museum of Byzantine Tradition in Thessaloniki is open day by day, tickets are €8 however are additionally included within the mixed ticket talked about above, which is legitimate for 3 days.
17. Go to the Church of St Demetrios – patron saint of Thessaloniki
One other well-known web site of Thessaloniki is Agios Demetrios, the Church of St Demetrius, which is situated on the border of the decrease and higher elements of town. St Demetrius is the patron saint of Thessaloniki, a younger Christian soldier of rich household who lived within the metropolis in round 300 AD. He was run by way of with spears on the orders of Emperor Maximian, when he refused to persecute different Christians.
The church stands on the positioning the place St Demetrios is believed to have been martyred. Whereas elements of the inside date again to Byzantine instances, Agios Demetrios was restored after the hearth of 1917 giving it a extra trendy look. Inside, the notable factor to see is the shrine devoted the St Demetrios to 1 facet of the church.
At this shrine the devoted gentle candles and file by way of the shrine to supply prayers to the saint. Within the crypt, which is entered by way of a small staircase in the direction of the again of the church, is a small museum containing historical church artefacts, and the situation the place St Demetrios is believed to have been martyred.
Church of Agia Sophia
The opposite notable church within the decrease city of Thessaloniki is Agia Sophia, which we didn’t have time to go to. Courting again to the seventh century, this is likely one of the oldest church buildings in Thessaloniki with a floor plan within the form of a cross. The interiors are adorned with Byzantine frescoes and mosaics and the church is surrounded by nice gardens that may be visited at instances when the church is open.
Byzantine church buildings and museums in Ano Poli Higher City
Whereas the church buildings of the decrease city are fascinating, I believed that the smaller church buildings of the Ano Poli higher city had been additionally charming and properly value a go to. When visiting church buildings in Greece it’s customary to make a small donation for a candle, which you’ll both gentle your self or depart within the sand to be lit later throughout a service.
18. Church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos
We notably loved visiting the church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos (St Nicholas the orphan) in Ano Poli which is surrounded by pretty gardens. That you must remember that the opening instances are restricted to solely a few days (Mondays and Thursdays) per week after which solely within the mornings.
The small church has a central space that’s lined by essentially the most beautiful frescoes relationship again to the 14th century, which had been beneath restoration after we visited. On this church you get a robust sense of life in medieval instances and the best way during which tales from the bible had been dropped at life in frescoes, for abnormal folks to know.
After your go to, spend some time to benefit from the gardens surrounding the church and look out for the wild tortoise that roam across the flower beds.
19. Latomos Monastery – Church of Hosios David
On the higher slopes of Ano Poli is the Latomos Monastery, often known as the Church of Hosios David. It’s a bit of tucked away, however the stroll up by way of the cobbled lanes of the outdated city is charming. You’ll even be rewarded by fantastic views from the courtyard over town.
The small church dates again to the fifth century and is notable for the mosaic ornament inside the dome, that’s uncommon in that it depicts Jesus as clear shaven. There are additionally some lovely frescoes across the entrance. The church is generally open day by day till mid afternoon.
18. Vlatadon Monastery
The historic Vlatadon Monastery is situated within the higher a part of Ano Poli, slightly below the outdated fortified partitions. It’s the one monastery in Thessaloniki that’s nonetheless functioning and by custom is the place St Paul preached to the early Christian church in Thessaloniki.
The church was closed after we visited, however we had been nonetheless in a position to wander across the complicated to see the outside of the outdated buildings, relationship again to the 14th century. Contained in the church are some lovely frescoes and icons and there are fantastic views from the courtyard over town.
On the entrance of the complicated is a small present store promoting non secular supplies and icons. Additionally fascinating was the aviary with birds and white peacocks who strutted and displayed their tail feathers for our leisure!
19. Ataturk Museum
Though we didn’t have time to go to, one other fascinating place value visiting in Ano Poli is the Ataturk Museum. This home which is now a part of the Turkish Consulate, is the birthplace of Mustafa Kamal Ataturk, founder of recent Turkey.
The museum is furnished as it will have been when Ataturk grew up there and comprises many artefacts and pictures from his life. It’s fascinating to raised perceive the shut connections between northern Greece and modern-day Turkey, beforehand united beneath the Byzantine Empire and Ottoman occupation, till the Greek revolution of independence in 1921.
The museum is open day by day and entrance is free. Because it’s a part of the Turkish consulate you might have to press a bell and present ID to be admitted.
20. Getting arty in Thessaloniki
For those who take pleasure in all issues arty, listed here are just a few extra issues to see in Thessaloniki.
Artwork museums in Thessaloniki
The Museum of Trendy Artwork (MOMus) runs a number of museums in Thessaloniki
MOMus – Museum of Trendy Artwork- Costakis Assortment – it is a little out of the centre of Thessaloniki and contains the Costakis assortment of Russian avant-garde artwork.
MOMus – Museum of Modern Artwork – Situated near the White Tower within the centre of town, the museum comprises a set of Greek and worldwide modern artwork from the state’s assortment.
MOMus – Museum of Images – Situated in a transformed warehouse of the Previous Port the museum runs altering exhibitions from modern Greek photographers.
Teloglion Fantastic arts assortment – The inspiration homes a non-public assortment of recent Greek artwork, in addition to artwork and sculpture from the 18th to twentieth centuries.
Selfie Museum Thessaloniki
A enjoyable wet day choice or for many who love pictures and social media, the Selfie Museum provides room units for taking the final word selfies or group pictures. There are 30 vibrant themed installations the place you may go wild together with your cell digicam.
Museum of Illusions in Thessaloniki
One other good choice for enjoyable and pictures is the Museum of illusions, with interactive holograms and illusions which might be are designed to entertain and trick the attention.
Our prime picks for inns in Thessaloniki
The Electra Palace is a luxurious lodge with rooftop restaurant and pool, in a first-rate place overlooking the principle sq.
Keep at The Excelsior – a small luxurious lodge in a neoclassical constructing with a central location
Colours City Resort – a vibrant trendy lodge with city fashion within the Ladadika neighbourhood
The Caravan is a vibrant and classy small lodge with classic touches near the Roman Discussion board
Keep at 7PocketHouse – a captivating price range visitor home with classic fashion in Ano Poli
Day journeys from Thessaloniki
Personally I feel Thessaloniki is such a full of life and numerous metropolis that when you have restricted time it’s higher spent exploring town’s points of interest. However when you have just a few extra days, or wish to make town your base for exploring additional afield, listed here are just a few locations to go to close to Thessaloniki that you might take into account.
Meteora Monasteries
A go to to the monasteries of Meteora will make an extended day journey from Thessaloniki, so if you wish to do it in a day it’s in all probability higher to go on an organised journey. Personally I feel that it’s extra enjoyable to journey by prepare, so I’d suggest this prepare journey to Meteora and monastery tour, with a guided tour round 3 of the 6 monasteries by mini bus when you arrive within the space.
Mount Olympus
Mount Olympus, dwelling of the traditional Greek gods, could be seen within the distance from Thessaloniki. It takes round 1.5 hours to succeed in the nationwide park, and should you take pleasure in outside actions, it’s possible you’ll like to do this half day canyoning journey on Mount Olympus.
For a mixture of tradition and mountain climbing, take this day journey to Dion and Mount Olympus, with a go to to the Dion archaeological park and museum, adopted by a few hours mountain climbing on Mount Olympus within the Enipeas Gorge to see the waterfalls.
Halkidiki
Since Thessaloniki doesn’t have any metropolis seashores, the perfect place to go for some seaside time is to the Halkidiki area that’s south of town. There are three important peninsulas in Halkidiki: Kassandra, Sidonia and essentially the most easterly Mount Athos.
For those who simply fancy a day of swimming and seaside time you’re in all probability greatest to take an organised journey like this Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon cruise with lunch. As a result of driving time, count on an extended day should you resolve to move to Halkidiki.
The Monasteries of Mount Athos peninsula are solely open to males and this must be organized months prematurely. Nonetheless, anybody can take a cruise across the peninsula to see them from the water, so try choices like this journey to Ouranoupoli and Mt Athos cruise with time for swimming.
Kerkini Lake
Nature lovers could take pleasure in a visit north to Kerkini Lake which is round 1.5 hours drive from Thessaloniki. The artifical lake is a wetland habitat for migrating birds, with a customer centre the place you may rent bikes, kayaks or take a ship journey. You too can take an organised day journey to Kerkini Lake, with strolling, horse using and a ship journey close to the lake’s dam and lunch in a neighborhood taverna.
Pozar Thermal Baths
Round 1.5 hours drive from Thessaloniki are the Pozar Thermal Baths, with pure heated springs and cascades, feeding indoor and outside swimming pools the place you may swim for a small cost. In order for you an organised journey, do this Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa day journey, which additionally features a go to to Edessa for some beautiful waterfalls.
Pella Archaeological web site
Pella was the traditional capital of Macedonia and birthplace of Alexander the Nice, with an archaeological web site and museum to go to. Take this Pella, Edessa and Naousa tour to go to the archaeological web site in addition to the well-known waterfalls of Edessa and a wine tasting at Naousa.
FAQ about Thessaloniki
For those who’re all set to plan your journey to Thessaloniki Greece, we’ve lined a number of the regularly requested questions under.
The way to get to Thessaloniki
Many guests will arrive immediately into Thessaloniki’s Macedonia airport, situated half-hour from town. Direct flights from the UK and Europe into Thessaloniki can be found with easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, Wizz Air and British Airways amongst others. When flying in from the US or locations outdoors Europe, it’s possible you’ll have to switch by way of Athens.
If you’re already travelling in Greece, there are a number of methods to journey from Athens, by bus with KTEL (7 hours), excessive pace prepare (4 hours) or airplane (1 hour). You would additionally rent a automotive, but when travelling from metropolis to metropolis we suggest utilizing public transport because the distances could be fairly lengthy and also you received’t want a automotive when you arrive in Thessaloniki.
Thessaloniki could be reached in summer season by ferry as a part of an island hopping itinerary from the Sporades Islands, Lesvos and Lemnos. There are additionally direct inside flights with Aegean airways to Thessaloniki from Kalamata and some different locations in Greece.
The way to get from Thessaloniki airport to town centre
Thessaloniki airport Macedonia is situated 13km to the south of town centre. One of the simplest ways to get there’s on the general public bus 01X (daytime) or 01N (nightime). Buses run 24hrs a day, take 40 minutes and value round €2 a method. The airport bus runs from outdoors the airport to town centre, bus station and railway station and in your return picks up within the centre on Egnatia Avenue, near the Roman Discussion board.
An alternative choice to get to and from the airport is by taxi, with driving time of round 25 minutes.
How lengthy ought to I spend in Thessaloniki?
Thessaloniki makes an excellent weekend break vacation spot and in 3 days you may see most of the important sights and have some enjoyable. There’s loads of to see, so if you wish to take issues at a slower tempo or see extra, 5 days will help you a deeper dive into Thessaloniki’s points of interest.
For those who solely have one or two days, restrict your self to visiting the locations that curiosity you most, mixed with having fun with some glorious meals and enjoyable on the waterfront.
When is the perfect time to go to Thessaloniki?
Thessaloniki is a superb metropolis for sightseeing so the perfect time to go to is in spring (March-June) and autumn (September – November) when the climate is sunny however not too sizzling. July and August could be unbearably sizzling within the metropolis, as locals head to the closest seashores of Halkidiki and being in northern Greece, winters could be chilly and moist.
How can I journey sustainably in Thessaloniki?
Sustainability generally is a problem in a big metropolis like Thessaloniki with problems with excessive inhabitants, visitors air pollution and garbage assortment. As a customer you are able to do your bit:
- Select lodging that has a sustainability accreditation reminiscent of Inexperienced Key or verify on Reserving.com what degree of their Journey Sustainable badge a lodge has attained earlier than you guide.
- If self catering use the suitable recycling bins on the road: Inexperienced is for common garbage, blue for recycling and glass recycling bins are additionally out there.
- Water in Greece is drinkable from the faucet in most locations, so keep away from shopping for bottled water and refill from any protected provide in your lodging.
- Thessaloniki is a really walkable metropolis so there’s no have to hire a automotive. For larger distances use the bus or taxi or have enjoyable on the waterfront by renting a motorcycle.
- Help eating places that function regionally sourced, seasonal produce and dishes and take a meals tour to know the native meals tradition.
Can I island hop from Thessaloniki?
In summer season it’s potential to island hop from Thessaloniki with ferries leaving from the Previous Port. Widespread locations embody the Sporades islands of Skopelos, Skiathos and Alonissos. You too can take direct ferries from Thessaloniki to the islands of Lemnos and Lesvos. Remember that ferries could not run each day so for actual routes and timetables we suggest checking a ferry reserving web site reminiscent of Ferryscanner.
Learn Subsequent
Uncover all of the enjoyable issues to do in Volos – Gateway to the Pelion
Extra locations to go to in Greece
Go to Skopelos Greece – a information to the Mamma Mia Island
A information to the Pelion Greece – from the mountains to the ocean!
Meals in Athens – 23 dishes and meals experiences you’ll wish to strive!
Photograph credit: All pictures by Heatheronhertravels.com besides lodge pictures from every lodge featured and Meteora by Peggychoucair on Pixabay, Mount Athos by David Mark on Pixabay, Kerkini by Jim Black on Pixabay, Halkidiki seaside by biancaunduli on Pixabay.
This text is initially printed at Heatheronhertravels.com
