City Guide

Attractions

WHITE TOWER

The White Tower of Thessaloniki is a 15th century Ottoman fortification (probably built between 1450-70). Today it is considered a characteristic monument of Thessaloniki and is all that has been saved from the demolished Ottoman fortifications of the city.

The current form of the tower replaced a Byzantine fortification of the 12th century to then be used as a Janissary garrison and as a death row prison.

Today it functions as a museum and is one of the most famous buildings-symbols of cities in Greece. It has 6 floors, 34 meters hight and 70 meters perimeter. The White Tower overlooks the beach of Thessaloniki.


BEACH PROMENADE OF THESSALONIKI

The Beach Promenade is the most famous and popular spot of Thessaloniki. It goes along Nikis square, passes through the White Tower, the trademark of the town, numerous cafeterias and bars that stay open all night and reaches up to the Concert Hall. 

This is a frequent nightlife spot for locals and visitors. Walking along this paved promenade is relaxing. You can also take a horse carriage to go for a ride around the town.


BYZANTINE WALLS OF THESSALONIKI

Thessaloniki was walled immediately after it was founded by Cassander; At the south-west end of the sea wall was the large artificial harbor that was constructed by King Constantine during his stay in Thessaloniki (322-323). In 390 AD a series of large-scale changes took place by Theodosius I.

The new walls had the shape of a trapezium and were about 8 km long. 

During the 1st half of the 15th c. there were efforts to boost it in the light of the Turkish threat; this is why certain scholars support that the Trigoniou Tower and the White Tower were built during that period.

At the end of the 19th century, the sea wall began gradually to be demolished, followed by large sections of the land walls in the lower, flat area of the city. The surviving fortifications, however, a length of almost 4 km, including the Acropolis and the Heptapyrgion, form an imposing complex; their height ranges from 8.30 to 10.50 m. and their width may measure up to 4.50 m, making them an impressive monument and one of great archaeological and cultural value. The line of the sea wall is being uncovered by excavations.


ARCH OF GALERIUS

The Arch of Galerius or Kamara and the Rotunda are neighbouring early 4th-century AD monuments in the city of Thessaloniki, in the region of Central Macedonia in northern Greece. As an outstanding example of early Byzantine art and architecture, in addition to the importance of the Rotunda as one of the earliest Christian monuments in the Eastern Roman Empire, both sites were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988 as part of the Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments of Thessaloniki.


THE CATACOMBS OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

This Catacomb belongs to the greater secret communication system of Thessaloniki, which has not been fully explored yet! Actually, consists of catacombs and tunnels, used by the first Christians to practice their worship. One can reach them through the Temple of Saint John the Baptist, hence the name. There are also remnants of the early Christian church.

Today the catacombs still retain their original structure but they also provide the appropriate facilities for weddings and baptisms.


UMBRELLAS

(ZONGOLOPOULOS SCULPTURE)

The sculpture by Zongolopoulos, which adorned the entrance to the 45th Venice Biennale, was placed in 1997 on the beach of Thessaloniki in the context of the declaration of the city as the European Capital of Culture.


MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS

Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki offers a unique, fun and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages! Optical, photographic and interactive illusions that will fascinate you and also teach you how perceived reality is affected by sciences, vision, perspective and other stimuli. Get ready for a unique and fun experience that will sharpen your mind as you discover the secrets behind the illusions in the most innovative space of experiential entertainment in Thessaloniki.


MUSEUM OF BYZANTINE CULTURE

Opening in 1994, the museum has 11 permanent exhibitions. The first, “Early Christian Churches”, focuses on the design and decoration of churches in early centuries of Christianity. “Early Christian Cities and Dwellings”, presents aspects of economic life, domestic handicrafts, houses, and food and clothing of early Christians, and finally, “From the Elysian Fields to the Christian Paradise” focuses on cemeteries of early Christians, jewellery, sepulchral architecture and painting, cult customs, and clay and glass objects recovered from excavated graves. Beginning in 1998, the museum has run educational programmes for schoolchildren.


ARISTOTELOUS SQUARE

Aristotelous Square (Aristotle Square) is the main city square of Thessaloniki, Greece and is located on Nikis avenue (on the city’s waterfront), in the city center. It was designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918, but most of the square was built in the 1950s. Many buildings surrounding the central square have since been renovated and its northern parts were largely restored in the 2000s.

The twelve buildings that make up Aristotelous Square have been listed buildings of the Hellenic Republic since 1950.


ATHONOS SQUARE

Athonos Square is one of the traditional corners of Thessaloniki and is located in the city center between Aristotelous and Agia Sofia streets. It is a small but very lively market, popular for its traditional cafes and many excellent taverns and restaurants serving traditional Greek flavors together with culinary suggestions from other parts of the world.

In the past, small machine shops, shoe shops, carpentry shops and small cafes operated here. Many of the old shops have been renovated and turned into restaurants, hagiography and painting workshops, but also greengrocers, traditional and colonial products, food and spices shops, while the carpentry shops still operate in a rare harmonious coexistence.


beaches

POTAMOS

The “Potamos” (“River”) in nearby Epanomi is a place where the natural beauty perfectly “binds” with summer. It does not have the crowds and the “buzz” of the beaches of Halkidiki and Thermaikos, while it is only about 30 kilometers from Thessaloniki.


NAVAGIO

This unique beach hides a vast oasis of sand, a Shipwreck and a cape which is essentially a sand tongue and gives the beach that special feature of the two faces. In Navagio (Shipwreck) you literally find the cleanest waters, slightly deeper than the shallows we are used to on the first leg of Halkidiki for example, and completely cool. This rather long stretch of sandy coastline provides a completely special setting with the protagonist undoubtedly being the shipwreck of the same name. Rusty, haughty, imposing and much-photographed, the carcass of a ship that ended up there when it sunk in around 1970, leaving its mark on the entire beach.


KALLITHEA

Kallithea is a busy resort that draws summer crowds to its pine-fringed beaches and waterfront parks. Open-air bars serve fresh seafood and lively dance clubs fill up after dark. Ancient ruins nearby include the remains of a Doric temple to Egyptian god Ammon Zeus, and the 19th-century chapel to St. Panteleimon, which has colorful mosaics. Specialty stores sell handmade sandals and local honey.


HANIOTI

Hanioti, or Haniotis, is a bustling resort where the coniferous forest opens onto a long beach and seaside parks. Vacationers go windsurfing and jet skiing, enjoy beachside tavernas for sunset cocktails and fish dinners, and frequent the bustling clubs. Shops in narrow streets sell Greek souvenirs, among whitewashed houses and Orthodox churches such as Agios Ioannis Chrysostomos, overlooking the Toronean Gulf.


PEFKOCHORI

Pefkochori is a quaint village of whitewashed houses amid citrus and olive groves, extending to a popular beach resort area on Toroneos Gulf. Summer visitors snorkel, parasail, and take sunset strolls before dinner at gourmet Mediterranean restaurants or casual tavernas. Bars and clubs play Greek and foreign party music after dark. The shopping scene is geared toward craft souvenirs like jewelry and lemon liqueur.


SAHARA

Sahara is an easygoing beach club providing snacks, salads & drinks, plus evening music events. 

Offers top-quality beach services, allowing you to let loose and relax. From 9 in the morning you can savour some of the best coffee varieties, refreshing signature cocktails and superb culinary creations, while enjoying the amenities and top-notch organisation offered by the largest Beach Bar in Greece. The seaside fun goes on till late with parties, concerts featuring popular artists and events with famous guest DJs.


VILLAS SEASIDE LOUNGE & RESTAURANT

Villas is one of the best beach bars in Ηalkidiki, with luxury and comfortable sunbeds, cozy environment, nice music and clear sea.


UMBRELLAS BEACH BAR

Umbrellas is a well-known beach bar in Halkidiki. The sea is crystal clear, the sunbeds are well spaced, very comfortable, medium to high volume music and very clean everywhere. There is plenty of room to play in the water or outside on the small sandy beach. Food, coffees, drinks, snacks are offered.


exotic beaches

SPATHIES

Spathies is located on the second leg of Halkidiki, on the Sithonia peninsula, 7.5 km from Nikiti. A very small creek with calm, shallow, cool water. It stands out for its pine trees that cover most of it and offer shade all day long. The lack of organization is what elevates its exotic beauty.


KAVOUROTRYPES

Kavourotrypes (Crab Holes) are located on the second leg of Halkidiki, on the peninsula of Sithonia, on its eastern side. These are small coves, hidden behind a wonderful pine forest, with small white sandy beaches, with crystal turquoise waters reminiscent of a swimming pool, with white rocks and dense pine trees that reach the sea. This landscape of exotic beauty and the view towards the imposing Mount Athos create a small paradise on earth. The Crab Holes used to be little known, only to the locals or the enthusiasts of the area. 

Today, of course, even though there has never been a road sign for the spot, the “secret” is shared by many. That is why the appropriate care is needed so that the place preserves its authentic beauty.


KOVIOU BEACH

The coast of Kovi is located on the second leg of Halkidiki, on the Sithonia peninsula, in a verdant area. It is small but really wonderful, ideal for families. The sand is white and soft, and the waters shallow and warm. It has all the amenities and facilities necessary for visitors and is perfect for snorkelling.
In the late afternoon the water is even warmer, the crowd less and the sunset has amazing colors.


KARYDI BEACH

“Karydi” beach is located on the second leg of Halkidiki, on the Sithonia peninsula.
It has white sand, shallow and warm turquoise waters, white rocks, a pine grove that offers natural shade and is quiet.
The beach is located between two small capes and has a northeast orientation. It is thus protected from the southerly winds that are frequent in summer and the sea is usually calm even when it is windy.


GOA BEACH

Goa Beach is a sandy secluded beach located on the second leg of Halkidiki, on the Sithonia peninsula. It is surrounded by rocks and has a wonderful view of Mount Athos. It is named after the Goa Beach Bar that operates there. It is a small beach with a lot of noise and people because of the bar. A part of it, is occupied by the umbrellas and sunbeds of Goa, and the rest of the coast is free. Access is via a dirt road following the sign on the main road south of Sarti.


GLAROKAVOS

Glarokavos is located on the first leg of Halkidiki, on the Kassandra peninsula and it is a huge beach, one of the most beautiful in Kassandra, near Pefkohori. The location is amazing with a natural harbour, pine trees that give their shade to the “lucky” few, crystal clear waters and a pebble beach.


DRENIA

Drenia is the largest of a cluster of 6 small islands named Drenia or Gaidouronisia (Donkey islands) and is located on the third leg of Halkidiki, on the Athos peninsula. It is located directly across from Ouranoupoli and east of Ammouliani. Small coves, sandy shores and turquoise waters make up the image of both Drenia and the rest of the islands. The paradise landscape makes them a special travel destination for swimming, relaxation and day trips.

Both Drenia and the other islets are uninhabited. It has developed into a tourist destination and in the summer it gathers a large number of people on the organized beach with sunbeds, umbrellas and a catering area.

Access to Drenia is only possible by boat or rental boat from Ouranoupoli or from Kamboudi (no license required). During the summer, there are also boats that run daily from Ouranoupolis, departing in front of the Tower.


restaurants & bars

7 Thalasses

A wonderful journey to savor the delicious delights in a seafood restaurant that worthily deserves the top place in its category and is famous for its gastronomic creations. Andreas Voulgaris, the well-known chef, gives emphasis to the Mediterranean cuisine using raw ingredients from Greece that are 80% organic. He uses extra virgin cold pressed olive oil, fresh Greek milk and organic vegetables from Greek producers.

The restaurant is suggested by the Louis Vuitton World Guidebook from the year 2011 and the magazine National Geographic Traveler.


Kritikos

Since 1977, the famous Kritikos restaurant offers magnificence in Greek Mediterranean cuisine and creates unique flavors to this day. Based on impeccable service and absolute quality, it has won the trust of the world as well as accolades – awards from international culinary houses.

Different restaurants – one in Panorama Thessaloniki, one in the Port of Thessaloniki and one in Ouranoupoli Halkidiki

Each one with distinct personalities, but with the same quality signed by the Kritikos family for 40 years.


anatolikon.gastrobar

anatolikon.gastrobar is one of the leading and most famous gastrobars in the city of Thessaloniki with a tradition of more than 20 years. 

You can find unique gourmet dishes, fine and rare wines, unique cocktails in a place that has achieved an excellent combination of warmth and industrial design. Friendly and kind staff that is always willing to assist the guests with the right drink and food options. 

A must-visit choice during your stay in Thessaloniki and already popular to our customers!


Mavri Thalassa

Mavri Thalassa writes its history since 1926 with founder of “Barba Savva” in Kato Touba.

Excellent raw material, high quality service & passion for development contributed to the current brand recognition of the restaurant.

Being the third generation, the Head Chef “Alexander Tokidis” undertakes entirely in 1984 till today.


Duck Private Cheffing

Duck Private Cheffing loves good food and respects the raw material. 

That is why duck private cheffing chooses fresh seasonal ingredients from the vegetable garden, fresh meats and recipes cooked with special taste.


Clochard

Clochard has deservedly earned the title of good classic restaurant. Since 1978 it has established itself in the consciousness of the Thessalonians and not only as the absolute gastronomic destination of Thessaloniki.

Its cuisine is characterized as modern urban Greek cuisine with French influences. Whole fresh products, seasonal raw materials, homemade recipes are an integral component of a culinary experience.

The consecutive awards for more than thirty years from the Quality Guide, Athenorama and FnL Restaurant Awards, are an expression of its success.


Olympion Cafe Bar

Olympion offers coffee, and Mediterranean and European cuisine with options for vegetarians and vegans.

Operating all day till late night with Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch and Drinks in the heart of the city, in Aristotelous Square, since 1951.

Reservations available, outdoor and indoor seating, alcohol served, full bar and free WiFi.


Achilleion

The Achilleion cafe was a meeting place for generations and generations starting its history in 1963. The name arose from the wedding trip to Corfu of one of the owners back then.

It is a focal point in the city’s entertainment, in a privileged position on the city’s waterfront.

Open all day with coffee, drinks and light food.


shopping

MEDITERRANEAN COSMOS MALL

Mediterranean Cosmos is a shopping mall located in Pylaia, a municipality of Thessaloniki.

It is the largest retail and entertainment development in Northern Greece.


MEGA OUTLET

Mega Outlet opened its doors in 2006 and since then constitutes the most favorite destination for shopping for both the residents of the region and the neighboring states. 

Here, you will find clothing items and footwear for the entire family (men, women, children), accessories, cosmetics, perfumes, underwear, eyewear collection, jewelry, watches, handbags, travel goods at incredibly low prices! In MEGA OUTLET, you can find all trends, business casual, casual chic, sports chic! For any style, for any season, for any occasion, whatever you are looking for you shall find it at the lowest prices of the market.


ONE SALONICA OUTLET MALL

One Salonica is the first premium outlet mall in Greece. A new-generation shopping experience hosting more than 100 boutiques, restaurants, cafes and cinemas —that have quickly made it a landmark attraction in Southeast Europe. 

The mall combines internationally renowned brands, suiting all tastes, with the most competitive prices in the market. Featuring the largest outlet store by Polo Ralph Lauren in Greece and many other famous brands like Hugo Boss, Nike, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Κalogirou, Calvin Klein, Under Armour, Zara kids, Guess, Mango, Diesel, Pinko, KIKO Milano, Gant, Lacoste, Puma, Nautica, Camper, Geox, Champion, Sephora, Dust+Cream — and many others.


NOTOS GALLERIES

In the 5-storey glamorous department store of Notos Galleries, in the city center, you will come across the biggest variety of fashion brands, clothing, footwear, bags, accessories, jewelry, and everything on cosmetics. Additionally, the 9,000m²store provides a roofed parking area, free of charge with purchases of 100 euro or more, as well as, the BLACKLIME café/restaurant on the mezzanine floor. Tax free purchases are also offered – Added Value Tax return service for customers outside European Union for buys of 120 euro or more, by filling in the special tax-free form.


APOLLONIA POLITIA

With unique passion and the years of experience, in November 2004 the Apollonia Politia Hondos Center emerged on the east side of Thessaloniki, which is the original work of the founder of the nationally known Hondos Center chain, Nikolaos Hondos from Agrafon.

Categories :

  • Beauty and care
  • Makeup
  • Perfumeries
  • Underwear, Swimwear & Tights
  • Bags, Shoes, Leather goods and travel goods
  • Branded clothing & accessories for women, men and children
  • Designer watches and jewelry
  • Home and decoration items

THESS OPEN MALL

(OPEN COMMERCIAL CENTRE)

In an area enveloping the streets of Aristotelous – Mitropoleos – Pavlou Mela – Leoforos Nikis Ave – together with the streets placed vertically to the above, the Commercial Association of Thessaloniki has developed the first open mall, with dozens of businesses of all sectors, as well as, points with digital screens providing information about offers and privileges providing by collaborating businesses, tourist information about Thessaloniki, festivities and other. 

The numerous entrances of Thess Open Mall display special signs and pedestrian maps, benches, a shelter in case of rain, as well as, a drinking trough for your loving pets. 

You can download the ThessMall App for iOS or Android on your mobile so as to be aware of every bargain!


Macedonia Shopping Mall

Macedonia Shopping Mall is located in the eastern part of Thessaloniki where one can shop for supermarket items. There is also a clothing department store, a cinema, a fast food chain store, a manicure pedicure and hair salon area and coffee shops, and there is also a soft play area in the supermarket area where children can play under the supervision of authorized staff.


attica

attica is the leading fashion & beauty destination in Greece, a one-stop-shop for designer brands in Athens and Thessaloniki.


Activities

ARABELLA CRUISES

Discover the Arabella Floating Bar: a mobile monument, tested in war and peace, with proven historical value.

Get to know Thessaloniki from a different angle. Admire the incomparable beauty of the city, enjoying at the same time your coffee.

Arabella is ready to welcome you every day in front of the White Tower. Feel the magic of the traditional wooden ship traveling on calm waters of Thermaikos with a True Pirate.

Departs every hour and a half, for a 30-minute cruise.


ZOO OF THESSALONIKI

In the peri-urban forest of Thessaloniki, in the Thousand Trees area, right next to the famous “Forest Theatre”, the city’s Zoo is one of the attractions worth visiting, at least for those of you who find yourself in Thessaloniki with your children.

The 58 acres of the park have been designed to meet the conditions of the natural environment for the animals they host and which represent part of the country’s fauna. 

Among them you will notice birds and mammals, deer, wild boar, goats, squirrels, wild sheep, sheep, rabbits and peacocks.


MAGIC PARK

A beautiful and safe amusement park next to the Mediterranean Cosmos shopping center with countless action and skill games for all age groups: children, teenagers, adults for a unique entertainment experience.


thessbike

Thessbike is currently one of the largest private providers of shared and rental bicycles in Greece. It owns and manages the shared bicycle system of the Municipality of Thessaloniki. This particular system has 8 stations and 200 bikes.

In the Thessbike fleet there are also many children’s bikes, two- and four-seater family bikes, electric bikes and skates for rent.


LET’S MEET in THESSALONIKI

Thessaloniki is the second largest city of Greece and has plenty to offer, such as a rich history with beautiful monuments and exceptional neighbourhoods each with its own story to tell. 

Let’s Meet in Thessaloniki takes you to the hot spots of the city:

Bike tours in Thessaloniki, Walking tours in Thessaloniki, Tailor made tours and Fly & Drive North Greece, with local, English speaking tour leaders and – obviously – on a bicycle!

The tours are being accompanied by Dutch, Belgian and Greek tour guides, who know the city and its patterns very well and would like to share their story with you.