Thessaloniki, the so-called “capital” of northern Greece, is the second largest city of Greece. It is built amphitheatrically around the coasts of Thermaikos Gulf and the locals call it “the bride of Thermaikos”. Its strategic location helped its commercial and intercultural development, even though the city was often under conquest. It is named after Thessaloniki, daughter of Philip II of Macedon and wife of Cassander, a descendant of Alexander the Great, King of the Ancient Greek Kingdom of Macedon.
A walk in Thessaloniki will persuade you of its multicultural character. There are many wonderful places to see and many hidden beauties to discover, thanks to the combination of the old and modern architecture. You need three hours to visit all the main sights of the city, traveling through the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Aristotelous Square could be your starting point. It is the main square of Thessaloniki, where the Byzantine technique meets the European architecture. The square was reconstructed after the big fire of 1917. You will definitely enjoy having a walk in this square and rest at its cafeterias and restaurants. You will admire the great architecture of the buildings, such as the historically significant cinema “Olympion”. The square is very crowded, day and night; opt for a nice stroll at Leoforos Nikis Blvd, along the Gulf of Thermaikos. On the one side of the boulevard, you will find the port and its “warehouses”. These so-called warehouses host each year the “Thessaloniki International Film Festival” and many other cultural events. On the other side of Leoforos Nikis, you will undoubtedly notice “Lefkos Pyrgos”, that is the White Tower, the symbol of Thessaloniki. It was built during the Ottoman rule and served as a prison and a place of torture for those sentenced to death. Nowadays, the Tower hosts a permanent exhibition concerning the history and civilization of Thessaloniki through time. The exhibition ends up at the top of the tower where you will admire a magnificent view.
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is located near the White Tower. Another way to get a taste of the Byzantine and Paleochristian tradition of the city is to visit two of the most beautiful churches of Thessaloniki; the church of Agia Sophia, built in the 5^th century AD as a replica of Agia Sophia of Istanbul and the church of Agios Dimitrios, the patron saint of the city. They are both typical monuments of the Paleochristian and Byzantine periods. Following that, it is time for you to travel at the Roman period by visiting the “Archaia Agora” (Ancient Market), just before Aristotelous Square.
Kamara, another place right in the heart of the city, is a meeting point for the locals and especially the youth. The Rotunda is located near Kamara and is one of the most ancient and important monuments of Thessaloniki. Young people love to go out at night and have a drink at Kamara, making this region even more special.
Are you tired? Thessaloniki is a city that never sleeps! Valaoritou or Kalapothaki streets and Ladadika region is a perfect way to experience the great night life of this city. If you prefer some wine or the traditional Greek alcoholic beverage “tsipouro”, head to Ano Poli, the Old Town of Thessaloniki, after having a stroll at its picturesque streets. Kalamaria, and more specifically Aretsou, is a seaside district, ideal for those who want to taste fresh sea food and especially oysters for which Thessaloniki is reputed. Of course, you will find plenty of traditional taverns everywhere in the city.
The large markets of Modiano and Kapani will amaze you and present to you the gastronomic tradition of the city. Taste the traditional “mpougatsa” pie with cream or cheese for breakfast and the tripe stew “patsas” after midnight. Thessaloniki is also famous for the sesame bagel “koulouri” that you will find not only all over the city but Greece as well and can be a great snack.
Thessaloniki has nothing to be jealous about in comparison to any other cosmopolitan European city. It is a crossroad of history, civilization and gastronomy that is able to meet the needs of demanding travelers.