Thessaloniki holidays

Popular holidays

Thessaloniki holidays are a treasure trove for culture vultures and nightlife-seekers.

City breaks to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki – Greece’s second city – is an around-the-clock hive of activity. And city breaks here match that vibe, too. Daytimes are best spent checking out bustling markets and ancient Roman ruins, and come nightfall, you can make a dash for a nightclub housed inside an old, restored building. Plus, there’s a string of sandy beaches on the city’s doorstep.

Greece’s cultural corner

The streets of Thessaloniki are filled with art galleries, designer boutiques and UNESCO-listed churches, so it’s no surprise that the city’s been dubbed the cultural corner of Greece. For a look at some Byzantine art, visit the Basilica of Hagia Sophia or the Church of St George. And if you’re into your history, the city’s Archaeological Museum’s a must-see, too.

A step back in time

Strolling the streets of Thessaloniki can feel a bit like stepping back in time, thanks to the huge crop of ancient monuments that are scattered all over. The White Tower is one of the most famous – this 15th-century structure was built as a fortress and was even used as a prison before it became the museum it is today. Then, there’s the Roman Forum – home to the ruins of ancient baths and a small theatre.

Within reach of the beach

People may come here for the history and culture, but that doesn’t mean beach days are out of the equation. The resort area of Halkidiki is only an hour’s taxi ride away, and its sheltered bays complete with crystal-clear water really know how to draw in the crowds. A little closer to home, half an hour south of the city, Agia Triada’s got a huge sweep of sand and shingle to sunbathe on. And it’s bordered by tavernas, bars and shops.

Popular hotels in Thessaloniki

Top things to see and do in Thessaloniki

Beaches

A beach-heavy region

Thessaloniki itself isn’t known for its beaches, but thankfully for sun-worshippers, there are plenty of good ones nearby.

The big beach

Agia Triada Beach is the most popular sunbathing spot around here. It’s a long stretch of sand backed by restaurants and bars, and it’s easy to get to by bus from the city centre, or you can hop in a taxi and be there in about half an hour. It can get a little crowded in the summer, but there are plenty of sunloungers to go round.

The secret beach

If you fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city, make the 40-minute drive to Potamos Beach, near the town of Epanomi. The main sweep of sand here is lined with sunloungers and parasols. If you walk west, however, you’ll end up at a crowd-free, pebbly patch that’s home to a tiny church and a shipwreck just off-shore.

Shopping

Bargain buys

Thessaloniki’s known for its open-air markets, and Modiano Market, in the city centre, is one of the best. This market’s got a real traditional feel to it, and you’ll be able to purchase authentic souvenirs and local delicacies.

Mid-range buys

Tsimiski – the street between Aristotle Square and Nikis Avenue, on Thessaloniki’s waterfront – is packed with mid-range shops like Zara and Pull & Bear. You’ll find independent traders along here, too, if you fancy picking up something more unique.

Designer buys

Look a little closer at the stores on Tsimiski, and you’ll find boutiques selling unique pieces by local and international designers. If you want to get your hands on clothes designed by famous brands like Givenchy, Burberry and Ralph Lauren, look inside the area’s department stores.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

The Ladadika district is a great spot for a night out. This part of the city used to be a chaotic merchant district, and it’s still full of life today. The cobbled streets here are lined with pastel-painted taverns and Greek restaurants, so it’s the ideal place to stop for dinner and a few drinks.

Lively evenings

Thessaloniki’s famous for its nightlife – it’s one of the liveliest clubbing spots in Greece. If it’s a party atmosphere you’re after, head to the Beach Promenade. The clubs here stay open until the early hours, and you can even hop on a party boat for a trip around the gulf if you fancy doing something a little different.

Food & drink

Sesame bagels

This simple snack is a famous product of Thessaloniki, so it’s a must-try when in the city. The clue’s in the name – it’s a bagel topped with sesame seeds. And you can pick one up from pretty much any bakery or street food stall, whether for breakfast or as a snack while you’re out sightseeing.

Tsoureki

Imagine a pleated brioche bread, and you’ll have a pretty good idea of what tsoureki is. You can pick one of these sweet snacks up from loads of Thessaloniki’s bakeries, and it often comes in a range of flavours – white chocolate and chestnut cream being the most popular.

Bougatsa

This pie is a popular breakfast dish. You can order a sweet version or a savoury one, depending on what you fancy. The sweet one is filled with custard and sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon, and the savoury version comes stuffed with cheese.

Gyros

Gyros are famous all over Greece, and it’s the same story in Thessaloniki. Here, you’ll hear them called pitta gyro sandwiches. You can expect a pitta stuffed with grilled chicken or pork, chips, salad and tzatziki – a mint-and-cucumber yoghurt.

Frappe

Your first thought when arriving in Thessaloniki might be to order a Greek coffee. The frappe, however, was supposedly invented by accident here at the International Trade Fair in 1957. So, it would be rude not to sip one of these sweet iced coffees while you’re strolling along the seafront.

Facts about Thessaloniki

Currency

Euro

(EUR)

Language

Greek

Time zone

GMT +2

Flight duration

3 hours 20 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What travel adapter do I need for Thessaloniki?

When visiting Thessaloniki, you'll need a two-pin European style plug Type C or F. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your UK devices. Most hotels have these plugs, but it's best to be prepared with your own adapter for convenience.

Where can I try local food in Thessaloniki?

For authentic Thessaloniki cuisine, explore the tavernas in the Ladadika district or along Athonos Square. You'll discover local specialties like bougatsa (pastry), koulouri (bread rings), and fresh seafood. The Modiano Market is also great for sampling traditional Greek delicacies and local products.

Should I tip in Thessaloniki?

In Thessaloniki, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. At restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is typically sufficient.

What are the best beaches in Thessaloniki?

While Thessaloniki itself is not known for beaches, you'll find lovely options nearby. We recommend visiting Perea Beach, about 20 minutes from the city centre, or the beautiful beaches of Halkidiki, such as Nea Potidea or Kallithea, which are perfect for day trips.

What's the nightlife like in Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki boasts a lively nightlife scene. You'll find a mix of trendy bars, traditional tavernas, and modern clubs along the waterfront and in the Ladadika district. The city comes alive after dark, with many venues staying open until the early hours, especially during summer.

Where are the best places to shop in Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki offers diverse shopping experiences. You'll love exploring Tsimiski Street for international brands, while the charming Ladadika district is great for local boutiques. For a mix of modern and traditional, visit the Modiano Market, where you'll find local delicacies and souvenirs.

What should I pack for Thessaloniki?

For Thessaloniki, pack comfortable walking shoes, light breathable clothing, and a hat for sun protection. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in spring and autumn. Don't forget your swimwear, sunscreen, and a day bag for exploring the city's rich historical sites and beautiful beaches.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Thessaloniki?

When visiting Thessaloniki, it's polite to greet locals with a friendly "yassas", meaning hello, while entering small shops. When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. Locals generally appreciate attempts to use basic Greek phrases like "efharisto", which is thank you.