Thessaloniki 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historical City Center

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with breakfast at To Kafeneio (The Coffee Shop), a charming café in the heart of Thessaloniki, known for its traditional Greek pastries and coffee.
    • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki to delve into the city’s rich history dating back to the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.

  • Afternoon:

    • Walk through the picturesque Ladadika District, once a bustling commercial neighborhood, now home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. Don’t miss the beautiful neoclassical buildings!
    • Explore the White Tower (Leoforos Agiou Mina), a symbol of Thessaloniki, which houses a museum with exhibits about the city’s history.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Ta Kanaia for some of the best seafood in town. The restaurant is located near the port and offers beautiful views of the Thermaic Gulf.
    • End your day with a leisurely stroll along Thessaloniki’s waterfront, where you can enjoy the city lights and the refreshing sea breeze.

Day 2: Ancient Site and Modern Art

  • Morning:

    • Visit the ancient site of Ammouliani Island. Take a ferry from Thermaikos port to reach this small, picturesque island with its well-preserved Roman mosaics.
    • After returning to Thessaloniki, have lunch at Psaras (The Fish Market), offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes.

  • Afternoon:

    • Spend the afternoon exploring the Museum of Byzantine Culture, home to an impressive collection of artifacts from Byzantine times.
    • Stroll through the charming neighborhoods of Ano Poli (Upper Town) and Nea Paralia. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful panoramic views of Thessaloniki!

  • Evening:

    • Dine at To Kouroum Ali for some delicious meze, a traditional Greek sharing platter.
    • Visit the bustling Lawson Square (Platia Lawsonos) and enjoy a drink at one of the many bars in the area.

Day 3: Green Spaces and Shopping

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with breakfast at Kostas & Maria, a popular spot known for its pies and crepes.
    • Visit the beautiful Helexpo Exhibition Center Park, perfect for a morning walk or jog. The park is also home to the Museum of Natural History and the Railway Museum.

  • Afternoon:

    • Spend the afternoon shopping in the lively streets of Tsimiski and Ermou, known for their upscale boutiques, local shops, and souvenir stores.
    • Don’t miss Agia Sophia Street, a pedestrian zone filled with quaint shops selling everything from vintage clothing to artisanal goods.

  • Evening:

    • For your last dinner in Thessaloniki, head to To Steki tou Matiou for some mouthwatering Greek cuisine, especially their famous moussaka.
    • Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of the city one last time before retiring for the night.

Things to Know:

  • Thessaloniki is a lively city with many events and festivals throughout the year, so check online to see if there’s anything happening during your visit!
  • The city has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses. You can also rent bikes or scooters to explore the city more efficiently.
  • Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases will help you connect with locals!
  • The best time to visit Thessaloniki is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Royal Olympia: Located in the heart of the city, this elegant hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of Thessaloniki.
  • Airbnb: For a more local experience, consider renting an apartment or room through Airbnb. Many options are available throughout the city.