3-Day Thessaloniki Retreat: Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine & Wine
Thessaloniki, Greece
3 days
About Thessaloniki, Greece
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city. Nestled in the heart of Macedonia, Thessaloniki offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions. Explore the UNESCO-listed Byzantine Walls and Rotunda, or stroll along Aristotelous Square, the city's social hub. Visit the Archaeological Museum for a glimpse into Greece's past, and the White Tower for panoramic city views. Enjoy the city's lively nightlife, with a plethora of bars and restaurants serving local delicacies. Thessaloniki also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. With its beautiful beaches and warm Mediterranean climate, Thessaloniki is a perfect destination for both history buffs and sun-seekers.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Day in Ano Poli and Wine Tasting
Morning
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki to see artifacts from Macedonia. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local bakery. Try the bougatsa, a traditional Greek pastry filled with cheese or cream.
Afternoon
Explore the Ano Poli, the old town of Thessaloniki. It's a charming area with traditional houses, narrow streets, and stunning views of the city.
Dinner
Dine at a local taverna in Ano Poli. Try local dishes like gyros and tzatziki, paired with a glass of ouzo.
Evening
Spend the evening at a local wine bar. Thessaloniki is known for its excellent wines, so it's the perfect opportunity to try some local varieties.
Day 3
Visiting the White Tower and Science Center
Morning
Visit the White Tower, the most famous landmark of Thessaloniki. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local meze restaurant. Meze is a selection of small dishes served to accompany alcoholic drinks, and it's a must-try in Greece.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum. It's a great place to learn about science and technology in a fun and interactive way.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try the pastitsio, a Greek baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local ouzeri, a type of Greek tavern which serves ouzo and mezedes. It's the perfect way to say goodbye to Thessaloniki.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Rotunda
A massive round building that has served as a mausoleum, church, mosque, and museum.
2Aristotelous Square
Aristotelous Square is the main city square of Thessaloniki and is located on Nikis avenue, in the city center. It was designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918, but most of the square was built in the 1950s.
3Thessaloniki Waterfront Promenade
A beautiful promenade along the waterfront of Thessaloniki, offering stunning views of the sea and the city. It's a popular spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying the sunset.
4Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
One of the largest museums in Greece, it houses artifacts from Macedonia.
5Ano Poli
The old town of Thessaloniki, offering a glimpse of the city's Byzantine past with its traditional houses and narrow streets.
6White Tower
The most famous landmark of Thessaloniki with a museum and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
7Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum
The Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum is a major science and technology museum in Thessaloniki, Greece. It promotes the exploration of science and technology through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Bougatsa
A traditional pastry made of phyllo dough filled with cream, cheese or minced meat. It's a popular breakfast item in Thessaloniki.
Gyros
A popular Greek fast food consisting of meat, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce, served wrapped in a pita bread. It's a must-try street food in Thessaloniki.
Souvlaki
Skewered grilled meat usually served in a pita bread with sauce, tomatoes and onions. It's a common street food in Thessaloniki.
Taramosalata
A creamy dip made from tarama, the salted and cured roe of the cod or the carp. It's a traditional appetizer in Thessaloniki.
Retsina
A traditional Greek white or rosé resinated wine, which has been made for at least 2000 years. It's a popular drink in Thessaloniki.
Ouzo
A dry anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Thessaloniki and all over Greece.
Tsipouro
A pomace brandy from Greece and in particular Thessaloniki. It's a strong distilled spirit containing approximately 45 percent alcohol by volume and is produced from the pomace, the residue of the wine press.
Spanakopita
A savory Greek pastry made with phyllo dough, spinach, feta cheese, onions, eggs, and seasoning. It's a popular snack or meal in Thessaloniki.
Dolmadakia
Stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs, often served with a lemon sauce. It's a traditional appetizer in Thessaloniki.
Moussaka
A layered dish made with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce. It's a classic main course in Thessaloniki.
Saganaki
A fried cheese appetizer, often flambéed at the table before being served with lemon and pepper. It's a popular starter in Thessaloniki.
Galaktoboureko
A traditional Greek dessert made with layers of golden brown crispy phyllo, sprinkled with melted butter, filled with the most creamy custard and bathed in scented syrup. It's a popular dessert in Thessaloniki.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Thessaloniki, Greece is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. The summer months (July and August) can also be a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but keep in mind that it can get quite crowded as it's the peak tourist season. Winter (November to March) is usually mild, but it's less ideal for tourists due to the occasional rain and cold temperatures.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 18 | Mon | Clean Monday |
March 25 | Mon | Annunciation of the Virgin Mary |
March 25 | Mon | Greek Independence Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 3 | Fri | Orthodox Good Friday |
May 6 | Mon | Orthodox Easter Monday |
June 24 | Mon | Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday |
August 15 | Thu | Dormition of the Holy Virgin |
October 28 | Mon | The Ochi day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Synaxis of the Mother of God |
How to get around
Bus
Thessaloniki's public bus system, operated by the Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization (OASTH), is extensive and efficient. Buses run frequently and cover most areas of the city and suburbs. You can purchase tickets at kiosks, onboard the bus, or via the OASTH mobile app.
Taxi
Taxis are a common way to get around Thessaloniki. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or found at taxi stands around the city. Taxis in Thessaloniki are metered, so the fare will depend on the distance and time of travel.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore outside of Thessaloniki. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and throughout the city. Remember that driving in Greece requires an International Driving Permit along with your valid driver's license.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Beat are available in Thessaloniki. These can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the city. You'll need to download the app and set up an account to use these services.
Bicycle
Thessaloniki has a growing network of bicycle lanes, and the flat city center is particularly bike-friendly. There are several places where you can rent bicycles for the day or for longer periods.
Walk
Thessaloniki's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore. Many of the city's main attractions, including the White Tower, Aristotelous Square, and the Rotunda, are within easy walking distance of each other.
Boat
Boat tours are a popular way to see Thessaloniki from a different perspective. These tours typically depart from the city's port and travel along the Thermaic Gulf, offering views of the city skyline and the surrounding coastline.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+2
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 166; Fire: 112, 199; Police: 112, 100
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Thessaloniki, Greece as a first time visitor
1
Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city and is located in the northern part of the country.
2
The city has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C), while winter temperatures range from 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C).
3
The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken, especially by younger people and those working in tourism.
4
The currency used in Thessaloniki is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.
5
Tipping is customary in Greece. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is standard. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest Euro is common.
6
Thessaloniki is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it's wise to take precautions against pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.
7
The city has a rich history, with influences from the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. This is reflected in the architecture and culture of the city.
8
The city's public transportation system includes buses and taxis. There's also a bike-sharing program called Thessbike.
9
Thessaloniki is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and music venues.
10
The city is also famous for its food scene. Don't miss trying local specialties like bougatsa (a sweet or savory pastry), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and retsina (a traditional Greek wine).
11
Thessaloniki is a port city, so fresh seafood is abundant. Try local dishes like grilled octopus or fried calamari.
12
The city is also a shopping hub, with a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and bustling markets.
13
Thessaloniki is a walkable city, but comfortable shoes are recommended as many streets are cobblestone.
14
The city is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).
15
Thessaloniki has a modern water treatment system, and tap water is generally safe to drink.
16
Pharmacies in Thessaloniki are well-stocked, and pharmacists often speak English. However, it's a good idea to bring any necessary medications with you.
17
The city is home to Aristotle University, the largest university in Greece, contributing to a lively student population.
18
Thessaloniki hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival and the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival.
19
The city is served by Thessaloniki Airport 'Makedonia', located about 15 kilometers southeast of the city center.
20
Electricity in Greece is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. If you travel to Greece with a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter.
Basic Greek to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Γεια σας | Yia sas | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Αντίο | Adio | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Παρακαλώ | Parakalo | Making a request or asking for something |
Thank you | Ευχαριστώ | Efharisto | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Ναι | Ne | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Όχι | Ohi | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Συγνώμη | Signomi | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Δεν καταλαβαίνω | Den katalaveno | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | Μιλάτε Αγγλικά; | Milate Anglika? | Finding out if someone speaks English |
I'm lost | Έχω χαθεί | Eho hathei | When you are lost |
Where is the bathroom? | Πού είναι η τουαλέτα; | Pou ine i toualeta? | Looking for the bathroom |
Help | Βοήθεια | Voitheia | In case of emergency |
Call the police | Καλέστε την αστυνομία | Kaleste tin astynomia | In case of emergency |
I need a doctor | Χρειάζομαι έναν γιατρό | Hriazome enan giatro | When you are feeling unwell |
Water | Νερό | Nero | When you want to order water |
Food | Φαγητό | Fagito | When you want to order food |
Check, please | Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ | Ton logariasmo, parakalo | When you want to pay the bill |
How much does it cost? | Πόσο κοστίζει; | Poso kostizi? | When you want to know the price of something |
Open | Ανοιχτό | Anihto | When you want to know if a place is open |
Closed | Κλειστό | Klisto | When you want to know if a place is closed |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Long-sleeve shirts
Jeans or other versatile pants
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Swimwear
Light jacket or sweater
Pajamas
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Personal hygiene items
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport or ID
Airline tickets
Hotel reservation confirmations
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Travel-size laundry detergent
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag
Umbrella or raincoat
Weather Conditions
Thessaloniki, Greece is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C). It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and a high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. Don't forget to stay hydrated, especially during the hottest part of the day. Visiting in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) can be a great choice as the weather is generally mild with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). These seasons are perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Pack layers to accommodate the cooler mornings and evenings. Winter, from December to February, sees temperatures between 35°F and 55°F (2°C to 13°C). Rain is more common during this time, so pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Despite the cooler weather, Thessaloniki's cultural and historical attractions remain open and less crowded. Regardless of when you visit, Thessaloniki's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Enjoy your visit to this vibrant Greek city!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 12° / 1° | January is the coldest month in Thessaloniki, with occasional snowfall. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds. |
February | 13° / 2° | February is still quite cold, with a slight increase in temperature. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's winter charm. |
March | 16° / 4° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually increasing. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit. |
April | 22° / 7° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings. |
May | 27° / 12° | May is a warm month, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. The city is vibrant with local festivals and events. |
June | 31° / 16° | June marks the beginning of summer with high temperatures. It's a great time for beach activities and enjoying the city's nightlife. |
July | 34° / 19° | July is the hottest month in Thessaloniki. It's the perfect time for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant summer atmosphere. |
August | 33° / 19° | August is equally hot, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to enjoy the beaches and the city's summer festivals. |
September | 29° / 15° | September is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds. |
October | 24° / 11° | October sees the beginning of autumn, with temperatures gradually decreasing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the fall colors. |
November | 18° / 7° | November is a cool month, with temperatures dropping further. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's autumn charm. |
December | 13° / 3° | December is a cold month, with occasional rain. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the holiday season and festive atmosphere. |
Did you know?
Places near by Thessaloniki, Greece
Mount Olympus
The highest mountain in Greece, known from Greek mythology as the home of the gods.
Vergina
The archaeological site of Aigai, the first capital of Macedon. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Edessa
Known for its beautiful waterfalls and historic Byzantine walls.
Pella
The birthplace of Alexander the Great and the historical capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedon.
Kavala
A picturesque city with beautiful beaches and the impressive medieval fortress of Kavala.
Meteora
A complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries built on natural sandstone rock pillars. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mount Athos
A mountain and peninsula in northeastern Greece, an important centre of Eastern Orthodox monasticism. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chalkidiki
A peninsula in Northern Greece known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Amphipolis
An ancient city, famous for the Lion of Amphipolis, a 4th-century BC funerary monument.
Philippi
An ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its historic ruins.
