{"id":5859,"date":"2026-05-04T17:52:19","date_gmt":"2026-05-04T14:52:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/explorewithangel.com\/?p=5859"},"modified":"2026-05-05T10:54:34","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T07:54:34","slug":"thessaloniki-10-things-you-shouldnt-miss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/explorewithangel.com\/el\/thessaloniki-10-things-you-shouldnt-miss\/","title":{"rendered":"THESSALONIKI: 10 THINGS YOU SHOULDN’T MISS"},"content":{"rendered":"

Thessaloniki is one of those cities that wins you over without trying!<\/p>\n

Set along the Thermaic Gulf, Greece\u2019s second-largest city blends history and everyday life in the most effortless way. From the iconic White Tower of Thessaloniki to its lively waterfront, you\u2019ll find Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences at every turn.<\/p>\n

But more than anything, it\u2019s the vibe – great food, coffee culture and a relaxed energy that makes you want to stay longer than planned.<\/p>\n

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FAQs About Thessaloniki<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

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Options to Reach Thessaloniki:<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

The best travel options to Thessaloniki depend on your starting point and preferences:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. By Plane: Thessaloniki\u2019s Makedonia Airport (SKG) is the fastest and most convenient way if you’re traveling from far away. It is less than an hour from Athens and many international and domestic flights connect Thessaloniki with major cities. Angel’s tip:<\/strong><\/span> Cost from the airport to the city center is 30 euros.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
  2. By Train: If you\u2019re traveling within Greece or from nearby countries, the train is a scenic and comfortable option. Thessaloniki is connected by direct trains from Athens and other major cities via the Greek railway network (OSE). The journey from Athens takes about 4-5 hours on the high-speed Intercity trains.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. By Bus: KTEL buses offer a reliable and affordable option for traveling from various cities in Greece. The bus journey from Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 6 hours, with frequent departures.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. By Car: Driving to Thessaloniki gives you the flexibility to explore along the way. The Egnatia Odos (A2) highway connects Thessaloniki to many regions, while the Athens-Thessaloniki route (A1) takes about 5-6 hours. If you\u2019re looking to rent a car for your trip, you can book through this company that I personally use and trust: link here.<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
  5. By Ferry: If you’re coming from the Aegean islands or Turkey, there are seasonal ferry connections to Thessaloniki, though it’s less common than other travel options.\"\"<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Is a Car Necessary?<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Not really! If you stay in the city center, you can explore most attractions on foot. Parking can be tricky, so consider using electric scooters, the new metro or taxis, which are widely available. A taxi from\/to the airport costs around 30 euros.<\/span><\/p>\n

    If you accommodation in outside city center or you want to explore the area around with day trips, you can book through this company that I personally use and trust: link here.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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    Accommodation Tip<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Staying near <\/span>Aristotelous Square<\/span> is a convenient choice, offering easy access to most sights, restaurants, and shops.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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    Best Time to Visit<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    The ideal seasons are spring and fall, with mild weather and lively events. Summer is also popular, but hot and the locals leave the city and head towards Chalkidiki area.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Getting Around<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Thessaloniki is compact, making it perfect for walking. You can also use buses, taxis, and electric scooters for longer distances.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Local Currency<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Euro (\u20ac)<\/span>. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it\u2019s good to have some cash for small purchases in markets or local eateries.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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    Safety<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Thessaloniki is generally very safe for tourists. Just watch out for pickpockets in busy areas, as in any major city.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Language<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Greek<\/span>. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially by younger people.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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    How Long to Stay<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    A weekend getaway is great for a taste of Thessaloniki, but a 3\u20134 day trip will allow you to fully experience the city.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Souvenirs to Buy<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Popular items include <\/span>tsoureki<\/span> (a sweet bread) and <\/span>trigona Panoramatos<\/span> (a pastry). Angel’s tip<\/strong> <\/span>: Elenidis and Tasos in Panorama are the best spots.<\/span>\"\"<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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    Is Thessaloniki Family-Friendly?<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

    Yes! Kids will love the <\/span>waterfront<\/span>, which is pedestrian-friendly, museums like the <\/span>Museum of Illusions<\/span>, and the family-friendly atmosphere in many restaurants.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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    Famous Neighborhoods in Thessaloniki :<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n