Situated on the northwest shores of the Aegean Sea, the ancient Greek port city of Thessaloniki offers a cosmopolitan culture with archaeological museums, white-sand beaches and alleyway restaurants serving traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
Named after the sister of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BCE and remains the capital of the Macedonian region to this day. While an important location for Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, the Balkan Wars and the Young Turks brought radical reform that saw Greece return to its democratic roots. You can find evidence of the city’s rich heritage at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, the Arch of Galerius and Rotunda, the Church of Saint Demetrius and the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle.
On Thessaloniki’s waterfront, you’ll find the White Tower and Alexander the Great Monument, while Aristotelous Square and the Ladadika district feature a selection of restaurants and nightlife within the city’s most historical buildings. Alternatively, the Valaoritou district is home to arty bars and clubs, while the ancient Upper District offers a chill setting with views across the Aegean Sea and the city below.
Featuring convenient transport links, Thessaloniki offers many beach options that are popular for swimming and sunbathing just outside the city. Visit Agia Triada, Perea and Asprovalta, where you’ll find luxurious holiday resorts and can watch the beautiful sunset over Mount Olympus – a sight not to be missed while in the Greek city.