Thessaloniki is a great place to come, especially if you love art. With some thirty museums and 23 centuries of history, this city of one million inhabitants, with its international airport, has nothing to envy Athens... except, of course, a certain notoriety. In the meantime, inspired visitors are delighted. Thessaloniki, the capital of central Macedonia, is the country's second largest city, far behind the gigantic Athens, 515 kilometres away. The capital of Macedonia, it proudly displays its differences with its great rival. A young, dynamic city, open to the emerging economies of the Balkans and to the Mediterranean thanks to its port, Thessaloniki seems to have always been promised a flourishing future.There is no bad omen under its famous umbrellas: under a bright sun, tourists and locals playing and twirling with art, abandoned to their poetry. Inaugurated in 1997 - the year Thessaloniki was named "European Capital of Culture" - this 13-metre-high installation of 40 stainless steel umbrellas and poles does not foretell any gloomy weather. The brainchild of local artist Giorgos Zangolopoulos, the "Umbrellas of Thessaloniki" have become the most photographed monument in Thessaloniki, day and night, dethroning the nearby White Tower and the imposing statue of Alexander the Great!Thessaloniki is an open-air history book. On the paralia, the pleasant promenade along the waterfront, the statue of Alexander the Great reminds us of his patronage over the region. However, the city did not yet exist at the time of Philip II and his son... Finally, you should know that Thessaloniki is sometimes described as the gastronomic capital of the country, because in addition to the traditional Greek dishes, you will also taste Turkish influences and dishes with an oriental flavour.

What to visit Thessaloniki?

When to go to Thessaloniki?

Wondering when to visit Thessaloniki to capture its essence? Each season brings its own charms, lively alleys and traditional festivals:

Spring (March to May): mild temperatures, perfect for strolling through the old town. Plus, it's before the summer rush, so everything's a little quieter and, above all, a little cheaper!

Summer (June to August): the sun shines brightly, the beaches beckon, and the evenings are lively. This is the time for festivals, like the famous Thessaloniki Festival. Be prepared for the heat, and slightly higher prices, but the atmosphere is well worth the detour.

Autumn (September to November): this is the best-kept secret, with seaside strolls, museum visits without the crowds, and lower prices - what more could you ask for?

Winter (December to February) : fewer tourists, lower prices. This is the time to experience the city like a local, enjoy cosy cafés and immerse yourself in history without the hustle and bustle.

When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki? For an authentic, peaceful experience, aim for spring or autumn. For more thrills and excitement, summer is your season. And for local immersion, choose winter.

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Weather at the moment

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Weather all year round

In Thessaloniki, the weather changes with the seasons:

In summer, from June to August, the city is ablaze with sunshine, with temperatures soaring above 30°C. This is the high season, perfect for sunbathing and terrace parties.

Winter, from December to February, is mild, with some rain and temperatures rarely dipping below 0°C. This is the low season.

Spring and autumn are golden times: from March to May and September to November, Thessaloniki enjoys more moderate temperatures, ideal for exploring without the summer heat or winter chill. These in-between seasons offer the best of both worlds: warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, cool enough to feel comfortable.

Thessaloniki's Mediterranean climate promises hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Each season reveals a unique panorama of the city.

Jan.
/
Feb.
/ 12°
Mar.
/ 14°
Apr.
10° / 20°
May
18° / 29°
June
21° / 32°
Jul.
21° / 32°
Aug.
17° / 28°
Sept.
17° / 28°
Oct.
13° / 22°
Nov.
/ 16°
Dec.
/ 11°
Budget

Thessaloniki welcomes you with its Mediterranean charm and a budget to suit all globetrotters. Cheaper than its sister city Athens, the city allows you to enjoy an authentic Greek experience without spending too much. The currency used is the euro, and it's easy to find exchange offices or ATMs for your monetary needs.

In terms of spending, Thessaloniki offers affordable accommodation and delicious food at reasonable prices in local taverns. Holidaymakers looking for a little more comfort will find mid-range hotels and restaurants offering excellent value for money. And for the ultimate in luxury, the city also boasts a number ofhigh-end establishments.

Tipping is not compulsory but appreciated, especially in restaurants and cafés, where leaving a few euros is a common practice.Thessaloniki combines simplicity and elegance, and facilitates monetary transactions for a serene travel experience.

Procedures

For a trip to Thessaloniki, administrative formalities differ according to your nationality. Citizens of the European Union do not need a visa to enter Greece, and therefore Thessaloniki, for short stays. A valid passport or identity card is all you need.

For travelers from other countries, a visa for Thessaloniki is required. Check specific visa requirements with the nearest Greek embassy or consulate. The necessary documents, fees and visa application process are tailored to each case, so preparation is a must.

In addition to travel documents, take out health insurance to cover any medical contingencies during your stay. Thessaloniki is a welcoming destination, but keeping abreast of the latest travel guidelines, particularly in terms of public health, is always good practice.

Health

When traveling to Thessaloniki, no specific vaccinations are required for travelers from Europe or North America. However, it's best to check for standard vaccinations such as tetanus and measles, and consult a health professional before you leave for specific advice.

As for drinking water in Thessaloniki , it is considered safe to drink from the tap. Hotels and restaurants follow high water safety standards, so there's nothing to worry about in these establishments.

It's also wise to take out travel insurance covering medical care, as this can save you from unexpected healthcare expenses during your stay in Thessaloniki.

How to go to Thessaloniki? Our advice & tips

For an organized adventure in Thessaloniki, consider a variety of experiences to enrich your stay. In addition to the must-sees, explore the lesser-known aspects of the city. Find out if your tour includes immersive experiences such as an evening in a bohemian neighborhood, a local wine tasting, or even a Greek cooking workshop.

Or consider day trips to Thessaloniki's surrounding areas. From picturesque villages to archaeological sites, there's so much to discover on the city's doorstep. Check whether your travel agency offers these outings, as they add an extra dimension to your trip.

Finally, don't underestimate the importance of relaxation. A good tour package to Thessaloniki should balance sightseeing with moments of rest. Perhaps your tour includes a lazy day on a nearby beach, or a free afternoon to simply enjoy the atmosphere of the city?

A tour package to Thessaloniki promises a complete experience, combining culture, adventure and relaxation, all for an unforgettable memory of Greece!

Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destination

Going alone in Thessaloniki gives you the opportunity to explore this charming Greek city at your own pace. Before you leave, plan your itinerary to include must-see sites such as the White Tower, museums and the lively waterfront. For accommodation, Thessaloniki offers a variety of options, from youth hostels to more luxurious hotels.

Getting around the city is easy thanks to an efficient public transport network, but exploring on foot is often the best way to soak up the local atmosphere. Don't forget to sample Greek cuisine in traditional tavernas and immerse yourself in local culture by visiting markets and popular neighborhoods.

When traveling alone, stay open to new encounters and experiences. Thessaloniki is known for its friendly people, which makes discovering the city all the more enjoyable. With a little preparation and a spirit of adventure, your solo trip to Thessaloniki will be an incredible getaway.

Getting around Thessaloniki is part of the adventure! Car rental is a good option if you're planning excursions outside the city. The roads are well-maintained and clearly signposted, making driving fairly easy.

If you prefer to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, public buses are an economical and authentic choice. They serve the city and surrounding area with regular frequency. For shorter journeys or to navigate the city center, nothing beats a good walk.

For added convenience , cabs are relatively affordable. They can be hailed on the street or booked via cab apps. It's a quick and comfortable way to get around, especially in the evening or if you're loaded!

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Pictures and images Thessaloniki

La rotonde du complexe du palais de Galère. Marholev - iStockphoto.com
Basilique de Saint-Démètre. Panos - Fotolia
Déjeuner au bord de la mer. beyhanyazar
Thessalonique, capitale de la Macédoine. bortnikau

Discover Thessaloniki

When to travel?

Wondering when to visit Thessaloniki to capture its essence? Each season brings its own charms, lively alleys...
Read more about it

Weather forecast

In Thessaloniki, the weather changes with the seasons:

In summer, from June to August, the...
Read more about it

Budget

Thessaloniki welcomes you with its Mediterranean charm and a budget to suit all globetrotters. Cheaper than it...
Read more about it

Formalities

For a trip to Thessaloniki, administrative formalities differ according to your nationality. Citizens of th...
Read more about it

Health

When traveling to Thessaloniki, no specific vaccinations are required for travelers from Europe or North Ameri...
Read more about it

How to travel by yourself?

Going alone in Thessaloniki gives you the opportunity to explore this charming Greek city at your own pace. Be...
Read more about it

How to get organized?

For an organized adventure in Thessaloniki, consider a variety of experiences to enrich your stay. In addition...
Read more about it

Getting around

Getting around Thessaloniki is part of the adventure! Car rental is a good option if you're planning ex...
Read more about it

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