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Thessaloniki lies on the northern fringe of the Thermaic Gulf on its eastern coast and is bound by Mount Chortiatis on its southeast. The metropolitan area of the city extends around an area of 1,455.62 km² (562.02 sq mi), which includes many beachside and hilly suburbs, while its densest part, which makes up the urban area of the city and what Thessalonians usually refer to as the "City of Thessaloniki", can be divided roughly into 3 parts, the northwestern, the central and the southeastern.
The central part, corresponding to the region that is inside the the Byzantine walls, forms the oldest part of the city and is divided in two parts, the central commercial and historic city center, where most tourist sites and interests, entertainment and educational facilities are located; and Ano Poli (also called Old Town and literally the Upper Town), the heritage listed district north of Thessaloniki's city center that was not engulfed by the city's great fire of 1917 and was declared a UNESCO heritage site.
The city center is bounded by the sea in the south, Olympiados street in the northeast (from which then the upper town begins), Bardariou (aka Dimokratias) square in the northwest and in the southeast by the University campus of the Aristotle University and the facilities of Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center.
Most roads in the city center are either parallel or perpendicular to the sea. A simple rule that helps the visitor is that if the a street goes downhill, by following it, it will lead you to the sea. The biggest parallel streets to the sea starting from the sea are Nikis, Tsimiski, Ermou, Egnatia, Agiou Dimitriou and Kassandrou avenues. The important streets leading to the sea, starting from northwest, are Ionos Dragoumi, Venizelou, the pedestrian streets Aristotelous and Hagia Sophia and Ethinikis Amynis avenues.
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By plane
Thessaloniki is served by Macedonia International Airport for international and domestic flights. The airport lies 15 km southeast of the city center and is connected directly with the following national and international destinations:
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Connection to the city center
The airport is served on a 24-hour basis by OASTH (Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization), with bus numbers 78/78A/78N providing direct access to the central passenger railway station of Thessaloniki, at Monastiriou st 28, and to the Macedonia InterCity Bus Terminal (KTEL), which lies in the west side of the city, at Giannitson st 194.
Bus number 78 has a frequency of between 15 min and 30 min during the day, while number 78A runs once per day at 5am from KTEL Bus Terminal to the airport. At night, the bus number changes to 78N and runs every 30 min through Thessaloniki, between the airport and Macedonia InterCity Bus Terminal (KTEL).
(00 and 30 minutes past the hour from KTEL Bus Terminal, 20 and 50 min past the hour from the Airport).
The ticket costs €2 (see Get around: By bus) and the ride takes about 40 min from the airport to the city center.
Concessions are available for students and seniors, were the tickets cost half price. Ticket machines are located on all buses but they do not give out change; while tourist info and ticket booths are located at the the central bus stations. Free Busline charts can also be found there.
Furthermore a tourist information office is located at Tsimiski st 136, a few minutes from the city's main landmark, the White Tower, and is open Monday to Friday between 8am and 8pm and 8:30am to 2pm on saturdays.
Taxi's from the airport to the city center cost about €15-20. Taxis are hard to find during peak hours between 7 to 8am, 2 to 4pm and 7 to 9pm, so plan early.
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By train
Regional train services within Greece (operated by TrainOSE, the Hellenic Railways Organization's train operating company), link the city with other parts of the country, from its central railway passenger station, called the "New Railway Station" located at the western end of Thessaloniki's city center.
*
* Recorded information about train departures are provided by Trainose, call 1440 for domestic departures from Thessaloniki.
Thessaloniki is served daily with the commuter rail servises of Proastiakos to [wiki=635a9ea4901d2364ad67324f4226fd99]Katerini[/wiki]-[wiki=328d2df3814bab9aadf0f09b3cf5bd78]Larissa[/wiki] and [wiki=1098989a72c57931abfc282e1f45e8d5]Veroia[/wiki]-[wiki=c60afac373c712aa529c11b1d6683ef5]Edessa[/wiki], and 6 InterCity (IC) trains and 1 night-train to [wiki=e14045c6b4fe1e65d04aade91b1f8c1b]Athens[/wiki] (via [wiki=6afbd61802ce39e4474a8f0353dfda6a]Platy[/wiki]-[wiki=635a9ea4901d2364ad67324f4226fd99]Katerini[/wiki]-[wiki=328d2df3814bab9aadf0f09b3cf5bd78]Larissa[/wiki]-[wiki=cfbdf1e41b6603dcd13d6e78366363ef]Palaiofarsalos[/wiki]-[wiki=ba978bd68c660b8f2d7ee9f31df39abc]Domokos[/wiki]-[wiki=38794af23b25b42b82ed16bcb45a7911]Leianokladi[/wiki](Lamia)-[wiki=1d1f67c024bcd132eca12e430fc179b9]Leivadia[/wiki]-[wiki=8b33b0387965dfa21e7d82823626e9bf]Thiva[/wiki]-[wiki=abb509c868d0ad3d5c1b76534b30ef36]Oinoi[/wiki]-[wiki=78dc35d7cc62332cc8cacb96501d7118]SKA[/wiki]-[wiki=e14045c6b4fe1e65d04aade91b1f8c1b]Athens[/wiki] (approx 5h20min)). 2 regional trains provide daily services to [wiki=bec6f0e33f5ebff9bb55938f48febd06]Kilkis[/wiki]-[wiki=8f5912b1b7c41ee0f6fbefcc943acfd5]Serres[/wiki]-[wiki=205b8c9a6b18d476abc94908e0280ea5]Drama[/wiki]-[wiki=bdece86fb4a7dbe099fe3ba0ece1e9fa]Xanthi[/wiki]-[wiki=13602af4660e71cb4624d62af9d98c73]Komotini[/wiki]-[wiki=5a57328db8a70ef1a3f87217ce452d88]Alexandroupoli[/wiki] and 1 to [wiki=ac257a08b68210d39d6e369dc5cdb233]Karditsa[/wiki]-[wiki=35e3361cadcea6e815c6a8fda01602d6]Trikala[/wiki]-[wiki=60745ec2c42b2aab24f938136b3af1fb]Kalampaka[/wiki]. Service to/from [wiki=a6b92ddce4af69a799010794d9554de1]Florina[/wiki] was suspended but since October 2012 trains started again. There are currently three IC trains between [wiki=a6b92ddce4af69a799010794d9554de1]Florina[/wiki] and Thessaloniki and vice versa.
Since May 2014 passenger train services between Thessaloniki and [wiki=c87f42a2ab4a24074411dfd55ca71450]Belgrade[/wiki]/[wiki=654cd76590cebe0ba37e8d4cce8a96ee]Sofia[/wiki] started again. The latter cities are served by one train every day to/from Thessaloniki.
There are normally employees at all major stations to facilitate transportation of disabled persons.
Smoking is prohibited in all trains.
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By bus
Thessaloniki is connected via the intercity KTEL bus network of Greece with every corner of country.
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* Information regarding time-tables of foreign buses is available from OSE/HTO: +30 210 5298739, 30 210 5298740, +30 210 5135768, +30 210 5135769
* Buses for the popular tourist region of Chalkidiki depart from 'KTEL Chalkidikis Bus Terminal, located in the east side of the city, in the suburb of Pylaia. (Fastest way to get to this terminal from city center by taking bus number 45)
=====[wiki=e14045c6b4fe1e65d04aade91b1f8c1b]Athens[/wiki]=====
KTEL Buses from/to Athens make the trip from/to Thessaloniki in about 6 hr 30 min, including a 20 min stop at a roadside restaurant with toilet facilities. Buses are air-conditioned.[http://www.ktel-thes.gr/index.php?lang=en]
=====[wiki=c87f42a2ab4a24074411dfd55ca71450]Belgrade[/wiki]=====
There are a number of weekly departures to Belgrade (Serbia) in Thessaloniki and Athens, in the arrangement of the Greek and Serbian Agency. Ticket price in one direction from Thessaloniki to Belgrade is about €45. From Belgrade to Thessaloniki and the rest of Europe there are plenty of bus connections from the main bus station in Belgrade (or agencies).
=====[wiki=654cd76590cebe0ba37e8d4cce8a96ee]Sofia[/wiki]=====
There are several buses leaving from Sofia. One bus leaves at 8PM and arrives at 1:30. You can catch this bus if you continue on an imaginary line at the end of Maria Luisa street. It meets in front of the "cafe" and just a few meters to the left of the entrance to the WC. The price is 40 Bulgarian.
=====[wiki=46d813e50003211a88420b66bd2235ba]Tirana[/wiki]=====
There are a number of buses to Thessaloniki and Athens, every day, departing from most major Albanian cities. You can catch a bus from Tirana or Shkodra and travel all the way south, making stops in most major Albanian and Greek cities. Since buses stop to pick up and drop passengers in most major cities, you can catch the bus at those cities en route.
=====[wiki=a4d81f9796805c63e41f0bfdddff41ac]Skopje[/wiki]=====
A number of local travel agencies in Skopje also arrange transport to Thessaloniki daily by car or minibus. These generally leave around 5AM, and cost around €25 for a day return (returning at 5PM) or a single (i.e. €50 if you want to come back on a different day from when you leave!) The travel agent at the back of the shopping mall by the Central Square arranges this departing from beside the Holiday Inn. Others depart from the bus station, or other locations around the city.
Simeonidis tours, N⁰ 14, 26th October St, [http://www.simeonidistours.gr]. Their bus leaves at 5:30PM from Thessaloniki everyday, and it takes about 5 hr to Skopje. There is one bus daily departing for Thessaloniki from the central bus station in Skopje. It departs at 6AM. Reservations are recommended.
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By car
[wiki=e14045c6b4fe1e65d04aade91b1f8c1b]Athens[/wiki] about 5 hr (via the A1/E75 motorway)
* [wiki=c87f42a2ab4a24074411dfd55ca71450]Belgrade[/wiki] in [wiki=2ff6e535bd2f100979a171ad430e642b]Serbia[/wiki] about 7 hr (via the A1/E75 motorway)
* [wiki=0ef8f876d62a45352e28410454e3634b]Istanbul[/wiki] in [wiki=221cdfb73049678e244380b45872cbb2]Turkey[/wiki] about 8 hr (via the A2/E90 motorway)
* [wiki=46d813e50003211a88420b66bd2235ba]Tirana[/wiki] in [wiki=e6ba852571c5620962703711d60cafb4]Northeastern Albania[/wiki] about 6 hr (via the Α29 and Α2 motorways)
* [wiki=654cd76590cebe0ba37e8d4cce8a96ee]Sofia[/wiki] in [wiki=19bbaa88e6dfbbab4965bd0934aedb90]Northwest Bulgaria[/wiki] about 4 hr (via the Α25/Ε79 motorway)
* [wiki=d78a416b189940b8a327891f60073421]Constanta[/wiki] in [wiki=0c7d5ae44b2a0be9ebd7d6b9f7d60f20]Romania[/wiki] about 8 hr.
One of the burdens for visitors and inhabitants alike is finding a parking place in the Tessaloniki Urban Area, so be prepared to either spend a lot of time looking for a space, or pay for space in the parking facilities, with prices starting from €4 for 3 hr. Don't assume you're safe from paying a fine just because locals flagrantly flout parking laws. Traffic congestion is a problem, largely due to double-parked cars, but generally fellow drivers and passers-by are helpful in showing you the way if you get lost.
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By bus
Public transport in Thessaloniki is served by buses, operated by the Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization (OASTH)[url=http://oasth.gr/index_eng.php]]which runs a fleet of 604 vehicles on 75 routes throughout the Thessaloniki Metropolitan Area. Tickets for the buses can be bought on the bus, at a Periptero (kiosk), which are located all around the city, and at an OASTH info point. OASTH services operate from 5 a.m. until right after midnight, while some lines have expanded timetables until 1 a.m. Line 78N to the airport, operates 24 hours and passes through Egnatia street. Furthermore, OASTH has recently published an excellent app available for IOS and Android that greatly simplifies the often confusing task of figuring out what's the right bus or combination of buses needed to get to the desired destination.
There are three types of tickets:
*One journey ticket: Costs €1.00. Reduced: 0.50€. Valid for one journey on any busline.
*Two journeys ticket: Costs €1.20. Reduced: 0.60€. Valid for two journeys within 70 min.
*Three journeys ticket: Costs €1.50. Reduced: 0.80€. Valid for three journeys within 90 min.
*Four journeys ticket: Costs €2.00. Reduced: 1.00€. Valid for four journeys within 120 min.
*Cultural and airport line: Costs €2.00. Reduced: 1.00€.
Tickets bought inside the bus cost €0.10 plus.
Tickets need to be validated every time you get on a bus.
1, 3, 6 and 12-month cards for unlimited journeys are also available, while maps of the bus routes are available on the OASTH website. [http://oasth.gr/service/routes_eng.php[/url]
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By rent a car
If you want to travel by car in the city, rental companies can be found at the airport, while throughout the city there are a variety of car rental companies.
* Salonica Car Rental, [http://www.thessalonikirentacar.gr]
* Ride and Drive, [http://www.rideanddrive.gr]
* Pop's Car Rental Greece, [http://www.popscarrental.com]
* Thessaloniki Car Rental, [http://www.thessaloniki-carrental.com]
* Morphis Car Rental, [http://www.car-rental-greece.com]
* Thessaloniki Airport Car Rentals, [http://www.thessalonikicarrentals.com]
* HolidaysCAR car rental, [http://www.holidays-car.gr]
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By private transfer
If you don't want to drive or wait for the bus, a private transfer is the way to go. Passenger cars, minivans and minibuses are available.
* Salonica Airport Transfers, [http://www.transfersthessaloniki.com/en/]
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Sightseeing
The northernmost Byzantine walls of the city and parts of the western walls are still standing, as is the city's symbol - the White Tower, one of the 16th Century. AD fortified towers - which is the only surviving tower on the seafront. The rest of the walls are in the picturesque Upper Town which offers a spectacular view over the bay, especially in the late afternoon. Take a walk along the enormous seafront promenade (about 12 km altogether). See the the Roman Forum excavations.
Visit the upper town for its traditional old houses, small cobbled streets, Byzantine citadel, the Eptapyrgion fort.
On no account should you miss the Byzantine churches built between the 5th and 14th century ACE, such as Agios Demetrios, (7th Century. ACE) and Agia Sophia (Holy Wisdome, 9th Century. ACE), and many lovely smaller ones in the upper town (St Nicolaos Orfanos is particularly worth a look for its frescoes (open Tue-Sun 8.30am-3pm)), which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. One of them, the Rotunda, started life as a Roman temple of Zeus, built by ceasar Galerius, and is almost as old as the Pantheon in Rome. Next to the Rotunda, see the Arch of Triumph of Galerius and the ruins of his palace.
The city is also known as "the mother of Israel", due to the once flourishing Jewish community here, which existed from the Roman period and grew substantially after the Ottoman Empire took in Jewish refugees expelled Spain, Portugal, and Spanish territories in Italy; these Jews are known as "Sephardim". Sephardi Jews formed a significant percentage of the city's population and infrastructure until World War II, when, in spring 1943, almost all were deported by the Nazis to the extermination camp at Auschwitz, never to return. However, there are still two Synagogues, and you can see the Jewish Museum.
Also interesting are the Turkish public baths Bey Hamam, the Bezesteni (Ottoman closed market for jewellery and precious materials) the Alatza Imaret (Ottoman poorhouse) and Hamza Bey Camii (both restored and used for exhibitions).
The traditional central food market, with hundreds of stalls selling meat, fish, fruit, vegetables (sometimes cheek-by-jowl, an unnerving experience for North Americans), cheap clothes and shoes, flowers, herbs and spices, between Aristotele Square and Venizelou street.
Aristotelous Square-the biggest of the city-and the promenade with its cafes and restaurants.
The very lively and youth-oriented international film festival[url=http://filmfestival.gr/]]is held in November, the International Trade Fair[http://tif.gr/[/url] in September.
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Museums and galleries
[url=://thmphoto.gr/[/url][File:Macedonian Museums-89-Arx Thessaloniknhs-395.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki]]
Due to the city's rich and diverse history, Thessaloniki houses many museums dealing with many different eras in history. Two of the city center's most famous museums include the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Museum of Byzantine Culture, which also the buildings themselves serve as points of architectural interest.
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki was established in 1962 and houses some of the most important ancient Macedonian artifacts, including an extensive collection of golden artwork from the royal palaces of Aigai and Pella. It also houses exhibits from Macedon's prehistoric past, dating from the Neolithic to the Bronze age. Adults €6, children free.
The Museum of Byzantine Culture is one of the city's most famous museums, showcasing the city's glorious Byzantine past. The museum was also awarded Council of Europe's museum prize in 2005. The museum of the White Tower of Thessaloniki houses a series of galleries relating to the city's past, from the creation of the White Tower until recent years.
Other museums of the city include the Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum, in southeast Thessaloniki and is one of the most high-tech museums in Greece and southeastern Europe and the Atatürk Museum the historic house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern-day Turkey, was born.
* Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum. [url=http://amth.gr]] Andronikou street 6. Covers the history of Macedon from prehistory to Roman times.
* Museum of Byzantine Culture. Stratou avenue 2. [url=http://mbp.gr/[/url]]Award-winning museum (2005 - best Museum of Europe).
* Museum at the White Tower [url=http://mbp.gr/html/en/pirgos.htm[/url]]Located inside the city's most famous landmark on the waterfront.
* Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum. [url=http://noesis.edu.gr[/url]]Located in the city's southeast suburbs, it houses a 150-seat digital planetarium, a 300-seat Cosmotheatre with the largest flat screen in Greece, a 200-seat amphitheater, as well as a motion simulator theater with three platforms, 3-D projection rgearding items exhibited.
* Atatürk House. Agiou Dimitriou avenue. The house were Kemal Ataturk, founder of modern-day Turkey, was born.
* Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art. Upper side of the Fairground at Egnatia st 154 [http://mmca.org.gr[/url]
* Teloglion Foundation of Art. Located across the university campus of Aristotle University, on Agiou Dimitriou avenue.
* Olympic Museum. [url=http://www.olympicmuseum-thessaloniki.org/]]Tritis Septemvriou & Agiou Dimitriou avenue. (300m to the east of the Teloglion Foundation of Art). Sports related.
* Museum at Aghios Demetrios. [url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/2/eh251.jsp?obj_id=1671[/url]Agiou]Dimitriou avenue, Telephone: +30 2310 270008. St. Demetrios, a native of Thessalonica whom Galarius put to death, is the city’s patron saint. This basilical church was first built in the 5th century AD dedicated to St. Demetrios.
* State Museum of Contemporary Art, Thessaloniki. [url=http://greekstatemuseum.com[/url]]Kolokotroni 25, Stavroupoli district.
* Museum of Ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Post Byzantine Musical Instruments. At Katouni 12, in Ladadika district.
* Thessaloniki Museum of Photography.[/url] Harbor, Warehouse A.
* Museum of Cinematography in Thessaloniki. [url=http://cinemuseum.gr/]]Harbor, Warehouse A.
* Folklore and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace. [url=http://museumsofmacedonia.gr/Folklore/Laografiko_Thessalonikhs.html[/url]]Vassilisis Olgas St 68.
* Municipal Gallery of Art. Vassilisis Olgas St 162.
It is also useful to keep an eye on the website Museums of Macedonia [http://museumsofmacedonia.gr/[/url] covering the whole region.
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The city has always been known between Greeks for its vibrant city culture, including having the most cafe's and bars per-capita than any other city in Europe (see: Drink); and as having some of the best nightlife and entertainment in the country, thanks to its large young population and multicultural feel. Trendy bars are scattered throughout the city and cater for all tastes, with many located on pedestrianized streets or along the coast, with sea views; while daily happenings and events take place throughout the city everyday.
Thessaloniki is also known for its picturesque uninterrupted promenade/waterfront, spanning for about 4.5 km from the old port to the Thessaloniki Concert Hall. From the White Tower, the waterfront gets considerably bigger (called Nea Paralia) and along with the seaside walk, features 13 thematic gardens. During summer it is full of Thessalonians enjoying their long evening walks (referred to as "the volta" and is embedded into the culture of the city). There you will find people selling all kinds of food, bike riding, skating, fishing and a generally lively atmosphere with font the Thermaic Gulf and the port.
There is a free walking city tour at 18.30 starting in front of the rotunda. You will get detailed yet short explanations about the history, myths, architecture and lifestyle of the city as well as a few recommendations about hidden but noteworthy shops - and maybe a free cookie.
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Yachting
The Thermaic Gulf is a challenging place for yachting and sailing. Many days there are strong North winds but with low waves, making sailing a fun and joy for all sailors. There are three sailing clubs in Thessaloniki and world championships take place in the city every year. Thessaloniki has several marinas, most notably in Kalamaria, southeast of the city center, while a new one is proposed to be constructed right at the city center that will contain 182 mooring places. There are also many Yacht charter companies renting sailing yachts.
* Bareboat charter or skippered sailing yacht, also night time tours.
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Thessaloniki is a major center of education for Greece. Two of the country's largest universities are located in central Thessaloniki: Aristotle University and the University of Macedonia. Aristotle University was founded in 1926 and is currently the largest university in Greece by number of students, which number at more than 80,000 in 2010, and is a member of the Utrecht Network.
Numerous public and private vocational institutes (IEK) provide professional training to young students, while a large number of private colleges offer American and UK academic curriculum, via cooperation with foreign universities. In addition to Greek students, the city hence attracts many foreign students either via the Erasmus programme for public universities, or for a complete degree in public universities or in the city's private colleges. As of 2006 the city's total student population was estimated around 200,000. Its young population and atmosphere provides for many learning opportunities, with classes and workshops on all interests being held all over the city.
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Clothing
Thessaloniki is renowned for its major shopping streets and lively laneways. Tsimiski Street and Proxenou Koromila avenue are the city's most famous shopping streets and are among Greece's most expensive and exclusive high streets; there one can find various fashion shops of international brands, boutiques and high end international department stores. For cheaper clothing, check out Egnatia street.
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Books
As Thessaloniki is considered the cultural capital of Greece, the city has also become a regular fixture for the book trade and booklovers. An International Book Fair [http://www.thessalonikibookfair.com/] is held annually in late spring at the waterfront, there people can find books from new authors and on all topics.
Some of the city's best book stores, and places were you can find maps in various languages include:
* Ianos bookshop, Aristotelous Sq, (city centre). Books & art-objects, cultural events.
* Papasotiriou bookstore
* Eleftheroudakis bookstore
* Traveler map store
* Maliaris-Pedia bookstore
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Due to the fact that Thessaloniki remained under Ottoman rule for about 100 years more than southern Greece, it has retained a lot of its Eastern character, including its culinary tastes. Spices in particular play an important role in the cuisine of Thessaloniki, something which is not true to the same degree about Greece's southern regions.
Greeks consider Thessaloniki a gourmet city - but bear in mind that this refers to the excellent local specialities and cheap-and-cheerful ouzo taverns rather than to haute cuisine or a range of foreign restaurants. The latter are best avoided in Thessaloniki.
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Sweets and pastries
For any traveler to Thessaloniki, a Greek will usually mention how they expect you to bring back sweets from the city, as it is known for having some of the best in the country. Throughout Thessaloniki anyone can find a variety of places that sell: Tsoureki, a plaited sweetened bread, deserts such as Baklava and Galaktoboureko; and Bougatsa, the most famous pastry of Thessaloniki, with cream (sweet) or cheese (savoury) filling, which was invented in the city and has spread around other parts of Greece and the Balkans as well.
Some shops, where you can find the best sweets and pasties the city has to offer, include "Nikiforou" on Venizelou street, "Terkenlis" famous for its Tsoureki and "Chatzis" famous for its Baklava, but fame has not made it any better - it has become overpriced and not as good as in previous years.
* [url=http://chatzis.gr/]]is famous for its collection of Greek Asia Minor sweets (politika glyka) originating from Istanbul.
* [url=http://terkenlis.gr/[/url]]is famous for its variety of "tsoureki", a sweet bread much like brioche but containing spices too, covered and filled with several combinations of chocolates/creams/nuts, etc.
* [http://elenidis.gr/[/url] is considered the expert in "trigona" (triangles made of sfoglia, filled with cream).
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Meats
For a carnivore's treat, places that serve Gyros and Souvlaki with pork and chicken, are scattered all around the city. This is the best calories per money option, since with less that 3 euros you get a meal that, although not that healthy, can keep you going for many hours. Some of the best souvlaki meals at very affordable prices can be found at a place called "Derlicatesen".
Local specialities include Soutzoukakia, minced meat pellets that are either grilled (at the central market or rotisseries) and topped with chilli pepper flakes, or cooked in tomato and cumin sauce (Smyrna-style); and Patsas, a tripe soup, best tried late at night (or early morning).
For seafood, in Thessaloniki you can find Gemista kalamarakia (Stuffed squids), Mydopilafo (rice with mussels) or Mydia saganaki (mussels in tomato sauce).
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Fast food and snacks
The traditional fast food of Thessaloniki includes sandwiches with Gyros (pork meat), Souvlaki or Soutzoukaki, offered in many stores for a little over €2.
* is the Greek fast-food chain, actually preferred by Greeks over other fast food restaurants such as McDonalds. There you can find classic hamburgers, also Gyros, pasta, and salads.
* Crepes can be found in many stores all around the city. The best can be found at Gounari street, near Navarinou square, that is popular with the city's student population.
* During the winter you can try roasted chestnuts (Kastana in Greek) that are sold from carts.
* During the summer one can buy boiled or roasted corn on the cob that is sold from carts, which cost €1-2.
* You can try Stafidopsomo, a small bread with raisins, or Koulouri a donut-shaped small bread with sesame. You can find them sold in bakeries or on carts, costing around €0.5.
* For breakfast Bougatsa, can be found in nearly every pastry shop around the city and can be accompanied with a cacao milk or coffee. Prices range from €1.8 - €2.3, for a plate of Bougatsa.
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Budget
Most tavernas and restaurants located all around the city of Thessaloniki offer very affordable prices. Most can be found concentrated in areas listed below, that also serve as points of interest for any traveler into the city, where you can experience a lively atmosphere at night with the local population.
* Small tavern with raki & meze at local prices.
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Mid-range
stylish bar-restaurant in the heart of Thessaloniki,serving American comfort food in a relaxed environment.
* Great Taverna, unique style, good food and some days (Thur-Sun) live music
* Great traditional ouzeri, with fresh fish and meat dishes and live rembetico music
* is for those of you with adventurous tastes, preferably to go after a hard night's drinking, for a "patsás" (tripe) soup - a delicious way to prevent a hangover.
* A hipster hang-out, nice atmosphere, very expensive for the quality provided
* Great traditional dishes.
* Traditional pies and sweets, croissant and dishes accompany the coffee or your drink. Porcelain miniatures and collective drinks are available for originally gifts.
* For the best pizzas in town head here.
* Good Cretan restaurant.
* Cretan and Pontian restaurant. Here, order raki rather than ouzo or tsipouro.
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Splurge
Most Salonicans know it as the "Lepen"
*
* An upmarket brasserie with a wide range of specialties and interesing ambience.
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Thessaloniki has a very active nightlife scene and only recently it is starting to become exposed internationally, with Lonely Planet listing Thessaloniki as the world's fifth-best "ultimate party city".
Cafe-bars are scattered throughout the entire city, which create a lively atmosphere everywhere you step and you can have a drink whenever you want, while trendy bars line up along Thessaloniki's entire waterfront from the old port, along Nikis avenue and down to "Krini", a southeast coastal district of the city.
Thessaloniki also offers a wide variety of nightlife, from small to huge nightclubs with dance music, bars dedicated to rock music, jazz clubs and Bouzoukia, where you can experience Greek music and dancing. Large entertainment venues of the city include Pyli Axiou and Mamounia, at Vilka (which are housed in converted old factories). During summer, one can also find beach bars with lively music and serving drinks throughout the whole day and night, located at the city's southeast suburbs. The city's most known nightlife district is "Ladadika", there together with the many tavernas and restaurants, you will find the most known nightclubs and bars housed in old warehouses next to the port, while in the area around the Kamara (the Arch of Galerius) is home to many cheaper cafe's and bars, popular with the city's student population. Areas were most of Thessaloniki's nightlife is located at are listed below.
A beer in Thessaloniki costs €4-6, an alcohol drink €7-10 and a coffee around €2.50-5.
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Aristotle Square (Aristotelous)
Being the center of the city, some of the most popular cafes and bars are located there. One can find quiet cafes or noisy ones that usually preferred by younger people. Breakfast is also served, some restaurants are also available.
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Nikis avenue
Thessaloniki's central seafront avenue is full of cafeterias usually crowded around the clock, available for coffee in daytime and beer or drinks at night. Many bars also feature balconies with views towards the sea.
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Ladadika district
At the west side of the center lies the picturesque district of Ladadika (meaning: oil stores). Named this way by the many stores selling oil arriving from the adjacent port of Thessaloniki. Formerly a notorious district, it is today the city's most lively and vibrant areas, were renovated old stone build warehouses host some of the most known nightclubs with all sorts of music, including traditional Greek bouzoukia. Although not the favorite by Thessaloniki’s highest class (modern bouzoukia are not considered a classy kind of entertainment), they are definitely worth a visit for any traveler. Delicate restaurants and Greek taverns serving drinks are located around Morichovou square, and are also popular during lunch time.
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Proxenou Koromila St
Parallel to the seafront Nikis avenue is Proxenou Koromila street and at night many cafes and bars spill out on to the streets. A few trendy jazz clubs can be found here.
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Iktinou pedestrian
Another place in the city with cafes, bars and a couple of restaurants, that spill out onto pedestrianized streets. A popular hangout by many Thessalonians.
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Aretsou
Aretsou is located in the southeast part of the city, in the suburb of Kalamaria. Home to high end bars, cafés and entertainment venues, most notably on Plastira street, along the coast; featuring loud music and hosting many young people.
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Karabournaki
A place in Kalamaria with delicate bars, restaurants and pizzerias. All of them along Sofouli street, right next to the seashore and nearby the Thessaloniki Concert Hall. "Shark", one of the most exclusive nightlife venues of the city is also located in this area with views of the sea and central Thessaloniki.
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Boat bars
For a drink on a boat, there are many "floating bars" that depart every 2hrs or so from the White Tower, and make a short trip around Thermaic Gulf, where you can enjoy evening and late night views of the city. Most of them play ethnic and alternative foreign music.
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Mylos and Vilka
A set of high-range café, bars, restaurants, ouzeris some with live music located at the city’s west. Also hosting concerts, events, exhibitions, music bands, famous greek artists etc.
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Valaoritou and Syggrou
Over the last 2 years a lot of Thessaloniki's nightlife has moved in these areas of the city center. The old industrial center has become a place for entertainment for everybody, with many bars, clubs and cafes that may remind you of Berlin, or London.
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Budget
This is a brand new hostel in Thessaloniki run by a brother and sister who are absolutely terrific hosts. Theyous rooms in a reconstructed house, each room with private bathroom, kitchenette and big lockers. There is also a common room/kitchen and a nice, cozy garden area with tables and chairs. Welcome drink, maps of the city, wifi and linens, tea and coffee are provided free. Laundry and breakfast for €2.
* Youth Hostel "Studios Arabas" is located in the Old City of Thessaloniki, the most beautiful part of the city with great view over the sea and traditional architecture, just 10 minutes from downtown. We offer dorms and private rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and balconies, with hotel standard mattresses. You can always enjoy clean bed linen and Air-conditioning in all of the rooms and common areas.
* Near the city center (5' bus ride), the waterfront (7' on foot) and well connected to the train station, bus station and the airport. 24 hr hot water, free linen, washing machine, kitchen, free city map, info and activities in northern Greece. Pick up and other transport options, free internet. Only a small capacity and advanced booking is recommended as staff are not present around the clock.
* Studio for one ,two,three or four persons in the Ano Poli (Old City) - Upper Town. The studio is furnished (bed, closet, table, kitchen with fridge and oven, washing machine,free Internet wifi,hair drier,Tv).
http://www.kripis.gr/ANOPOLI.en.aspx
* Bang in the centre of Egnatia Str., with easy bus connections. Friendly staff. Price (e.g. €33 for twin room) includes private bathroom, A/C, WiFi, fridge and TV. Snacks and laundry for extra charge.
* Right in the center, cheap, clean and welcoming.
* Cheap hotel opposite the train station towards the city center. Only a 5 min walk from train station. Not great, but adequate.
* Close to the train station. Clean but shabby rooms, most with a balcony.
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Mid-range
There are many hotels in the area a few blocks north of Aristotelous square in the city center. Some of these are a bit upmarket, but if business is down it is worth shopping around - they might give you a good discount, rather than turn you away.
* 3 star hotel in the heart of Thessaloniki. Free Parking lot, free WiFi and free Airport Pick-Up.
* Between the verdurous hills of Tagarades with panoramic views of the city and Thermaic Gulf.
* Luxurious Boutique Hotel next to Aristotelous with free parking, free airport pickup and free WiFi.
* Entering the city of Thessaloniki with free parking, free airport pickup and free WiFi.
* Favored as one of the best design luxury hotels in Thessaloniki center, City Hotel, invites you to discover the energy of down town Thessaloniki as you stroll through the vibrant Tsimiski street and Aristotelous square.
* 4 star.
* Very nice double rooms
* Located close to seafront, offering accommodation in a neoclassical building along with free wi-fi and parking.
* Boutique hotel in the center of Thessaloniki.
* Located close to the port of the city offering low prices, free wi-fi and parking.
* 4 star boutique hotel (formerly a tobacco warehouse).
*
* 5 star.
* 4 star hotel located in the heart of the Seich Sou forest national park, with overlooking views of Thessaloniki and Thermaic Gulf.
* Good breakfast buffet and reasonable prices. Located near the old Administration building.
* In an all green setting with sparkling water from the surrounding mountains, just a few meters from the water mills, on an area of 5.5 acre.
*The Excelsior Hotel is a luxury 5 Star boutique hotel located in Thessaloniki center, next to Aristotelous square, right in the heart of this vibrant town.
* 5 minutes walk from Aristotelous Square and Timiski Street in the down town of Thessaloniki.
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Splurge
5 star hotel in the heart of Thessaloniki. 130 rooms and 8 suites, some of them with view to Aristotelous square and the sea. The "Orizontes Pool Bar & Restaurant" provides superb view of the Thermaic Gulf.
* 5 star hotel with 2 ballrooms, 5 meeting rooms and 3 boardrooms. 3 km from the largest casino in Europe.
* Porto Palace Hotel is located at the west entrance of the city, near the port of Thessaloniki. It has direct access to the new financial district and it is just 5 min away from the city center and the shopping area.
* Nearby a major cultural center of the city. The State Museum of Contemporary Art inspired its design philosophy.
* 5 star hotel with views of Thermaic Gulf.
* Daios Luxury Living in is the absolute 5 star luxury boutique hotel which, situated right on the seaside of Thessaloniki in the city center, restates the notion of fine, luxury accommodation in North Greece.
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There are many internet-cafes scattered throughout Thessaloniki, while a visit to most restaurants, bars and cafes in the city offer free wireless internet (WiFi). Several payphones are also located around the city and cards can be purchased for them from a Periptero (kiosk).
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Thessaloniki is regarded a safe city but one should watch his/her pockets and travel documents, as pickpockets are not rare, especially on buses during rush hour. Also try and avoid the west area from the city center, and south of the Railway station, and especially at night on foot, as it has become a notorious area of the city. The police number of Thessaloniki is: 100
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Tap water is safe and that's what people of the city drink, but in some places in the city center you might get a slight "taste" from the water, due to old pipelines in the buildings. For peace of mind, you might want to buy bottled water. Greece is also a sunny place and if your skin is light-colored, intense sunlight can be a serious danger. Use sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
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Consulates
[wiki_table=5ba0de8f]
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Thessaloniki's proximity to places such as the national parks of Pieria and beaches of [wiki=7f32d8d10a3721996cf88e673f497372]Chalkidiki[/wiki] often allow its residents and visitors to the city to easily have access to some of the best outdoor recreation in Europe. Some classic trips out of Thessaloniki include:
* Any visit to the 500 km of wonderful beaches, on the two first fingers of [wiki=7f32d8d10a3721996cf88e673f497372]Chalkidiki[/wiki] peninsula, where many Thessalonians (and tourists) spend their holidays there (The third finger is the monastic community of [wiki=fae243ef24a6522e4bb59344100ce1df]Mount Athos[/wiki]). In the summer, the Armenistis campground on the [wiki=5aa64ca5a59dc38efe277da7fd3f346d]Sithonia[/wiki] peninsula stages concerts and other events. You can also check out the jazz and classical concerts that take place during summer at Sani ([wiki=45d0a139eb87acd3eabefd4318c7616b]Kassandra[/wiki] peninsula). Try to schedule your visit during summer so that you're not driving back to the city on Sunday evening, when you will always find heavy traffic from people returning back into the city.
* Mount Olympus coast, towards [wiki=cd630f80d7676c07cfc33872f5d183f6]Platamonas[/wiki], a very scenic region which has fallen out of favour with the trendy set but has lost no business - it is now mainly catering to tourists from Eastern Europe.
* [wiki=416bc0ad0febdf2ea2593a044afe2e63]Pella[/wiki], birthplace of Alexander the Great and the ancient Macedonian capital, during the time of Alexander the Great.
* Vergina, the spectacular site of the Macedonian royal tombs and first capital of ancient Macedon.
* Dion, a beautiful archaeological site near Mount Olympus.
* Olynthus, an archaeological site in Chalcidice.
* [wiki=066ecb6b9fe0d188dc1e8a0ad1843969]Prespa and Doirani lakes[/wiki] near the borders with Albania and FYROM. The national parks there offer an austere and evocative Balkan landscape and plenty of bird watching.
[wiki=abda85e0879e38f0781155dc6496295c]de:Thessaloniki[/wiki]
[wiki=a59ae87c70921f8a0edb3f7e1cbbeb7f]it:Salonicco[/wiki]
[wiki=e8ecbf70d5ae7bc77290eb2d9fbf1177]nl:Thessaloniki[/wiki]
[wiki=25bd5542f951a63d514d0c1f7b75dfdb]pl:Saloniki[/wiki]
[wiki=acaf1f9d8877fd3e82e92574ecabcd68]wts:Category:Thessaloníki[/wiki]
[[WikiPedia:Thessaloniki]]
[wiki=5061d1fb95e967cd83e3da6ca191a934]Dmoz:Europe/Greece/Prefectures/Thessaloniki/[/wiki]
[wiki=6d0e48271a194e779650dc86d91c4f57]World66:europe/greece/thessaloniki[/wiki]
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