First-Timer's Guide to Thessaloniki: Where Ancient History Meets Modern Greek Magic

Erin
Sep 8
4 min read

If you're dreaming of Greece but want something more authentic than the sun-soaked crowds of Santorini or the bustle of Athens, Thessaloniki is your next must-see destination. This underrated gem in northern Greece is perfect for first-time travelers looking to blend rich history, vibrant culture, and a truly local experience.

An aerial view of the White Tower in Thessaloniki, Greece, a cylindrical stone tower on the waterfront promenade. The tower is surrounded by a small park with lush green grass and trees. The promenade extends along the turquoise sea to the left, and a busy city with white buildings and a street with cars is visible to the right. The sky is a dramatic mix of orange, pink, and yellow hues from the sunset. — The White Tower

From Byzantine churches to bustling waterfront cafes, Thessaloniki invites you to wander, taste, and uncover stories from centuries past. Here's everything you need to know before your first visit—and why history still shapes the way you experience this captivating city.

While it's Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki remains blissfully off the mainstream tourist radar. That means fewer selfie sticks and more soul. It's a city that lives and breathes through its locals, its layered history, and its cozy yet cosmopolitan vibes. The charm lies in how effortlessly the ancient and modern co-exist. You'll sip espresso freddos beneath Roman ruins, stroll through Ottoman-era markets, and dance the night away in converted Byzantine warehouses.

Walking Through Time: Thessaloniki's Past is Always Present

One of the most captivating parts of visiting Thessaloniki for the first time is how seamlessly its ancient history blends into daily life. This isn't a city where the past is locked behind glass—it lives in the streets, the architecture, and even in the way people gather, eat, and celebrate.

A wide-angle, eye-level shot of the Arch of Galerius, also known as Kamara, in Thessaloniki, Greece. The ancient Roman arch is made of brick and stone, with intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depicting battle scenes. The remaining brick structure forms a large archway. The arch stands on a paved square, and a modern apartment building with white walls and balconies is visible directly behind it. The sky is a bright blue with some clouds. — Arch of Galerius

Roman Era Remnants

Begin your historical journey at the Arch of Galerius, a towering Roman triumphal arch built in the 4th century. It was built to honor Emperor Galerius' victory over the Persians and is intricately decorated with marble reliefs that tell the story in stone. Just steps away lies the Rotunda, originally built as a mausoleum for Galerius, later turned into a Christian church and then a mosque—now a striking symbol of Thessaloniki's layered spiritual identity.

Byzantine Glory

As you wander the streets, you'll notice the city's skyline is dotted with domes and steeples. That's because Thessaloniki was once the second capital of the Byzantine Empire, after Constantinople. Today, it's home to more UNESCO World Heritage Byzantine churches than anywhere else in Greece. Step inside Agios Dimitrios, dedicated to the city's patron saint, or explore Panagia Chalkeon, a red-brick masterpiece built in the 11th century. Many of these churches are still in use, which makes them living spaces of faith, not just historical monuments.

Ottoman Echoes

The city's Ottoman period also left its mark, especially in neighborhoods like Ano Poli, where old wooden houses with overhanging balconies transport you back to another era. You'll also come across hamams (Turkish baths), such as the Bey Hamam, and markets like Bezesteni, which was once a hub for silks and spices. These remnants tell the story of a multicultural city that's always been at the crossroads of civilizations.

What to Do in Thessaloniki for First-Time Visitors

Now that you've had a taste of the city's rich past, it's time to dive into some of the best things to do in Thessaloniki for first-time travelers. Whether you're a history lover, foodie, or simply a curious wanderer, the city has something truly special for you.

A low-angle shot looking down a steep, narrow, cobbled street in the Ano Poli (Upper Town) of Thessaloniki, Greece. On both sides of the street are traditional houses with red-tiled roofs, whitewashed or pastel-colored walls, and balconies with wrought-iron railings. There are potted plants and climbing vines along the railings and stairways. The street leads down towards a wide view of the city and the sparkling blue sea and sky in the distance. — Narrow Street in the Old Town of Thessaloniki

Wander through Ano Poli

Start your day by heading uphill into Ano Poli, the Old Town. This area survived the Great Fire of 1917, preserving a maze of narrow streets, colorful Macedonian-style homes, and crumbling Byzantine-era stone walls. You'll find cozy family-run tavernas, hidden chapels, and some of the most breathtaking views of the Thermaic Gulf. It's the perfect place to enjoy slow travel—no rush, just discovery.

Walk the Waterfront from the White Tower to the Port

Stretching nearly 5km along the sea, the Thessaloniki waterfront promenade is one of Europe's best urban walks. Start at the iconic White Tower, climb to the top for panoramic views, and then stroll past themed gardens, such as the Garden of Sound and the Garden of Sculptors. Locals gather here to jog, bike, or just soak up the sea breeze. Grab a loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts) from a street vendor and just people-watch like a true Thessalonian.

Dive Into the City's Museums

For deeper context, spend time at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, where golden wreaths, ancient mosaics, and treasures from ancient Macedon (yes, Alexander the Great's homeland) await. Follow it up with a visit to the Museum of Byzantine Culture, a beautifully curated space that offers insight into daily life during Thessaloniki's imperial golden age.

A medium shot of a colorful fruit and vegetable stand at the Kapani outdoor market in Thessaloniki, Greece. The stall is overflowing with fresh produce, including green cabbage heads, red tomatoes, asparagus, and various fruits like peaches, grapes, and figs in the foreground. The vegetables are arranged in crates and boxes, creating a vibrant display. People are visible blurred in the background, walking down the market aisle. — Fruits and Vegetables Stand at Kapani Market

Explore Modiano and Kapani Markets

Experience the city's daily rhythm by stepping into its vibrant markets. Kapani Market (also known as Vlali) is chaotic, colorful, and packed with spices, fresh produce, meats, and local gossip. Right next door, the newly renovated Modiano Market blends old and new—think fresh seafood stalls alongside trendy wine bars. It's a feast for the senses and a great place to chat with locals.

Taste Thessaloniki's Unique Cuisine

This city's food scene is legendary. From spicy soutzoukakia (meatballs in tomato sauce) to the creamy, cheese-filled bougatsa that Thessaloniki is famous for, every meal tells a story. Head to Ladadika, a revived historic district filled with ouzeries and tavernas, and order a spread of meze to share. Pair it with a glass of local tsipouro or retsina, and toast to new adventures.

This city will surprise you—in the best ways possible. Thessaloniki invites you to explore its history, food, and relaxed vibe. It encourages you to look closer and stay longer.

A panoramic, eye-level shot of the Church of Saint Paul the Apostle in Thessaloniki, Greece, a large and ornate Byzantine-style church. The church has a light brown stone facade, numerous arches, and several large, red-domed roofs. It is nestled among a thick grove of green trees and cypress trees on a hill, overlooking the densely packed white buildings of the city in the background. A mountain range is visible in the far distance under a clear, bright blue sky. — Church of Saint Paul the Apostle

Schedule a consultation with me to plan your personalized, culturally immersive journey to Thessaloniki. Let's make your first trip to Greece unforgettable—beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of northern Greece.