Greece's second largest city, seaside Thessaloniki is appealingly walkable. All roads run alongside the sea or towards it, meaning that the city feels very much oriented around the water. Relics from the city’s fascinating past under Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine rule are everywhere — perfect for heritage and culture aficionados. Popular with romantic couples, families and business travellers alike, the best places to stay in Thessaloniki are varied, including everything from chic B&Bs to luxurious seafront hotels.
Explore the city independently on foot, borrow bicycles, or take a guided tour for an in-depth understanding of Thessaloniki’s many layers. The striking White Tower is unmissable, and a wonderful starting point for those looking to amble along the 4.5km seafront promenade toward the ferry port. Discover marvellous Macedonian artefacts in the Archaeological Museum, admire the impressive collection house at the Museum of Byzantine Culture, or pop in to the Olympic Museum.
Thessaloniki was once surrounded by Byzantine fortifications, and the remains of the walls are ideal for a walk. You’ll pass the imposing Agia Sophia and Agios Demetrios, but there are also a number of smaller churches dotted throughout the city. Fill your bags with fresh produce — including local wine and honey — at the bustling Modiano markets, or head into the surrounding countryside to tour farms and working vineyards. Try hiking, cycling and canyoning in Macedonia’s mountains, or simply unwind at soothing spas and tuck into delicious cuisine at the best places to stay in Thessaloniki.