Placed strategically on the gulf of Thermaikos, it’s a city that combines anything you could ask for.
Founded in 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedonia, the city of Thessaloniki, Greece, got its name from Thessaloniki, wife of Cassander and half-sister of Alexander the Great, and was named like that after her father, King Phillip II of Macedonia, to commemorate his victory over the Phocians with the help of Thessalian horsemen. Thessaloniki, in Greek, actually means the “victory of the Thessalians”.
Thessaloniki or ‘’the Bride of the North’’ as she is sometimes called, is the second largest city of Greece. Placed strategically on the gulf of Thermaikos, it’s a city that combines anything you could ask for.
A nightlife like no other, sea and mountain, the old city and its walls, the beautiful beaches of Chalkidiki just an hour away, and arguably the best cuisine in Greece. Thessaloniki is a Greek destination offering a truly unique experience.
Undeniably the most popular monument in Thessaloniki and the trademark of the city, the White Tower, located along the waterfront of Greece’s second city, stands tall. This famous landmark is connected to the city’s rich past and offers visitors captivating views of the area, including the Thermaic Gulf.
The monument to Alexander the Great was erected in 1973 on the voluntary donations collected by the city committees. The unveiling of the memorial was held in 1974 on saint Alexander’s day, August 30. The monument represents Alexander of Macedon riding his favourite horse Bucephalus, whom he had never left during his military career.
The Church of Saint Demetrius, or Hagios Demetrios, is the main sanctuary dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki, dating from a time when it was the second-largest city of the Byzantine Empire.
Impossible to choose just one. Where to begin? Rooftop bars are in abundance especially during the summer months serving great cocktails. Usually placed in the center of the city they are an instant hotspot. Ladadika is the place to be at night offering clubs, bars, and crazy stories.
The island of Diaporos near Vourvourou is a great day out to beautiful crystal blue and green waters. The island is accessible by boat rentals from Chalkidiki, however, boats can also be rented from Porto Karras, where you can take an extended trip around Chalkidiki, using the best beach bars as frequent stop-offs.
About an hour away from the main city of Thessaloniki, you find some of the best beaches, seafood, and mountain combinations that you will ever see.
Gerovasileiou is an international brand name and considered one of the best wineries. Just 15 minutes away in the outskirts of Epanomi offering a great experience.
If you’re looking for a day filled with fun, shopping, coffee, drinks, and a little sightseeing, then visiting the Ruines of the old roman market, the walls of the old city (Kastra), Tsinari, Chalkidiki, Vergina, the entire beachfront of Thermaikos, the new promenade will encompass all of the above.
When it comes to dining options in Thessaloniki, the options are endless. It really comes down to whether you would like meat or fish, a simple taverna, or a little more high-end, new-age cuisine. Thessaloniki has something for everyone, but one of our favorites is Folia, which is a well-kept secret in the old city with imaginative traditional dishes. Braxos is a sea tavern like no other with fresh fish and a great view. And lastly, Sebriko is the place to go for all you meat lovers.
Would you like to find out more about this destination or speak with one of our Epicureans about the best options in Greece? Reach out to one of our experts who can tailor an unforgettable experience that will be the envy of your friends.