What to see and do
Take a wander around the Archaeological Museum for an insight into Thessaloniki’s Macedonian heritage. It houses a good collection of religious artefacts, sculptures and gold from the nearby cemetery. Among the highlights are the treasures of Vergina, discovered in 1978, which include the tomb of Phillip, Alexander the Great’s father.
In the Museum of Byzantine Culture, you’ll find a good collection of sculptures, frescoes and mosaics, plus a wide variety of orthodox religious icons from the 14th-18th centuries.
For superb frescoes visit the 17th century church of Agios Nikolaos Orfanos and the Byzantine church of Agia Sofia. Agia Sofia is a must-see, also noteworthy for its huge dome and mosaic of the Ascension.
Contemporary culture can be sampled with a visit to Thessaloniki during its International Film Festival, held every November. Alternatively, visit the Cinema Museum, the city’s impressive Concert Hall, or the National Theatre of Northern Greece.
Families can combine a trip to the zoo with a visit to the Natural History Museum, situated in its grounds. Look out for cross-sections of river beds, displays on forest, alpine and marine life, plus a good section on Greek predators and prey.
Sail along the coast and visit the beaches by boat.
You can rent a boat or use your own and visit any beach you want and sail along the peninsula.
If you have your own boat, you will find a very well equipped marina at Porto Carras, Sithonia and also at Sani, Kassandra.
Top attractions of Thessaloniki Town
- Ancient Agora of Thessaloniki
- Aristotelous Square
- Museum of the Macedonian Struggle
- Rotunda and Arch of Galerius
- White Tower
- Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art
- Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum
- Thessaloniki Byzantine Museum
- Thessaloniki Olympic Museum
- Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki
- Cinema Museum Thessaloniki
- Ataturk Museum
- Church of Agios Dimitrios
- Church of Agia Sofia
- OTE Tower
- Byzantine Walls
- New Promenade
