The Allure of Ano Poli: Thessaloniki's Historic Heart

Discover Ano Poli, Thessaloniki's historic district with stunning views, rich history, and charming streets. An ideal spot for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

Ano Poli, or 'Upper Town,' is the historic district of Thessaloniki, Greece. This charming neighborhood is perched on a hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf. As you stroll through its narrow, winding streets, you'll discover a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, with traditional houses, stone-paved alleys, and centuries-old churches. It's like stepping back in time. Ano Poli is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the bustling city below. Despite its quiet charm, the neighborhood is filled with life. Local tavernas serve delicious Greek cuisine, while cozy cafes invite you to relax and soak in the views. The area is also home to several important historical sites, including the Byzantine Walls, the Vlatadon Monastery, and the Trigonion Tower. Each of these landmarks tells a story of Thessaloniki's rich past. As you explore Ano Poli, you'll notice the vibrant colors and unique architectural styles that give the neighborhood its character. The area is a photographer's paradise, with picturesque scenes around every corner. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying a leisurely day, Ano Poli offers something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to visit this enchanting part of Thessaloniki.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ano Poli.

Wear comfortable walking shoes; the streets are steep and cobblestone.
Visit the Byzantine Walls at sunset for breathtaking views.
Try local dishes at a traditional taverna for an authentic Greek experience.
Carry a map or use GPS; the narrow streets can be confusing.
Check opening hours of historical sites in advance to plan your visit.

Αρχείο:THES-Heptapyrgion SE.jpg - Βικιπαίδεια

File:Thessaloniki-from old town.jpg - Wikipedia

Dosya:Thessalonikki, Macedonia, Greece779.jpg - Vikipedi

View of Thessaloniki image - Free stock photo - Public Domain photo - CC0 Images

Ficheiro:Facade of Philip II tomb Vergina Greece.jpg - Wikipedia, a enciclopedia libre

File:Thessaloniki Byzantine baths of Ano Poli from the south.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Walls of Thessaloniki by ArmAg (3).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Βυζαντινά λουτρά Άνω Πόλης 1790.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Βυζαντινό λουτρό Άνω Πόλης 1788.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Explore the best of what Ano Poli has to offer

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Portara (Main Gate)

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient past at the Portara, a historic gate offering stunning city views and a glimpse into Byzantine architecture.

Anna Palaiologina Gate – Trigonio

Explore Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Anna Palaiologina Gate, a historic portal offering a glimpse into the city's medieval defenses.

Gate on city old wall

Explore a historic gate in Thessaloniki's ancient fortifications, a testament to the city's rich Byzantine past and enduring cultural heritage.

Τείχη Ακροπόλεως

Explore Thessaloniki's Heptapyrgion Fortress: A journey through Byzantine and Ottoman history with panoramic city views from its ancient walls.

Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient defenses: Wander through history along the Byzantine Walls, offering stunning city views.

The Peach House

Discover Thessaloniki's charm at The Peach House: a historic landmark in Ano Poli with stunning views and a taste of local culture.

Οικία Ντίνου Χριστιανόπουλου

A tribute to the life and legacy of Dinos Christianopoulos, a renowned Greek poet, scholar, and literary figure of Thessaloniki.

Unmissable attractions to see

Trigoniou (Chain) Tower

Explore Thessaloniki's Trigoniou Tower: a historic fortress with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Thermaic Gulf.

Città antica di Tessalonica

Discover Thessaloniki's ancient heart: Explore cobblestone streets, Byzantine churches, and panoramic views in the captivating Città Antica.

The Peach House

Discover Thessaloniki's historic charm at The Peach House in Ano Poli, where culture, beauty, and panoramic views await.

Old town panorama terrace

Breathtaking panoramic views of Thessaloniki's historic Old Town, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

Essential places to dine

Wall by Wall

Experience the essence of Mediterranean dining at Wall by Wall in Thessaloniki—where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

Tsinari tavern

Discover Tsinari Tavern in Thessaloniki: A must-visit for authentic Greek cuisine and unforgettable dining experiences.

Kanoula

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Kanoula in Thessaloniki – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

Igglis

Discover the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Igglis in Thessaloniki – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.

Nea Folia

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Nea Folia in Thessaloniki – where every dish tells a story!

Η στάση (συνεργατικόν καφενείον)

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Η στάση in Thessaloniki - where every dish tells a story.

Το Πρυτανείο

Discover the rich flavors of Greece at Το Πρυτανείο in Thessaloniki - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Konaki

Savor authentic Greek cuisine at Konaki - a culinary treasure in Thessaloniki offering delightful dishes in a warm atmosphere.

Phiskárdo

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Phiskárdo in Thessaloniki - where fresh ingredients meet culinary tradition.

Prytanio

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Prytanio, a top-rated restaurant in Thessaloniki offering delightful dishes in a warm ambiance.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

TILT! gifts

Shop unique and locally crafted souvenirs at TILT! Gifts in Thessaloniki, a charming store that captures the essence of Greek culture.

Vaudeville Room

Discover the Vaudeville Room in Thessaloniki - a vibrant clothing store showcasing unique styles that embody the city's eclectic fashion culture.

hatch.gr

Explore Hatch.gr in Thessaloniki for unique fashion accessories, leather goods, vintage clothing, and stylish sunglasses that reflect local culture.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Castra- All Day Terrace Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at Castra, Thessaloniki's premier terrace bar for cocktails and coffee.

The Blues Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Blues Bar in Thessaloniki, where delightful drinks and live music create an unforgettable experience.

Le Coq tail mix bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki at Le Coq Tail Mix Bar, where innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.

Ερείπιο rock bar

Discover the vibrant energy of Ερείπιο Rock Bar in Thessaloniki, where rock music meets a lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.

With Eve

Local Phrases

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ano Poli. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
- GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
- YesΝαι
  [Ne]
- NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
- Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
- Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
- Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
- How are you?Τι κάνετε;
  [Ti kanete?]
- Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
- Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
- I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalavaino]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
- I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
- Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]
- Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
- Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
- Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
- Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro!]
- I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hafi]
- I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]
- I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agorasoo...]
- I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla koi tao]
- How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
- That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akri vo]
- Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na mi osete tin time?]
- What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
- It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
- Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (deka)]
- MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
- AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apogevma]
- EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
- YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
- TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
- TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
- 1Ένα
  [Ena]
- 2Δύο
  [Dio]
- 3Τρία
  [Tria]
- 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
- 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
- 6Έξι
  [Exi]
- 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
- 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
- 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
- 10Δέκα
  [Deka]
- Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
- What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για...)
  [Ena isitirio (gia...)]

History of Ano Poli

Ano Poli, or Upper Town, has its roots in the Byzantine period, serving as a crucial defensive site due to its elevated position overlooking Thessaloniki. This neighborhood was fortified with walls built during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II in the 5th century, which helped protect the city from invasions and played a significant role during the Byzantine Empire's turbulent times.
During the Ottoman period, which began in the 15th century, Ano Poli became a vibrant neighborhood filled with a diverse population. The Ottomans constructed numerous mosques and public baths, many of which still stand today, showcasing the architectural blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles. Important examples include the Vlatadon Monastery and the Ypapanti Church, which reflect the area's religious and cultural pluralism.
The Great Fire of Thessaloniki in 1917 devastated much of the city, but Ano Poli was largely spared due to its location on a hill. This event led to significant urban restructuring in the lower parts of the city while preserving the historical fabric of Ano Poli. The neighborhood became a refuge for those displaced by the fire, contributing to its unique character and community resilience.
In the decades following World War II, Ano Poli experienced a cultural revival as artists, musicians, and writers began to re-explore the neighborhood's rich history. This period saw the establishment of cultural festivals and events that celebrated the area's heritage, further cementing its reputation as a hub for Thessaloniki's artistic community.
Today, Ano Poli is recognized for its historical significance and charm. Efforts to preserve its unique architecture and cultural heritage have been implemented, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The neighborhood is now a vibrant blend of history and modernity, showcasing traditional tavernas, artisan shops, and stunning views of the city below, while maintaining its identity as one of Thessaloniki's oldest districts.

Ano Poli Essentials

Ano Poli is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Thessaloniki. You can take bus lines 23, 31, or 33 from the city center, which will drop you near the entrance of Ano Poli. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi or a rideshare service, which offers a convenient way to reach the neighborhood directly. If you're feeling adventurous, walking up from the vibrant Aristotelous Square offers a scenic route that showcases the city's charm.
Ano Poli is a hilly neighborhood, making walking the best way to explore its narrow streets and historical sites. Public buses serve the area, but they may not be as frequent. Taxis are available, and some visitors choose to rent bicycles, though be prepared for steep inclines. Walking tours are also popular, led by local guides who can provide insight into the history and culture of the area.
Ano Poli is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas. While crime rates are relatively low, it's advisable to stay informed about your surroundings and avoid areas known for higher crime rates, such as certain outskirts of the city.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are local hospitals and clinics available in Thessaloniki. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are plentiful and can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking; don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially near religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs; always cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly; don't use your phone loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good Morning); don't interrupt when someone is speaking. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine at tavernas; don't waste food, as it is seen as disrespectful.
To experience Ano Poli like a local, visit the traditional coffee shops (kafeneia) where you can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee and engage in conversation with residents. Explore the hidden alleyways and discover street art that narrates the neighborhood's history. Don't miss the panoramic views from the city's walls, especially at sunset. Attend local festivals or events that showcase traditional music and dance for an authentic cultural experience.

The Allure of Ano Poli: Thessaloniki's Historic Heart

Know before you go