Ancient City of Thessaloniki
Discover Thessaloniki's ancient heart: a vibrant mix of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history in a dynamic modern city.
Explore the historical heart of Thessaloniki, a city founded in 315 BC, showcasing layers of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history. Wander through UNESCO World Heritage sites, discover ancient ruins, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural crossroads.
A brief summary to Città antica di Tessalonica
- Mpoumpoulinas 23, Thessaloniki, 546 33, GR
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as exploring the ancient sites involves a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context before exploring the individual sites.
- Take advantage of local buses or taxis to reach sites located further from the city center.
- Explore Ano Poli (Upper Town) for a more relaxed atmosphere and panoramic views of the city.
- Check for local festivals or events, as Thessaloniki often hosts cultural celebrations that enhance the visitor experience.
Getting There
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Walking
The main historical sites are concentrated within Thessaloniki's city center, making walking an ideal way to explore. From Aristotelous Square, head east towards the waterfront to reach the White Tower. The Arch of Galerius and Rotunda are a short walk northeast of Aristotelous Square. Allow ample time to wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems.
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Public Transport
Thessaloniki's public transport system, primarily buses and the metro, provides access to sites further afield. Bus lines 03, 15, and 39 connect the Port of Thessaloniki to Aristotelous Square and the White Tower. The Line 50 tourist bus covers major landmarks. A single bus/metro ticket costs €0.60 and is valid for 70 minutes. A day ticket costs €2.00. The Thessaloniki Metro operates from 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM (Sun-Thurs) and until 2:00 AM (Fri-Sat).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. You can hail one on the street or use the Free Now app. The minimum fare is €4.00, with a rate of €0.90 per km within city limits during the day (05:00-00:00) and €1.25 per km at night (00:00-05:00). A taxi ride from the train station to the city center will cost around €5.
Discover more about Città antica di Tessalonica
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gate on city old wall
0.2 km
Explore a historic gate in Thessaloniki's ancient fortifications, a testament to the city's rich Byzantine past and enduring cultural heritage.
Acropolis Walls
0.3 km
Explore the ancient Acropolis Walls in Sykies, a historic defense structure offering panoramic views of Thessaloniki and a glimpse into the city's past.
Οικία Ντίνου Χριστιανόπουλου
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting Oikia Ntinou Christianopoulou, a historical landmark in Thessaloniki showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Οικία Ντίνου Χριστιανόπουλου
0.3 km
A tribute to the life and legacy of Dinos Christianopoulos, a renowned Greek poet, scholar, and literary figure of Thessaloniki.
Portara (Main Gate)
0.7 km
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
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Anna Palaiologina Gate, a historic portal offering a glimpse into the city's medieval defenses.
Ancient Agora Square
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Ancient Agora: a vibrant center of Roman history, culture, and architecture, located in the heart of the city.
Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's ancient defenses: Wander through history along the Byzantine Walls, offering stunning city views.
Hellenistic Baths
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's ancient past at the Hellenistic Baths, a window into daily life in the Hellenistic era.
Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Tranos
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of this stunning Greek Orthodox church in the heart of Thessaloniki, a true Byzantine gem.
Agias Sofias
0.9 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Agia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning Byzantine art, architecture, and centuries of religious history.
Column of the Snakes
0.9 km
Discover the Column of the Snakes in Thessaloniki, a vestige of Roman grandeur and a silent keeper of the city's historical secrets.
Τείχη Ακροπόλεως
0.9 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Heptapyrgion Fortress: A journey through Byzantine and Ottoman history with panoramic city views from its ancient walls.
Τείχη Ακροπόλεως
0.9 km
Discover Thessaloniki's ancient fortifications: a journey through Byzantine and Ottoman history with stunning panoramic views.
Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Acheiropoietos
0.9 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Acheiropoietos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mosaics and architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Latomos Monastery - Holy Church of Hosios David
0.1 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Latomos Monastery in Thessaloniki, a historic gem showcasing Byzantine art and spiritual heritage.
Vlatadon Monastery
0.3 km
Discover Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Vlatadon Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views and rich history.
The Peach House
0.3 km
Discover Thessaloniki's historic charm at The Peach House in Ano Poli, where culture, beauty, and panoramic views await.
Byzantine Bath of Thessalonica
0.3 km
Explore a rare example of Byzantine bathing culture in Thessaloniki's Upper Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries of history.
Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica
0.5 km
Explore the stunning Byzantine mosaics and historical crypt of Thessaloniki's Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos
0.7 km
Discover Thessaloniki's hidden gem: a 14th-century Byzantine church with stunning frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a serene escape.
Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Roman heart: Uncover the ruins of the ancient forum, marketplace, and theater in the city center.
Old town panorama terrace
0.7 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of Thessaloniki's historic Old Town, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's rich past.
Trigoniou (Chain) Tower
0.8 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Trigoniou Tower: a historic fortress with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Thermaic Gulf.
Triangle Tower
0.8 km
Explore Thessaloniki's history at the Triangle Tower: panoramic views, ancient walls, and Ottoman legacy in the Upper Town.
Atatürk Museum
0.8 km
Explore the birthplace of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey, in this historic Thessaloniki museum.
SEIKILO Museum of Ancient Music / LUTHIEROS
0.9 km
Explore the sounds of ancient Greece at the SEIKILO Museum in Thessaloniki, home to a unique collection of reconstructed ancient instruments.
Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki
0.9 km
Explore Thessaloniki's historic Heptapyrgion Fortress, a Byzantine and Ottoman-era landmark with stunning views and a chilling past as a notorious prison.
Church of Panagia Chalkeon
0.9 km
Explore Thessaloniki's 'Red Church,' a UNESCO-listed Byzantine masterpiece with stunning frescoes and a rich history dating back to the 11th century.
Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos
0.9 km
Explore the Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos in Thessaloniki, a captivating monument celebrating the legacy of Greece's transformative leader.
Essential places to dine
Tsinari tavern
0.3 km
Discover Tsinari Tavern in Thessaloniki: A must-visit for authentic Greek cuisine and unforgettable dining experiences.
Prytanio
0.3 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Prytanio, a top-rated restaurant in Thessaloniki offering delightful dishes in a warm ambiance.
Το Πρυτανείο
0.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of Greece at Το Πρυτανείο in Thessaloniki - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Wall by Wall
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors at Wall by Wall, a Mediterranean gem in Thessaloniki offering delicious tapas and traditional dishes.
Koukida Fun-Seafood
0.4 km
Discover the taste of Greece at Koukida Fun-Seafood in Thessaloniki - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Konaki
0.4 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine at Konaki - a culinary treasure in Thessaloniki offering delightful dishes in a warm atmosphere.
Nea Folia
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Nea Folia in Thessaloniki – where every dish tells a story!
Phiskárdo
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Phiskárdo in Thessaloniki - where fresh ingredients meet culinary tradition.
Igglis
0.6 km
Discover the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Igglis in Thessaloniki – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Daisi Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Daisi Restaurant in Thessaloniki, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Kanoula
0.7 km
Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Kanoula in Thessaloniki - where every dish tells a story!
Η στάση (συνεργατικόν καφενείον)
0.7 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Η στάση in Thessaloniki - where every dish tells a story.
Tsarouchas Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover the essence of Greek cuisine at Tsarouchas Restaurant in Thessaloniki - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Tripia Potiria
0.7 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Tripia Potiria in Thessaloniki - a must-visit restaurant for every food lover.
Salento Wood Fired Street Food
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian wood-fired pizzas and brunch delights at Salento Wood Fired Street Food in Thessaloniki.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TILT! gifts
0.4 km
Explore TILT! Gifts in Thessaloniki for unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of Greece, supporting local artisans and culture.
IXNK ΕΙΚΟΝΕΣ - ΑΓΙΟΓΡΑΦΙΕΣ
0.6 km
Explore IXNK ΕΙΚΟΝΕΣ - ΑΓΙΟΓΡΑΦΙΕΣ for unique souvenirs and local art in Thessaloniki, capturing the spirit of Greece in every piece.
hatch.gr
0.6 km
Explore Thessaloniki's premier fashion accessories store for unique leather goods, stylish sunglasses, and vintage clothing that elevate your style.
ANTIQUE MARKET
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's Antique Market for unique treasures and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural history.
Vaudeville Room
0.7 km
Explore Thessaloniki's fashion scene at Vaudeville Room, where unique styles and exceptional service create a memorable shopping experience.
FETOKIS DIMITRIOS
0.8 km
Explore the charm of history at Fetokis Dimitrios, an antique store in Thessaloniki with a unique collection of vintage treasures.
ATELIEANASTASIA
0.9 km
Explore the charm of Thessaloniki with unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures at ATELIEANASTASIA, your go-to gift shop.
Merci Boutique
1.0 km
Explore unique fashion and curated styles at Merci Boutique in Thessaloniki, where elegance meets contemporary trends.
V for Vintage
1.0 km
Explore V for Vintage in Thessaloniki for a unique shopping experience filled with timeless clothing treasures and local fashion flair.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant and quirky offerings of Flying Tiger Copenhagen, your go-to gift shop in Thessaloniki for unique finds and fun surprises.
90s Closet
1.0 km
Explore 90s Closet in Thessaloniki for a unique vintage shopping experience, featuring iconic styles and rare finds from the unforgettable 1990s era.
GREEK ART SOUVENIRS VAMVOUKAKIS
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant world of Greek Art Souvenirs Vamvoukas in Thessaloniki, where culture and creativity unite in unique handcrafted treasures.
Ragian S.A.
1.0 km
Explore the culinary treasures of Ragian S.A. in Thessaloniki - a grocery store offering local delicacies and international favorites in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mood Boutique
1.1 km
Explore the stylish offerings at Mood Boutique in Thessaloniki, where modern fashion meets timeless elegance for every woman's wardrobe.
Think White boutique
1.1 km
Discover contemporary fashion at Think White Boutique in Thessaloniki, a chic clothing store offering unique styles and personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Castra- All Day Terrace Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at Castra, Thessaloniki's premier terrace bar for cocktails and coffee.
Ερείπιο rock bar
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Ερείπιο Rock Bar in Thessaloniki, where rock music meets a lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.
The Blues Bar
0.7 km
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
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki at Le Coq Tail Mix Bar, where innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
The Nectar Distillery
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Nectar Distillery, Thessaloniki's premier bar for artisanal cocktails and unforgettable moments.
Kafodeio Greek
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kafodeio Greek in Thessaloniki, where exceptional coffee, live music, and a welcoming ambiance await.
Beer Fabrica
1.1 km
Experience the best of Greek craft beer at Beer Fabrica, a vibrant gastropub in Sykies offering delicious brews and bites in a lively atmosphere.
Arrogant Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki at Arrogant Bar, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Flantza cafebar
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and delightful drinks at Flantza Cafebar, a must-visit spot in Thessaloniki for relaxation and local culture.
Pulp
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Pulp, a trendy bar in Thessaloniki offering a wide selection of drinks and lively entertainment.
Funky Monkey SKG
1.2 km
Experience the lively nightlife at Funky Monkey SKG, a trendy bar in Thessaloniki known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
Lipuu Bar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki at Lipuu Bar, where locals and visitors gather for drinks, snacks, and unforgettable experiences.
OLD str. Downtown Bar
1.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious drinks at OLD str. Downtown Bar in Thessaloniki, a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Ενοχές Bar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ενοχές Bar, where art meets entertainment in the heart of Thessaloniki's nightlife.
CHILAI wine - restaurant - bar
1.3 km
Experience the essence of Thessaloniki at CHILAI, where exquisite wines and Mediterranean flavors meet in a vibrant atmosphere.
