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Aristotelous Square: Thessaloniki's Grand Promenade

Thessaloniki's heart, Aristotelous Square blends neoclassical architecture with a lively atmosphere, offering stunning waterfront views and cultural experiences.

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Aristotelous Square is the main city square of Thessaloniki, Greece, located on the waterfront along Nikis Avenue. Designed by Ernest Hébrard in 1918, it was mostly constructed in the 1950s after the Great Fire of 1917. The square is a vibrant hub surrounded by neoclassical buildings, cafes, and shops, making it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Aristotelous Square

  • Thessaloniki, 546 24, GR

Local tips

  • Stroll along the waterfront promenade for beautiful views of the Thermaic Gulf.
  • Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the square.
  • Visit the statue of Aristotle for a photo opportunity and a connection to the city's history.
  • Check out the Olympion Theatre, a historic cinema and cultural venue that hosts the Thessaloniki International Film Festival.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Aristotelous Square is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many points in Thessaloniki. From the White Tower, walk straight along the waterfront (Nikis Avenue) for about 15 minutes. From Ladadika district, walk towards the sea; the square will be directly ahead. The walk is mostly flat and offers views of the Thermaic Gulf.

  • Public Transport

    Thessaloniki's Urban Transport Organization (OASTH) operates several bus lines that stop near Aristotelous Square. Bus lines 15, 25, and 26 have stops within a 3-minute walk. A single bus ticket costs €2. The Thessaloniki Metro also has a station (Venizelou) about a 37-minute walk away. From the Thessaloniki Airport, bus line 01X runs directly to the city center, with Aristotelous Square being one of the stops.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki and can drop you off directly at Aristotelous Square. From the Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), a taxi ride to Aristotelous Square takes 15-20 minutes and costs between €27 and €36, depending on traffic. Short rides within the city typically start at €5.

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Discover more about Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square, or Plateia Aristotelous, is Thessaloniki's most iconic public space, serving as a vibrant hub for social interaction, cultural events, and daily city life. Designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard following the Great Fire of 1917, the square embodies Thessaloniki's architectural evolution and modernist aspirations. Hébrard envisioned a monumental axis stretching from the seafront to Dikastirion Square, implementing imposing façades, a feature previously missing from the city. Originally intended to be named Alexander the Great Square, it was later named after Aristotle, honoring his role as a key figure in the city's rebirth. The square's design blends Byzantine and Western architectural styles, creating a unique aesthetic. Today, Aristotelous Square is a bustling tourist hotspot with cafes, boutiques, and eateries. Notable buildings surrounding the square include the Electra Palace Hotel and the Olympion Theatre, home to the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. The square hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and political rallies throughout the year, making it a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike. A statue of Aristotle, placed near the waterfront in 1990, adds to the square's historical and cultural significance.

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