Beach holidays in Greece are mainly represented by sandy beaches with yellow, black and even red sand. Almost all of them are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay, and more than 400 of them fly the Blue Flag. Since the entire Greek coast is public, amenities in the form of sun loungers and umbrellas are provided for a fee.
Thessaloniki Greece beach holiday
Thessaloniki is a port city. Because its waters are turbid due to the activity of barges and ships, they are not suitable for swimming. However, various water competitions are held here, and tourists enjoy riding boats and ships.
The beach season in the vicinity of Thessaloniki opens from the end of May. The sea temperature at this time is +19-20°C. In June it warms up to +22°C, and by September - up to +25°C.
It is advisable to come here to swim before the first half of October, when the water in the Aegean Sea remains at +23°C. The wet season starts in the second half of the month and sun loungers are removed from local beaches.
Note! For those coming to the resort for a beach holiday, it makes sense to book a hotel not in the center of Thessaloniki, but in the nearest suburb.
Beach holidays in Greece
Top 6 beaches of Thessaloniki
The article will take a closer look at the beaches in the suburbs of Thessaloniki in Greece, located 20-30 km from the city.
You can get to them by rented car or taxi, by bus from the IKEA East bus station (fare 2 euros*) or by boat from Thessaloniki Embankment (ticket costs 2.7 euros; departures every hour from 9 am to 9 pm).
Perea
The coast of Perea (distance from the center of Thessaloniki - 15 km) has fine yellow sand and clear turquoise water. During the day you can sit in one of the taverns, sunbathe, play football or volleyball.
The beach of Perea, about 2 km long, is equipped with:
- Beach bars (at the service of vacationers - an interesting program and music for every taste, playing almost until the morning). If you order juice, coffee or beer at one of the bars for 2-5 euros, you won’t have to pay for using beach equipment.
- Sports and children's playgrounds;
- Beach equipment rental;
- Cabins where you can change clothes;
- Sun beds and umbrellas;
- Showers;
- Toilet.
Tariffs: use of a shower - 1.5 euros, rental of a sun lounger - 3 euros, cost of a soft drink - 2 euros.*
Map of beaches in Greece Thessaloniki
Nei Epivates
24.9 km from Thessaloniki is Nei Epivates, whose sandy shore stretches for more than 2 km. It is always noisy and crowded here, the water is clean, and the entry into the sea is smooth. The shore is shallow at first, but gradually the depth increases and those who wish will be able to dive.
Note! Coastal bars and restaurants set up tables right on the shore: those who wish can order food and drinks.
Prices: sun lounger + umbrella - 6 euros, but those interested can find free areas where they can sit on their own towel.*
Note! Along the coast there are shops selling hats, sunscreen and other necessary goods.
Agia Triada
Thessaloniki and Agia Triada are separated by 27.8 km. The kilometre-long Blue Flag beach of Agia Triada has:
- Sites for those wishing to pitch tents;
- Souls;
- Changing cabins;
- Coastal bars and taverns.
Perea beach
The sea in Agia Triada is clear and calm, and the depth increases gradually.
Tariffs: 2 sunbeds + umbrella - about 7 euros.*
Note! There are quite a few sunbeds on Agia Triada, so it makes sense to stock up on your own straw mat.
Nea Michanyona
From Thessaloniki to Nea Michanion - 50 minutes by taxi.
Swimming in Nea Michaniona is a pleasure: there are no algae or large stones, there are umbrellas, showers, toilets, sun loungers, changing rooms, and volleyball courts.
Prices: tourists will pay 5 euros for an umbrella with a sun lounger, and use of a shower and toilet costs 1.5 euros each.
On a high bank above the sea, in the shade of trees, there are various food establishments: those sitting at their tables will be able to admire the sea views.
Note! Not far from the coast of Nea Michanion, a fish market opens in the mornings: it’s worth going here to buy fresh seafood and other delicacies.
Epanomi
Thessaloniki and Epanomi are separated by 30 km. The latter is famous for its beach, clear and deep sea, as well as a bay with a ship that sank about 50 years ago, so it has ideal conditions for scuba diving.
Agia Triada beach
Important! Part of the ship can be seen from the shore, but to examine the part that is under water, you need to swim to it, wearing special equipment.
Potamos Beach, awarded the Blue Flag, has dark orange sand. There are available to vacationers:
- Sun loungers;
- Coastal traditional taverns;
- Rescue Service;
- Umbrellas and thatched canopies;
- Showers;
- Changing cabins;
- Volleyball court;
- Tennis court;
- A small field for beach soccer fans.
Potamos Beach
The sea on the right side is quiet and suitable for a relaxing holiday, but on the right it is quite deep and there are strong winds, which is why kitesurfing enthusiasts come here.
Since Epanomi is surrounded by vineyards, you shouldn't leave here without trying the local wines.
Angelochori
Between Thessaloniki and Angelochori - 30 km. Due to the strong winds prevailing at the latter resort, wind and kite surfers flock here.
Infrastructure of the Angelochori coast:
- Showers;
- Changing cabins;
- Taverns;
- Souvenir shops;
- Toilets.
Note! Despite the fact that Angelochori is attractive to athletes, ordinary beachgoers often head here, so at the height of the summer season there are not enough sun loungers by the water for everyone.
Beach holidays in Thessaloniki with children
The best beach for families with children is the one located in Agiada Triada. For them, there is a warm and shallow sea, a kilometer-long sandy coastline and a playground (5 euros/hour).
A good place to spend time with a child is the Perea beach, since the descent into the water is gentle + there are children's attractions with slides in the summer. But it’s worth considering: further from the shore the bottom sharply deepens, so little vacationers should never be left unattended.
Those who have a car are advised to go to Nea Vrasna beach (it was awarded the Blue Flag for meeting European standards): there are fewer tourists and a rather calm and measured atmosphere. Little vacationers on Nea Vrasna will be able to splash around in the shallow waters (the sea is warm) and build sand castles. As for adults, there are sun loungers and taverns for them.
Nea Vrasna beach
Note! Vacationers in Thessaloniki with children should please them with a visit to the Waterland water park with 8 water attractions (Zen, Wave and Kids Pool, Pirates Island, Tarzan, Multi Slides, Crazy River, Simvoli Slides). An all-day ticket for persons over 14 years old will cost 14.5 euros, and for children 4-14 years old - 11 euros (tickets purchased online are 1 euro cheaper).
Tips from experienced travelers:
- To make it more comfortable to get to the beaches in the vicinity of Thessaloniki, it is advisable to rent a car;
- You can get to Agia Triada beach by bus number 76, Nea Michaniona - number 72, Epanomi - number 69;
- You should definitely include in your vacation program a visit to the floating cafe at the White Tower, stylized as a pirate schooner: every day from 11:30 to 04:30 it goes on a 30-minute boat trip along the coast.
The boat trip is free: you only pay for what you order on board (the cheapest drink is coffee: it costs 4 euros).
On the beaches of Thessaloniki, travelers can take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beautiful nature.
* Prices are valid for summer 2018.
Beach vacation spots. Resorts near Thessaloniki are visited by tens of thousands of vacationers every year, and the number of Russian travelers makes up a considerable percentage of the guest lists of local hotels. The Greek Riviera in the historical region of Macedonia is famous for its attractions and ideal infrastructure for a beach holiday. The climate in the region is very favorable; the swimming season at sea begins at the end of April, and by the May holidays the water temperature reaches +19°C. Tourists stay on the beaches until the last days of October, when the air cools, but the sea remains warm. Thessaloniki also boasts a sufficient amount of sun - there are more than three hundred clear days in the city a year.
Let's take a look at the map
The sea washing the shores of the resorts around Thessaloniki is called the Aegean. It belongs to the Mediterranean basin and its feature is a huge number of large and small islands. The Aegean Sea is called the cradle of ancient civilizations: ancient Greek and Byzantine. The sea received its name from the ancient Greek myth about King Aegeus, who decided that his son Theseus had died in a battle with the Minotaur and threw himself off a cliff.
The water in the Aegean Sea is characterized by high salinity, and therefore it is important to take a fresh shower after swimming.
Choosing a beach
A huge metropolis and one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean, Thessaloniki has long been an economically important center of the region. This did not benefit beach tourism and now places of comfortable recreation, where the ecology has remained the same, are concentrated in the vicinity of the city. This is where you should look for the best beaches:
- 17 km away in the town of Pereas, guests will find a clean sandy beach with umbrellas and sun loungers, children's playgrounds and taverns serving typical Greek cuisine. After sunset, parties for young people are held right by the water.
- The infrastructure on Agia Triada beach is tailored to the needs of guests with different preferences. Children will enjoy the playgrounds, athletic youth can play volleyball or rent a jet ski, and gourmets can taste fresh seafood in one of the beach restaurants.
- In the center of the bay, where Epanomi Beach is located, a ship once sank. It gives a special ambience to the seascape, and restaurants and national bars - “uzerias” - make a holiday on Epanomi pleasant and comfortable.
A seaside holiday in Thessaloniki is ideal for families with children of all ages. Organized beaches in the vicinity of the city are covered with sand, sometimes it is replaced by small pebbles. The gentle entrance to the sea allows the water to warm up faster. As a result, even the youngest tourists can swim and sunbathe comfortably and absolutely safely.
If you decide to rent a beach lounger, be prepared to pay a few euros. It is more profitable to order a drink at the nearest cafe or restaurant. In this case, you will be brought a refreshing juice or cocktail, and the price will include the use of beach equipment.
The easiest way to get to the sea from Thessaloniki is from the IKEA east city bus station. Travel time is from half an hour to 40 minutes depending on the distance of the beach.
Note to divers
Diving is practiced in the Aegean Sea, and Thessaloniki is a recognized center for scuba diving training in the region. There are several schools in the city where you can learn the basics of diving, improve your skills and get a certificate.
Among the underwater attractions in the sea near Thessaloniki are several sunken ships, coral reefs with colorful inhabitants and underwater grottoes. The best time for diving is the first half of summer, when the water temperature does not exceed +20°C - +24°C, the sea is clear and visibility under water is several tens of meters.
Diving centers in Thessaloniki have a good reputation in their field and offer the services of licensed instructors, including Russian-speaking trainers.
Diving in Greece is only worthwhile as part of an organized group. Independent diving can result in heavy fines, as many archaeological surveys are taking place in the country, including underwater. Diving is prohibited in such areas.
It’s worth coming to the northern capital of Greece not only to see the sights and immerse yourself in the cultural atmosphere. But also to relax on the beautiful beaches of the Aegean Sea, which are located in close proximity to the city.
They stand on the shore of the bay, which gives rise to a natural desire to plunge into the warm and gentle waters. The beaches near Thessaloniki are not very popular among tourists, I think that is in vain. I really like to escape for a while from the stuffiness of the city to the noisy and cheerful Piraeus and Nei Epivates or the picturesque and quiet Agia Triada, or go even further towards the green peninsula of Halkidiki to the beaches of the villages of Nea Michaniona or Epanomi. Many local residents here have summer apartments or summer cottages. Citizens, of course, take advantage of the opportunity to quickly get to the resorts to enjoy their vacation. This is what I really wish for all tourists who come to escape from daily worries and responsibilities.
Attempts to swim within the city of Thessaloniki
Very unexpectedly, it turned out that you can’t swim in Thessaloniki, located on the shores of the Thermal Gulf. In Greece, in a city by the sea, you can’t swim! Even in Athens, whose satellite is the largest port city of Piraeus, I vacationed on the beaches within the city many times.
is a port city where countless cargo and passenger ships arrive, and therefore its waters are not intended for swimming. The naked eye can see that traces of the activity of barges and ships remain on the water. However, the bay is very attractive for water sports. I have watched competitions on small sailing yachts or kayaks many times. Not to mention all kinds of boats cutting through the sea waves, or tourist entertainment ships.
The beautiful, new multi-kilometer promenade is great for sunset strolls, cycling or jogging in the fresh air, dining at a fish tavern or enjoying cocktails at a bar overlooking the city lights. But in order to bask in the gentle rays of the sun, sunbathe and swim, you will have to go a little out of town.
In the eastern part of Thessaloniki there is a new prestigious district of Kalamaria, from where beaches are slowly beginning to stretch towards the peninsula. But it is still too close to the port, and even swimming here is not recommended. Although, as the local Greeks told me, almost every resident of the city at least once in his life climbed into the water in Kalamaria. But they prefer not to advertise it, because it seems absolutely stupid to them, because there are beautiful beaches of the Halkidiki peninsula very close by. From the center you can get to Kalamaria by city buses number 5 and 6.
After visiting the famous ancient sights of Thessaloniki, you simply need to go for a week or two to relax on the beautiful beaches of Northern Greece.
But if you don’t have time, then you can absolutely easily make a trip for one day, or even for a few hours, to the beaches closest to the city. And if you like it, then stay overnight in any village. You just need to find the Rent Rooms sign or ask around local residents or establishment employees. The cost is low: from 30 euros per night.
How to get to the beaches of Thessaloniki
By car
Along the highway towards the southeast, towards the Macedonia International Airport, only about 20-30 kilometers from the city are the resort villages of Perea, Nei Epivates, Agia Triada and a little further away Nea Michaniona and Epanomi. It is worth considering that traffic is difficult on weekends, as local residents also go to the sea to relax after a working week.
By bus
From the city center, take buses number 2, 3, 8 to the final stop “Ikea East Bus Station”. Towards the beaches from the bus station there are buses number 69 to Epanomi, 72 to Nea Michanion, 76 to Angelochori. The wait is not long, departures are almost every twenty minutes. Buses number 72 and 76 make stops in Perea and Agia Triada. It takes about half an hour from the center to Ikea, and about half an hour from Ikea to the resort villages. That is, the entire trip takes about an hour or more. Buses run from early morning, from 5, until late in the evening, until 11.
Fare
The fare for each bus is 1 euro. Tickets can be bought at any kiosk or mini-market, as well as on the bus, but they will cost more – 1.1 euros. Please note that the machines on board the bus do not give change. Be sure to keep change with you. You can save a little if you buy a ticket for two trips. It costs 1.2 euros, 1.3 euros inside the bus. Valid for 70 minutes, just enough to use a second trip on a second bus. Tickets purchased at kiosks must be punched in the orange machines inside the bus. Purchased in the salon itself is not necessary, but for the second trip you will need to validate both types of tickets. And although in more than two years I have only seen two living inspectors, you shouldn’t ruin your vacation by neglecting the rules for traveling on public transport. After all, the fine will be as much as 60 euros, which in any case will have to be paid upon departure from the country. Otherwise, this may lead to problems with obtaining a Schenge visa in the future.
On the ship
Forty years ago, it was impossible to imagine the Thermic Gulf without sea connections between the city and the beaches. But, unfortunately, it was closed for a long time. Luckily, it was finally re-opened two years ago. In the summer, from about the end of May to the end of September, small ships depart from the center, from the Thessaloniki embankment, towards the resort villages. The first stop is the port of Thessaloniki, then within the city - the White Tower (Lefkos Pyrgos) and Kalamaria, then Nei Epivates, Perea and the last stop in Agia Triada.
At the beginning of the season, one boat transports city residents and tourists, and two more are added in July. The journey from the start to the final stop is about an hour, but maybe a little longer. It depends on the weather, wave level and wind strength. Departures approximately every hour, starting at 9 am and ending at 9 pm. In high season they promise departures even every half hour. The schedule is available on information boards at departure points. The ticket price is 2.7 euros one way. Payment upon boarding. It's a little more expensive than traveling by bus. But it’s much more pleasant to sail on a ship, rocking on the waves. You can admire the city, embankments and mountain landscapes from the water, feel the salty spray and breathe fresh sea air. It is especially beautiful in the evenings when the colorful lights of the city are on.
Sea transport is very popular. Hundreds of people go to the sea every day to relax. The first time I didn't even manage to swim away. I arrived at the appointed time, but it turned out that the ship loaded very quickly and did not wait for the schedule. Therefore, it is better to take early flights and depart from the final stop to avoid rush hour.
Resort villages
Perea
The first village of Perea is located 25 kilometers from the city. This is quite a large settlement with many shops and establishments. People come here not only in summer, but all year round to sit on the embankment with a cup of coffee or have dinner in a tavern. A beautiful view of the Thermic Gulf and the city, noisy companies, music, evening gatherings in bars - these are the features of Perea. You can spend the whole day here: sunbathing, swimming, eating, playing slot machines, going shopping, and in the evening relaxing in a coastal bar. Locals love this place very much. Close to Thessaloniki, it provides an opportunity to escape the sweltering summer heat among pine forests near the azure water.
The coast of the village is about two kilometers. The sandy embankment is not wide, but it is close to cafes and restaurants. Of course, there are showers and toilets on the beach. There are umbrellas and sun loungers everywhere, located almost at the water's edge. In order not to pay for their use all day, it is enough to buy coffee, juice or beer from the serving waiter for 2-5 euros. You shouldn't skimp on this. Otherwise, you will have to pay rent and spend the same money.
The water is not as crystal clear as on the peninsula, but for a one-day trip it is simply wonderful. The depth at the beginning is small. Therefore, you can safely take small children. This applies to almost all Thessaloniki beaches. But a little further, the shore disappears from under your feet, so those who like to swim underwater or dive from the pier will find entertainment.
The water in May, June and September is very comfortable and refreshing. And in the high season, in August, it warms up to 30 degrees. It feels like you are bathing in fresh milk.
Nei Epivates
On a cool day, you can walk along the sea to the next village. There is no particularly clear boundary between Perea and Nei Epivates. One naturally and smoothly flows into the other. The embankment is also sandy, about two and a half kilometers. The sand is the same everywhere, fine and crumbly. There are organized beaches with umbrellas and sun loungers. But there are also many free areas for those who prefer to spend time in their own company or alone. Only in this case, you must take care of having your own umbrella or at least a headdress. Not to mention sunscreen. Although this is the north of Greece, in the summer, especially at noon, the sun burns mercilessly. Entering the water is the same as in Perea. It’s shallow at first, then you can dive. The water, like everywhere else in Greece, is clean and clear.
Taverns and cafes, in addition to those on the beach, are also located behind the road along which cyclists ride, outdoor enthusiasts run, or townspeople and tourists stroll leisurely.
Vineyards are planted around the village, so connoisseurs can try the local Mandovani wine.
Agia Triada
This is my favorite of the resort villages. I want to come back here again and again. It seems to me that the air here is fresher, the sand is softer, and the water is cleaner. And it’s not just me who thinks so - Agia Triada beach has the international Blue Flag award for cleanliness. Although the rest of Thessaloniki’s beaches are very clean, this one is especially special. If you wish, you can reach it from Nei Epivates on foot, but there is no organized road along the sea, and it is not very close - about a kilometer along the sand. However, at sunset, when the heat subsides, the walk can be wonderful, if a little extreme. In some places the road is blocked by bushes or some abandoned stone blocks.
Agia Triada is very quiet and peaceful. A small number of coastal bars and inexpensive taverns, soft music, many free areas with sun loungers and umbrellas, a wide sandy embankment.
The beach has everything you need: changing cabins and showers. This is a great place to escape the noise and rhythm of the big city. A gorgeous view of the sea bay on one side and a green, forested cape on the other. There are many flowers on the streets among the fishermen's houses. In the middle of the village there is a small stone church of the Holy Trinity.
The sea is transparent. Entry into the water is gradual and comfortable. You lie down and sway on the waves.
I prefer to stay on the beach until sunset, when the blue water turns golden and the sky lights up in all shades of red and yellow.
Nea Michanyona
On the other side of the cape is the fishing village of Nea Michaniona. Here you can not only swim and sunbathe, but also buy seafood delicacies. In the mornings, there is a large fish market in the village right next to the sea. Taverns and bars are located a little away from the coastline. They are located at the top, above the beach, in the shade of trees, with a beautiful view of the pier.
The beach has all the infrastructure: umbrellas, showers, toilets. The coastline is large, allowing accommodation for everyone.
Epanomi
This small town is located on the mainland. We had to walk in the heat from the bus stop for about forty minutes to get to Potamos beach. The distance is approximately four kilometers. Therefore, I would not recommend doing this in the middle of the day. But in the morning or evening, when it gets a little cooler, why not.
Although it is still better to travel to this place by car. But there is a lot of space here. Long sandy beaches with clear blue water. There are volleyball courts and golf courses.
Potamos Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag. Here, as everywhere else, there are umbrellas and sun loungers, showers, changing cabins and a couple of beach bars and taverns.
And here, as well as in Nei Epivates, you can try the local wine "Epanomi". There are many vineyards growing around.
On the right side the sea is quiet and calm, as in the entire Thermic Gulf. But on the left side it is deep, and there are strong waves. Therefore, this place is loved by surfers and kitesurfers. The main attraction is the remains of a ship that was wrecked forty years ago. You can try to swim to it to feel like a marine archaeologist. But you shouldn’t examine it underwater without special training.
The most beautiful places don’t end there. Further, the coastline continues with the azure beaches of the green peninsula. Usually people visiting northern Greece come to resorts further away from Thessaloniki. In this “natural paradise” you want to stay not for one or two days, but much longer. Therefore, it undoubtedly deserves a separate and long visit.
But don't know where to go? In our article we will tell you about the features of a beach holiday in this city.
To begin with, compared to other popular resorts in Greece, the water on the beaches along the city coastline is relatively dirty. The local population and most tourists prefer to enjoy the sea and sun on the beaches in the neighborhood, such as Perea, Nei Epivates, Agia Triada, Nea and others. Here you will find completely clean water, golden sand and good service.
Perey
Located in a small resort town 17 km from Thessaloniki. The coast in these places is sandy and the water is crystal clear. There are also umbrellas, sun loungers, volleyball courts, playgrounds for children, bars and cafes. In addition to daytime relaxation, this beach hosts night parties by the water. In recent years, the popularity of Perea has been growing - the beautiful view of the White Tower and the many fish taverns in the neighborhood are attracting more and more visitors. The best fish taverns on the beach are the tavern “At Antonis” and “Captain Furtunas”.
Agia Triada
– a picturesque beach 22 km from the center of Thessaloniki. For convenience, the beach is equipped with changing cabins, umbrellas, sun loungers, volleyball and tennis courts, a children's playground, bars and taverns. You will also find many hotels and shops near the beach.
Epanomi
is a large, well-organized sandy beach, which is located next to the village of the same name. In the center of the beach bay there is a ship that sank forty years ago, which, however, does not pose a danger for swimming. On the coast there are many restaurants and “ouzerias” - Greek national bars.
Before you go to one of the above beaches, please note that they all have a fee. As soon as you choose your sunbed, the waiter will approach you to take your order. Believe me, if you decide to save money, you certainly won’t win, since in this case there will be nothing to drink, and you will be charged the same money for the sunbed. Alternatively, you can take an example from the Greeks themselves and order a cold frappe coffee, which will definitely be accompanied by a bottle of water. This pleasure is inexpensive - from 3 to 5 €.
You can get to the above beaches by bus. The fare is the same as within the city, departure is from the IKEA East Bus Station. Have a nice rest!
Thessaloniki is a place that has preserved the priceless heritage of world history. Here tourists are greeted by numerous museums, cultural monuments, architectural structures, and archaeological sites. City streets and wide squares, ancient buildings, as if taken from history books. The White Tower near the seashore, the walls of the Upper City fortress, the ancient Agora, the tomb of King Philip, the triumphal arch of Emperor Galerius, the Basilica of Hagia Sophia, the Temple of St. Demetrius (patron of the city), Archaeological Museum, University. Aristotle, where there is a rich library, an astronomical observatory, and the state theater of Northern Greece - Thessaloniki rightfully deserves the title of the most beautiful cities in the state.
The city's infrastructure includes everything tourists need, and the high level of establishments will be appreciated even by demanding travelers: excellent hotel complexes, hotels designed for the various needs and capabilities of guests, picturesque beaches around the city, various bars, restaurants, clubs, taverns, shops. Hospitable Greeks are becoming one of the most important factors in Thessaloniki’s attractiveness; this is most clearly felt in the small resort villages. You can experience the real atmosphere of local life while drinking a cup of quality Greek coffee along the coast of Temaikos Bay or dining on traditional Greek dishes in the Upper Town tavern with stunning views of the city and the sea.
Those who don't have enough fun during the day should immerse themselves in the atmosphere of night fun. Life in Thessaloniki after sunset is no less vibrant. Tourists can go to various clubs with exciting music, spend time over a cocktail, visit local bars, dance at a disco or choose any entertainment center where famous Greek performers perform. With such a variety of holiday options. Thessaloniki will be remembered for a long time; you will want to return here to experience happiness more than once.
Shopping in Thessaloniki
The northern Greek capital is like a scattering of bright colors for shopping lovers: colorful shop windows, catchy names of world brands, colorful boutiques, promotions, discounts, sales, special offers, gifts, souvenirs - everything that tourists value so much on long trips. Thessaloniki is known not only for its historical monuments from different periods of the formation of the Greek state, the good nature of the population, but also for the way of life that creates the crazy rhythm of the modern city. Numerous shopping centers house on their floors expensive brands, world fashion houses and modest shops offering goods at affordable prices.
The flavor of the Greek market
Boutiques and fashion brands are not the only advantage of Thessaloniki. Tired of walking through the gallery of shops, head to the local market. Here you will get acquainted with the truly Greek way of shopping. You can get here by moving up from Aristotelous Square, right between Tsimiski and Egnatia streets.
Get ready to encounter a real scattering of aromas awaiting every tourist at the market. Different tastes, bright colors of stalls filled with vegetables, fruits, fresh olives, cheeses, aromatic spices - here you can get the impression of a whole tour. The market is also rich in seafood: fish, seafood. The Greek market is a place where respect can be earned by demonstrating the ability to bargain. Sellers will appreciate the buyer’s activity, but they won’t be able to leave empty-handed.
After finishing your market walk, you should head to Tsimiski - this is the main shopping street of Thessaloniki. On both sides there are boutiques and shops where those interested can find various goods. Greek families come here for shopping, although sometimes they visit large shopping centers for this purpose.
After sorting out your purchases, you can continue exploring the city, moving on to a variety of entertainment. Entertainment in Thessaloniki
The youthful atmosphere of the city sets a certain rhythm of life. Thessaloniki's active nightlife is famous not only in Greece, but also abroad. Various clubs, bars, night discos - there is entertainment for every tourist.
As evening approaches, the city seems to wake up and come to life, the streets begin to resound with the voices of a noisy crowd. Tourists from abroad and Greeks from different parts of the country come here to relax. Young people find their place in clubs that sound modern rhythms; for older guests, numerous taverns with their traditional dishes and live music are open. Such establishments provide an opportunity to feel the mood of a cozy family dinner or celebration.
The dynamic life of Thessaloniki combines with historical richness and youth activity, attracting thousands of tourists every year. This city will open up a completely new world of adventures, emotions, impressions.
Peculiarities
There are several ways to get around the city: by bus or taxi. Taxi services are relatively affordable, and the rates are adequate for a resort town. For large groups of travelers, the bus will cost much more. A taxi can be stopped directly on the street, taken from a special parking lot, or called by phone.
Tourists from 25 to 70 years old can rent cars; rental centers can be found throughout the city. The rental price will depend on the class of car chosen for travel. The time of year also affects the cost. To rent a car, you must have an international driving license and a credit card with sufficient funds to pay for the rental.
But the driving habits of local residents are not the best side of Thessaloniki. Drivers rarely follow traffic rules, so both motorists and pedestrians should be careful on the roads.
It will be more profitable to pay in cafes and shops in national currency. Currency exchange is available in city banks and private exchange offices. Government institutions (banks are no exception) are closed on weekends, and on weekdays they work from 8:30 to 14:00, Friday is a shortened working day.
Store opening hours vary significantly. They begin serving clients at 9 a.m. and finish at 9 a.m. Private pavilions regulate their operating hours independently, depending on the tourist season. To save money, tourists should go to the market, where they can bargain with the seller, significantly reducing the price.
If you decide to visit a local restaurant, be prepared for huge portions. This is a significant feature; waiters of Greek establishments are already accustomed to the surprise of tourists. It would be appropriate to ask for additional utensils for one dish; there will be no misunderstandings.
For those who want to take a few photos of historical monuments or museum exhibits, it will be useful to know that most of these places require a separate fee for photography. When entering, you should ask about the rules of a particular establishment or object; they may sell special tickets that give you the right to take photographs.
The external calm of the city should not become a reason for too careless behavior. Keep things visible and money should be exchanged in designated areas. You should not carry large sums of money with you; it is better to leave valuables at home so as not to attract robbers.
Climate
Like most Greek cities, Thessaloniki's holiday season begins with significant warming in April and ends only in October. The peak of tourist activity occurs in the summer, when the sea becomes warmest and the air warms up to the highest temperatures. In the second half of summer, +35 degrees is normal for Thessaloniki, so it is worth preparing protection from the scorching sun. It often rains in spring and autumn, although various festivals occur during this period. In winter there is sometimes a little snow, but the air temperature rarely drops below 6 degrees Celsius.
The mildness of the Mediterranean climate causes minimal precipitation in the summer and sufficient rainfall between November and December. At the height of the holiday season, sea water warms up to a comfortable 25 degrees.
What to see in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is rich in attractions; the bulk of Greek monuments are located here. Walking through the streets of the city, you will discover the most mysterious corners. Most often, excursion programs begin with Aristotle Square, which has gained fame as the most beautiful and majestic in the state. It is considered one of the main squares of Thessaloniki along with Freedom Square. The main decoration of this place is the flower clock. Also, the attention of travelers will be attracted by the patterned balconies and vaulted galleries of the buildings - the creations of the French architect Embrard.
Among the attractions of the city of Thessaloniki, the White Tower stands out, whose second name is the Lions Tower. This building, stretching to the sky, divides the city embankment into two parts: Old and New. The 5th century structure saved the city from numerous attacks, but now that such a need was no longer necessary, the tower was turned into a museum with an observation deck. A beautiful panorama opens up to the eyes of a tourist who finds himself here.
Not far from the White Tower is the Archaeological Museum. It preserves a long legacy of Greek history with extensive art collections. The unique exhibits of the museum are Macedonian artifacts. It is also worth paying attention to the jewelry of the Byzantine commanders.
Among the attractions, the Thessaloniki Temple stands out. The Basilica of St. Demetrius is the main religious building of the city. Among the buildings of the Middle Ages, the most beautiful is the Church of the Icon of Our Lady Not Made by Hands or Achiropiitos. The influence of Constantinople is noticeable in the Hagia Sophia, which mirrors the Church of Agia Sophia. Tourists can see the beautiful paintings and frescoes of the Macedonian school in the Church of St. Catherine. The destination for pilgrims from all over the world is the Temple of Gregory Palamas, where the relics of the saint are kept.
Another attraction of Thessaloniki is the architectural complex of Emperor Galerius Maximian. In the north-eastern part of the city there was the residence of the Roman ruler; the arch of the estate can still be seen. Together with the rotunda, it is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, being one of the most important monuments of Greek history. The rotunda houses a museum with a rich collection of works of art.
Entertainment in Thessaloniki
The beautiful beaches around Thessaloniki attract tourists with its infrastructure and blue waters of the sea. Agia Triada is a picturesque corner of the coast 22 kilometers from the city center. The sea of Thessaloniki is not admirable, but a little further it is perfectly clear. Golden sand, combined with developed infrastructure and accessibility to many hotels, is a recipe for an ideal holiday for the whole family.
Angelochori beach, located 30 kilometers from Thessaloniki, is no less popular. This place has earned special love from the conquerors of the elements: local winds raise huge waves, providing a lot of opportunities for surfers, kitesurfers and many others. For a relaxing holiday, another beach is more suitable - Nea Michaniona. Peaceful landscapes, calm sea, clean territory - the conditions are conducive to relaxation.
When planning a trip, you should pay attention to the sales season. This is where you can get high quality fur products at very low prices. The summer time for discounts occurs in mid-July, while in winter stores hold sales from January 15th. Discounts reach 70%, so saving on updating your wardrobe will allow you to travel to Greece again. The shops are filled not only with tourists, but also with the Greeks themselves, and they definitely know a lot about successful purchases.
