Locals Suggest: How to Spend 2 Days in Thessaloniki

Spending 2 days in Thessaloniki? Get ready to dive into the city’s rich history, lively culture, and stunning waterfront.

As locals, we are often asked about the best places to see in Thessaloniki in a limited time.

For this, we have put together a 2-day itinerary with suggestions and recommendations, similar to what we would suggest if we showed you around ourselves.

Day one sets the stage for an unforgettable walking tour, with our suggestions for key attractions and hidden gems. For Day 2, we offer suggestions to take your adventure a step further inside the city, or possibly venture outside with excursions and day tours.

Day 1 in Thessaloniki: Must Highlights

This route towards the waterfront can take as little as half an hour, or be extended to cover stops along the way.

You can find all the stops in this handy map here.

Pasha Gardens

Starting from our cozy apartment in Kastra, make your way to Pasha Gardens, with the Gaudí-style architecture that is unique to the city and that few (even locals) have visited.

Ataturk Museum

Next, venture to the Ataturk Museum, a pivotal site in the heart of Thessaloniki. As the birthplace of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. It is open every day except for Mondays. Make sure to arrive before 5 PM to get a ticket and see inside.

Rotunda

From the museum, a short 2-minute walk will bring you to the Rotunda or “Church of Agios Demetrios” even though the latter name is seldom used amongst people of Thessaloniki as it mostly brings to mind, the other Church of Agios Demetrios. It is one of the most important monuments in the city and part of the UNESCO World Heritage List

Arch of Galerius (Kamara)

From the museum, the next stop is the iconic Arch of Galerius, or Kamara, a marvel of Roman architecture. Erected between 298 and 305 AD to commemorate Emperor Galerius’s victories, this arch stands as a testament to imperial grandeur.

Navarino Square

From Kamara, cross the street straight opposite and make your way straight down, towards the waterfront through the cobblestone streets that lead to the Palace of Galerius. This area, known as Navarinou, is a joy to discover, with tons of souvenir shops, interesting tattoo and piercing parlors, hip cafes, and local favorite hangout spots for drinks, lunch, and everything else.

Tip: While crossing this area, look out for Svolou Street. The area is home to a lot of interesting cafes, with good-quality coffee. Try “Dekaepta” a modern establishment popular with students, or go to Donkey Garden for a quick brunch. Near the square, “Enoxes” is a great choice – an old three-floor house, full of personality and interesting decor.

Sweet Treat at Elenidis

One of the most famous local desserts you must try is Trigona Panoramatos. This patisserie shop was the birthday of this famous sweet, back in the 1940s and so it is often referred to as Trigona Elenidis. The crispy phyllo in the shape of a triangle is filled with decadent custard cream in front of your eyes.. or you can try one of the more modern versions.

White Tower of Thessaloniki

The second to last stop is the famous White Tower of Thessaloniki. Originally constructed by the Ottomans, and once serving as a fortification and a prison, it now functions as an emblem and a museum. Take the opportunity to climb to the top, for the history and the chance to learn more about its past.

Nea Paralia Seafront

Nea Paralia translates to “New Beach” which is the area of the waterfront going east from the White Tower, or towards the direction of the Great Statue of Alexander the Great, and the Umbrellas of Zongolopoulos.

If the weather allows, take the time to travel the length of Nea Paralia until Thessaloniki Concert Hall, which is marked on the map as number 10.

For a quicker or more fun way to explore the waterfront, you can rent bikes in front of the Makedonia Palace Hotel.

There are also multiple themed gardens, sculptures, cafes, and places to rest along the route.

Do you still have energy for the way back? Great! The west side of the waterfront is just as exciting.

Aristotelous Square and the Thessaloniki Port

If you still have energy, head towards Aristotelous Square, Thessaloniki’s grand central square, lined with impressive neoclassical buildings and filled with cafes and shops. This lively spot is ideal for people-watching and taking in the city’s bustling vibe.

From here, make your way down to the Thessaloniki Port. Along the port’s cultural promenade, you’ll find attractions such as the Thessaloniki Cinema Museum and occasional exhibitions in the converted warehouse spaces. The port area is perfect for a casual stroll, and if you’re hungry, stop by the Kitchen Bar for a meal with a view.

Of course, these aren’t the only spots worth visiting during your walk.

Below you will find a non-exhaustive list of other suggestions including places to dine, eat, or have a coffee.

More suggestions for Day 1 of your Thessaloniki Trip

Museums:

Thessaloniki is home to more than a dozen museums. You can find a full list here. If you’ve already stopped and walked up the White Tower, then you already saw one.

Another museum not to miss is the Jewish Museum. Visitors will learn more about the fate and history of the more than 49,000 Jews who were systematically deported to concentration camps during World War II but also understand the strength of the Jewish community and it’s link with the city since their arrival in the 15th century.

Other museums worth considering:

NOESIS Science & Technology (outside the city)
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Museum of Byzantine Culture
Thessaloniki Cinema Museum
Folklife & Ethnological Museum of Macedonia-Thrace
The Telloglion Fine Arts Foundation
War Museum of Thessaloniki
SEIKILO – Museum of Ancient Music

Cafe and Brunch:

Art Cafe Theatral: artsy vibes, cozy setting.
Rubik’s Superfood & Coffee: a health-focused menu with superfoods and smoothies near the White Tower.
Thermaikos Bar: great option if you want to sit by the waterfront, popular with the locals
Apallou: Trendy, urban cafe, stylish decor.
Ypsilon: Industrial-style cafe, popular with young people at night, and for hosting music and art events.

Day 2 in Thessaloniki: Explore More of the City and Beyond

For your second day in Thessaloniki, you have options to delve deeper into the city’s rich culture or set out on an excursion beyond its borders. Here’s a guide for both options:

In the City

Peraia Beach and Fish Tavernas: Just a quick 30-minute drive, Peraia offers sandy beaches and excellent seafood tavernas along the waterfront. Try Taverna Thalassopoulia or O Giannis for fresh fish with sea views.
Modiano Market: Head to this lively, newly-renovated market for local flavors, fresh produce, and Thessaloniki’s famous sweets. A great spot for some local shopping and a snack.
Ladadika District: Shop stroll and eat, in one of the most loved areas of Thessaloniki, and once a commercial hub. Check out Charoupi for a Cretan-inspired restaurant, + ΤροΦή | Sintrofi, or head to Tarantino for an excellent burger.

For more food options in the center of the city, check out our Where to Eat in Thessaloniki guide.

You can also check out our recommendations guide for more food spots around Ano Poli and general suggestions for things to do in the city.

Outside the City

In addition to the center of the city, there are plenty of things to do in close distance. Here are a few of the popular choices.

Pozar Thermal Baths: About 90 minutes away, Pozar’s natural thermal springs are surrounded by lush scenery and offer indoor and outdoor pools.
Vergina – Royal Tombs of Aigai: A quick hour’s drive brings you to Vergina, the ancient capital of Macedonia. The Royal Tombs Museum showcases artifacts from the burial site of Philip II, offering a deep dive into Macedonian history.
Edessa Waterfalls: Pair Pozar with a stop in Edessa to see its stunning waterfalls. Located near the city center, the cascading waters make for a great photo and a refreshing break.

Must-Do’s in Thessaloniki:

Eat Koulouri Thessalonikis: Grab this sesame-covered bread ring, a favorite street snack.You will find lots of street vendors and shops selling them around the city.
Try Bougatsa at Giannis: Experience the city’s famous pastry with creamy custard or savory fillings… or even chocolate.
Enjoy Trigona Panoramatos: Head to Elenidis for these crispy phyllo triangles filled with custard.
Visit the Umbrella Sculpture: Stop by this iconic sculpture on the waterfront for a photo.
Stroll along Tsimiski Street: Thessaloniki’s prime shopping street, perfect for shopping and people-watching.