Where is Thessaloniki located? City of three civilizations. Thessaloniki. Climate of mainland Greece. When is the best time to come to Thessaloniki

The city of Thessaloniki bears the title of the second capital of Greece. Even the Greeks themselves often admit that they like Thessaloniki much more than.

The city of Thessaloniki is the second most important cultural, political, industrial and economic center of Greece. It is also the most important transport hub for the entire south-eastern Europe. Cultural life Thessaloniki is in full swing: exhibitions, festivals, conventions, forums, presentations and much more are held here, which is why the city is often called the main cultural capital.

What about ordinary tourists? What might they like about their holiday in Thessaloniki 2020?

How to get to Thessaloniki

Where to stay in Thessaloniki 2020

10 reasons to visit Thessaloniki 2020

Why is Thessaloniki worth visiting on your next visit to Greece? There are very specific reasons for this:

#1. There's history at every turn

Every schoolchild knows about the great historical past of Greece, and Thessaloniki played a significant role in the history of the country. No matter what area you go to, people will be waiting for you everywhere ancient ruins, ancient churches and historical Buildings. Because of this, the city cannot complete the construction of the metro: during excavations, archaeologists constantly come across new artifacts.

#2. Thessaloniki - port city

In Thessaloniki, the sea approaches directly to the central one. No matter what you are doing - sightseeing, shopping or enjoying a delicious meal in a tavern - during breaks you can breathe the sea breeze, listen to the sound of the waves and take your mind off your daily problems. In addition, its status as the second largest port in the country allows you to travel from Thessaloniki to anywhere in Greece.

#3. Great weather Thessaloniki

Since the city is located in the northern part of the country, near the sea, the climate here is milder than in Athens. This means that even though it is warm and sunny here in summer, the fresh sea air brings tangible relief and does not allow you to completely collapse under the onslaught of the heat. For those who come on holiday to Thessaloniki in the summer, this will be a pleasant bonus, since exploring the surrounding area and attractions of the city will not be so tiring.

#4. Stress-free metropolis

Thessaloniki has a population of about 1 million people. All the benefits are here large metropolis, but at the same time there is no feeling that the crowded city is pressing on you. Next door to central regions You can also find calm, quiet streets where life flows without haste or stress.

Shopping in Thessaloniki is the central street of the city, where life is in full swing around the clock!

#5. There's always something to do here

Holidays in Thessaloniki will never make you bored. In the center you will find many restaurants, shops, cafes, bars and parks. A mandatory minimum item in Thessaloniki: a boat trip along the coast, during which you can admire the general view of the city from the sea. Outside the city there is great beaches, and exploring the most famous historical monuments and museums can take you several weeks!

#6. Active nightlife

Thessaloniki is a city of youth. It is home to one of Greece's largest universities, and active students contribute to the nightlife of Greece's second capital. There are many bars, discos and nightclubs here, catering to audiences with a wide variety of musical preferences. Choose the right company - and go ahead, conquer the Greek dance floors!

#7. Shopping in Thessaloniki

Shopping in Thessaloniki is a pleasure! The status of a major port city provides obvious advantages: there is a huge selection of any goods from all over the world at your disposal. The main stores of Thessaloniki are located near the center on the streets of Timiski, Metropolis, Agia Sophia, Patron Germanou, Aristotle, Venizelou. The largest markets in the city: Modiano and Kapani Agora.

#8. Delicious cuisine

Bougatsa is the main dish that you will be recommended to try in Thessaloniki. Bugatsa is a traditional pie filled with cream or cheese. Everything about it is perfect: the aroma of vanilla, cinnamon and lemon, crispy crust and delicious filling. Great breakfast option!

Food in Thessaloniki: feta, horiatiki, halloumi, sardines, etc.

Scattered around the city great amount snack bars. They most often serve souvlaki (kebabs on skewers or “piita” wrapped in dough), a huge number of pies (with cheese, meat, spinach, apples), melitzanosalata (baked eggplant puree), traditional meat casserole moussaka, grilled fish and many sweets, including delicious baklava.

You will find a complete list of food options in Thessaloniki!

#9. Viewpoints of Thessaloniki

There are several viewpoints in Thessaloniki that offer a clear view of this magical port city and its harbour. The most famous is the symbol of Thessaloniki. However, the entire urban terrain is not flat - some areas are located on a hill. Therefore, if you manage to book a hotel in Thessaloniki in one of these areas, then an excellent panorama of the city will delight you throughout the trip.

#10. Thessaloniki - the cultural capital of Greece

And not only Greece - in 1997 Thessaloniki received the title Capital of Culture Europe, and in 2014 - the Youth Capital of Europe. The city has also been included more than once in the list of “Hidden Gems” of the European continent, and all because of the abundance of cultural events held here and extensive travel opportunities.

View of Thessaloniki from the height of the white tower

Popular excursions in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki area is impressive; to explore all the interesting places you will need to prepare in advance and study the routes. If you have time, plan a visit yourself - it's exciting in any city!

But there are places that are more convenient to visit with a guide or on a tour:

- you will see iconic places Thessaloniki with which you should have a photo as a background. Most of it passes through the historical center. You can see a lot on your own, so whether to order or not is up to you. However, in terms of popularity sightseeing tour for Thessaloniki in first place;

The wide boulevard, Leoforos Nikis, leads straight to Lefkos Pyrgos (White Tower), symbol of Thessaloniki. Built in the 16th century during the period of Turkish rule by Venetian engineers, it was part of the city's old naval fortifications. One of her nicknames (Bloody Tower) reminiscent of the times when it served as a prison. At the end of the 19th century, the Sultan ordered it to be whitewashed in the hope of erasing these sad memories. Nowadays there is a small Byzantine museum here.

Palace and Arch of Galeria

From the White Tower you can walk along Pavlou Meli and Gunari streets to the ruins of the palace of the Roman emperor Galerius, who made the city his capital. A little further is the triumphal arch of Galerius (Apse of Galeriu), erected in honor of his victory over the Persians in 297. Its lower part is decorated with magnificent bas-reliefs. Nearby, the charming Byzantine Church of Sotira nestles against the high-rise buildings.

Rotunda of St. George

This building, whose name reflects its domed structure, rises slightly above the triumphal arch. It was built in the 4th century as a mausoleum for Emperor Galerius, then converted into a church, and later, during the Turkish period, into a mosque. You will see here beautiful mosaics from the 4th century, recently restored.

House of Ataturk

Acropolis

The Acropolis of Thessaloniki is dotted with picturesque houses and small gardens. Its northeastern part is adjacent to the Turkish quarter. You can see the ancient fortress walls and enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the bay. The dilapidated castle at the top is called Eptapirgo; it is currently a prison - don't get too close to it.

Byzantine churches

Like its Istanbul namesake, Hagia Sophia (Agia Sofia), most definitely dating from the 8th century, was erected as a symbol of veneration of Divine wisdom. Note the mosaics and column capitals, possibly taken from an earlier building.

Walk a few blocks north and you will see the Basilica of Panagia Archiropitos, one of the oldest Christian buildings in Thessaloniki. Don't forget to check out its Ionic and Corinthian capitals. Nearby, on the corner of Platia Dikastirion Square, is the small cruciform brick church of Panagia Chalkeon, one of the first sanctuaries in Thessaloniki. (1028) .

Markets

Opposite Panagia Chalkeon is a huge and incredibly busy food market Stoa Modiano. On the other side of Ponos Dragoumi Street, next to the old Hamza Bey Mosque, now abandoned, is the Bedesten indoor clothing market - a former Turkish bazaar.

Agios Dimitrios

Looming over Platia Dikastirion, Thessaloniki's largest Byzantine church is a replica of a 5th-century basilica destroyed by fire in 1917. It has many Roman columns. In the crypt you can see the remains of the former sanctuary, built on the burial site of the martyr Demetrius, the ruins of the Roman baths where he was imprisoned and executed, and the early Christian baptistery.

Dodeca Apostoli

Following Agiou Dimitriou Street in a northwest direction, you will reach the secluded church of Dodeka Apostoli (XIV century). Its interior is a brilliant example of late Byzantine art. The mosaics are beautiful, but the frescoes are in poor condition.

Archaeological Museum

If you only intend to visit one museum in Thessaloniki, choose this one. It is located next to the International Trade Exhibition, near the White Tower, and displays items (from the Stone Age to the Byzantine era), found in Northern Greece. These include examples of ceramics, weapons, sculptures, glassware, mosaics, etc. The highlight of the exhibition are funeral offerings, silver and bronze vases and gold jewelry found in the Macedonian tombs of the era of Alexander the Great and his father Philip II.

Museum of Byzantine Culture

This museum is housed in a modern building near the Archaeological Museum and demonstrates the importance of Thessaloniki from the early Christian era until the capture of the city by the Turks. Icons, including many very old ones (XIV century), coexist with stone religious objects, sculptures, jewelry, mosaics and medieval embroideries.

Should know

The emblem of the city is Lefkos Pyrgos (White Tower)- round fort of the 15th century. in the harbor. During the years of rule Ottoman Empire the tower became a symbol of repression and terror, as it was a prison and execution site. When the city gained independence, freed from Ottoman rule, the townspeople whitewashed the tower in a ritual act of cleansing. Lefkos Pyrgos is no longer a white tower, but it remains a symbol of freedom for all residents of the city.

Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) is the second largest city in Greece after Athens, it is a Greek port and a Mediterranean port, The largest city Macedonia, the birthplace of Cyril and Methodius (the creators of the Old Church Slavonic alphabet), is a Greek resort city.

Thessaloniki a beautiful city With great history, which stretches over many centuries, it is called the northern capital of Greece.

The city of Thessaloniki was founded during the Hellenistic period, in time it coincides with a critical phase in the history of the Macedonian Kingdom.

After the premature death of Alexander the Great, a struggle for power flared up in the kingdom; in order to establish himself on the throne, the Macedonian king Cassander married the sister of Alexander the Great, Thessalonica.

Despite his cruel morals, Cassander was a great connoisseur of culture - he founded in 315 BC. the city of Thessaloniki (Thessaloniki) and named it in honor of his wife, restored the city of Thebes, destroyed by Alexander the Great.

In the 2nd century BC. the city was conquered by the Romans, like the rest of Greece, and it became the capital of Roman Macedonia.

Profitable geographical position Thessaloniki (crossing the trade route from Rome to Constantinople) during the collapse of the Roman Empire, significantly affected cultural development and the importance of the city. Thessaloniki is becoming one of the main centers of Orthodoxy, the city is becoming richer and developing culturally. For this reason, Thessaloniki was constantly subject to conquest by the Goths, Avars, Arabs, Bulgarians, and Latins.

In 1432, after long sieges, the city fell into the hands of the Ottoman Empire and its power faded for many years. Only a fifth of the city’s Greek population remains: many Greeks were killed during hostilities, others were sold into slavery to Muslims, some Greeks went to live in the mountains, some converted to Islam. Most of Ottoman Thessaloniki was made up of Jews who were expelled from Spain, later joined by Jews from Portugal and Italy.

In the first year of the Greek national uprising against the Ottomans in 1821, Thessaloniki was subjected to severe repression - more than three thousand Greeks, mostly children, women and the elderly, were killed.

Enormous damage to the city was caused during World War II. In 1941, the German occupiers captured Thessaloniki and subjected it to fierce bombing. The city survived a brutal four-year occupation by the German Nazis and their collaborators, the Italian and Bulgarian fascists. Jewish community was almost completely destroyed.

The modern city of Thessaloniki is a city with a population of millions, which has preserved unique architectural monuments of world significance; it is the cultural and commercial center of Greece and the entire Balkan Peninsula, it contains major port Mediterranean and international Airport.

There are 3 large universities in Thessaloniki: the Aristotle University with a rich library, the University of Macedonia and the Alexandria Institute of Technology.

In addition, beautiful Thessaloniki attracts millions of tourists with its extraordinary hospitality, azure sea and excellent beaches, gentle sun, excellent hotels, nightclubs, restaurants, bars, cafes, shops for every taste.

Sights of Thessaloniki

A trip to Thessaloniki will enchant you - the city has an abundance of interesting places, museums, and Byzantine churches.

White Tower is the most famous building of the city, it is located in the eastern part of the embankment, was built by the Turks in the 15th century as part of the city fortifications, there was also a prison and a place of torture. After the liberation of the city from the Ottoman yoke, the tower was repaired and whitewashed in order to cleanse it of blood, and thus the tower was renamed the “White Tower”. Even though today the White Tower is no longer white, it retains its name and is considered a symbol of the city of Thessaloniki. At the very top there is an observation deck over the city; inside there is a museum.

Basilica of Agiou Dimitriou is the largest temple in Greece, built in the center of Thessaloniki. Saint Demetrius is the patron saint of the city, the temple was destroyed by a great fire in 1917 and restored in 1948, it is decorated with magnificent mosaic inlay. Under the temple there is a crypt, the place where Saint Demetrius was tortured and died.

Temple of Agia Sophia. Hagia Sophia was built in the 8th century as a copy of the church of the same name in Istanbul. During the Byzantine period, Hagia Sophia was cathedral city, it was built on the site of Roman baths. The interior is decorated with magnificent mosaics and frescoes of the early Byzantine period, the most significant being the mosaic of the Ascension of the Savior.

Rotunda is a round building that was built in 306 as a pantheon or mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Galerius. During the Byzantine period, during the reign of the Great Theodosius, the Rotunda turned into a Christian temple, and during the period of Turkish rule - into a mosque. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the unique mosaics from the 4th century.

Other places to visit: Upper town, Arch of Galeria, Roman Agora, stroll along the embankment and Aristotle Square, visit one of the best water parks in Greece (near the village of Tagarades, 8 km from Thessaloniki), city museums.

You can explore the sights of Thessaloniki on a tourist train, which runs every day, starting its work at 10-30 in the morning. The whole trip will take you 45 minutes, the ticket costs 4 euros, children 2 euros. During the trip you will hear a story about the sights of Thessaloniki in English and Greek.

What is worth visiting near the city of Thessaloniki, read

How to get from Thessaloniki airport to the bus station, to the city center, read

Required telephone numbers in Thessaloniki:

tel. police 100
tel. tourist police +30 2310 554871
tel. KTEL (bus station) +30 2310 595408
tel. port +302310593120
tel. Archaeological Museum +30 2310830538
tel. Byzantine Museum +30 2310688570

Useful information for tourists about Thessaloniki in Greece - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.

Attractions

Guide

Thessaloniki is one of the largest Greek cities. It is located in the northern part of the country, in Macedonia - historical region, well known to tourists from all over the world as the birthplace of Aristotle, the enlightenment saints Cyril and Methodius, the great martyr Dmitry of Thessalonica, the legendary conqueror Alexander the Great (the Great). It is dear to the Turks as the birthplace of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the first president of Turkey.

The name of Alexander the Great's sister Thessalonica became the name of this city. The city was founded in the 4th century BC. Sister Alexandra became the wife of the Macedonian king Cassander, the founder of Thessaloniki. By the will of Kassandra, two and a half dozen small settlements on the shore turned out to be within the city limits Aegean Sea. In the 2nd century BC. Thessaloniki (Thessaloniki) was captured by soldiers of the Roman Empire. After its fall, the city became part of another empire - the Byzantine.

The convenient geographical location was both the joy and the misfortune of the city: in peaceful times the city flourished thanks to trade, and when some troubles began, it first suffered from attacks - by the Romans, Goths, Saracen pirates, Bulgarians, Normans, Turks, who different time visited Thessaloniki with not the most friendly intentions. The city also suffered from the Nazis during the Second World War.

The resort of Thessaloniki is located on the shores of the Aegean Sea, or more precisely, the Thermal Gulf. From the southeast the city is “supported” by the Chortiatis Mountains.

The weather in Thessaloniki is almost always sunny, but not too hot. The average temperature in Thessaloniki in July and August is around 30 degrees Celsius. These are the hottest months of the year. The warm sea allows the swimming season to open in May and close in October.
The temperature record in Thessaloniki was recorded in July 2007 and amounted to 44 degrees Celsius.

Transport

Thessaloniki can be reached by sea, air and railway. 12 kilometers south of Thessaloniki is the Macedonia International Airport, which accepts both charters to Halkidiki and regular flights, including domestic and international ones. You can get from the airport to Thessaloniki either by taxi or by car. regular bus– the second option is cheaper.

WITH railway station Thessaloniki, which is called the “New Station”, you can go to both nearby cities and the capitals of a number of European states - for example, Belgrade, Bucharest, Sofia, as well as the capital of the Greek Republic itself, Athens, and Istanbul, the capital of neighboring Turkey.

The city is building a metro, which is due to open in 2020. It is worth noting that the construction of the metro began in the late 1980s and was resumed in 2006. If the opening takes place, Greece will have its second metro in Thessaloniki.

The main transport in Thessaloniki is by bus; the schedule is available on the website http://aasth.gr/. The resource is in Greek, but with the help of automatic translation you can get the necessary information. For frequent trips during the day, you may need to purchase a daily ticket, for single trips - a one-time ticket. Tickets are sold at special retail outlets and on the buses themselves. Upon entry, the ticket must be punched, as was once done on Soviet trams and trolleybuses. On one of the buses you can travel around all the main attractions in about an hour - this route number is 50.

The peculiarity of Thessaloniki is its one-way streets. To go in the opposite direction, you need to find a neighboring street along which the same transport goes in the other direction.

Bicycle rental is another option for getting around the city.

Where to stay

In the central part of the city, for example, in the Ladadiki area, accommodation options are more expensive, but all the attractions will be literally nearby. Accommodation in the Kalamaria area will also be expensive, but it is greener there and not as noisy and bustling as in the center. Tourists have access to accommodation options such as coastal hotels, up to five stars with their own access to the sea, budget hostels, and apartment rentals.

Sights and excursions

The spirit of the great events that took place on this land over several millennia creates the unique atmosphere of Thessaloniki.

The central and oldest part of Thessaloniki is outlined by the walls of the Byzantine period and inside it is divided into two parts - historical and business. The historical part is called the Upper Town (or Ano Poli) and is protected by UNESCO as a site World Heritage. More than a hundred years ago in Thessaloniki there was terrible fire, fortunately, did not destroy historic district cities. To explore the Upper Town, you need to climb to the top of the hill and get lost along the crooked narrow streets. Guests Upper town will be rewarded not only with a magnificent view of Thessaloniki from the hill, but also with a wealth of attractions from different eras - Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman. At the top of the hill is the Heptapyrgion fortress (“seven towers”). Its towers were built between the 4th and 12th centuries. WITH late XIX For centuries the tower served as a prison.

The forum dates back to the Roman period from the 1st century BC, which townspeople visited for baths and gladiator fights. The Forum is located next to Aristotle Square, but it is already a modern landmark - built in 1918 by the French architect Hebrard. Emperor Galerius (3rd century AD) left behind triumphal arch in honor of his victory over the Persian army. The emperor rested in Thessaloniki, and his burial place is called the Rotunda of Galerius. The rotunda and arch make up the funerary complex and are one of the oldest city structures.

The sights of the Byzantine period are, first of all, temples. The main one is the Basilica of St. Demetrius, located near the Roman Forum. It was built in the 5th century on the site of an early Christian church and was named after the city's patron saint. The Church of St. Sophia, or rather its first building, dates back to the 8th century. Now tourists can see the new building, restored after the fire of 1917. During the Ottoman era, many Christian churches were converted into mosques, and this church also did not escape this fate.

To get acquainted with the frescoes of the late Byzantine period, it is worth visiting the Church of the Twelve Apostles (XIV century), the Temple of Hosios David, the building of which dates back to the 5th century, and the frescoes - to the 12th - 14th centuries. Also decorated with frescoes were the Basilica of Achiropiitos (5th century), the Church of St. Nicholas Orphanos (XIV century), which is one of the few in Thessaloniki that avoided being converted into a mosque. An outstanding collection of icons is kept in the Vlatadon Monastery (XIV century).

The ancient city fountains and the White Tower, a fortress that has protected the city from attacks from the sea since the 15th century, also served as a prison and was called the “tower of blood,” date back to the Ottoman period. It was repainted white to somewhat smooth out the impressions of the harsh past. Now the tower serves as an observation deck and houses a collection of antiquities from the Byzantine period. Dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries are such attractions as the Bey Hamam, the oldest baths, and the Alaka Imaret Mosque, decorated with wall paintings.

Beach holiday

There is no swimming within the city itself due to the location of the port. Thessaloniki embankment is for walking only. The most adventurous residents and tourists start swimming in the Kalamaria area in the eastern part of the city, while the more cautious ones head towards the island of Halkidiki.

It is believed that Thessaloniki is worth visiting for the sake of viewing architectural antiquities, and for beach holiday you need to go beyond its borders, to one of the villages located about 20 km from the city towards the international airport. The names of the resort villages are Perea, Nei Epivates, Agia Triada, Nea Michaniona and Epanomi. You can get there by bus. To local residents These people also like these places, they go there on weekends, and the traffic on the road becomes busier. An alternative is to get there by sea on one of the boats that depart from the Thessaloniki promenade. There may also be queues during peak hours, so it's worth waking up early to catch early morning flights.

The beaches of the villages are equipped with everything necessary - cafes, showers, cabins, sun loungers. A trip there should be planned for at least the whole day. One of the beaches, Potamos, has been awarded the Blue Flag. The beaches are sandy. These places are quite suitable for families with children.

In the city itself there is little entertainment for children: there are amusement parks, a dinosaur park, family entertainment in Kalamaria. If you wish, you can drive 50 km to the park in the spirit of the Wild West. Even the Waterland water park is located outside the city, and there is free transport there. You can wait out the heat of the day with your children in one of the green areas - Platanakia Park or botanical garden.

You can't swim in the city, but boat trips welcome. Sailing away from the city and port area, tourists can go diving and fishing. Still, the main activity here is excursions to get acquainted with history.

Thessaloniki has a reputation as a youth resort, so the city has nightclubs, bars, discos, football and volleyball courts. In clubs, such as Maison Crystal, they not only dance, but also taste Greek wines. The most adventurous can go to the Regency Casino, and fashionistas can go shopping; there is a whole block in the city center for this.

People go to Thessaloniki, like other cities in Greece, for health reasons as well. The city's clinics specialize in the treatment of a number of diseases: the respiratory system, reproductive system, digestive system, joints, as well as rehabilitation after injuries and operations.

Food and souvenirs

A festival takes place in Thessaloniki in November local cuisine. But in other months, guests will be greeted here with the same Greek hospitality - it will be delicious and plentiful: seafood, feta, black olives, a lot of vegetables and spices, flavored with olive oil, served with wine or raki grape vodka.

Restaurants in Thessaloniki “profess” not only Greek cuisine - there are pizzerias, steak houses, pastry shops, fast food - both local, European and American. Experienced travelers advise not to follow the beaten gastronomic paths from one restaurant on the “red line” to another, but to go deeper into the neighborhoods and look for taverns there - authentic catering for locals. It is there that Greek cuisine, according to gourmets, reveals itself in all its essence. Taverns, for example, can be found in the Ladadika area. Fast food chain restaurants specializing in Greek cuisine, Giradiko and Souvladzidiko, also deserve mention. From the names it is already clear that one of them loves gyros, and the other – souvlaki.

“Trophies” from Thessaloniki can be traditional Greek souvenirs - sweets, olive oil, spices and seasonings, wine. In addition, from here you can bring some jewelry purchased in one of the many jewelry stores, a souvenir with local embroidery, a woolen rug, ceramics “like antiquity,” artificially aged and painted based on ancient Greek myths.

Greece is traditionally popular among tourists. She attracts with her endless sandy beaches with delicate white sand, warm waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, a variety of historical architectural monuments and attractions, delicious traditional dishes, sweets and wine. If you have already sharpened your skis in the Greek direction, then we have collected for you complete information about your holiday in Thessaloniki. You will learn how to get there, where to stay, which beach is best to relax on, what to eat, what to see and what souvenirs to buy.

Getting to know Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second largest commercial, industrial and tourist centre Greece after Athens.

Did you know?Presumably the name of the city was given by its founder, the Macedonian king Cassander in 315 BC. e. He named it after his wife and sister of Alexander the Great, Thessalonica. Since 1204 it was the capital of the Thessalonian state, and was transferred to Greece in 1912–13. At different times the city was called Thessalonica, Fettaloniki, Thessalonikeon, Selanik, Thessalonica.

Location

The city of Thessaloniki stands on the northern shore of the Thermaikos Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It rises from the sea and along the slopes of the Chortiatis Mountains. It is the administrative center of Thessaloniki. The population of the city itself is about 360 thousand inhabitants, the suburbs - 900 thousand inhabitants.

Thessaloniki Map

Due to its advantageous location, Thessaloniki has the second largest and most important port in the Eastern Mediterranean, a major international airport and a railway junction.

How to get there

You can get to Thessaloniki from other countries by air and by bus. Macedonia Airport is located 12 km from the city. There are train connections to Sofia, Belgrade, Istanbul, Bucharest and Skopje. We offer you a description of options on how to get to this Greek city by plane, train and bus for citizens of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.

From Moscow. The easiest way from the Russian capital to Thessaloniki is by direct flight, which lasts 3 hours and 15–30 minutes. The cost of a seat in economy class per one-way passenger is from 7 to 13 thousand rubles. Such flights are operated from Sheremetyevo Airport by Aeroflot and Ellinair.

A seat on a flight with one transfer in Athens will cost slightly less - about 6 thousand. The flight lasts 7 hours 15 minutes. It is operated by Aegean Airlines from Domodedovo Airport. If you plan to visit Athens before Thessaloniki, then the cheapest direct flight will cost 7,136 thousand rubles. It lasts 3 hours 20 minutes.

The plane flying is owned by Aegean Airlines. He flies from Domodedovo. If you are planning a trip by land, you can purchase a ticket from Moscow to one of the cities mentioned above, which has a train connection with Thessaloniki. However, this will be a rather long and tiring journey, which will last at least 2-3 days.

If for some reason you cannot fly by plane, then there is another option - to get to Kyiv, and from Kyiv go to Thessaloniki by bus.

Important! All prices given in this article are current at the time of writing - April 2018. We monitored the cost of tickets a month before departure. With more early booking, and depending on the season, ticket prices may change up or down.

From Kyiv. There is a direct flight from Kyiv Boryspil Airport to Thessaloniki, which lasts 2 hours 15 minutes and costs 3.5 thousand hryvnia (1 person in economy class one way). A ticket for a flight with one transfer will cost the same, but the flight duration will increase by 3–9 hours.

A trip by bus will cost slightly less - 3 thousand hryvnia. However, it will last 36 hours. Flights operate three times a month. Buses depart from the “Palace of Ukraine” metro station and arrive at the “Relax” parking lot (Langoda St., 21). It is also possible to depart from another Ukrainian city, for example, from Odessa. However, you will have to travel 64 hours.

From Minsk. Most cheap flight from Minsk to Thessaloniki costs 120 euros. The flight lasts 11 hours 5 minutes and includes one transfer in Riga. The fastest flight can be made using the services of Belavia AirBaltic. This is a flight with two transfers in Vilnius and Riga lasting 6 hours 50 minutes. The cost of one seat in economy class is 148 euros.

From Athens. Between Athens and Thessaloniki - 304 km. You can fly from the capital in 30–60 minutes by plane. The cost of such a transfer is 46–70 euros. Also accessible by train, bus and car.

You can also get to Thessaloniki by train.

Trains run daily. There are approximately 6 scheduled flights per day heading towards Thessaloniki. Travel time is 5.5 hours. Ticket price for one passenger is 35–45 euros. If a ticket is purchased online, there is a discount system. Tickets can be purchased at the Larissa station ticket office or on the website: http://www.trainose.gr/en/. Experienced tourists advise using only Intercity trains.

The bus leaves from central bus station(100 Kifissou Street), terminal no. 2. There are about 10 flights per day. Travel time is 6.5 hours. The cost of the trip is 40–50 euros. Travel time by car is 4 hours 50 minutes. Kilometers - 540 km. You can rent a car in Greece from 20 euros per day. Along the way there may be toll sections of the road. The road surface in Greece is in excellent condition.

From Macedonia airport to the city. You can get from the airport to the desired hotel or to the city center by bus, taxi or rented car.

In order to travel by bus, you should know exactly where your hotel is located and ask when booking how to get there. For example, if the hotel is located on the Halkidiki peninsula, then you need to take bus No. 79a (the schedule can be found at http://asth.gr/) to get to the KTEL Halkidikis bus station (fare is 2 euros, tickets can be purchased from the driver and at special windows).

The duration of the trip is 45 minutes. The bus passes through the center of Thessaloniki and the railway station. At the bus station you will need to change to the route to your desired destination. The schedule and fares can be found at the link (http://www.ktel-chalkidikis.gr/). The center of Thessaloniki can be reached by bus number 78. It leaves from the airport every 15-20 minutes.

Bus that takes you to the center of Thessaloniki

More convenient option- taxi. The parking lot is located at the exit from the terminal. By taxi you can get to the city or to a hotel even in a distant part of the suburbs. Travel to the bus station will cost 25–30 euros (60 at night). A minibus for 7 passengers will cost 40 euros. The duration of the trip is 25 minutes. A taxi can be ordered in advance using the https://kiwitaxi.ru/ system.

As a rule, the bus is chosen by single tourists who travel with a minimum of things. Family tourists Those with a lot of suitcases prefer to get to their destination by taxi.

Important! To enter Greece, Russians and Belarusians need a Schengen visa. Its cost is 35 euros. With a list necessary documents can be found on the websites: http://www.mfa.gr/russia/ru/services/visas/, http://www.greecevac-ru.com/russia/. For Ukrainian citizens who have a biometric passport, a visa is not required.

Climate and weather

The climate here is Mediterranean, bordering on continental and semi-desert. As throughout Greece, it is characterized by a large number of sunny days - about 300 per year. The most high temperatures observed in July - August - average values during the day remain at around +30...+32 degrees, at night - +20...+21 degrees. The absolute maximum was recorded in July 2007.

Then the thermometer crossed the mark of +44 degrees. The lowest temperatures are observed in January - February - +5...+6 degrees. The lowest rates were recorded in January 1963. Then it was -14 °C in Thessaloniki. Summer in Thessaloniki cannot be called swelteringly hot. A fresh sea breeze almost always blows here, which prevents the air and soil from heating up too much.

The water temperature at this time is +26…+27 degrees. However, it rarely rains in summer. Winter is too wet, which means there are days that are not very comfortable for rest. In January, Thessaloniki can be warm - up to +18 °C. However, sudden cold snaps down to +5 °C are often observed. In February, the thermometer may often show zero temperatures.

At the end of the month you can find warming. Water temperature in winter is +13…+14 degrees. If we consider the weather in the spring and autumn seasons, then starting from March the thermometer gradually creeps up. This month is still cool, but it will become hot by the end of April.

Autumn is characterized by unpredictability. In September it can still be hot, like in August, and it can get colder to +18 °C. Sea water usually still warmed up well, its temperature is about +25 degrees. In October, the temperature may be the most comfortable for walking - +24 degrees, or it may already be cool. Nai large quantity precipitation occurs in February, March, May and November.

Thus, the best time to travel to Thessaloniki is in May - early June and September. Officially, the tourist season starts in April and ends in October. The Velvet season falls in October. The air temperature is +21 degrees, the water temperature is +23 degrees. For lovers of peace and tranquility, it is better to choose the low season. It will no longer be possible to soak up the beach, but you will be able to see the region and the country as a whole without problems or an influx of people. You can also get in on the winter sales season, which traditionally starts on January 15th.

Attractions to visit

As in other popular greek cities, in Thessaloniki, tourists are mainly offered a tour of ancient architectural monuments and attractions dedicated to the great immigrants from Greece. Most famous monuments belong to the era of early Christian and Byzantine architecture. Below you will find five of the most famous tourist sites.

The main symbol of the city. The ancient building of the 16th century is the height of a 9-story building - about 35 m, to the top of which you can climb and explore the city and the embankment. This interesting place With beautiful view It used to be a prison where public executions were carried out. Because of this second name, the tower is called Bloody.

The tower's flagpole is the mast of the Turkish battleship Fetih Bulet, which was sunk in 1912 by a Greek destroyer. Inside the building there is an exhibition with exhibits telling about the history and important events of the city. If there is no haze, then observation deck towers you can see Mount Olympus. The attraction welcomes tourists from Tuesday to Saturday, from 8:30 to 15:00 at the address: End Nikis Av, GR 54621. Entrance ticket to the tower costs 3 euros.

This is the busiest place in the city, which tourists definitely visit. central square starts from the promenade and stretches along the Thermaikos Gulf, rising up to the hill where the Basilica of St. Demetrius is located. There are many cafes and restaurants, shops, street musicians often play, and various concerts and events take place.

A monument to Aristotle is also erected here. According to popular belief, you need to rub your toe - this supposedly makes a person smarter.

The monument is installed on the embankment, not far from the White Tower and the famous installation with umbrellas. Alexander the Great deserved such an honorable place in the city, because during his reign locality was at the peak of its heyday.

The height of the sculpture is 6 m. The monument was erected in 1974. The commander sits on the horse Bucephalus. Behind his back are shields and spears, on which various symbolic images are applied - a snake, the gorgon Medusa, a lion, an ox, a falcon. At night the monument is beautifully illuminated.

Basilica of St. Demetrius

Saint Demetrius is considered the patron saint of the city. The basilica named after him is one of the largest cathedrals in Greece, which was built on the site of an ancient dungeon, the site of the death of the Roman army officer Demetrius of Thessalonica. Today this temple is operational, so when viewing it, it is quite possible that you will find yourself in a service.

The basilica is located northeast of the Agora amphitheater, in historical center Thessaloniki. More specifically, at the intersection of Selevku and St. Demetrius streets. Unfortunately, the original appearance of the temple was only partially preserved; the main part of it is the result of modern restoration work. In several places, ancient mosaics, marble decoration, compositions dating back to the 5th century, and some scenes from wall paintings and frescoes have been preserved.

Basilica of St. Demetrius

The Church of Hagia Sophia was built in the 8th century. From 1585 to 1912 it was converted into a mosque. When visiting the site, special attention should be paid to the ancient minaret, frescoes, and mosaics, which date back to the 9th–10th centuries.

Since this temple is a rare example of a church from the iconoclastic period, in 1988 it, along with other early Christian and Byzantine monuments of Thessaloniki, was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple is open daily from 8:00 to 21:00. However, you should plan to visit it before lunch or closer to dinner, since its doors are often closed from 13:00 to 17:00.

The most important sights in Thessaloniki are easy to see in one day, since they are mainly concentrated in the historical center. In addition to those described above, it is worth visiting the museum and archaeological excavations in the Agora Amphitheater or the Roman Forum, Archaeological Museum, see the triumphal arch of Galeria, the Rotunda and be sure to stroll along the beautiful embankment, taking a photo against the backdrop of the already famous business card Thessaloniki - installations with umbrellas.

By the way, for those who want to see the main attractions and not spend a lot of time on it, there are buses running around Thessaloniki. double-decker, which travels along all central streets and makes stops at the most significant places. Thus, in 1 hour 10 minutes and 10 euros (child ticket - 5 euros) you can see 8 attractions. The bus leaves from the White Tower every 40 minutes. It is easy to recognize by the yellow inscription on a red background SightSeeing Thessaloniki.

There is also tourist bus No. 50. The cost of a ticket for an adult is 2 euros, for a child - 1 euro. The duration of the trip is 50 minutes. It departs every hour from the White Tower.

Best beaches

It is better not to stop directly in the city for a beach holiday: there is a port nearby and there are always a lot of people, so the cleanliness of recreation areas and water leaves much to be desired. The best place for swimming and sunbathing - the Halkidiki peninsula. It is on it that the most comfortable beaches. You need to get there by bus; the trip will take 1–2.5 hours. The fare ranges from 6 to 17 euros. Buses start from KTEL Halkidikis station. On the peninsula it is great to relax on the beaches of Nea Fokia, Afitos, Kallithea, Kriopigi, Pefkochori, Hanioti, Psakoudia, Metamorfosi, Neos Marmaras.

The beaches are located somewhat closer, which are also popular among tourists. Thus, Perei Beach is 17 km away. It is well equipped and opens great view to the White Tower. Agia Triada beach is located 22 km from Thessaloniki. There are plenty of places to stay and eat here. You can get there by bus number 76, departing from IKEA East Station. The bus schedule can be found on the website of the transport company OASTH.

Another nearby beach is Nea Michaniona. You can get there by bus number 72. Further away is Epanomi Beach. Runs to him bus route No. 69. Sun beds and umbrellas on all beaches are paid. Alternatively, you can take a coffee or frappe for 3-5 euros, and you will get a sunbed for free for unlimited use for the day.

Nea Michaniona beach

Entertainment and relaxation

A popular entertainment in Thessaloniki is boating on the Thermic Gulf. In appearance, such ships resemble pirate schooners. Entrance to them is free, but you can’t just swim on it - you should definitely buy some kind of drink, for example, water for 2.50 euros, coffee for 5 euros, cola for the same price or a cocktail for 8. During the 40-minute walks you can see tankers and cargo ships docked in the port, examine the embankment and the architecture of the resort from the water.

For lovers active rest There are diving centers in Thessaloniki. For married couples with children, visiting the Magic Park amusement park, Waterland water park, and the zoo will undoubtedly be great entertainment. The amusement park is open on Saturday from 13:00 to 23:00, on Sunday from 11:00 to 23:00.

Tickets cost 11 euros for adults, 8 euros for children. There are family tickets that allow you to save on admission. The water park is open from 10:00 to 19:00. Ticket price for adults is from 14.5 euros, for children - from 11 euros. The zoo is open from 9:00 to 16:00. Free admission. Night life This resort is, one might say, in full swing. There are many nightclubs and bars here.

The embankment is lively all night long. Among the most famous clubs:

Skyline (Egnatia St., 154);
Mandon (21 Ermu St.);
Vogue (st. 26 Octovriu, 23);
Block 33 (st. 26 Oktovriu, 33);
FIX Factory of Sound (st. 26 Octovriu, 15);
Omilos (12 Megalou Alexandrou Avenue);
Mylos (Ag. Georgiou St., 56).

Hotels in Thessaloniki

In Thessaloniki you can find accommodation to suit every taste and budget. We have selected for you a small list of expensive and budget hotels that are most popular among tourists.

5 and 4 star hotels in Thessaloniki and surroundings:

Makedonia Palace 5* (from 140 euros for a double room for one day);
Daios Luxury Living 5* (from 149 euros);
The Met Hotel 5* (from 129 euros);
The Excelsior 5* (from 136 euros);
Mediterranean Palace 5* (from 117 euros);
Grand Hotel Palace Thessaloniki 5* (from 103 euros);
Colors Urban Hotel 4* (from 140 euros);
Anatolia Hotel 4* (from 105 euros);
a.d. Imperial Palace 4* (from 85 euros);
Royal Hotel Thessaloniki (from 90 euros).

3 stars:

Among the apartments that have the highest ratings from tourists:

Important! Please note that from January 1, 2018, Greece introduced tourist tax for accommodation. If you live in a 1-2 star hotel, then you will have to pay 0.5 euros per room per day; when staying in a 3-star hotel, the tax is 1.5 euros per day per room, in a 4-star hotel - 3 euros, in a 5-star hotel - 4 euros. Tax is not included in the room rate. It is paid by each client upon arrival at the hotel.

You can rent an apartment using the resource https://www.mouzenidis-travel.ru/rent.

Restaurants and cafes

Of course, Greek cuisine deserves to be appreciated by travelers. The Greeks themselves also love to eat. Traditionally, olives are held in high esteem here. in various forms. Fish and seafood are also prized. National dishes are considered to be “Greek” salad (always with fresh olives with pits and feta cheese), moussaka (eggplant-meat casserole with Bechamel sauce), tzatziki (yogurt with cucumbers and garlic), souvlaki (kebabs), brizola (chops from pork), kotopoulo (chicken meat), bifteki (meat cutlets). You should definitely try the cheese. Here you can find 12 varieties of feta. Experienced tourists advise buying cheeses in a shop on Komninon Street.

As for drinks, the Greeks love coffee with light foam, as well as frappe - coffee with milk and pieces of ice. Alcohol - ouzo, local vodka or rakia, grape vodka, as well as various wines.

We offer you several options where you can dine in Thessaloniki:

If you are on a budget, then in Thessaloniki it is quite possible to eat at Gownari Square. Its popular name is “1 euro area”. There are also many cafes and shops that offer food and drinks for 1 euro. So, here you can drink a good frappe for 1 euro, have breakfast with a bun with cheese for 2 euros. There are places where you can taste meat moussaka for 12.50 euros, a sandwich and water will cost 6.50 euros, coffee and a croissant will cost 5 euros.

By the way, takeaway coffee costs 2 times less than if you drink it directly in a cafe. You can also enjoy hearty and inexpensive traditional Greek snacks in the chain cafes Goody’s and Today. If you rent an apartment and cook your own food, you can spend about 10–15 euros per day on groceries for two people. When staying in a hotel with breakfast and eating in cafes or restaurants, you must expect a minimum amount of 40 euros for two.

Transport and communications

You can get around the resort by buses, small minibuses and taxis. Large and spacious buses usually run along central streets. Minibuses reach remote areas with narrower streets. There is only one trucking company in Thessaloniki - OASTH, so detailed routes and fares can be found on the website http://asth.gr/. The fare starts from 1 euro (0.50 euros per child).

If you plan to make 2 trips within 70 minutes, you can purchase a ticket for 1.20 euros; a ticket for 3 trips within 90 minutes will cost 1.50 euros. For 2 euros you can ride 4 times within 2 hours. Tickets purchased at the ticket office must be validated on the bus. Those purchased from a vending machine in the bus do not require composting. The fine for traveling without a ticket is 60 euros.

Bus intervals are 3–20 minutes. The machines on the bus do not give change, so if you do not have small money for travel, it is better to purchase tickets at the ticket office. At major transport stops there are boards indicating the time when the required route will arrive. We have already written about calling a taxi above. You can call it in advance using the Kiwitaхi online resource, or ask for help at the airport, hotel, or pick it up at special parking lots.

If you rent a car, the price will depend on the make of the car and the number of days - about 20–30 euros per day. Usually a deposit is not required in Greece. Gasoline costs about 2 euros per liter.

Did you know? Construction started in Thessaloniki 4 times underground metro, however, each time they found some valuable artifact and stopped the excavations. In Athens, the first metro line opened in 1869. Today, archaeological treasures that were found during the construction of the Athens subway are displayed as exhibits in the vestibules of some stations.

Tourists in Greece should not have problems with communication. Telephony and Internet services are well developed here. It's probably hard to find a hotel without free Wi-Fi. Wireless communications are present in airports, large shopping centers, restaurants, and public places.

Local SIM cards are sold in the offices of telecom operators, supermarkets, and kiosks. Their cost depends on the operator and the range of services. On average it will cost 3–20 euros. Top-up cards can be purchased at almost any retail outlet. International calls can be made from the hotel. There are also many special telephone bureaus and pay phones in Greece.

What to bring

From Greece they traditionally bring local talismans matopetra (eye stone) or the eye of Fatima, komboloi (rosary beads), icons, handicrafts from local craftsmen, natural soap and cosmetics, fur and leather products, ceramics, musical instruments, and jewelry. Among the products, tourists like to bring home herbs, olives, olive oil, chureki (baked goods), fruits, honey, cheese, and dried fruits. From drinks - ouzo (vodka with herbs, price - 5 euros per 0.5 l), metaxa (a mixture of brandy and wine, price - 10 euros per 0.7 l), rakia (grape vodka, price - 5 euros per 0. 5 l).

The cheapest souvenirs can be purchased at local markets. One of these - Modiano - is located between Egnatia and Tsimiski streets. Tsimiski is a shopping street where boutiques with world and Greek brands are located. Greek clothing brands can also be purchased on Hagia Sophia Boulevard. Large ones are popular among tourists shopping centers City Gate, Mega Outle, Fenafresh.

Important! From Greece customs regulations allowed to export 1 liter of spirits, 2 liters of wine, 2 liters of olive oil. If you need to export more goods, you will need to pay a duty.

Greece should undoubtedly be one of the items on every tourist's future travel plan. There are many historical sites, interesting landscapes, clean beaches, delicious food, warm sea and almost constantly sunny weather. Thessaloniki will be of interest to both budget tourists and travelers with a “gold” card. The main costs will be for accommodation and airfare. For a beach holiday, it is better to choose suburban villages. There are fewer people, more comfortable territory and clean water. Trade is well developed in Thessaloniki, transport network, hotel business, telephony and Internet communications.