Thessaloniki has something for all tastes and makes a great city break prior to heading off to Halkidiki. It is the second city of Greece by size after Athens, and was the European Capital of Culture in 1997. Nestled on the Gulf of Thermaïkos on the Aegean Sea, it is a cosmopolitan city and well worth a visit. Roman ruins can be seen dotted around the centre, including the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda, both built in the third century AD, as well as a host of Byzantine monuments and churches. Other rulers of Thessaloniki have also left their mark, the Ottomans gave the city it's most famous landmark, the White Tower.
Many of these ancient sights are easily walkable thanks to the city's manageable size. Walk to the seafront and you can you take the the locals’ favourite volta (stroll) to the symbol of the city, the White Tower. Explore the numerous cafes, bars and restaurants here or browse the wares of the street sellers. On a clear day you can see Mount Olympus on the other side of the bay.
The city has been the home of Greece's greatest musicians, artists, poets and thinkers. It has some of the finest hotels and best restaurants in northern Greece. It also has a rich culinary tradition, with restaurants serving up some mouthwatering menus. Its most traditional eateries are ‘tsipouradika’, named after the spirit ‘tsipouro’ (a bit like ‘raki’). These are small, lively places with tables packed tightly and a buzzy atmosphere.
For culture vultures there are museums. Not to be missed is the Archaeological Museum, the home of King Philip's tomb treasure, and the state of the art. For more contemporary tastes head down to the Port for the Photography and Cinema museums or the museum of Contemporary Art.
But Thessaloniki does not just have a rich history, it is a thriving modern city with a buzzing cafe culture. Go to Kitchen Bar by the Port for great views across the bay, a funky vibe and great cocktails.
Make a visit to trendy Ladadika district, the old merchants quarter of Thessaloniki. With its narrow paved streets and neoclassical buildings, mainly restored as cafes, restaurants and jazz bars, you get a taste of what Thessaloniki looked like before all the new blocks of flats were built, as well as experiencing lively nightlife.
Another part of town which comes alive at night is the Ano Poli (upper town) which nestles behind the enormous Byzantine city walls.
We at Crescent Moon suggest a city break for your hen or stag do, or as a great start to a wedding or honeymoon in Halkidiki. Contact us now to book a free consultation.
