With 5 days in Thessaloniki, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. By night, the city transforms. The Ladadika district's cobblestone streets, once slick with olive oil from warehouses, now pulse with live rembetika music and the clinking of ouzo glasses.
Why Visit Thessaloniki
A Legendary Culinary Capital: Indulge in the city's famous street food like koulouri (sesame bread rings) and bougatsa (custard pie), then dive into meze culture at a traditional ouzeri in Ladadika, sampling grilled sardeles (sardines) and saganaki (fried cheese).
Vibrant Waterfront & Urban Life: Stroll, cycle, or skate along the expansive Nikis Avenue waterfront, a social hub dotted with cafes, sculptures, and the iconic Umbrellas installation by Zongolopoulos, leading to the landmark White Tower museum.
Unbeatable Nightlife & Music: Experience the famous nightlife in warehouses-turned-bars in Ladadika, listen to authentic rembetika (Greek blues) in hidden clubs, and enjoy summer open-air cinemas like the historic Olympion.
Find cheap transport to Thessaloniki
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Thessaloniki
Enter your departure city to see prices
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Thessaloniki adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
White Tower
Experience White Tower, one of Thessaloniki's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Greece's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Rotunda
Experience Rotunda, one of Thessaloniki's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Greece's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Thessaloniki like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Greece.
Ano Poli
Experience Ano Poli, one of Thessaloniki's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Greece's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Aristotelous Square
Experience Aristotelous Square, one of Thessaloniki's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Greece's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped Thessaloniki. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Byzantine Churches
Experience Byzantine Churches, one of Thessaloniki's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Greece's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Modiano Market
Experience Modiano Market, one of Thessaloniki's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Greece's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover Thessaloniki's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Day 5: Last Adventures & Farewell
Savor your last hours in Thessaloniki. Whether it's a final coffee at a favorite spot or one more landmark to check off, make it memorable.
Ready to explore Thessaloniki?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Thessaloniki is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit Thessaloniki is April to June, September to November. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in Greek go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 65 days gives you time to see the highlights and discover some hidden gems.
Must-Try Food in Thessaloniki
💡 Visit the Modiano Market in the late morning when it's most lively, and have a fresh fish lunch at one of the small eateries inside—it's the freshest you'll get.
Book Activities in Thessaloniki
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Thessaloniki
Ladadika
The historic port district, named after the olive oil (ladi) warehouses that once occupied its stone buildings.
Ano Poli (Upper Town)
The oldest part of the city, a charming village-like neighborhood perched on the hills above the modern metropolis.
City Center (Aristotelous & Tsimiski)
The bustling commercial and social heart, rebuilt after the 1917 fire with grand, early 20th-century architecture.
Day Trip Ideas
With 5 days in Thessaloniki, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Vergina (Aigai)
Journey to the first capital of ancient Macedonia and the burial site of its kings, most famously Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.
Halkidiki Peninsula
Explore the stunning three-pronged peninsula famous for its crystal-clear waters and golden beaches.
Plan your Thessaloniki adventure
Let AI create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Thessaloniki. Just describe what you want to experience.
Plan Thessaloniki trip