- Must visit
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
The city’s main archaeological museum, presenting Macedonian gold, sculpture, pottery, and finds from ancient Thessaloniki.
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A3104Thessaloniki is Greece's second largest city after Athens, and it considered the country's cultural capital. Thessaloniki lies on the coast, so your first port of call should be the beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, or take a walk along the promenade. There's much more to Thessaloniki than just beaches though. The city has a fascinating past which can be traced back more than 3,000 years, so history buffs will be delighted with the attractions on offer such as the 16th century White Tower, the city's symbol, and the grand Byzantine churches. Thessaloniki is also renowned for its festivals and events, particularly the Thessaloniki International Trade Fair and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival which are both highlights of the city's events calendar. After dark head to Aristotelous Square for cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Greece's second city has everything holidaymakers could want, with sun, history, fine food, great accommodation and easy access via plenty of UK flights. With flights from the UK to Thessaloniki, travellers can enjoy a Greek getaway for affordable prices and be there in just over three hours, putting city breaks well within reach.
The major airport near Thessaloniki is Thessaloniki International Airport (also locally known as Makedonia Airport). The airport is eight miles from Thessaloniki itself, but OASTH buses offer a reliable connection. Buses run 24 hours a day and take 49 minutes to run into the city centre. Taxis will be faster in most instances, generally taking 30 minutes to central addresses.
Airlines serving the UK to Thessaloniki route include Wizz Air, TUI, Jet2, Ryanair, British Airways and easyJet. Travellers can also choose a range of departure airports including Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds/Bradford, Edinburgh, Newcastle and Bristol.
Most of the time, passengers won't need to think too hard about whether to fly to Thessaloniki. There's simply not much competition on every score. While flight times will tend to be around three hours, bus and train services will take two to three days and have complicated itineraries. The price of alternative forms of transport will always exceed flights as well – especially when travellers book with one of the many budget carriers that flies into Thessaloniki. Finally, there are plenty of departure points. Whether passengers live in Edinburgh, Bristol or London, they should always have a convenient take-off point when visiting Thessaloniki. So, flying is comfortably the best way to go.
Thessaloniki is fun to walk around, particularly the Byzantine and Ottoman old town. But visitors should note that it can be quite hilly, so using buses or taxis can be a good option. In that case, buying three-journey tickets on buses is a good way to save money. After that, there's plenty to see. Standouts include the 4th-century Rotunda, which was once intended to house the remains of a Roman emperor, and the White Tower, which is a famous symbol of the city. The Archaeology Museum provides an invaluable grounding in Thessaloniki's ancient past, but joining walking tours is advisable. Fascinating ruins can be found across the city, and experts will tell their stories in vivid fashion.
The closest airport to Thessaloniki, Greece is Thessaloniki International Airport Macedonia, often called Macedonia International Airport, which lies 15 km southeast of the city centre. Getting from the aiport to the city centre is easy - it is served 24/7 by the city's public bus service, with routes runing from the airport to Thessaloniki's central train station, the port, and all districts of the city. The airport is also well connected to the city centre by road, if travellers prefer to make the 20 minute journey by taxi - a rank is located just outside the arrivals hall. There are regular flights to Thessaloniki departing from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted and Manchester Airport. Airlines which fly to Macedonia International Airport include British Airways, Ryan Air, easyJet, Aegean Airlines and Thomson Airways.
Discover the best of Thessaloniki — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thessaloniki trip today.
The city’s main archaeological museum, presenting Macedonian gold, sculpture, pottery, and finds from ancient Thessaloniki.
A rich survey of Byzantine art and daily life, with icons, mosaics, textiles, and thoughtfully curated permanent galleries.
A compact museum inside the White Tower tracing Thessaloniki’s urban history through multimedia and historical displays.
The city’s landmark seafront promenade, ideal for walking or cycling with sculpture, gardens, and open views across the bay.
A lively central square by the sea, framed by notable architecture and often used as the starting point for exploring the centre.
The old upper town with Ottoman and Macedonian houses, quiet lanes, small squares, and some of the best city viewpoints.
Layered baked dish of aubergine, minced meat and béchamel. A Greek classic widely loved in Thessaloniki tavernas and homes.
Sesame-crusted bread ring sold by street vendors and bakeries. It is Thessaloniki’s signature grab-and-go breakfast snack.
Rich slow-cooked tripe soup with garlic, vinegar and paprika. Traditionally eaten late at night and linked to northern Greek food culture.
Long-running pastry shop famed for bougatsa, savoury pies and Thessaloniki breakfast classics in a busy casual atmosphere.
Historic central taverna known for meze, seafood and classic Macedonian dishes in a lively old-school setting.
Popular sweet shop and café best known for trigona panoramatos, profiteroles and classic Greek desserts.
Moderate for Greece: rooms, tavernas and buses are usually cheaper than Athens and many Western European city breaks.
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Round up taxi fares; leave small change in cafés.
Official public transport app
Thessaloniki International Airport -> Aristotelous Square, Thessaloniki
Check where to Thessaloniki flights depart and arrive, plus the main airport details for this route.
Thessaloniki International Airport is 1 km from Thessaloniki city centre. Public transport options include:
Thessaloniki International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the arrivals and departures areas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Thessaloniki International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Thessaloniki International Airport: Ramps, assistance.
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