24 Hours in Thessaloniki

Are you spending a day in Thessaloniki in Greece? On this page I’m giving you my tips for if you’re spending 24 hours in Thessaloniki. Many people spend a short time in the Greek city Thessaloniki when they arrive at the airport and have got some extra time before traveling to their next Greek destination like one of the islands or Halkidiki. And I would absolutely recommend exploring Thessaloniki if you’re traveling via there. It’s a great city that has a lot to offer. On this page I’m giving you my tips for a day in Thessaloniki.

Brunch at Kitchen Bar

The best way to start your 24 hours in Thessaloniki is by brunch at Kitchen Bar. They’ve got a super tasty all day brunch menu with all the classics. From healthy panini’s like this one with avocado, tomato and poached egg, to more comforting dishes like pancakes with Nutella.
Besides the menu, the big draw from Kitchen Bar is also their location on the pier with great views over the waterfront of Thessaloniki and the great atmosphere on the terrace.

Thessaloniki Waterfront

If you only have the chance to see one thing in Thessaloniki, I recommend that you visit the waterfront. Especially on sunny days it makes a really nice stroll. There are many bars lined up at the waterfront and it has a walking path all along the shore.

White Tower

At the waterfront you can also find this White Tower. The tower is 34 meters high and it’s possible to visit the tower too!

Free Boat Tour

Close to the white tower you’ll find this pirate ship docked at the waterfront. You can go on a free boat tour around the Thessaloniki harbour. All you have to do is pay for your drinks. It departs quite regularly from noon to midnight. No need to reserve or buy tickets, you can just hop on board. The trip takes about 30 minutes.

Drinks and bites at Mangiare

After your stroll and boat trip, it’s time for a snack! Mangiare Gastro Bar is the perfect spot for it. This Italian restaurant is great for wines, beers, cocktails and bites like these risotto balls. They’ve got lovely indoor and outdoor seating.

Modiano Market

Here you see an empty Modiano Market, as I went early in the morning before they were setting up to take pictures. But if you’re following this guide for 24 hours in Thessaloniki, you’ll be visiting it after your afternoon drinks and the market will be buzzing! Modiano Market (or Stoa Modiano) was build in the 1920’s. You’ll find several blocks of market stands in the heart of the city.

Roman Forum of Thessaloniki

Just a few blocks away you’ll find the Roman Forum of Thessaloniki. This forum from Roman times was dug up in the 1960’s.

Arch of Galerius 

The Arch of Galerius used to be part of the Rotunda (below), but the part connecting them doesn’t exist any more. The arch is build in the 4th century.

Rotunda

The Rotunda of Galerius is a circular structure that mostly served as a place of worship. You need to buy a ticket at the entrance if you want to visit the Rotunda in Thessaloniki.

Late Dinner at ARC

The perfect spot for a (late night) dinner in Thessaloniki is ARC Espresso and Wine Bar. I had this delicious vegetarian pizza. It’s a Pizza Margarita, that’s normally quite plain but was super tasty at ARC. They also have delicious cocktails at ARC.

Luxembourg Hotel Thessaloniki

A great hotel to stay at in Thessaloniki is Hotel Luxembourg. The hotel is very centrally located. It’s super close to the waterfront, as you can see on this picture. But it’s also close to most restaurants and bars, it’s around the corner from Aristotelous Square, the main square of Thessaloniki. We had a beautiful suite with a canopy bed. Included in your stay at Hotel Luxembourg is a delicious breakfast buffet with savory and sweet products. You can make sure you’ve had a good breakfast before you start travelling to your next destination.
Click here for more information and to book your stay at Hotel Luxembourg.

You might also like my blog on the Greek region Pelion.