Alex Mark Travel in Thessaloniki and Athina

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Thessaloniki

Must-try foods in Thessaloniki

• Bougatsa
  BougatsaThe quintessential Thessaloniki breakfast pastry, made with thin, handmade phyllo. While available with cheese (tyropita) or minced meat, the iconic version is filled with sweet semolina custard and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon. Locals often visit institutions like 'Anoteron' or 'Yiannis' for a fresh, warm slice.
• Trigona Panoramatos
  Trigona PanoramatosOriginating from the Panorama district, these triangular phyllo cones are soaked in syrup and filled with a rich, silky pastry cream. They are notoriously messy but beloved, with 'Elenidis' remaining the gold-standard bakery for these sweet treats well into 2026.
• Soutzoukakia
  SoutzoukakiaOblong, spiced meatballs that are a staple of the city’s Smyrna-influenced culinary heritage. Unlike the Athenian version served in tomato sauce, Thessaloniki-style soutzoukakia are typically grilled and served plain or with a side of spicy red pepper flakes (boukovo) and mustard, as famously served at 'Diagonios'.
• Koulouri Thessalonikis
  Koulouri ThessalonikisA simple yet iconic sesame-crusted bread ring. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You will find yellow carts selling them on almost every street corner; it is the most popular on-the-go snack for residents heading to work or the waterfront.
• Politiki Salata
  Politiki SalataA 'City-style' salad (referring to Constantinople) reflecting the city’s refugee roots. It is a crunchy, pickled mix of cabbage, carrots, celery, and Florina peppers, seasoned with plenty of vinegar and oil. It’s the standard accompaniment to grilled meats.
• Seafood Crudo and Carpaccio
  Seafood Crudo and CarpaccioReflecting the 2026 'bistronomy' trend, restaurants like 'Mourga' and 'Maitr & Margarita' are famous for raw preparations of the daily catch. These dishes use local citrus, herbs, and high-quality olive oil to highlight the freshness of the Aegean fish.

Trip guide

• About Thessaloniki
  About ThessalonikiThessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece and capital of the Central Macedonia region, was founded in 315 BCE by King Cassander of Macedon. He named the settlement after his wife, Thessalonike, the half-sister of Alexander the Great. Its location on the Thermaic Gulf established it as a major port and a strategic station on the Roman Via Egnatia.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Thessaloniki is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to mid-October), when temperatures are pleasantly warm and the city is vibrant with festivals. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season, bringing hot, humid weather often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and larger crowds, while winter is the off-peak period with chilly.
• Getting around
  Getting around Thessaloniki

  • Air and Rail (Getting There) Fly into Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG), located 15km from the city, or take a high-speed Intercity train from Athens, which arrives at the New Railway Station in approximately 5 hours.
  • Thessaloniki Metro (Local Transport) Inaugurated in late 2024, the modern driverless metro system is the fastest way to traverse the city center, connecting the New Railway Station to Nea Elvetia with frequent service through key urban hubs.
  • OASTH Public Bus Network (Local Transport) The extensive bus network covers the entire metropolitan area; use the 01X/01N express lines for airport transfers or the 'Cultural Route' (Bus 50) to visit major historical landmarks like the White Tower.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the new contactless payment system on buses and the metro by tapping your card or phone, as cash is no longer accepted on board.
  • Avoid using the 'moutza' gesture—extending your palm toward someone's face—as it is considered highly offensive in Greek culture.
  • Expect a complimentary small dessert or a shot of local spirit like tsipouro at the end of your meal, which is a standard gesture of hospitality.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki Metro Expansion: The new Kalamaria extension is set to open in summer 2026, adding five stations and significantly boosting the city's eastern connectivity.
  • Waterfront Deck Transformation: A major 1,100-meter wooden deck project is trending as it enters its final construction phase.
• This is Athens↗
  This is AthensThe official visitors' guide to the City of Athens, providing comprehensive information on neighborhoods, attractions, and local culture.