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72 Hours in Thessaloniki: Insider Tips From Locals

Thessaloniki is a place that reveals itself slowly.

Built on layers of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history, the city moves at its own pace, shaped as much by coffee rituals and long lunches as by its landmarks. Along the waterfront, daily life stretches into the evening; step away from the sea and the city opens into neighbourhood streets lined with bakeries, small galleries and cafés that highlight Thessaloniki’s cool charm.

This 72-hour Thessaloniki travel guide is designed for travellers who want to experience the city from a local perspective. Created in collaboration with Thessaloniki-based photographers and content creators Rose and Georgios of FOS Studio, it brings together the places they return to regularly, from hotels and cafés to restaurants, bars and overlooked corners. Across three days, this itinerary weaves together food, design, culture and neighbourhood walks, offering a considered introduction to one of Greece’s most engaging urban destinations.

Day 1: Where to Stay and Brunch in Thessaloniki

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Begin your stay at Hipsters Hotel, a contemporary boutique property with a relaxed café atmosphere that attracts a local crowd throughout the day. Its central location makes it an easy base for exploring on foot.

The Modernist Hotel is another standout, particularly for travellers who love their breakfast. The design is clean and understated, while the morning spread focuses on quality ingredients, from fresh fruit and pastries to eggs prepared to order. It is a polished start to the day without feeling formal.

Brunch and Morning Coffee in Thessaloniki

For a first taste of the city, Kyra Sofi is a must. Its handmade pies are baked fresh each morning and remain a local favourite for a quick, satisfying breakfast. Nearby, newly opened Tzeneral specialises in bougatsa, the custard-filled pastry Thessaloniki is known for, served warm and generously dusted with sugar.

Coffee plays a central role in daily life here, with NAKED Mitropoleos offering carefully prepared espresso in a minimalist setting. Estet is known for its precise, flavour-driven approach, whereas YAYA Mavili pairs good coffee with focaccia sandwiches, and Father blends specialty coffee with vinyl records, drawing a crowd that hangs out here well beyond the morning rush.

Ano Poli and Thessaloniki’s Historic Layers

Spend the afternoon in Ano Poli, the city’s Upper Town. Its narrow streets, stone houses, and Byzantine walls feel a world away from the bustle below, and the views stretch across the city to the sea.

On the way back down, stop at Venizelou Metro Station, where significant Roman ruins sit beneath the modern transport hub. It is one of the most striking examples of how Thessaloniki’s past and present coexist.

Dinner and Drinks in Thessaloniki

Seafood lovers should head to Mourga for thoughtfully prepared fish dishes designed for sharing. For Greek cuisine with a contemporary edge, Fantazio offers a refined but relaxed dining experience. And Zeme is the spot to head to for handmade meze, perfectly paired with a hit of tsipouro.

Later in the day, Moby Dick or the Whale is a favourite for natural wines by the glass, while newly opened Alge attracts a stylish local crowd with an inventive menu, impressive wine list and a low-key atmosphere that suits those looking for a casual night out.

Insights Greece - 72 Hours in Thessaloniki: Insider Tips From Locals

Day 2: Brunch, Art, and Local Experiences

Best Brunch Spots in Thessaloniki

Day two begins with brunch at NAKED or HARRY’S, both known for well-executed plates that highlight seasonal ingredients. For something sweet, Choureal serves some of the city’s best profiteroles, while Blé offers delicate pastries that are worth seeking out.

Museums and Creative Spaces in Thessaloniki

Art lovers should make time for MOMus, the Museum of Contemporary Art, which presents Greek and international exhibitions across multiple venues in the city. It is a strong reflection of Thessaloniki’s creative energy.

For shopping with a local focus, Olive Era showcases Greek-made skincare and cosmetics, making it a thoughtful stop for gifts or personal treats.

Markets and Local Hangouts

A short trip outside the city centre leads to Ergon Agora East, a spacious market and dining destination surrounded by greenery. Locals come here to shop, eat, and spend long afternoons, making it a refreshing change of pace from the city streets.

Evening Dining in Thessaloniki

Dinner is best approached slowly. Salumeria is ideal for sharing small plates, Sin Trofi is a great modern Greek spot to try, and Mezen offers a more traditional take on meze culture. Meals here are social, unhurried, and often extend well into the evening.

Day 3: Coffee, Waterfront, and Sunset Views

Coffee Stops to End Your Stay

Start your final day at Folki, where Italian-inspired coffee drinks are served in a calm, welcoming space. Afesou blends coffee culture with aperitivo-style spritzes, while a final visit to Father offers a quiet moment before the day unfolds.

Walking the Thessaloniki Waterfront

The Paralia promenade stretches along the waterfront and is best enjoyed on foot. Locals walk, jog, and meet friends here throughout the day, but sunset is when the area truly comes alive, as the light softens over the Thermaic Gulf.

A Wine-Focused Day Trip

For those with extra time, Ktima Gerovassiliou sits just outside Thessaloniki and offers tastings in a vineyard setting with sweeping views. Back in the city, Super Natural Wine Shop and Super Loulios specialise in natural and local wines. Ending your trip with a final drink at a favourite spot feels like the right way to say goodbye.

FAQ: Thessaloniki Travel Guide Essentials

How do you get to Thessaloniki from Athens?

Flights from Athens to Thessaloniki’s Macedonia Airport take around one hour and run frequently. Long-distance buses from Athens’ Kifissou terminal take approximately six to seven hours. Train services are available, with travel times varying. Driving from Athens takes around six hours and allows for flexible stops along the way.

What is the best way to get around Thessaloniki?

We don’t recommend hiring a car for a few days, as the city centre is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Public buses and taxis are widely available for longer distances, but walking remains the best way to experience Thessaloniki’s neighbourhoods.

When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki is a year-round destination. Late spring and early autumn offer mild weather and comfortable sightseeing conditions. Summer brings energy and long evenings, while winter is quieter and well suited to museums, galleries, and café culture.

Which events are worth planning a visit around?

Key cultural events include the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival in March, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in October and November, and the Thessaloniki International Fair in September.

Who is Thessaloniki best for?

Thessaloniki is perfect for travellers interested in art, design, food, wine, and coffee culture. It suits those who enjoy discovering cities through neighbourhoods, local dining, and unhurried exploration rather than structured sightseeing.

All imagery and local recommendations are by FOS Studio ©, Thessaloniki-based photographers and content creators. Visit their website FOS Studio or follow them on Instagram @fos.studio to see more of their work.

All brands are carefully handpicked by our editors. We may earn a commission if you purchase through affiliate links on our site.

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The Best Boutique Hotels in Thessaloniki

If you are planning a visit to Thessaloniki, here’s our edit of the best boutique hotels in the city.

Thessaloniki may be Greece’s undisputed foodie capital, but it’s also a city that thrives on contrasts. Ancient ruins sit shoulder-to-shoulder with modern apartment blocks, Byzantine churches share the skyline with bold street art, and nights stretch long with music and conversation spilling out of hidden bars. Along its lively waterfront and within its maze of neighbourhoods, the city buzzes with a creative, unpolished energy that feels both timeless and forward-looking.

The hotels here mirror that spirit. Some hide behind neoclassical façades with wrought-iron balconies, others are sleek, contemporary spaces with rooftop pools and sweeping city views. Each one is deeply rooted in place- shaped by history, design, and the rhythm of local life.

Insights Greece - The Best Boutique Hotels in Thessaloniki

MonAsty

Tucked in the heart of the city, MonAsty reimagines Thessaloniki’s Byzantine grandeur for the modern traveller. Every detail nods to the city’s layered history, from art installations crafted by local artisans to subtle accents in traditional silks that soften the sleek, contemporary design. A refined yet welcoming retreat, it’s just steps from Aristotelous Square, the White Tower, and the newly revived Agora Modiano. While the city outside buzzes late into the night, MonAsty offers a quieter, more contemplative kind of luxury, the kind where design, atmosphere, and comfort align so completely that returning to your room feels like an experience in itself. But what sets MonAsty apart is its rooftop bar, where guests can enjoy a front-row seat to Thessaloniki’s unforgettable sunsets, watching the city transform in golden light.

A: 45, Vasileos Irakleiou Street, Thessaloniki

On Residence

Overlooking the Thermaikos Bay from its prime spot on the waterfront, On Residence brings new life to one of Thessaloniki’s most storied buildings, first erected in 1926. The hotel’s design nods to its glamorous past with Art Deco-inspired details and a sophisticated palette, while its 60 rooms and suites feel indulgent yet understated. At its heart lies the legendary Olympos Naoussa restaurant, a local institution that has been thoughtfully revived alongside the chic Tiger Loop cocktail bar, a stunning rooftop bar and a serene inner courtyard that offers a respite from the city’s buzz. With a gym, business-ready mezzanine spaces, and those sweeping sea views, On Residence is as much a destination for stylish travellers as it is a gathering place for locals rediscovering a beloved landmark.

A: Leof. Nikis 5, Thessaloniki

The Excelsior

Situated in the very heart of Thessaloniki, where the city’s layered history is visible on every corner, The Excelsior Hotel marries timeless charm with contemporary comfort. This historic property offers a refined sanctuary for couples and explorers alike, placing guests just steps from the bustling seafront and the city’s cultural landmarks. Inside, the atmosphere balances understated elegance with warmth and classic design touches sit alongside modern amenities, creating a space that feels both indulgent and welcoming. At The Excelsior, tradition and modernity converge effortlessly, offering a stay that is as evocative as the city itself, this a place to pause, immerse, and experience Thessaloniki in style.

A: 10 Komninon & 23 Mitropoleos Av, Thessaloniki

Daios Luxury Living

Perched on Thessaloniki’s lively Nikis Avenue, Daios Luxury Living offers a modern, bright take on boutique hospitality, with sweeping views of the Thermaikos Gulf and the city’s iconic White Tower. Its 49 suites are designed with light, airy minimalism in mind, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, pale wooden floors, glass-walled bathrooms, and a muted palette that lets the panorama take centre stage. The hotel excels in curated simplicity: a Mediterranean-inspired bar-restaurant serves sunset cocktails and casual bites with sea views, while the terrace offers a quiet nook to sip your morning coffee as ferries drift by. Steps from museums, shops, and restaurants, Daios Luxury Living is a chic city retreat where design, light, and location combine to create a subtly indulgent experience.

A: Leof. Nikis 59, Thessaloniki

Elizabeth Boutique Hotel

Tucked between the lively buzz of Ladadika and the serene charm of Thessaloniki’s Upper Town, Elizabeth Boutique Hotel feels quietly hidden yet perfectly central. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building beneath the bell tower of the Church of the Franks, the 34 rooms are a study in understated elegance, featuring warm lighting, plush textures, and a soft, neutral palette that create a calm sanctuary in the heart of the city. Beyond the rooms, the hotel offers a small wellness area with a sauna, jacuzzi, and massage treatments. Dining includes a full-service restaurant to a relaxed café and bar, while the generous breakfast buffet sets the tone for days of exploring. Just a ten-minute stroll from Aristotelous Square, and close to museums, churches, and nightlife, Elizabeth Boutique Hotel is a sophisticated base where comfort, design, and location come together.

A: Katholikon 2, Thessaloniki

The Modernist

Housed in a meticulously restored 1920s heritage building, The Modernist Thessaloniki marries old-world charm with understated, contemporary luxury. Its minimalist interiors fuse Art Deco, mid-century, and Danish design elements, creating a space that feels both timeless and immediately of-the-moment. Located steps from Aristotelous Square, the hotel draws inspiration not from classical grandeur but from its own cool urban context. Rooms (ranging from small to family) are chic and near-monochrome, with subtle pops of colour, and all come equipped with modern comforts such as espresso machines and Marshall Bluetooth speakers. Breakfast is served amid the greenery of the rooftop garden, while a small gallery and lifestyle shop add thoughtful, creative touches. With a café next door and Thessaloniki’s vibrant streets just steps away, The Modernist offers a sophisticated, design-led base from which to explore the city.

A: Ermou 32, Thessaloniki

Bahar

In the heart of Thessaloniki’s Upper Ladadika, Bahar Boutique Hotel offers a serene counterpoint to the city’s lively streets. Housed in a fully renovated 1930s building recognised as a piece of art by the Centre of Modern Monuments, the hotel elegantly fuses 20th-century architecture with contemporary design. Its 16 modern rooms exude understated luxury, with thoughtful amenities and urban-chic touches that reflect the building’s heritage and its historic surroundings. Bahar pays homage to the neighbourhood’s past as a hub for fragrant goods, herbs, and local commerce, weaving local story and sensory detail into the guest experience. With a 24-hour reception and a location just steps from Aristotelous Square, the Port, museums, shops, and bars, Bahar offers a stylish, perfectly situated base for both leisure and business travellers seeking a boutique stay steeped in history and character.

A: Katouni 27 &, Edessis 10, Thessaloniki

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Hotel Review: The Excelsior Hotel in Thessaloniki

Nestled in the heart of the city centre, where history whispers from every corner, The Excelsior Hotel in Thessaloniki stands tall as a beacon of unparalleled charm and hospitality.

As this vibrant city beckons travellers from far and wide, this timeless hotel is a haven where sophistication meets warmth, and tradition intertwines seamlessly with modern luxury.

It’s the ideal place for couples and those who want to explore the heart of town whilst being a breath away from Thessaloniki’s seafront.

Insights Greece - Hotel Review: The Excelsior Hotel in Thessaloniki

The lowdown

Located on the corner of Komninon Street and Mitropoleos Avenue, just a short walk away from Aristotelous Square and the famous seafront – it’s perfectly positioned for anyone eager to explore the rich tapestry of Thessaloniki’s cultural heritage. With monuments and The White Tower just a stone’s throw away, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the city’s storied past while enjoying the modern-day conveniences of luxurious accommodations.

Details

From the moment you step foot into this historic establishment, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance and genuine hospitality. The Excelsior Hotel prides itself on its unique ability to blend timeless traditions of the past with the contemporary comforts of today, offering guests a nostalgic and indulgent experience.

Rooms

The meticulously appointed rooms exude comfort and style. Although the hotel was built in 1924, it underwent a complete renovation in 2009 and now features 36 luxurious rooms and suites with art deco balconies, neoclassical high windows and elegant aesthetics that make your time here unforgettable.

We stayed in a Deluxe Double room that comes fully equipped with a king-size bed (boasting comfort), a top-to-bottom marble bathroom filled with branded toiletries, an espresso coffee machine and beautiful artwork. The room was spacious, light and airy, and our private balcony was the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee.

Food + Drinks

In the Charlie D. Brasserie on the mezzanine floor, culinary delights await guests every morning. The menu features handpicked recipes and fresh ingredients, prepared with love by a talented team of chefs – making breakfast a journey for the senses.

From savoury dishes that tantalize the taste buds to visually stunning creations that are worthy of your Instagram feed, everything from eggs royale to vegan muffins to the lush pancakes is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Extras touches

The reception and concierge services are impeccable. It’s the people that make a place and most certainly the staff at The Excelsior go out of their way to ensure each guest feels welcome. Another standout is the beautifully designed lounge area- perfect space to sit back, relax, flick through a magazine, and just unwind after a day of sightseeing.

What’s close-by

The top city attractions are within walking distance. From here you can embark on a daily tour of the city and explore Aristotelous Square (that is 200m away), Laladika and the Ancient Agora of Thessaloniki, Democracy Square, Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius. The White Tower and OTE Tower are also roughly 1 km away each.

Highlight of stay

The Excelsior Hotel is not just a place to stay – it’s an experience to savour. Whether you’re visiting Thessaloniki for business or pleasure, this hotel offers everything you need in terms of comfort, style and location.

Perfect for…

Couples, explorers, business trips and family visits.

Accommodation type: Boutique hotel

Location: 10 Komninon & 23 Mitropoleos Av, Thessaloniki

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Temperatures Set to Rise Across Greece this Weekend

Spring has sprung and the beautiful summer weather is on its way, with temperatures set to exceed 30 degrees Celsius in some parts of Greece this weekend.

For those currently travelling around the country and hoping to get a swim, the warmer weather is expected in the coming days with the temperature predicted to gradually exceed 30 degrees Celsius in some areas of the country on Saturday, May 14, 2022.

The weather service of the National Observatory of Athens meteo.gr forecasts up to 28-29 degrees Celsius in Athens, Thessaloniki and Patras and up to 31°-32° C in Larissa, central Greece.

The temperature will rise slightly in the north and will range from 10 to 28 degrees, in the west from 11 to 26 to 27 degrees, in the eastern mainland from 12 to 28 degrees and on the Aegean islands from 14 to 25 degrees Celsius; Rethymno and Chania in Crete are also expected to have warmer days, reaching the mid-20’s over the next few days.

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Train Trip From Athens to Thessaloniki in Less Than 4 Hours, Begins May 15

The highly anticipated new train trip allowing passengers to commute between Athens and Thessaloniki in less than 4 hours, is finally ready to embark on its first journey next Sunday, May 15, 2022.

According to railway company TrainOSE, the new state-of-the-art trains arriving from Italy will cut the journey time from around six hours to less than four hours; providing passengers with a comfortable and faster trip between Greece’s two largest cities.

The new ETR470 trains which have a seating capacity of 600 people, feature nine wagons, including a restaurant/bar and three first-class wagons.

TrainOSE revealed on Friday that the ETR470 trains will run twice a day in each direction:

– Leaving Athens at 07:22, it will stop at Larissa at 09:58, and arrive in Thessaloniki at 11:20. The next one, in the afternoon, will leave Athens at 17:22, stop at Larissa at 20:00, and arrive in Thessaloniki at 21:21.

– Leaving Thessaloniki, ETR470 will leave the station at 07:08, stop at Larissa at 08:09, and arrive in Athens at 11:03. The next one, in the afternoon, will leave Thessaloniki at 17:08, stop at Larissa at 18:08 and arrive in Athens at 21:04.

To promote the event, TrainOSE is currently offering a 20% discount for tickets booked in the next 20 days, with travel time between May 15 and June 3.

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Elegant New Hotel Opening in Thessaloniki this Summer

Monasty Hotel, a member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection is a brand new 5-star hotel set to open in the centre of Thessaloniki in summer 2022. Combining simplicity with style, Monasty is designed to capture the authentic character of Greece’s extraordinary co-capital.

Located next to Aristotelous square, Monasty Hotel is inspired by the richness of Thessaloniki’s remarkable past- with sophisticated elements of its Byzantine heritage highlighted throughout the hotel’s elegant spaces.

With 100 rooms boasting modern design and comforts, Monasty is ideal for business travellers, weekend guests, and city visitors who are ready to explore the heart of Thessaloniki and its historic surroundings. Rooms and suites feature contemporary facilities and superb city views. The arched doorways, traditional monastic elements and an eclectic range of art installations created by local artisans add warmth and unique character to each space.

Insights Greece - Elegant New Hotel Opening in Thessaloniki this Summer

Culinary experiences will be offered by the hotel’s all-day lounge and the rooftop bar, which will serve Mediterranean fusion cuisine and exquisite cocktails. The stylish and relaxed all-day bar adds a touch of class and is set to become a hot spot for business meetings and shopping breaks, offering the latest mixology trends, artisan coffee, as well as a fine selection of wines and liqueurs.

All of Monasty’s facilities are designed to provide an exceptional and wide range of choices for guests -with an emphasis on business meetings and social events through its private dining options, lounges, meeting and conference rooms. The state-of-the-art, fully-equipped fitness centre will also allow guests to experience wellness with exceptional comfort.

“We are more than proud that they entrusted us with the management of the first Autograph Collection by Marriott hotel in the city of Thessaloniki, Monasty. Its characteristic design combined with the high standard level of services is sure to make it a reference point in the hotel map of the city,” stated Mr Panos Konstantinidis, CEO of Greece’s leading hotel management company SWOT Hospitality.

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Thessaloniki’s Cool New Spanish Inspired Bar-Restaurant

Set down on Papadopoulou Street, in a single-story building that resembles a warm and inviting Spanish home, this cool and casual all-day bar and restaurant in Thessaloniki has become a favourite local hangout.

Having quietly opened its doors in the middle of last year (by the talented team from Cin Cin) Mariél has now become a popular spot in the city thanks to its amazing brunch menu, fine meats, signature cocktails, and its overall enticing Mediterranean vibe that’s best experienced in the amazing courtyard out the back.

The high-quality meat cuts feature a combination of juicy and delicious options that are cooked to satisfy each taste, and all the dishes on the menu are designed to be enjoyed with the impressive list of wines that come from Greece, Spain, Italy and other parts of the world.

Insights Greece - Thessaloniki’s Cool New Spanish Inspired Bar-Restaurant

If you happen to be in Thessaloniki on a Thursday evening, we highly recommend you head here for Tapas Thursdays, where you can enjoy the creative chef’s suggestions, and taste the mini bites that pair perfectly with the Spanish wines. We love the tacos with chili con Carne and the bruschetta with chorizo, sour cream and fig paste!

The weekend brunch menu is also delightful. It features Fried Eggs on porcini and guanciale cream, accompanied by fresh salad and toasted bread, as well as Tortita Legendaria with mascarpone, fresh fruit and raspberry sauce.

For lunch, you can try the light pasta dishes, which include the Fresh Stringoloni in goat trunk sauce and fresh truffle carpaccio, or the Egg Fusilli with juicy cherry tomatoes, Feta and salami.

Or, if it’s just a drink (or 2, or 3) that you’re after, behind Mariél’s bar you will find the creative and talented mixologists serving unique cocktails such as the Greek Ramos with vanilla-scented tones and fresh lemon juice, gin and Mastiha, and the Nectar, a vodka-based cocktail enriched with lime aromas.

A: Papadopoulou 16, Panorama

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History of Greece’s Colourful Tapestry on Display in Thessaloniki

A colourful exhibition shining a light on the rich history of Greece’s famous tapestry is currently on display at Thessaloniki’s MOMus-Museum of Contemporary Art.

Titled “Weavings anew” the presentation is a new approach to the successful 2019 exhibition “Weavings,” which took place at the Benaki Museum in Athens. Curated by Irini Orati and Constantinos Papachristou, it affirmed the revival of research interest in Greek tapestry and its short, but rich history in recent years.

Insights Greece - History of Greece’s Colourful Tapestry on Display in Thessaloniki — Hydra 1972 by Nikos Nikoloaou

Art historian and curator of the “Weavings Anew” exhibition Areti Leopoulou says, “Every artist and artwork presented in the exhibition – weavings, paintings, engravings, sculptures – aims at pointing out the dynamic of the creative process, which is not isolated from the wider milieu and the people inhabiting it: these works render visible a peculiar continuation and achievement of the goals set by the 1930s generation up until the 1970s.”

“The cordial coexistence -if not identification- of abstraction with the capabilities and limitations of weaving techniques are noticeable; the autonomy, but also the interaction of artistic mediums is revealed; the dialogue between the artist and the artisan facilitated by weaving is revealed; above all, the potential of the artwork to be liberated from the palimpsest stereotype and become part of everyday life as a decorative and practical object is firmly established. As is the notion that these works, both in their artistic and more folkish iterations, are an integral part not only of our folkloric but also of our artistic tradition,” added Leopoulou.

Famous artworks on display include those of George Vakalo, Spyros Vasiliou, Opi Zouni, Niki Kanagini, Michalis Katzourakis, Vaso Katraki, Kostas Koulentianos, Yiannis Moralis, Alex Mylona, Dimitris Mytaras, Nikos Nikolaou, Sotiris Sorogas, Jannis Spyropoulos, Yannis Tsarouchis, Ioannis Faitakis, Nikos Chatzikyriakos-Gikas and Loch Textiles.

Collectors and institutions that lent works for this exhibition include Alpha Bank, Benaki Museum/Ghika Gallery, National Center of Social Solidarity (EKKA), Vorres Museum, The Jannis and Zoe Spyropoulos Foundation, the Yannis Tsarouchis Foundation, the Teloglion Foundation of Arts A.U.Th., Julia Dimakopoulou, Maria Vasiliou, Marianna Katraki, the Kanagini family, Michalis Katzourakis, Alexandros Zounis and MOMus-Museum Alex Mylona.

Weavings anew

A: Egnatia 154, Thessaloniki

Dates: Until March 27, 2022

Opening hours:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm
Thursday: 12 pm to 8 pm
Monday: Closed

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Thessaloniki’s International Contemporary Art & Book Fair Kicks Off

Thessaloniki is celebrating all things arts and culture this weekend with the 5th Art Thessaloniki International Contemporary Art Fair and the 18th Thessaloniki Book Fair both taking place at Thessaloniki’s International Exhibition & Congress Centre from Thursday 25th to Sunday the 28th of November, 2021.

Regarded as one of the most important art exhibitions in Southeast Europe, the annual Thessaloniki art fair attracts hundreds of artists and thousands of international visitors each year.

This year, due to the pandemic it will be a smaller exhibition, however, 29 galleries from seven countries, close to 20 parallel projects, three museum exhibitions, and almost 800 artists’ works are displayed at the exhibition.

Organised by the National Agency for The Organisation of Exhibitions, Congresses and Cultural Events (HELEXPO S.A.) together with Pantelis Tsatsis, Artistic Director, this year the exhibition is considered a major reflection of Thessaloniki’s rich cultural scene.

Insights Greece - Thessaloniki’s International Contemporary Art & Book Fair Kicks Off — Thessaloniki’s international art fair

“This is an art fair that invests in the strategically important geographic location of Thessaloniki, its multicultural identity, its rich and long history. Thessaloniki’s history spans some 2,300 years. Thessaloniki is a popular tourist destination in Greece and renowned for its festivals, events and vibrant cultural life in general,” announced the event organisers.

Award-winning composer Lina Tonia has premiered her new composition for the first time yesterday, while the honoured artist for 2021 will be Professor Yiannis Fokas. An honorary distinction will also be given to artists Dimitris Alithinos and George Lazogas for their work and their contribution to contemporary Greek art.

In addition to the participation of 30 galleries from Greece and abroad and 20 parallel projects, the museum exhibition will be presented with works by internationally renowned artist Victor Vasarely in collaboration with the Museum of Drawing Skopje.

Honouring the 200 Year Anniversary of Greek Independence, the Ethnographic Center of George Meliki will present the original installation, K.P. Kavafi. A special tribute to the Greek revolution 1821-2021, with the paint and the pen of Philhellene Painters and Travelers, will also be displayed. Dedicated to the 200 years of the Greek revolution (1821-2021), about 50 collectible lithographs from the first lithographic prints of the Philhellene painters Karl Krazeisen, Adam Friedel, Peter Von Hess, and European newspapers during the period 1821-1828 will be on exhibit.

Thessaloniki Book Fair (TBF)

Regarded as an important event for the book industry, this event attracts publishers, authors, translators, literary agents, booksellers, librarians, academics and institutions for books and literature from Greece, the Balkans, Western Europe, the Southeastern Mediterranean and from all over the world.

This year, TBF’s central theme is ‘The Ongoing Revolutions of Books’, aiming to combine the celebrations for the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution with all the changes that took place during the pandemic regarding people’s perception of books and literary events.”.

German-language literature will be this year’s Guest of Honour with authors invited from German-speaking countries as well as book professionals.

Additionally, the 18th TBF will focus on the following themes:

New Writers Festival
Children’s and Teenagers’ Corner
New Book Technologies
Who Needs Classical Studies Today? Translation Festival
200 Years From the Greek Revolution
Politics: Freedom and Responsibility
Guest of Honour: German-language Literature

This year, the Hellenic Cultural Foundation will honour Thessaloniki’s writers Matsi Chatzilazarou (1914-1987) and Anestis Evangelou (1937-1994), while a discussion on the literature of Thessaloniki has also been organised.

Opening Hours:

Thursday: 4 pm – 10 pm

Friday: 2 pm – 9 pm

Weekend: 11 am – 9 pm

A: 154 Egnatias Street, Thessaloniki

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5 Magical Christmas Spots in Greece

Christmas is always a special time of the year, no matter where you happen to be in the world. However, some places do just happen to be a little more magical than others during the festive season.

If you’re looking for an extra special spot to spend Christmas in Greece, we’ve rounded up a few winter wonderlands featuring some of the most magical decorations, twinkling lights, shining trees, and an abundance of festive cheer.

Athens

The illuminated central squares and streets in the Greek capital ring with music and cheer and all corners of the city – including hotels, boutiques, restaurants and bars– are decked with twinkling fairy lights during this time of year. Syntagma Square is the heart of the celebrations, with its wonderful Christmas tree, confectionary stalls and events organised by the City of Athens- putting the whole city into the festive spirit. The Christmas Factory at Technopolis and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre are standouts for their decorations, performances, music concerts, outdoor events, charity bazaars and special Christmas sparkle.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s co-capital is pure magic this time of year with its grand buildings lit up in gold and silver and the streets smelling of wonderful aromas (coming from the bakeries offering Greek Christmas treats), as Thessaloniki is the country’s city of gastronomy after all! The traditional decorated boat takes centre stage in Aristotelous Square alongside the stunning Christmas tree. Here you will find locals gathering each night and strolling around town enjoying the festivities, as well as stopping off for some shopping, dining and drinks at all the beautifully decorated shops, restaurants and bars along the way!

Trikala

A visit to Trikala at this time of year allows visitors the chance to experience the holiday fairy tale at the Mill of the Elves, the largest and most beautiful Christmas village in Greece that remains open until early January. You should also stroll in the charming alleyways of the picturesque neighbourhood of Varousi; visit Elati and the snowy Pertouli and drive to the beautiful Lake Plastira while you are at it. Definitely, a major winter highlight for the city, the Mill of Elves features various rides, children’s activities and artistic events and of course there is a Santa’s workshop and plenty of Elves spreading Christmas cheer.

Oneiroupoli, Drama

At the central square in the lovely town of Drama, Santa takes up temporary residence in a village straight out of a fairytale. Oneiroupoli is a celebration in eastern Macedonia, which is organised in the city centre and Eleftheria Square. Starting in December right through to the beginning of January, visitors are able to enjoy wonderful events including Christmas concerts, theatre and dance performances; as well as sports activities, games and other special programs. This is by far home to one of Greece’s biggest and most festive Christmas Markets.

Vamvakou, Laconia

In the mountain village of Vamvakou, Laconia the holiday atmosphere kicks into high gear on December 4, with Christmas lights, festive performances, and a live concert by the talented Mariza Rizou and her band. The festivities will continue throughout December, culminating on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Located in the Peloponnese, only a few hours’ drive from Athens, Vamvakou’s idyllic mountain setting on the slopes of Mount Parnon makes it a perfect Christmas weekend destination in Greece.

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Thessaloniki Becomes Greece’s First UNESCO City of Gastronomy

Thessaloniki has proudly become Greece’s first city to join the UNESCO Network of Gastronomy- recognised for its rich culinary traditions, vibrant gastronomic community, and delightful local delicacies.

The city’s municipality shared that it had prepared and submitted a complete file highlighting its centuries-old gastronomic traditions and was ecstatic to learn it had been welcomed as one of the city’s to be joining UNESCO’s network of gastronomy.

Insights Greece - Thessaloniki Becomes Greece’s First UNESCO City of Gastronomy — Thessaloniki’s famous Koulouri

“Gastronomy is an important comparative advantage of Thessaloniki. Our city is now a UNESCO-stamped crossroads of taste and culture. Delicious regional cuisine is the backbone of our gastronomy offerings, which enhances the travel experience,” announced Thessaloniki’s Mayor Konstantinos Zervas.

By joining the network, cities commit to collaborating and developing partnerships that allow the promotion of creativity and cultural industries; to share best practices, to strengthen participation in cultural life, and to integrate culture in economic and social development plans.

Thessaloniki has always been referred to as the gastronomic capital of Greece, based on its diverse culinary traditions and the delightful flavours that it offers. As the formation of the overall culture of the city came under many influences, Thessaloniki’s cuisine is one of the richest in Greece. Traditional recipes, as well as modern creations, have allowed a wide range of food choices for both locals and international visitors.

The result is a famously diverse and welcoming city, with food that draws on ingredients, recipes, and influences going back centuries. Here you will find traditional tavernas serving authentic dishes alongside modern bistros offering contemporary twists on century-old recipes.

Some of Thessaloniki’s most famous foods include:

Koulouri – Bagel like bread topped with sesame seeds

Bougatsa- Cream-filled pastry

Patsas- Tripe soup

Bakaliaro- Fried salt cod

Pites – Pies such as Spanakopita (spinach pie) and Tiropita (cheese pie)

Bouliourdi – Baked Feta topped with tomatoes, green peppers, chilli flakes, and oregano

Pita Souvlaki/Gyros- Pita bread filled with grilled meat, tomato, onion, tzatziki and homemade fries

Soutzoukakia- Spicy handmade sausages

Trigona- Triangle pastries filled with custard

Tsoureki- Sweet brioche-style bread

Kazan Dipi- Milk pudding

Thessaloniki truly is a food lovers paradise; with plenty of local dishes and delicacies to satisfy all tastes!

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Iconic Restaurant in Thessaloniki Set to Reopen After 30 Years

Thessaloniki’s iconic ‘Olympos Naoussa’ restaurant- internationally known as one of Greece’s best eateries of the 1960’s- has received a glamorous makeover and is finally set to reopen its famous doors after 30 years.

Set in a prime seafront location in the centre of the city, just 150 metres from Aristotelous Square, the restaurant is now part of a new stunning boutique hotel that is having its grand opening in January 2022.

The highly-anticipated renovation of Olympus Naoussa is a huge celebration for Greece’s co-capital, which is also known as the country’s centre of gastronomy.

Insights Greece - Iconic Restaurant in Thessaloniki Set to Reopen After 30 Years

Featuring large windows that allow guests to enjoy the stunning sea views- the art deco inspired restaurant boasts an open kitchen, patterned floor tiles, chic lighting and pops of greenery that blend in beautifully with the earthy brown tones that dominate the open space.

The new Olympos Naoussa will introduce unique dishes highlighting both Greek and international gastronomy; redefining local flavours, aromas and traditional recipes in the most exciting ways.

“The local Thessaloniki cuisine will be presented as never before, introducing its cosmopolitan mosaic of flavours to locals and travellers. After all, Greek products deserve to be centre stage. Here they will be able to taste a world of unique gastronomy and step into a timeless legend where the menu truly showcases real, creative, incredible food,” says management.

Behind the new menu and leading the kitchen floor will be award-winning top chef, Dimitris Tasioulas, Chef Ambassador of Thessaloniki and chef at Thria, which the Sunday Times named “gourmet destination” in 2019.

Famous for his deep roots in the city’s multicultural cuisine and gastronomic past and present, Dimitris’ previous works of art at Sebriko attracted the New York Times, which recommended his extraordinary plates and unique recipes.

“As the Executive Chef, Dimitris will define his exclusive concepts of naturalness in a rich dining experience. He will bring back the success of the mythical restaurant and continue its legacy with new emblematic tastes and gastronomic forms,” adds management.

Along with fine dining, guests will also be able to enjoy pre or after dinner drinks at ON Tiger Loop, where award-winning bartender Achilleas Plakidas and other talented bar staff will be mixing handcrafted cocktails made with unique ingredients.

“Here you will be able to unwind the senses glass after glass, sipping inspirational cocktails infused with secret ingredients in a totally majestic atmosphere with 80s and 90s music, interaction and a lively vibe that will make you want to return,” concludes management.

A: Leoforos Nikis 5, Thessaloniki

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