Making the most of Thessaloniki
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Ships use Thessaloniki's main port, within easy walking distance of the downtown area. On leaving the cruise terminal, turn right and follow the waterfront for a 15 min walk.
Capital of Macedonia and Greece's second largest city, Thessaloniki has a history reaching back to the fourth century BC. Many regard it as Greece's hippest city, with eastern influence apparent in its delicious food and relaxed way of life.
Those interested in history can explore museums displaying artefacts from places including Sindos and Vergina. The city also has many notable Byzantine monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with several Ottoman and Sephardic Jewish structures. The ruins at Vergina are another draw, with many famous tombs including that of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.
Other city sights include the palace of Galerius, the remains of the Roman Market and Theatre, Nymphaion, an elegant and fascinating circular building, and the Roman Baths. A hired car or taxi opens up the beautiful beaches and countryside, while the waterfront makes for a delightful stroll. Enjoy the food in the delightful restaurants; Thessaloniki is also known for its high fashion industry, making it a great shopping destination for women.
Getting around
Thessaloniki's archeological museum is a source of particular pride. A few blocks inland from the White Tower, it holds a fabulous collection of gold jewelry and artifacts dating back to centuries B.C.. Although the building itself is underwhelming, the museum is well worth exploring.
Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Thessaloniki
Nearby places
Ancient Pella is the port of Thessaloniki's principal sightseeing attraction, and your ship will undoubtedly offer a shore excursion to this ancient city, which became Macedonia's capital in the fourth century B.C..
Food and shopping
Thessaloniki is a paradise for shoppers. Its small City center nonetheless offers plentiful shops, markets, bars and coffee houses for every budget and taste. Almost every side street seems to lead to a Greek delicacy, from pastries to artwork. As on the 'Bar Streets' of the Greek Islands, shops appear in a familiar arrangement, with stores full of the latest Italian leather shoes standing one after another. Turn a corner and street stalls and shop windows invite you to co-ordinate a new bag.
Money
Currency: Euro
Staying connected
Language: Greek
Opening Hours and
Public Services are open Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 2.00pm. Retail Stores & Specialty Shops open Monday to Friday from 9am – 1.30pm, then again from 5pm – 9pm; on Saturdays, their hours are 9am – 2pm. Supermarkets operate Monday to Friday, 9am – 9pm, and Saturdays, 9am – 6pm. Most Tourist Shops and Convenience Stores have no official opening hours, and during the summer months are usually open from dawn until well after midnight.