In short: in Thessaloniki it is worth seeing the White Tower and the waterfront with Aristotelous Square, the upper town of Ano Poli with its Byzantine walls, the Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius and the Church of Saint Demetrius — along with 15 monuments under UNESCO protection.
Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and the capital of Greek Macedonia, on the coast of the Thermaic Gulf — a city of rich history that blends antiquity, Byzantium and a lively waterfront. It was founded back in 315 BC and is one of the oldest cities in this part of Europe. Unlike “pure” resorts, Thessaloniki offers sightseeing, shopping and food along with the closeness of the beaches of the Thermaic Gulf. In this guide we go through the main sights and why Thessaloniki is worth it.
The White Tower and the waterfront
The symbol of the city is the White Tower on the very shore — a circular stone tower about 34 metres high, today a museum, with a view of the gulf from the top. From it stretches a lively seafront promenade (Nikis Avenue), and in the heart of the city is the spacious Aristotelous Square, which opens towards the sea — a favourite spot for a walk, a coffee and gatherings.
Ano Poli — the upper town
Above the modern city rises Ano Poli (the upper town) — the only part of Thessaloniki that survived the great fire of 1917. With its Byzantine walls, narrow lanes and traditional houses, it breathes the spirit of old Thessaloniki, and from its walls opens a panoramic view of the whole city, the gulf and Mount Olympus in the distance on clear days.
The Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius
Thessaloniki is one of the most important cities for early Christian and Byzantine history: 15 Palaeochristian and Byzantine monuments are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Among them is the Rotunda, a circular building from the early 4th century, raised in the time of Emperor Galerius (first intended as a mausoleum, then converted into a church, with Byzantine mosaics). Nearby is also the Arch of Galerius (Kamara), a triumphal gate raised around the year 300 in honour of Galerius’ victory — today one of the most recognisable spots in the city.
The Church of Saint Demetrius
The Church of Saint Demetrius (Agios Dimitrios) is dedicated to the patron of the city and is one of the most important shrines of Thessaloniki, also under UNESCO protection. In its crypt the memory of the saint is kept, and the church has for centuries been the spiritual heart of the city — an essential stop on a tour of Byzantine Thessaloniki.
Thessaloniki for shopping and food
Along with the history, Thessaloniki is also a city of shopping and food. The pedestrian zones and shopping centres offer a rich choice for shopping, and the city is known for its cuisine — from meze and seafood to sweets and lively markets. So it is an excellent choice even when the sea is not the only aim, but sightseeing and fun too.
What to see nearby — the beaches of the Thermaic Gulf
Near the city are the seaside places of the Thermaic Gulf with their beaches: Perea, a seaside suburb with a long promenade, and Nea Kalikratia with its sandy beach, while to the south is the gateway to Halkidiki. So sightseeing in Thessaloniki is easily combined with a day at the beach.
How to get to Thessaloniki from Belgrade
For the Belgrade to Thessaloniki minibus transfer we drive door to door, departing from Belgrade. Departure is at night (at 21:00h for Greece), so you reach the Greek border when queues are smallest, and Thessaloniki in the morning. The journey is about 635 km, a drive of 8–9 hours — Thessaloniki is one of the Greek destinations closest to Belgrade.
The price is fixed and free of hidden costs; see the price for Thessaloniki, the whole Thessaloniki region (Belgrade to Thessaloniki Region transfer) or the whole price list. As Thessaloniki also has the “Makedonia” airport, we drive to/from the airport too; before the trip, check the border crossings and live cameras too.
Frequently asked questions
What to see in Thessaloniki?
The White Tower and the waterfront with Aristotelous Square, the upper town of Ano Poli with its Byzantine walls, the Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius and the Church of Saint Demetrius — along with 15 monuments under UNESCO protection.
How old is Thessaloniki?
It was founded in 315 BC and is one of the oldest cities in this part of Europe, with a rich ancient, early Christian and Byzantine past.
What is the Rotunda?
A circular building from the early 4th century, raised in the time of Emperor Galerius (first as a mausoleum, then a church), with Byzantine mosaics; it is part of the UNESCO heritage, near the Arch of Galerius.
Is Thessaloniki good if I want both the city and the sea?
It is — Thessaloniki offers sightseeing, shopping and food, and the beaches of the Thermaic Gulf (Perea, Nea Kalikratia) are near the city, so the city and swimming are easily combined.
How far is Thessaloniki from Belgrade?
About 635 km, a drive of 8–9 hours — one of the Greek destinations closest to Belgrade. With a night departure from Belgrade (21:00h) you reach your destination in the morning.
