What to Do in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki (520 km. north of Athens) is the second largest city of Greece and the most important centre of the area. Built near the sea, it is a modern metropolis bearing the marks of its stormy history and its cosmopolitan character, which give it a special beauty and charm. Also, while being in Thessaloniki it is worth going up to Halkidiki.
Apart from the many elegant restaurants in the city and the suburbs, there are also numerous "ouzeries" and taverns. Excellent grilled meat and chicken are served at the popular shops along the coast on the outskirts of town Check out the newly renovated Ladadikadistrict near Aristolelous square.
Music Halls, night clubs, discotheques are open till late at night, whereas those who prefer the bouzouki music can choose from a range of special tavernas in the area near the Airport. There are a number of bars and clubs near the White Tower. Discos are generally on the outskirts of town near the airport where the noise is less likely to bother people.
The main squares are Platia Elefterias and Platia Aristotelous, both on the waterfront and alive with cafes and restaurants, children playing or people just strolling. This is the place to be in the summer at sunset if you enjoy people watching.
WHAT TO SEE
The Palace of Galerius at Navarino Square, was built by the Roman Emperor Galerius Valerius Maximianus at the end of the 3rd Century.
The Galerian Arch erected shortly before 305 AD to commemorate the victory of Galerius over the Persians.
The Roman Market and Theatre are located at the Law Court Square south of Egnatia street. Also nearby are The Roman Baths just north of the church of Agios Dimitrios and the Nymphaion, an elegant monopteral, circular building.
The Ancient Site of Vergina is also a UNESCO site and one of the most extensive archaeological sites in Greece.
White Tower Museum: An exhibition of the history and art of Byzantine Thessaloniki covering the period between 300 and 1430 AD. There is a small cafe with a great view at the top.
Museum of the Macedonian Struggle : Exhibits from the years of local national resistance 1878-1912.
Coffee Bars
To Mouseio: Gallery cafe. In the heart of the city. Garcon Brasserie: A new cosmopolitan coffee bar in front of the seaside.
Bar Restaurants
Kitchen: New bar restaurant inside the port . Friendly atmosphere and light dishes. Taliraki Bar and Grill: New Greek and Mediterranean place serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, mezes and drinks.
Nightclubs
W nightclub Happenings, special events and parties. Vogue 23 Authentic club music, extraordinary dancing shows. The best in the city.
If you have a few days to spare and you like cities then come to Thessaloniki. Take a visit to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Visit the nearby beaches or wander around the city and see the Archeology museum which is according to Frommer's, one of the best in the world.