Introduction

This is called the second capital by the Greeks, since it is not only the second largest city of Greece after Athens, but also the capital of Northern Greece and Macedonia. It is beautifully situated by the sea, and there are also many interesting places in the city and its surrounding areas that you can visit.

History

Thessaloniki was the sister of Alexander the Great. She was married to a man named Kassandros, and it was also he who founded the city in 315BC. Before that, there was a much older settlement here called Therme.

When the Romans came in the 2nd century BC, they appreciated the important situation of the city, and made it an important center for their military, commerce, and culture.

St. Paul the Apostle preached here, and during the Byzantine period it was the second most important city after Constantinople. There are still several churches here from that time.

Even though the city's location gave its citizens many opportunities for trade and cultural influences, it was also a curse, since many nations wanted it as a stronghold.

The crusaders ruled in the city in the 13th century, and in the !5th century the Turks invaded. It was during the Middle Ages that Thessaloniki became an important place for the Jews, and to this day, the city has a very large Jewish community.

Thessaloniki was freed in 1912, but soon became involved in the First World War. Many died in fighting side by side with the Allies, and in 1917 a terrible fire made 80 000 people homeless.

During the Second World War the city was occupied by the Germans, and 50 000 Jews were deported to the concentration camps.

What to See

The medieval fortress on top of the town is worth visiting and from there you also get a magnificent view. The area just below the fortress is the oldest part of the city, and it is very nice to walk around in this neighbour-hood with its pretty houses and small, winding streets.

The archeological museum has interesting ancient artifacts from different time periods in Greek history. Of course, there are many more museums than that, for example, the Museum of Macedonian Struggle, The Ethnological museum, the Gallery of Fine Arts, the Technical Museum and the big International Trade Fair.

What to Do

Apart from the many sights of Thessaloniki, you can also go to one of the many cinemas, theatres and concert hall. There is always something going on here, and it is a good idea to get a newspaper on arrival to see what's on at the moment.

You can also go to Halcidici and Vergina from here, as well as to most places in Greece here since the city has an airport and extensive boat, bus and train connections.

Beaches

There are no proper beaches in Thessaloniki, but you can find several just outside. Most people who want some real sun and sea usually go to Chalcidici, but there are also very nice summerresorts in Platamon and Litochorou for example.

Nightlife

Thessaloniki has a great nightlife and there is something for every taste. There are places everywhere, but the most frequented are in the harbour, Ladadika, Krini, Leoforo Nikis, Proxeno Koromila & Anavarinou Square. Most bouzouki clubs are situated near the airport.

Food

You'll find excellent restaurants and taverns in the area below the Kastro, at Ladadika and in Krini, but of course there are many more all over Thessaloniki. Many places have their own specialties, and there are also several international restaurants.

Shopping

Being such a big city, there are shops everywhere. The whole area around Aristotle's Square and the White Tower have many boutiques, souvenir shops and bookstores. Here, you'll also find many cafes and bars.

Getting Around

Local buses and taxis are everywhere, but Thessaloniki is also a nice city for walking in since it is easy to find your way around. You can also rent cars and bikes, but it is not to be recommended for inside the city, since it is hard to find parking spaces and many drive like madmen.

Getting There

Thessaloniki has its own airport, Makedoniko, and is connected with the whole of Greece through boats, buses and trains.

The White Tower