White Tower of Thessaloniki travel guide

The White Tower of Thessaloniki, a symbol of Greek sovereignty, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 15th century. Originally constructed by the Ottomans as a fortification for the city, it later served as a notorious prison during the 19th century.

After Greece regained Thessaloniki in 1912, the tower was whitewashed, symbolizing purification and rebirth, hence earning its current name. The White Tower has been a museum since 1985, providing visitors with a rich insight into the city's history.

Today, it stands as a testament to the city's resilience and enduring charm, attracting thousands of tourists each year. A climb to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of Thessaloniki, making the White Tower a must-see on any traveler's itinerary.

The White Tower of Thessaloniki stands tall at 34 meters with a circumference of around 70 meters, making it an imposing structure. Its cylindrical shape is unique, tapering slightly as it reaches the top. The tower features six floors, which are accessed through a spiral staircase of 96 steps. Each floor has different exhibits, depicting the evolution of Thessaloniki from different periods of history.

At the very top of the tower, you can find a café and an open-air balcony offering panoramic views of Thessaloniki and Thermaic Gulf. The tower is not just a symbol of Thessaloniki, but also serves as a meteorological laboratory. This distinctive feature, combined with the tower's history, architecture, and views create a multifaceted experience for its visitors.

Located in the dynamic Thessaloniki Municipality, the popular White Tower of Thessaloniki is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Thessaloniki or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Greece.

Thessaloniki is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Thessaloniki offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Thessaloniki and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Aristotelous Square, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, Arch of Galerius, Kapani Market, and Agia Sofia Square.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Thessaloniki has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Thessaloniki, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Greece!

White Tower of Thessaloniki is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Thessaloniki, Greece. If you're flying in, Thessaloniki International Macedonia Airport is approximately 7.5 miles (12 km) away from Thessaloniki. From there, you can easily reach White Tower of Thessaloniki by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Thessaloniki, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach White Tower of Thessaloniki, which is located 1.2 miles (1.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to White Tower of Thessaloniki, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at White Tower of Thessaloniki!

The best time to explore White Tower of Thessaloniki is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October) months. During these seasons, the weather in Thessaloniki is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing, photography, and appreciating the panoramic views from the top of the tower. These periods also tend to attract fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the tower's history and architecture without the summer crowds. The International Film Festival in November is a notable event, coinciding with the fall season, that adds cultural vibrancy to the city. If your visit coincides with this event, you will enjoy a unique blend of history and contemporary arts. However, please note that the tower may have altered opening hours during this period. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of scenic views, or a cultural explorer, planning your visit during these seasons ensures a memorable experience at the White Tower of Thessaloniki.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of White Tower of Thessaloniki and other top attractions in Thessaloniki than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Thessaloniki include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in White Tower of Thessaloniki's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into White Tower of Thessaloniki and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind fortified tower in Greece.

With a rental car, discovering the popular White Tower of Thessaloniki and Greece's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Thessaloniki International Macedonia Airport and the city of Thessaloniki, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Greece cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Thessaloniki and beyond.

Conveniently explore White Tower of Thessaloniki and plenty more captivating attractions in Thessaloniki by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to White Tower of Thessaloniki and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Thessaloniki has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting White Tower of Thessaloniki below.

Aside from White Tower of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Thessaloniki, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Aristotelous Square, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, and Arch of Galerius.

Aristotelous Square is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Thessaloniki, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 42,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Aristotelous Square is Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Thessaloniki is The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos. Like Aristotelous Square, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 13,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Thessaloniki 546 40, Greece.

Arch of Galerius is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Thessaloniki. This establishment and top attraction in Thessaloniki has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Egnatia 144, Thessaloniki 546 22, Greece.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Thessaloniki below.