Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki

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Photo of Saint Paul cathedral in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Photo of the White Tower in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki
Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki
Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki
Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki
Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki
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By Kim Balchios

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Introduction

Explore the top 4 itineraries in Thessaloniki! Featuring everything from iconic landmarks such as White Tower of Thessaloniki and Aristotelous Square to the city’s lesser-known attractions, these Thessaloniki itineraries cover it all. Keep reading to find the perfect itinerary for your trip.

A well-designed Thessaloniki itinerary should capture the essence of the city by blending sightseeing with authentic local experiences. Crafting the perfect itinerary can take many hours of research and planning if you don’t know where to start.

To simplify your planning, we have reviewed the biggest selection of vacation packages in Thessaloniki and curated the top 4 best itineraries. These travel plans cover everything you need to consider when planning a trip to Thessaloniki.

For the ultimate experience, you’ll also need the perfect place to stay. Luckily, the list of top-rated hotels in Thessaloniki includes options for every budget and preference.

So, why wait? Scroll down to discover 4 perfect itineraries for Thessaloniki!

Popular Types of Trips to Thessaloniki

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Thessaloniki.

If you only have a few days, Thessaloniki weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Thessaloniki offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Thessaloniki are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Thessaloniki’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Thessaloniki offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Greece's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Thessaloniki offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Thessaloniki truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Thessaloniki

If you’re as convinced as we are that Thessaloniki belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Thessaloniki are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Thessaloniki and start planning your next trip!

The Top 4 Best Thessaloniki Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Thessaloniki itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Thessaloniki for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Thessaloniki without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Thessaloniki!

4. The Ultimate 8-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Thessaloniki and Beyond

Photo of Saint Paul cathedral in Thessaloniki, Greece.

A scenic 8-day road trip through Thessaloniki, Konitsa, Metsovo, Kalampaka, and Ioannina is one of the best ways to experience Greece. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 8-day itinerary means that Thessaloniki can easily be combined with other top destinations in Greece without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Thessaloniki, Konitsa, Metsovo, Kalampaka, and Ioannina by public transport, renting a car in Greece opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 8 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Thessaloniki

  • Arrival city: Thessaloniki, Konitsa, Metsovo, Kalampaka, and Ioannina
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Thessaloniki, e.g., Vanoro Hotel
Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Thessaloniki. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Thessaloniki

Set out on a day of discovery and visit White Tower of Thessaloniki, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, Kapani Market, Arch of Galerius, and Aristotelous Square. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Thessaloniki, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Kalampaka and Kastraki

  • Destinations: Kalampaka and Kastraki
  • Driving distance: 240.67 km, approx. 3 hours and 33 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kalambaka, e.g., Doupiani House
  • Sightseeing: Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Monastery of Varlaam, Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, and Main Observation Deck of Meteora
Spend the day exploring Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Monastery of Varlaam, Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, and Main Observation Deck of Meteora. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Kalambaka.

Day 4: Experience Kalampaka and Ioannina

  • Destinations: Kalampaka and Ioannina
  • Driving distance: 116.71 km, approx. 2 hours and 56 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Ioannina, e.g., Kastro
  • Sightseeing: Monastery of the Holy Trinity at Meteora, Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Holy Monastery of Saint Stephan, The Clock Tower of Ioannina, and Castle of Ioannina
  • Recommended tour: Sightseeing Zagori daily tour
Continue your journey through Kalampaka and Ioannina, where you can explore Monastery of the Holy Trinity at Meteora, Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Holy Monastery of Saint Stephan, The Clock Tower of Ioannina, and Castle of Ioannina. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Ioannina.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Metsovo, Koykoyli, and Dimos Zagorioy

  • Destinations: Metsovo, Koykoyli, and Dimos Zagorioy
  • Driving distance: 192.61 km, approx. 3 hours and 42 minutes
  • Accommodation: 2-star hotel in Papigko, e.g., Papaevangelou
  • Sightseeing: Vikos Gorge, Metsovo square, Misiou ancient stone bridge, and Metsovo Folk Art Museum (Tossizza Mansion)
Drive through Metsovo, Koykoyli, and Dimos Zagorioy, stopping to visit Vikos Gorge, Metsovo square, Misiou ancient stone bridge, and Metsovo Folk Art Museum (Tossizza Mansion). Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Papigko.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Konitsa, Parga, Chrysogiali, and Mikro Papigko

  • Destinations: Konitsa, Parga, Chrysogiali, and Mikro Papigko
  • Driving distance: 193.59 km, approx. 3 hours and 45 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Parga, e.g., Pagiatakis Suites
  • Sightseeing: Valtos Beach, Venetian Castle of Parga, Stone bridge Konitsa, and Papingo Rock Pools
Spend time discovering Valtos Beach, Venetian Castle of Parga, Stone bridge Konitsa, and Papingo Rock Pools, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Parga.

Day 7: Spend Time in Preveza, Mytikas, and Pantokratoras

  • Destinations: Preveza, Mytikas, and Pantokratoras
  • Driving distance: 413.47 km, approx. 4 hours and 57 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Thessaloniki, e.g., Vanoro Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Pantokratoras promenade, Sailor's Monument, Aesthetic Forest Mytikas Preveza, and Archaeological Museum of Nicopolis
  • Recommended tour: Discover Vergina and Pella: Day Trip to Macedonian Kingdom
Explore Pantokratoras promenade, Sailor's Monument, Aesthetic Forest Mytikas Preveza, and Archaeological Museum of Nicopolis at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant. Finish the day by checking into another comfortable hotel in the center of Thessaloniki.

Day 8: Bid Farewell to Thessaloniki

  • Departure city: Θεσσαλονίκη
  • Driving distance: 6.09 km, approx. 19 minutes
  • Sightseeing: The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Thessaloniki. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 794 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Thessaloniki.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Thessaloniki for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

3. The Top Recommended 5-Day Thessaloniki City Itinerary

Photo of the White Tower in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Thessaloniki with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

With a long list of top-rated attractions in Thessaloniki and Thessaloniki's widest selection of tours and activities at your fingertips, it's easy to plan a travel itinerary filled with unforgettable moments and discoveries.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Thessaloniki without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Thessaloniki

Arrive in Thessaloniki and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Kitchen Bar is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Thessaloniki's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Thessaloniki by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, Kapani Market, Arch of Galerius, Agia Sofia Square, and Aristotelous Square.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Thessaloniki. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Thessaloniki in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 3: Learn More About the Top Sights in Thessaloniki

Use this day to discover more of Thessaloniki’s top sights. We recommend visiting White Tower of Thessaloniki, Navarinou Square, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki Waterfront, and The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos.

To make the most of your time, don’t forget to book your attraction tickets and passes in Thessaloniki in advance. Beyond possible savings, booking tickets early ensures availability even for Thessaloniki's most popular attractions.

After a nice dinner, take a walk through the city center and experience Thessaloniki’s attractions in another light.

Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors of Thessaloniki

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Acropolis of Thessaloniki, Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica, Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki, Roman Forum of Thessaloniki, and Ancient Agora Square are attractions you could discover today.

Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Thessaloniki.

For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Thessaloniki. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Greece!

Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Thessaloniki

Spend your last few hours in Thessaloniki soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Thessaloniki in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Thessaloniki, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Thessaloniki travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

2. The Best 7-Day Thessaloniki Beach Vacation Itinerary

Photo of Aristotelous Square at Thessaloniki city, Panoramic view.

A 7-day beach vacation in Thessaloniki offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Thessaloniki:

  • Beaches: Spend your days at Neoi Epivates beach.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Golden Star City Resort for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
  • Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Kafe-Oyzeri "Taliani", Marina, and Peskesi, and other nearby dining spots.
  • Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Rodanthi, Yolo Beach Bar, and Enigma Stoupa, and more.
  • Cultural experiences: Explore White Tower of Thessaloniki and Aristotelous Square, local markets, and souvenir shops.
With a well-planned 7-day beach vacation itinerary in Thessaloniki, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Thessaloniki

Arrive in Thessaloniki, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 7 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Neoi Epivates beach or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Thessaloniki.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Neoi Epivates beach, a top beach in Thessaloniki. In the afternoon, make sure to visit White Tower of Thessaloniki and Aristotelous Square for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 6: Explore the Local Scene

Spend a sun-filled day at Neoi Epivates beach. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting Perea Beach and Neoi Epivates beach. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.

Day 7: Say Farewell to Thessaloniki

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Thessaloniki. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Thessaloniki. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Thessaloniki's coastline.

1. The Perfect 3-Day Thessaloniki Weekend Itinerary

Photo of Aristotelous square, the heart of Thessaloniki city, Greece.

A 3-day weekend getaway in Thessaloniki offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Thessaloniki itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 3 days to spend, this is the perfect Thessaloniki weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Thessaloniki

Arrive in Thessaloniki around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
  • Tip: Book an airport transfer to Thessaloniki in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Thessaloniki by night.

Day 2 - Discover Thessaloniki’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Thessaloniki with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit White Tower of Thessaloniki early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Arch of Galerius, stopping by Kapani Market for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
  • Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Thessaloniki and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Depart from Thessaloniki

Make the most of your last few hours in Thessaloniki before your departure.
  • Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
  • Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
  • Tip: Schedule an airport transfer from Thessaloniki in advance to enjoy a stress-free end to your trip in Thessaloniki.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Thessaloniki. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Thessaloniki itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Thessaloniki

As you explore Thessaloniki, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Thessaloniki for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Thessaloniki in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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