Top 4 Itineraries in Thessaloniki

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Introduction

Discover the ultimate Thessaloniki itinerary with our top 4 picks. From attractions that capture the essence of Thessaloniki to in-depth experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, there’s an itinerary here for everyone. Keep reading to start planning your trip to Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki is an excellent choice for a vacation in Greece. It's a place where time flies and it's easy to fill days on end with memorable experiences. To save you time and effort, we have reviewed the largest selection of travel packages in Thessaloniki and listed the top 4 itineraries for you.

Whether you want to relax at one of Thessaloniki's best places to stay or jump head-first into exploring, an unforgettable vacation awaits. In fact, Thessaloniki is famous for its outstanding hospitality, exciting experiences, and welcoming atmosphere.

Simply scroll down to discover the perfect Thessaloniki itinerary!

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 Θεσσαλονίκη, Μέτσοβο, Ιωάννινα, Πέραμα, and Καστράκι 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 Θεσσαλονίκη, Μέτσοβο, Ιωάννινα, Πέραμα, and Καστράκι 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: Θεσσαλονίκη, Μέτσοβο, Ιωάννινα, Πέραμα, Καστράκι, Νέο Μπιζάνι, Μαντείο, Μικρό Πάπιγκο, Δήμος Θεσσαλονίκης, Δήμος Δωδώνης, Δήμος Ζαγορίου, Δήμος Ιωαννιτών, Δήμος Μετσόβου, Δήμος Μετεώρων, Perifereia ipeiroy, Perifereia Kentrikis Makedonias, Perifereia Thessalias, Ellas, and Δήμος Πυλαίας - Χορτιάτη
  • 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 Θεσσαλονίκη

  • Destinations: Θεσσαλονίκη
  • Driving distance: 6.46 km, approx. 22 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Thessaloniki, e.g., Vanoro Hotel
  • Sightseeing: White Tower of Thessaloniki, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, Arch of Galerius, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, and Aristotelous Square
  • Recommended tour: Discover Olympus & Dion: Private Day Trip from Thessaloniki
Set out on a day of discovery and visit White Tower of Thessaloniki, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, Arch of Galerius, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, and Aristotelous Square. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Θεσσαλονίκη, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Θεσσαλονίκη

  • Destinations: Θεσσαλονίκη
  • Driving distance: 9.1 km, approx. 35 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Thessaloniki, e.g., Vanoro Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki, Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, Kapani Market, Agia Sofia Square, and Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki
  • Recommended tour: Discover Vergina and Pella: Day Trip to Macedonian Kingdom
Spend the day exploring Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki, Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, Kapani Market, Agia Sofia Square, and Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace.

Day 4: Experience Μέτσοβο, Μαντείο, and Δήμος Μετσόβου

  • Destinations: Μέτσοβο, Μαντείο, and Δήμος Μετσόβου
  • Driving distance: 307.29 km, approx. 3 hours and 54 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ioannina, e.g., Boutique Hotel Archontiko Metsovou
  • Sightseeing: Metsovo square, Averoff Art Gallery, Anilio Ski Center, and Archaeological Site of Dodoni
Continue your journey through Μέτσοβο, Μαντείο, and Δήμος Μετσόβου, where you can explore Metsovo square, Averoff Art Gallery, Anilio Ski Center, and Archaeological Site of Dodoni. 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 Μικρό Πάπιγκο and Δήμος Ζαγορίου

  • Destinations: Μικρό Πάπιγκο and Δήμος Ζαγορίου
  • Driving distance: 161.32 km, approx. 3 hours and 46 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ioannina, e.g., Boutique Hotel Archontiko Metsovou
  • Sightseeing: Oxya Viewpoint, Vikos Gorge, Vikos National Park, Papingo Rock Pools, and Klidonia ancient stone bridge
Drive through Μικρό Πάπιγκο and Δήμος Ζαγορίου, stopping to visit Oxya Viewpoint, Vikos Gorge, Vikos National Park, Papingo Rock Pools, and Klidonia ancient stone bridge. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Ιωάννινα, Πέραμα, and Νέο Μπιζάνι

  • Destinations: Ιωάννινα, Πέραμα, and Νέο Μπιζάνι
  • Driving distance: 39.56 km, approx. 1 hour and 14 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ioannina, e.g., Boutique Hotel Archontiko Metsovou
  • Sightseeing: Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Moyseio Ellinikis Istorias Payloy Vrelli, Perama Cave, Castle of Ioannina, and Litharitsia park
  • Recommended tour: Sightseeing Zagori daily tour
Spend time discovering Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Moyseio Ellinikis Istorias Payloy Vrelli, Perama Cave, Castle of Ioannina, and Litharitsia park, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture.

Day 7: Spend Time in Καστράκι

  • Destinations: Καστράκι
  • Driving distance: 338.47 km, approx. 4 hours and 45 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Thessaloniki, e.g., Vanoro Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Meteora, and Main Observation Deck of Meteora
  • Recommended tour: Full-Day Trip to Meteora from Thessaloniki
Explore Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Meteora, and Main Observation Deck of Meteora 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, Μέτσοβο, Ιωάννινα, Πέραμα, and Καστράκι
  • Driving distance: 0.0 metres, approx. 0 seconds
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 1082 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.

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, discovering highlights like Aristotelous Square.

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 White Tower of Thessaloniki, Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, Thessaloniki Waterfront, Agia Sofia Square, and The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos.

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 4: Explore the Local Flavors of Thessaloniki

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Lazaristes Monastery, Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, and Museum of Byzantine Civilization 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 4-Day Thessaloniki Beach Vacation Itinerary

Photo of Aristotelous Square at Thessaloniki city, Panoramic view.

A 4-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 Agia Triada beach II.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Dodo's Luxury Seaview Studios 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, Enigma Stoupa, and Diamond Beach Club Moudania, and more.
  • Cultural experiences: Explore White Tower of Thessaloniki, Aristotelous Square, and The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, local markets, and souvenir shops.
With a well-planned 4-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 4 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Agia Triada beach II 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 Agia Triada beach II, a top beach in Thessaloniki. In the afternoon, make sure to visit White Tower of Thessaloniki, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, 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 4: 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 5-Day Thessaloniki Weekend Itinerary

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

A 5-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 5 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, for example, visiting Aristotelous Square, 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 Thessaloniki Waterfront, stopping by Holy Church of Hagia Sophia 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 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Thessaloniki

No itinerary in Thessaloniki is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.
  • Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Acropolis of Thessaloniki.
  • Afternoon: Explore Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica and Kapani Market, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
  • Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
  • Tip: Explore food and drink experiences in Thessaloniki and join an afternoon tour to sample the authentic flavors of Greece.

Day 5 - 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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