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 Thessaloniki Municipality, the iconic 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 in 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 the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Aristotelous Square, The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos, 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 located in Thessaloniki, Greece, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Thessaloniki International Macedonia Airport is approximately 7.47 miles (12.02 km) away from Thessaloniki. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where White Tower of Thessaloniki is located.

If you’re already in Thessaloniki, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the fortified tower. The exact address of the attraction is Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece, Greece.

You can also rent a car and drive to White Tower of Thessaloniki. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore White Tower of Thessaloniki and other top attractions in Thessaloniki at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set 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.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Thessaloniki and top attractions like White Tower of Thessaloniki with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore White Tower of Thessaloniki and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Thessaloniki, Greece, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind fortified tower in Greece.

Discovering Greece's captivating landscapes and the iconic White Tower of Thessaloniki becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 18 reputable rental car companies near Thessaloniki International Macedonia Airport and the city of Thessaloniki, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Greece's rental car companies 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.

For budget-conscious travelers, Centauro currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 3.96 EUR per day or 27.73 EUR per week. Conveniently located at 16Th Kilometre Thessalonikis Neas Mihanionas, 57001 in Thessaloniki, this rental option ensures you can explore Greece's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Thessaloniki by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning White Tower of Thessaloniki just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Thessaloniki.

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

Thessaloniki offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Thessaloniki, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Aristotelous Square, The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos, and Arch of Galerius.

Aristotelous Square is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Thessaloniki, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 37,870 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 by Zongolopoulos. This is just like Aristotelous Square, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 12,539 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 tetrapylon and top attraction in Thessaloniki has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,650 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Arch of Galerius creating core memories of the city. 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.