8 top sites

attractions

medium

activity level

3.5 km | 2.2 mi

total distance

How much time to budget?

Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

1h

Triangle Tower

30min

Cafe Prigipos

45min

Rotunda

30min

Arch of Galerius

15min

Palace of Galerius

15min

Alexander the Great Statue

15min

White Tower of Thessaloniki

1h

Ok, but how do we get to the starting point? While taxis are available globally, most have us now rely on the convenience of ridesharing apps like Uber, Lyft, Bolt, etc. Since this is updated frequently, best to confirm options before your trip.

Are we geography alumni or GIS technologists? No, but we are travel aficionados and now, mapping experts. How we got here is by exploring, leaving no stone unturned, even getting it wrong from time to time, so that you don’t.

What’s up with the ratings?
No, this isn’t our opinion — afterall, we hardly know eachother.

All ratings are courtesy of Tripadvisor.

thessaloniki light

In August 2024, we cruised on somewhat of a nostalgic ship for us, since we worked onboard in 2018 on this exact vessel (minus the refurbishment done recently). The Celebrity Infinity cruising out of Piraeus to the Greek islands and Turkey, made a stop in Thessaloniki for the full day.

This being our first time visiting Greece’s second largest city, next to Athens. WIth so many top sights and attractions, we were excited to design the most-walkable self-guided walking tour of this incredible city.

Enjoy Thessaloniki Light -— a lighter version of that tour “All Thessaloniki,” but still quite a comprehensive look at Greece’s second largest city. complete with distance/time data, directions, navigational map links, insider’s tips, etc.

Starting at the Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki, visit 8 of Thessaloniki’s top sites and attractions including Triangle Tower, Cafe Prigipos, Rotunda, Arch of Galerius, Palace of Galerius, Alexander the Great Statue, and White Tower of Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki, Greece

thessaloniki weather

Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

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The Heptapyrgion, also known as Yedi Kule, is a fortress located on the northern edge of Thessaloniki’s acropolis.

Originally built as a Byzantine defensive structure in the late 4th century, it was expanded by the Ottomans in the 15th century, transforming it into a prison until 1989. The Heptapyrgion is known for its panoramic views of the city and its long, complex history, from Byzantine times to its role in Ottoman and Greek periods.

Visitors can explore its ancient walls, prison cells, and gain insight into Thessaloniki’s layered past through its architecture and exhibits. Paid admission — 6€ (includes Triangle Tower).

Triangle Tower

500 meters | 7 minutes

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The Triangle Tower, located in Thessaloniki’s Upper Town (Ano Poli), is a small yet striking remnant of the city’s defensive fortifications.

Built during the Byzantine era, it was part of Thessaloniki’s city walls, which protected the city from invaders. The tower’s triangular shape, from which it gets its name, offered a strategic vantage point for surveillance. Today, it stands as a historical monument, offering stunning views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf.

A visit to the Triangle Tower provides a glimpse into Thessaloniki’s military past and the city’s efforts to preserve its historical architecture. Paid admission — 6€ (includes Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki).

Cafe Prigipos

1,000 meters | 15 minutes

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Café Prigipos in Thessaloniki is a charming and retro-inspired café located in the vibrant Ladadika district. Housed in a neoclassical building, it offers a nostalgic atmosphere with vintage décor, transporting visitors back to the early 20th century.

The café is known for its excellent coffee, homemade desserts, and hearty brunch options. With its cozy indoor ambiance and pleasant outdoor terrace, Café Prigipos has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're stopping by for a coffee or a meal, the café’s unique ambiance and historical charm make it a memorable experience in Thessaloniki. FREE admission — items available for purchase.

Rotunda

350 meters | 4 minutes

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The Rotunda is one of Thessaloniki’s most iconic and ancient monuments, built in the early 4th century by Roman Emperor Galerius.

Initially intended as a mausoleum or a temple, it was later converted into a Christian church, then an Ottoman mosque, and now serves as a museum. Its massive circular structure, topped by a dome, features impressive mosaics and architectural details.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rotunda reflects Thessaloniki’s diverse historical layers, from Roman to Byzantine and Ottoman periods, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts visiting the city. Paid admission — 6€.

Arch of Galerius

140 meters | 2 minutes

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The Arch of Galerius, or Kamara, is a prominent Roman monument in Thessaloniki, built in the 4th century to celebrate Emperor Galerius’s victory over the Persians.

The arch once formed part of a larger complex that connected Galerius’s palace to the Rotunda. Today, its well-preserved marble reliefs depict scenes from his military campaigns, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman artistry and power.

Located in the heart of the city, Kamara is a popular gathering spot and an enduring symbol of Thessaloniki’s rich Roman past, making it a must-visit for history buffs and travelers exploring the city. FREE admission.

Palace of Galerius

220 meters | 3 minutes

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The Palace of Galerius was built in the early 4th century as the imperial residence of Roman Emperor Galerius.

This sprawling complex once included the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and other structures, serving as the administrative and ceremonial heart of the city.

Though much of the palace is in ruins today, visitors can explore its impressive remnants, including mosaic floors, grand halls, and courtyards.

The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulence of Roman imperial life and the city's importance as a center of power in the Eastern Roman Empire. FREE admission.

Alexander the Great Statue

950 meters | 12 minutes

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The Alexander the Great Statue in Thessaloniki is a striking monument located along the city’s waterfront.

Unveiled in 1974, it features a bronze figure of Alexander on horseback, symbolizing his role as one of history’s greatest military leaders and a native of nearby Pella.

The statue stands over 6 meters tall and overlooks the Thermaic Gulf, making it a popular landmark for visitors. The monument honors Alexander’s conquests and his impact on Greek and global history, serving as a reminder of Thessaloniki’s connection to the legendary king and its role in the ancient Macedonian empire. FREE admission.

White Tower of Thessaloniki

400 meters | 5 minutes

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The White Tower of Thessaloniki is by far the city’s most iconic landmark, standing along the waterfront. Built in the 15th century by the Ottomans, it replaced an older Byzantine tower and served as a fortress, prison, and garrison.

The tower's history is both fascinating and somber, earning the name "Blood Tower" during its use as a prison. Renamed the "White Tower" after it was whitewashed in the 19th century, today it houses a museum showcasing Thessaloniki’s history. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf, making it a must-see attraction. Paid admission — 6€.