Vivacious, stylish Thessaloniki is Greece's Northern cultural capital of all things chic. Balancing out its trendy vibe are the many visual reminders of the city's rich depth of history - from crumbing Byzantine walls to charming historical neighbourhoods. Take a private Thessaloniki tour and discover the best of this stunning city with a friendly local guide.

Thessaloniki's most enduring landmark is the White Tower, perched along the city's café-lined waterfront. You won't be able to miss the enormous Agios Dimitrios, built in the 5th century in honour of the city's patron saint, and believed to be the largest church in Greece. Your guide will take you for a wander through Upper Town (Ano Poli), an enchanting neighbourhood of pretty traditional houses set on winding, peaceful alleyways.

At the end of your private Thessaloniki tour, your guide will be happy to recommend a great spot to enjoy the city's regional cuisine and nightlife. Enjoy yourself in this fun-loving Greek city!

Thessaloniki

This set tour starts at the Trigonion Tower in the Upper Town. From there, we can take in the majestic view of the city and the byzantine walls, and reflect briefly upon the history of the city. Then, we will visit the 5th c. Moni Latomou, where we will be admiring one of the most important early Christian mosaic. We will stroll around the maze of the upper town, the most picturesque area of the city, discovering some hidden stories. Then, we will visit the church of St Demetrius, the patron saint of the city, we will see the Roman Forum, and the city's public markets. Upon arriving at the 4th c. Rotonda we will experience first hand the passage of time in the use of this unique building. We will then stop at a famous landmark and favourite meeting place today, the 300 AD Arch of Galerius, and follow the path around the rich remnants of the glorious palace complex built by Roman emperor Galerius in the early 4th century. Our tour will be completed at the White Tower, the most iconic monument of the city.

This tour is set as a comprehensive overview of the historical heart of the city, a seductive journey in time.

The best of Thessaloniki Tour - Half Day

Thessaloniki has many things to offer you! Great food, sweets, lots of history, especially byzantine monuments and orthodox churches, a chance to see a great sunset by the sea and so many more. . .

I have my personal preferences and ideas but these may not coincide with yours! So let me create the best tour for your needs and wishes! Maybe you want to drink a Greek coffee in a traditional cafe with nice view, or you want to go shopping, or you prefer a tour by car or on foot or a small cruise in the gulf of the town or you are just interested in the history of the town or maybe all the above! It's up to you! With my 39 years experience of living in this city, I am here to make your wishes come true for a whole day!

P. S Look at the photos of the city above and tell me which ones you like most and want to visit in priority!!!

Byzantine Church "Axeiropiitos" (which means not being made by hands). Belongs in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

From "Agios Dimitrios" Church, the martyr and protector saint of Thessaloniki. It also belongs in the UNESCO Heritage Sites

The view from "Eptapyrgio"/"Genti Koule fortress" the highest part of the town

Greek coffee and the delicious sweet "Tringular from Panorama", made of a crispy crust, syrup and rich cream... magnificent!

"Agia Sofia" Christian Orthodox Church from the 8th century. Belongs in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The "red house" in the center of the town. Learn about its legend!

The inside of Geni Tzami (mosque), an important monument from the Ottoman period, built in 1902

The white tower, the city's landmark was built in order to replace a Byzantine Tower.

Aristotelous square, the heart of the town!

Fishing, walking, flerting, riding a bike next to the sea, in Thermaikos gulf

"Koulouri Thessalonikis", a delicious snack, is a ring doughnut shaped bread roll covered with sesame seeds

A statue of Alexander the Great, the city was named after his half-sister

"The Saviour Christ" Church in the center of the town, 14th century. Belongs in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Houses in Leoforos Nikis (Victory anevue)

The sky, the sea and the sun in a cloudy, winter's day...

The better preserved turkish bath of the town that is now a cafeteria and a museum shop

Shopping in the town! There are so many shops, cheap and expensive... Do you recognize the city's landmark in these bags?

Light a candle in a christian -orthodox church, as the locals do! There are so many byzantine churches in the city...

Byzantine Church "Agios Nikolaos Orfanos", probably built in the 1310. Belongs in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The view from the top of the White Tower. It worth climbing 7th floors! You can see Nikis (Victory) Avenue and the port

Church of "Saint Panteleimonas", 14th century. Belongs in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

A great Ottoman bath called Pazar Hamam or Yahudi Hamamı

"Alaca Imaret", an ottoman period monument build in 1484. It used to be school and house for the poor

The house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, was born in 1881

Always fresh fruits and vegetables at the best prices!

And the cafeteria of the archaeological museum! I highly recommend it!

Local workshop manufacturing handmade christian orthodox icons

From an old card postal, the White Tower area in December 1902. The history of the city begins in 315 B.C

Some exibits of the War Museum of the town

Manufacturing handmade "bouzoukia", local instruments!

Graffiti in an ugly building in the center of the city protesting against violence towards women

Greek chocolates from the Museum of Chocolate!

Personalized walking tour based on your wishes...

A Tour to discover Thessaloniki!

From Tower to Tower - Discover Thessaloniki in a day

Thessaloniki, since its foundation in 315 BC, has always remained a very important city in the Eastern Mediterranean. Controlled by the Kingdom of Macedon, the Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetians, Ottoman Turks and the modern Greek state. Conquered by Saracens and Normans and inhabited by Christians, Jews and Muslims, it is the definition of an inter-temporal city.

''From Tower to Tower'' is specifically designed to give you just that. A sense of this beautiful inter-temporal city and of all the ethnic and religious communities and empires that have ever existed in it. Furthermore, to give you a strong authentic taste of the multiculturalism that has been the very fabric of the city throughout its existence.

This tour is ideal for people with limited time in the city that wish to receive the most authentic experience possible in the shortest amount of time. This tour can be customized to suit your needs.

Sunset view of Thessaloniki with Mount Olympus in the background.

Explore the most important landmarks in Thessaloniki, and dive in its history in just few hours

The history of Thessaloniki is multi-layered, so it makes sense that the cuisine of this city is not only delicious but also full of historical nuances. Many people have populated this place through the centuries and there is no better reflection of this anywhere else than on it's own cuisine. The Ottomans, the Jews, the refugees from Turkey can all be found on our plates and this is why the cuisine of Thessaloniki was recently introduced into UNESCO's Creative Cities of Gastronomy network.

Having been living here almost all my life, I will take you to taste all the food that has shaped my memories and makes me fall in love with this place over and over again, with every new bite, while also visiting the markets of the city and giving you a taste (pun intended) of life in it.

Considered to be Greece's gastronomical capital, the cuisine of Thessaloniki awaits for you to explore, taste and enjoy!

We are going to taste traditional greek food and Thessaloniki's contributions to the culinary world map!

Taste history with a local guide!

Thessaloniki Half Day Food Tour

Like real locals, we meet each other under the Arch of Galerius. Our walking tour may start from the Rotonda. The White Tower might be considered Thessaloniki's landmark, but Rotonda is really unique since it has a rich history of 1700 years. Romans, Greeks and Ottomans have left their imprint.

The church of Hagia Sofia is our next stop. Visiting a greek orthodox church always hides some interesting surprises. While walking the town center, I can show you how locals spent their free time, which are desserts they enjoy the most and why students from all over Greece are so happy living here!

The Catacombs of St. John the Baptist can also be a short stop for us, to see the different street level and explain the reasons. After walking Tsimiski street, we end up to the White Tower. Reaching the top will give us a wonderful opportunity for some great pictures!

Plan your own perfect Thessaloniki tour

Thessaloniki Tailor Made Tour

Are you looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Look no further than a day trip to Mount Olympus the home of the 12 gods & Dion from Thessaloniki. Just an hour away from the busy town, this trip offers the perfect blend of history and nature for the ultimate day out.

First on the itinerary is a visit to Dion's archaeological park. This site is a true glimpse into the past and we will take you through this outdoor museum of Dion which is, in fact, an ancient city, highlighting the different areas and their uses, the ancient statues and the theatre with its impressive acoustics.

Next you will embark on a hike in the dense forest of Olympus at Agios Dionysios's old cave located close to Prionia. The path is very well-preserved and the scenery there is truly breathtaking, especially during spring and autumn this trail is truly fantastic and colourful.

The day ends in the picturesque village of Litohoro where you will have free time to spend or have lunch in a beautiful setting.

Explore Mount Olympus & Dion: History & Nature

Day Trip to Mount Olympus & Dion

A jewish tour in Thessaloniki is a challenging task since many of the visible urban traces have been lost. However, there are endless stories and forgotten buildings and landmarks, helping to form a narrative which attempts to bring to light the long but tragic history of Thessaloniki's Jewish Community.   
The suggested tour starts at Freedom Square, where we will see the monument commemorating the city's murdered Jews. Then, we will visit the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki which, among other things, houses tombstones from the destroyed Jewish Cemetery, and the only existing collection of surviving prewar family and school photographs. We will then stroll around the area of Aristotelous square (one of the largest jewish neighborhoods was located here), and we will visit important buildings of jewish legacy: The old La Banque de Salonique, The Modiano Market.  
We will end this tour at the Monastirioton Synagogue, the city's only synagogue that survived the Second World War.  

Thessaloniki was known as The Mother of Israel until the early 20th century.

Half Day Thessaloniki Jewish Tour

Private Full Day Tour beyond Thessaloniki

You decide the place you want to visit near Thessaloniki and off we go! During summer we can stop for a swim in the crystal clear waters of Platamonas and visit its castle in only 2 hours (approximately) drive from Thessaloniki. Or Kastoria, and its famous lake. Or Chalkidiki for a swim. Or. . . . . you decide! Look at the photos below and pick up a place!
(P. S We can visit whatever place you want but it has to be maximum 2-3 hours far from Thessaloniki and not more! You wouldn't like to spend half the day on the car anyway!)
I am always open for any suggestions and we can adjust the schedule and duration so as to meet your needs. Just let me know of any special requests you may have!

"Vlasti" a small village, 2 hours from Thessaloniki

The lake of "prespes" near the town of Kastoria, approximately 2 hours from Thessaloniki

In "Vlasti" with friends (I am the one with the red coat!) Vlasti is famous for its great cheese and diary products

The view from "Palaios Panteleimonas", a beautiful traditional village 90minutes from Thessaloniki

The sea again! it's a unique experience to swim in the crystal clear waters of Greece

Elatoxori, situated in Pieria Mountain. This is the church in the old village. Its only 90 minutes away from Thessaloniki

The archeological site of Philippoi, near the town Kavala

The river in which Lydia was baptised by Apostole Paul, near Kavala

The dam in Thermi, a nice location 20 minutes from the center of Thessaloniki

This place is situated in the "first leg" in Halkidiki, only 1 hour far from Thessaloniki! It's so romantic!

Only 2 hours from Thessaloniki its situated the small town of Naousa. This is the area of Agios Nikolaos

From the museum in Pella! Worth visiting, exceptional mosaics!

The top of Pieria mountain, 1950 meters high! Where ancient Greeks beleived that the 9 Muses were born!

Mohamed Ali's house in Kavala. Constructed in 1780 is the most splendid example of 18th century Ottoman architecture in Greece

A lovely, traditional village in Halkidiki, only 10minutes by the sea (by car)

Pella. Fragmentary votive relief of the end of 4th century B.C

Traditional old winery in Naousa. Worth visiting and tasting greek wine!

Apostole Paul's step in the town of Veroia

The mount Vermio in autumn. It is situated near Veroia and is a ski resort during winter

Sheep! You can encounter them during your visit in small villages!

One day easy going trip

The Ancient Macedonians - Philip & Alexander the Great

This tour will take us to Vergina (ancient name Aigai) the first capital of the ancient Macedonian Kingdom. It is here that the Macedonians assumed their identity. It is here that Philip II was assassinated and Alexander the Great was declared king of the Macedonians in 336 BC.

We will visit the Royal tombs of Vergina/Aigai, a globally unique site/museum where we will examine the amazing findings of the unlooted tomb of Philip II and of the young prince. These findings are unique and serve as a window into the lives and history of the ancient Macedonians.

Later on, we will move to the brand new museum of Aigai with a plethora of very interesting exhibits from the ancient Macedonian capital and the nearby cemeteries and sanctuaries of the ancient gods, as well as an amazing exhibition of coins that provides an outlook into the campaign of Alexander the Great and the Hellenistic times.

A visit to the newly opened site of the royal palace of Philip II can be added.

I can customize this tour to your needs.

Fresco of the abduction of Persephone by Hades

Discover the history of the Kingdom of Macedon - Philip, Alexander and the Hellenistic times.

Land of Alexander - Full Day Tour from Thessaloniki

We start our day from Thessaloniki. Our chauffeur drives us through the beautiful plain of Thessaloniki and we reach Vergina an hour later. We explore the Museum of the Royal Tombs with its amazing showcases full of gold and ivory artefacts. Our next stop can be Veria (Beroea) for a short walk and lunch. Afterwards, we drive for about an hour to reach Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great. The Archaeological Site shows us the real image of the Macedonian capital, while the Museum offers a good opportunity to admire hundreds of findings, including maybe some of the world's first mosaics.

Vergina Royal Tombs and Pella tour

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece with a history that spans thousands of years. You might know her as sister of Alexander the Great, as a mermaid or maybe as the only co-capital of the world. To me however she's just "home". And I cannot think of anything better than welcoming you home and showing you everything this place has to offer!

The history of Thessaloniki is multi-layered. Ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, Jews and all shorts of people have populated this little corner of the world through the centuries.
Let me walk you around and together we are going to explore and find out everything there is to know about this place! From the archaeological museum to the Byzantine churches and the Ottoman remnants, we are going to visit every major landmark and monument of this beautiful city.

Of course, if there are any specific places of interest you would like to visit, please let me know so that we can create a custom tour tailor-made to your interests and needs!

Capital of Macedonia, Nymph of the Thermaic or simply Thessaloniki!

Thessaloniki Half Day Walking Tour

Thessaloniki's Gems & Food - Private Walking Tour

Thessaloniki, Greece's vibrant second city, seamlessly blends its rich history, rich culture, and modern dynamism. Nestled along the Aegean Sea's picturesque coast, Thessaloniki's labyrinthine streets of Ladadika, the old city centre, are home to Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques that stand as silent sentinels of its rich past.

After we meet, we'll head to an old bakery - a hidden gem that stands for three generations, for the first stop. Sample some typical Greek breakfast pastries such as traditional koulouri (a sesame seed-covered bread ring) & bougatsa (phyllo pastry filled with cream or cheese). You will hear interesting stories during the coffee break and then head to the open market of the town. Through little streets and alleys full of history, you'll arrive at the "Kapani" (open from Monday to Saturday) a vibrant, colourful and historic place. Once you finish strolling the market, you will taste some original street food, and a variety of meze dishes.

- Food & drinks expenses.
- Local breakfast in one of the oldest "bougatsa" shops of the town, with home made "filo". 
- Taste traditional "koulouri"at another hidden gem of a bakery.
- Coffee stop.
- Light lunch at the market area.

Discover the Greek culinary scene + some hidden gems of the city

The city's byzantine past was perhaps the most decisive for the years to come, and it lasted almost 1000 years. The suggested tour starts from the Trigonion Tower in the upper city. From there, we can take in the majestic view of the city and the byzantine walls and walk to the 14th c. Vlatadon Monastery, a picturesque place with important history. We visit the 5th c. Moni Latomou, hidden in the maze of the upper city, where we will be admiring one of the most important early Christian mosaic.

At the 14th c. Church of Nikolaos Orfanos (open only on Mondays and Thursdays) we will admire works of Palaiologan art in all its glory; Or we can visit the Church of St Demetrius, which is famous for its mosaic panels and the crypt, the place where, according to tradition, the saint martyred and was buried. We will then visit the 4th c. Rotonda, with early christian mosaics of exquisites value. We'll finish our tour with a visit to the 7th c. Church of St Sophia, one of the most significant churches of Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki's byzantine past is characterised of intriguing stories and a very important cultural legacy.

Half Day Thessaloniki Byzantine Tour

Meeting the town of Thessaloníki - Half Day Tour

This tour is ideal for people who are visiting Thessaloniki for first time. So if you have limited time but want to visit some of the "must see" of the town this tour is for you!

We begin our tour by visiting Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius and his palace, all early 4th century monuments. Afterwards, the White Tower, the city's landmark, where we admire the beautiful view at the top and see inside the contemporary exhibitions of old photos of the city. You learn why it's called white tower and much more!

Galerius arch in frond of the busy street of Egnatia in 2013

A small ship that makes a small round in the gulf of the town while you drink your coffee, refreshment or drink!

Another small ship that makes a round in the gulf of the town while inside you can have a coffee, refreshment or drink!

Another photo of the White Tower and me during 2012!

Rotunda. Belongs in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

A delicious sweet! The famous "tsourekia"!

One more small ship that makes a small round in the gulf of the town while you drink your coffee, refreshment or drink!

Galerius Arch in an old card postal (at that time it was wrongly written that the arch belonged to Alexander the great)

The entrance of the archaeological museum of Thessaloniki

Galerius arch in the begining of the century

Discover the must see attractions!

The Footsteps of Saint Paul the Apostle - Thessaloniki and Veroia

In this tour we follow the footsteps of Saint Paul the Apostle who visited Greece for the first time during his second missionary journey in 49-50 AD. This is a landmark event for the history of the world.

I will explain the historical background and recreate the philosophical and religious framework that Paul found himself in when he first visited.

We will travel to the city of Veroia, where we will visit the rostrum of Paul, from where, according to tradition he preached to the gentiles of the city, before moving on to the old Jewish Quarter of the city for a short walking tour and a stop at the Synagogue which stands on top of the ancient synagogue where Paul preached to the Jews. We will return to the city of Thessaloniki and visit the Upper town where two specific locations are connected to Paul's visit. This is the monastery of Vlatades and the Spring of Saint Paul.

This tour can be broken down to either just Veroia or just Thessaloniki. Visit to important religious (or not) sites can be added.

Rostrum of Saint Paul the Apostle in Veroia.

Follow the landmark missionary journey of Paul in the cities of Thessaloniki and Veroia

Philippi and Kavala Day Trip from Thessaloniki

The ancient city of Philippi in the prefecture of Kavala is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites one can visit.
Once conquared by Macedonian King Phillip II, Alexander the Great's father, who gave the city his name, later became one of the most important Roman cities of the area.

This is where Paul, the Disciple of Christ, came to preach christianity and created the first European Christian church. The city flourished because of that and the ruins of huge christian temples can be found to this day, some of them still standing!

In the nearby baptistery of Lydia we will visit the place where the first European woman, Lydia, was baptised and where adult baptisms still take place to this day.

Of course, no visit to the area would be considered full without enjoying a beautiful walk around the nearby city of Kavala, one ot the most beautiful cities of northern Greece.

Salonika tours

Explore with 35 tours and 6 guides.

Eleni M.

$ 206 (USD)

Eleni K.

$ 206 (USD)

Dimitrios S.

$ 367 (USD)

Nikos C.

$ 246 (USD)

Panagiotis K.

$ 344 (USD)

Apostolos K.

$ 304 (USD)

Eleni M.

$ 206 (USD)

Eleni K.

$ 252 (USD)

Dimitrios S.

$ 676 (USD)

Panagiotis K.

$ 790 (USD)

Nikos C.

$ 286 (USD)

Apostolos K.

$ 206 (USD)

Eleni M.

$ 206 (USD)

Eleni K.

$ 149 (USD)

Dimitrios S.

$ 676 (USD)

Nikos C.

$ 962 (USD)

Meet your local guides in Salonika

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