Thessaloniki is Greece’s second largest city, with a population of over 1 million in the greater metropolitan area. It is located in the region of Central Macedonia, stretching along the Thermaic Gulf. In the city center, Old Town (Ano Poli) is a maze of winding cobblestone streets lined with Byzantine-era landmarks and neoclassical buildings. Further south, the lively Ladadika district buzzes with trendy bars, cafes, and artisanal shops. Across the port, the municipality of Kalamaria is known for its upscale residential areas and pristine beaches.

What sets Thessaloniki apart is its vibrant, multicultural energy. As a major trading port for centuries, the city has absorbed influences from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Sephardic Jewish cultures, a diversity is reflected in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and artistic scene. Thessaloniki’s food culture, in particular, is a true delight for the senses, and tucking into a warm slice of decadent bougatsa, a signature custard-filled pastry, is a testament to the city’s culinary heritage. Freshly baked every morning, the flaky phyllo pastry envelops a silky custard filling, dusted with a generous sprinkling of powdered sugar and cinnamon. The contrast of the crisp exterior and the creamy interior is nothing short of heavenly, making it the perfect accompaniment to a strong Greek coffee as you people-watch along the bustling streets.

Beyond the culinary pleasures, Thessaloniki offers a wealth of cultural attractions. The iconic White Tower, a former Ottoman fortification, stands guard over the waterfront and offers panoramic views of the city. This imposing fortification, with its distinctive cylindrical form, was once a grim reminder of Ottoman rule, but today it has been transformed into a symbol of the city’s resilience. The tower’s austere exterior belies the richness of its interior, where a museum chronicles the city’s evolution from ancient times to the present day. For those seeking to understand the soul of Thessaloniki, a visit to the White Tower is an essential starting point.

In stark contrast to the White Tower’s militant silhouette, the Rotunda offers a serene architectural respite. This remarkable Roman-era structure, with its magnificent domed ceiling, boasts harmonious proportions and the way its soft, natural light filters through the arched windows creates an atmosphere of contemplative calm. As you wander the Rotunda’s hushed interior, let your gaze linger on the intricate mosaics that adorn the walls, each one a masterful expression of Byzantine artistry. This architectural gem is a place to pause, reflect, and connect with the timeless essence of Thessaloniki.

Wander through the evocative ruins of Thessaloniki’s Roman Forum, where the footsteps of ancient citizens once echoed. Uncover the foundations of temples, administrative buildings, and public baths that attest to the city’s importance as a major urban center during the Roman era. As you stroll along the weathered stones, let your mind drift back to a time when this was the heart of civic life in Thessaloniki.

Rising majestically above the city’s rooftops, the Agia Sofia Temple is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Step inside the grand, domed sanctuary and be awestruck by the shimmering gold mosaics that cover its walls and ceilings. This magnificent 7th-century structure, modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, offers a serene respite from the bustling streets outside.

Thessaloniki is very much focused on the future, too; start-ups and tech companies have been flocking to the city, drawn by its affordable cost of living and talented pool of young, educated professionals. The city’s universities, including the prestigious Aristotle University, are hubs of innovation and creativity. Thessaloniki is also making strides in sustainable urban planning, with ambitious projects to improve public transport and green spaces. This constant dialogue between the people and the city flourishes thanks to the locals’ boundless energy and efforts to foster a culturally rich environment. Here, art lovers will find inspiration at the Thessaloniki Museum of Byzantine Culture, which houses an impressive collection of religious icons and mosaics, and music enthusiasts can enjoy the lively nightlife, with venues ranging from jazz clubs to raucous bouzouki bars.