Thessaloniki City Guide

Food is a highlight, with local dishes like bougatsa and fresh seafood. International cuisines and vegan options are common. Late-night food spots stay open late or 24/7.

Nightlife is vibrant with tavernas, bars, and clubs mainly in Ladadika and the city center. It's lively and diverse.

Strong coffee culture with traditional cafes and third-wave shops. Popular drinks include freddo espresso and cappuccino.

Tipping is polite but not required. 5-10% in restaurants and rounding up for taxis is common.

SIMs are sold at provider stores (Cosmote, Vodafone, Nova) and kiosks. ID or passport is needed for registration. eSIMs are available.

Central areas are well-maintained but some side streets are less clean. Recycling exists but is developing.

Some pharmacies and kiosks operate 24/7 on rotation. Numerous late-night food options exist.

Supermarkets stock international products, and fresh markets offer local produce and specialties. Most shops open weekdays 8 AM to 9 PM, closing Sundays.

Card payments are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller purchases and markets.

ATMs from major banks like National Bank of Greece and Piraeus Bank are common. Fees usually range from €2-€3 for international cards.

International schools include American Farm School and Pinewood American International School teaching primarily in English. Admissions are in spring.

The nomad community is growing, with meetups and active Facebook groups. Co-working spaces are hubs for remote workers.

The waterfront promenade and Seih Sou Forest offer good green space access and shaded walking.

Popular running routes include the waterfront promenade and Seih Sou Forest. Running is generally safe and scenic.

There are many gyms and fitness centers around the city.

Tennis courts and coaching are available at clubs. Padel courts are growing in number.

Padel is becoming more popular, with a few dedicated courts opening.

Yoga studios offer various classes and many have English-speaking instructors.

Various martial arts schools teach BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, and more, with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Kaimaktsalan and Seli are 1.5-2 hours away. They offer slopes and equipment rentals in season.

Water sports like kayaking and windsurfing happen near the gulf and Halkidiki, mostly from May to September.

No real surfing in Thessaloniki, but some windsurfing and kitesurfing nearby. Wave surfing spots are farther away.

Diving trips from Thessaloniki go to Halkidiki with decent visibility and marine life. Centers offer equipment and courses.

Public hospitals like AHEPA and Hippokration have English-speaking staff. Private clinics offer quicker service. Pharmacies are common and some open 24/7 on rotation.

Tap water in Thessaloniki is generally safe to drink and of good quality.

City has many playgrounds, family-friendly cafes, and attractions like the Science Center and Magic Park amusement park.

Thessaloniki is among the most LGBTQ+ friendly Greek cities with events and safe spaces. Legal protections exist.

Pets are welcome in many cafes' outdoor areas. Veterinary clinics and pet stores are common.