Thessaloniki tours

Things to do in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki welcomes you with its blend of history and modernity, inviting exploration of its lively streets. The city offers a unique juxtaposition of ancient ruins and bustling markets, with vibrant art scenes adding to its charm. Your local guide ensures Thessaloniki becomes more than a mere visit, transforming it into an engaging journey through both history and contemporary life. Experience the city's essence on a walking tour of Ladadika and Ano Poli, where freshly ground coffee and bouzouki music are part of the everyday soundtrack. Private tours in Thessaloniki let you bypass lines at iconic spots like the White Tower, while food and wine tours offer a taste of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Your guide, a true cultural connoisseur, enriches the experience, making it as multifaceted as Thessaloniki itself. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Thessaloniki. Explore Thessaloniki your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Thessaloniki tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Thessaloniki for every interest, including: History tours: Step into the Rotunda and under the Arch of Galerius, walk the Roman Forum, then climb to the Byzantine Walls by the Trigonion Tower as your guide unpacks battles and daily life across eras. You can tailor a history tour to Jewish heritage at the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki and former synagogue sites, and add the White Tower and the underground crypt of Agios Dimitrios. Architecture tours: Compare the tilework of Bey Hamam with the mosaics of Hagia Sophia and Agios Dimitrios, looking closely at brick patterns and domes. Stroll Vasilissis Olgas Avenue to photograph neoclassical and art nouveau villas, then see Ernest Hébrard’s plan at Aristotelous Square and peek into the restored Modiano Market. Nature and Wildlife tours: Spend a morning at the Axios–Loudias–Aliakmonas Delta spotting flamingos, herons, and pelicans from hides near the information centre, or head north on a day trip to Lake Kerkini for a boat ride with Dalmatian pelicans and views of water buffalo grazing. If you prefer to stay close, hike the Seih Sou forest or Mount Hortiatis with a picnic and seasonal foraging, finishing at a hillside taverna. The city centre is easy to cover on foot, and OASTH buses connect most neighbourhoods and seafront sights; the Upper Town is steep and wetlands are a drive away, so you can book chauffeured tours or tours with private transportation, or ask your local guide to arrange a car or minivan. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Thessaloniki inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Take a private walking tour in Thessaloniki and explore its fascinating neighborhoods with your local guide. Having someone who truly knows the area enriches your experience and helps unveil the city's unique character. - Ano Poli (Upper Town): This area is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and photographers. Its traditional houses, narrow streets, and Byzantine walls offer stunning views of the city. - Ladadika: Once a commercial center, now a vibrant area known for its nightlife and dining. Ideal for families and groups seeking lively evenings and traditional Greek cuisine. - Aristotelous Square: A bustling hub perfect for people-watching and shopping. Great for those who enjoy a mix of culture, shopping, and leisurely strolls by the sea. - Kalamaria: Known for its beautiful coastline and waterfront cafes, it's a haven for families and those who enjoy a relaxed, seaside atmosphere. Day trip ideas from Thessaloniki From Thessaloniki, you can slip into nearby cities, ruins, mountains, and seaside villages that make easy day trips, and these work well as private tours that match your pace and interests. Vergina (Aigai): Step into the ancient Macedonian capital where the Royal Tombs and the underground museum anchor a compact site; if you’re into archaeology or Alexander the Great’s story, your tour can focus on the highlights and add a slow lunch in the nearby wine country. Pella: Walk the grid-planned streets of Alexander’s birthplace and see famous pebble mosaics at the museum; history fans get clear context without long drives, and your tour can link Pella with a quick stop in a modern market town for local snacks. Mount Olympus and Dion: Pair low mountain trails and forest views with the Dion Archaeological Park at the foot of Olympus; hikers and mythology buffs get variety in one day, and your tour can choose easier paths or deeper ruins time based on your comfort. Halkidiki (Kassandra or Sithonia): Go for clean beaches, small stone villages like Afytos, and simple seafood by the water; if beach time is your favourite break, your tour can stack a couple of scenic coves with a short village wander. Edessa Waterfalls and Pozar Hot Springs: Follow wooden walkways around Edessa’s falls, then soak in natural thermal pools at Loutra Pozar; photographers, families, and wellness seekers all get a relaxed day, and your tour can adjust timing to dodge bus crowds. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Thessaloniki most travellers miss.