Thrifty Thrills: A Day in Thessaloniki, Greece

Experience the allure of Greece's second city without breaking the bank in Thessaloniki.

21 June 2023

Thessaloniki, Greece offers an affordable and enjoyable holiday experience for budget travelers. From exploring the ancient ruins of the city's Roman Forum, to strolling through the vibrant markets and enjoying mouth-watering street food, Thessaloniki is full of cultural and culinary delights. With budget-friendly accommodations and public transportation, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and modern charm without breaking the bank.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Thessaloniki on a Shoestring Budget

  • Start your day with a traditional Greek coffee and pastry at one of the many local cafes in Ladadika.
  • Stroll along the waterfront promenade and take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
  • Visit the White Tower, a symbol of Thessaloniki, and learn about the city's rich history at the museum inside.
  • Discover the local art scene at Teloglion Foundation of Art, a cultural center with a vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Enjoy a delicious yet affordable meal at Aristotelous Square, the main square of the city, lined with charming restaurants and cafes.
  • Finish off your day with a visit to the bustling Modiano Market, a vibrant hub of sights, sounds and smells, and pick up some souvenirs to take back home.
  • Thessaloniki is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, even on a limited budget. By following this one-day itinerary, you'll get to see the highlights of the city while enjoying authentic Greek experiences. Don't forget to bring your camera and a good pair of walking shoes!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Thessaloniki, Greece by plane is to fly to Thessaloniki International Airport "Makedonia". The airport is located about 15km southeast of the city center and is served by major airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, and Lufthansa.

Car

The best way to get to Thessaloniki, Greece by car is to drive from Athens or other major cities in Greece. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours and the main highway that connects Athens to Thessaloniki is the A1 (E75) highway.

Train

There are several train stations in Thessaloniki, but the best way to get there by train is to take the Main Line from Athens or other major cities in Greece. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours and the train stops at Thessaloniki Train Station, which is located in the city center.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Thessaloniki, Greece by boat as the city is not located near the coast. However, it is possible to take a ferry from nearby cities such as Kavala or Volos to nearby islands such as Skiathos and then take a connecting flight or bus to Thessaloniki.

Bus

The best way to get to Thessaloniki, Greece by bus is to take a bus from Athens or other major cities in Greece. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours and the bus stops at Thessaloniki Bus Station, which is located in the city center.

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