THESSALONIKI

Thessaloniki, the Greek co-capital. Being the second major economic, industrial, commercial, political and cultural center of the country, Thessaloniki is a transportation hub of great importance for the rest of southeastern Europe; its commercial port plays a dominant role for Greece and for the southeastern European hinterland as well.

The city is famous for its cultural life. Festivals, social and political events, commercial and cultural affairs are part of the city’s vibrant daily life! Events such as the Thessaloniki International Trade Fair, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, the Night Half Marathon are held annually, while the city also hosts the largest bi-annual meeting of the Greek diaspora. The beautiful Northern Greek capital was also the 2014 European Youth Capital!

The city of Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BC by Cassandra of Macedon. It was an important metropolis during the Roman period, and also the second largest and wealthiest city of the Byzantine Empire. It is home to numerous notable Byzantine and Paleo-Christian monuments, including a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as several Roman, Ottoman and Jewish structures. The city is also home to Aristotle University, the largest university campus within the Balkan countries, and is located only a few kilometers away from Chalkidiki, the complex of the most stunning beaches of the country!

The beautiful “Bride of the North” is a popular tourist attraction. In 2013, National Geographic Magazine included Thessaloniki among its top tourist destinations worldwide, while in 2014 the Financial Times FDI magazine (Foreign Direct Investments) declared Thessaloniki as the best mid-sized European city of the future, concerning human capital and lifestyle.

Widely known for its exceptional beauty, its romantic atmosphere and its cultural diversity, Thessaloniki offers a unique option for vacations! It is distinguished by its elegant architectural aesthetics, the variable activity options, and rich gastronomic tradition – all characteristics generated by the fact that the city has always been a crossroads where different civilizations blended together harmoniously, a fascinating location where the East has always met the West, and a charming destination where great cultures and religions have been mixed.

The compact size of the city and the walking distance proximity of the world-class heritage sites make Thessaloniki an ideal city-break travel destination! It is easily accessed all year round, since it has its own airport, and activities are endless! This city never stops moving, and there’s a great selection of attractions and highlights to choose from.

Either by experiencing culinary delicacies and tasteful aromas all around the central market, or by enjoying romantic sunsets at the large promenade by the White Tower or by indulging in cultural events and in exciting entertainment activities, Thessaloniki will definitely inundate all your senses!

Special Thank to Visit Greece for this wonderful video.