Where to Stay in Thessaloniki ✔️ 5 INCREDIBLE Areas

The 2nd largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki, is a peculiar one. Partly reminiscent of Venice and imbibed in that port city’s vibe, it’s just oh-so seducing. So, if you’re planning a trip to Northern Greece and wondering where to stay in Thessaloniki, well, I got you! 

I’ve visited Thessaloniki more times than I can count – it’s one of my favorite cities to return to! During my visits, I stayed in many different parts of the city, so I can now tell you all about the 5 best Thessaloniki neighborhoods. 

The best area to stay in Thessaloniki is the city center, the liveliest part of the city, where you’ll find all the top attractions and amazing restaurants and cafes. Plus, staying here means you can pick from the top Thessaloniki hotels! 

I’ll also recommend the best hotels in each area and for each budget size so you can choose one that matches your travel preference! 

But a quick note before we jump in: the city tends to get very crowded, so if you want to get good value for your money, I advise you to book your Thessaloniki accommodation well in advance!

Now we’re ready. Let’s dive in!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

If you’re in a rush, check out the best hotels in Thessaloniki, all situated in the city center:

Here’s a map to help you visualize the 5 Thessaloniki neighborhoods featured in this post: 

1. City Center – where to stay in Thessaloniki for first-timers

Whatever your reason for visiting Thessaloniki, one thing is sure: you’re bound to find it in the city center – the commercial, business, and entertainment hub of this Greek city. Nestled along the waterfront and attracting visitors at all times of the year, the Thessaloniki city center is a must for anyone coming to Thessaloniki for the first time. 

The city center of Thessaloniki is widely known for its long seaside promenade, i.e., the Thessaloniki Waterfront (map), Aristotelous Square (map), and the White Tower (map), the city’s main landmark. All these landmarks are within easy walking distance from one another, and you can easily explore the entire city center on foot! 

Next, take a stroll on the seaside promenade and soak in the stunning scenery, and don’t forget to snap a pic of The Umbrellas of Zongolopoulos (map), a cool contemporary sculpture. 

Another square that’s worth checking out is the Agia Sofia Square (map), which is surrounded by cool buildings and hosts the Holy Church of Hagia Sophia (map). This is an impressive Orthodox church where you can admire some stunning artworks free of charge. 

From there, you can move on to Kapani Market (map), a traditional covered market where you can blend in with the locals and get some fresh produce and fish. But if you’re not into that kind of shopping, you should check out the designer stores and cool shops along Tsimiski Street (map)! 

Nearby, you’ll come across the Roman Forum of Thessaloniki (map) and the Holy Church of Saint Demetrius (map), 2 stops everyone should make when in Thessaloniki. 

You must be hungry after all the exploring, so why not savor a delicious lunch at Orizontes Roof Garden (map), situated on the top floor of the Electra Palace Hotel and overlooking the impressive Aristotelous Square?

And if you’re looking for a sweet treat to end the day, the one place I can’t recommend enough is Trigona Elenidi (map). The patisserie offers a wide range of sweets, but you absolutely have to try the eponymous trigona – it’s my favorite Greek dessert, and I think you’ll love it, too. 

There’s plenty more to see and do in the city center of Thessaloniki, and I can keep recommending things to you. However, the best way to experience the city is to take some time and roam the streets. Stop whenever you see something you like and try new things – this is what I always do, and Thessaloniki never disappoints! 

Now, you’re ready to head to your accommodation for a good night’s sleep but don’t worry, I’ve got you on that, too. Just keep reading below to find the best hotels in Thessaloniki. 

Other accommodation options in Thessaloniki City Center

Things to do in Thessaloniki City Center

• Take a relaxing walk along the Thessaloniki Waterfront 
• Walk around Aristotelous Square and admire the architecture
• Go up the White Tower and enjoy the panoramic views over the city
• Stop by The Umbrellas of Zongolopoulos and snap a photo
• Explore the collections at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
• Check out all the shops along Tsimiski Street
• Visit the Holy Church of Hagia Sophia in Agia Sophia Square
• Shop with the locals at Kapani Market
• Stop by the Roman Forum of Thessaloniki and the Holy Church of Saint Demetrius
• Have dinner at Orizontes Roof Garden and some dessert from Trigona Elenidi

2. Ladadika – best place to stay in Thessaloniki for nightlife

The busy waterfront area in the Western part of the city center is known as Ladadika, located within walking distance from all the major attractions. However, what describes this area best is the narrow streets with colorful old buildings turned into vibrant restaurants and bars where you can spend an evening immersed in the bustling nightlife scene!

In the past, this area was known for the many olive oil shops and the Jewish neighborhood. It is also one of the few districts that weren’t destroyed in the Great Fire of 1917, so today, it is an area protected by the local authorities. 

Seeing as this was once the city’s Jewish quarter, this is where you’ll find the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki and learn about the history of the Jewish people in the city. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit different, the Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki is a great spot to spend a fun afternoon. 

As I already mentioned, this area is the go-to place if you’re looking for the best restaurants and numerous bars for every budget! Lena’s Bistro (map) is a great restaurant with homemade food, great prices, and exceptional service. The Dubliner (map) or The Pub (map) are great places to go for a steak, a pint of beer, and some live music. 

Ladadika is actually part of the larger city center of Thessaloniki, so you can also visit all the attractions in the center and go there on foot! I don’t recommend driving in the city center – the traffic can get crazy, especially on weekends and holidays, and parking might be hard to find (and expensive if you do find it). 

Other accommodation options in Ladadika

Things to do in Ladadika

• Visit the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki to learn more about the city’s history
• Spend a fun afternoon at the Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki
• Check out the cool exhibitions at the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography
• Enjoy the delicious homemade food at Lena’s Bistro
• Treat yourself to a tasty gyro from Laikon (map)
• Grab a drink at The Dubliner or The Pub
• Have a meal while enjoying a view of the port at Kitchen Bar (map)

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3. Ano Poli – best area to stay in Thessaloniki for history

Ano Poli, Old Town or Upper Town (call it as you like it), is a predominantly residential area in the Northern part of Thessaloniki. It’s just a 10-min drive North of the city center or a 20-min walk. The neighborhood is recognizable for its narrow and winding streets, traditional houses, and many ancient ruins scattered around the area. 

The Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki (map) is the main reason why people flock to Ano Poli. Perched above the neighborhood, this Byzantine fortress provides unparalleled views over the Thermaic Gulf and the city. 

FUN FACT: The name Heptapyrgion or Yedikule in Turkish is translated as ‘Fortress of 7 Towers’. However, the fortress actually features 10 towers! 

This neighborhood is rich in Byzantine culture, churches, and monasteries, with the Vlatadon Monastery (map) being the most notable and the only active one today. Another church that warrants a visit is the Holy Church of Elijah the Prophet (map), a Greek Orthodox church known for its impressive architecture. 

Apart from the churches, this area boasts the former home of Kemal Ataturk, where he was born and raised. Today, this building serves as the Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki, as well as the Turkish consulate in the city. 

Other cool historical spots you can visit from Ano Poli include the Arch of Galerius (map) and Rotunda (map) – important historical landmarks. 

TIP: If you enjoy panoramic views of the city, then you should also visit the Upper Toumba neighborhood and see Thessaloniki from a bird-eye perspective. 

If you want to stay in Ano Poli but also see the sights in the center, it’s a good idea to have a mode of transportation other than walking. Even though renting a car is always an option, I recommend using public transportation! Thessaloniki has a great network of public buses – they’re super reliable, and tickets are available directly on the bus. 

TIP: When you get on a bus in Thessaloniki, get your ticket from the machine on the bus. A single ride costs €0.90, and the machines are simple to use, but keep in mind that they don’t return any change. So, always have some coins with you – at least enough to cover the cost of your bus ride. 

As I mentioned, this is mostly a residential area, so there aren’t any hotels. However, there are some amazing apartments in Ano Poli – you’ll find the best ones recommended below! 

Other accommodation options in Ano Poli

Things to do in Ano Poli

• Go up to the Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki and enjoy the views
• Visit the Vlatadon Monastery and the Holy Church of Elijah the Prophet
• Get a coffee and relax at the Little Big House (map)
• Stop by the Ataturk Museum of Thessaloniki
• Venture out to Pasha’s Gardens (map) and explore the mysterious park\
• Pay a visit to the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda

4. Vardaris – where to stay in Thessaloniki for urban vibes

The Vardaris in Thessaloniki is the best area to stay for people who want to spend their trip in a lively and urban atmosphere. Located a 20-min walk West of the city center and bordering Ladadika to the South and Ano Poli to the Northeast, this neighborhood is also in an ideal location for exploring the rest of the city. 

Even though it’s centrally located, Vardaris doesn’t have any cultural landmarks. However, what it lacks in tourist sites, it makes up for with hotels and restaurants. 

If you’re wondering how to spend your time in the neighborhood, I recommend a shopping trip to the One Salonica Outlet Mall (map) and then a nice dinner at Iberico (map). For a more fun time, there’s Mylos (map), a live music venue where you can have an evening out on the town. 

The neighborhood abounds with bistros, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants, so if you’re a foodie, I’m sure you’ll appreciate this. There are also quite a few shops scattered around, and I’m sure you’ll find something to bring home with you. 

If you want to explore the attractions and museums in the city center, I suggest walking. It’s such a short walk, and the streets are full of people and shops, making the experience super enjoyable. So, there’s no need for a car or taking the bus – that’s also great news for your budget! 

Other accommodation options in Vardaris

Things to do in Vardaris

• Do some shopping at the One Salonica Outlet Mall
• Enjoy a nice dinner at Iberico
• Attend a live music performance at Mylos
• See a concert at Space Lab (map)

5. Kalamaria – where to stay near the airport

If you’re wondering where to stay near Thessaloniki so you can still get some of the action but still be a bit removed from it, the answer is Kalamaria! This quiet area is located 7 km (4 miles) East of Thessaloniki city center and is a densely populated spot with stunning beaches and fun things to do. 

It is also closest to the airport (a 15-min drive away) from all the areas we listed, so many travelers choose it for its convenient location. The Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia (map) is an international airport that sees a lot of daily traffic, so this is likely where you’ll land when you first arrive – the same goes for leaving the city. 

The first thing to do in Kalamaria is hit the beach! Nea Krini Beach (map) is a popular spot where you can walk along the coast and admire the views. Even though it’s not recommended for swimming, it’s still a great place to spend a day outdoors. 

TIP: if you’re craving a beach holiday, Halkidiki is just an hour’s drive away from Kalamaria and Thessaloniki. You can spend a lovely beach day on the first leg of the Halkidiki peninsula – I recommend either Kalithea Beach (map) or Kryopigi Beach (map). 

If you’re feeling hungry, Kalamaria will not let you down! There are plenty of restaurants serving seafood and traditional Greek dishes, so you’ll never be short of choices. One of my top picks is Halaro (map), with its lovely ambiance and fresh, delicious food. And if you’re craving a cocktail while enjoying a view of the sea, head to SHARK Bar (map). 

I can’t wrap up this section without talking about shopping! Just a 10-min drive away from Kalamaria, you’ll find the most popular shopping complex in the Thessaloniki area – Mediterranean Cosmos (map). The complex features many shops, a large food hall, and even a cinema, so you can easily spend an entire day here. 

Finally, if you’re staying here, it’s best to rent a car. Even though there are buses operating on the route, they’re not as frequent and take longer. Having a car will give you the opportunity to explore Kalamaria, get to/from the airport, and visit the city center. 

Other accommodation options in Kalamaria

Things to do in Kalamaria

FAQs about where to stay in Thessaloniki

📍 What is the most beautiful part of Thessaloniki?

📅 How many days do you need in Thessaloniki?

The optimal amount of time for a Thessaloniki stay is 2 to 3 days, during which you can explore the city center, visit some museums, go up to Ano Poli to see the Byzantine monuments, and enjoy traditional Greek food. 

💯 Is it worth staying in Thessaloniki?

Yes! The beautiful port city of Thessaloniki makes for a great stay for everyone who likes to chill by the sea or explore history and visit museums.

❌ Where not to stay in Thessaloniki?

While Thessaloniki is a safe city in general, tourists may want to be more cautious when going around suburban areas like Menemeni, Evosmos, and Dendropotamos.

✅ Is it safe to go to Thessaloniki at night?

Yes, Thessaloniki is quite safe at night. However, you still need to exercise caution – be aware of your surroundings, stay on well-lit streets, and, if possible, move in groups of 2 or more. 

🚶 Is Thessaloniki a walkable city?

Thessaloniki is a very walkable city. The city center is very compact, and most of the neighborhoods recommended in this article are just a short walk away from the center. However, if you choose to stay in Kalamaria, you’ll need a car. 

🏨 What are the best hotels in Thessaloniki near the beach?

The best beach hotels near Thessaloniki are located in Peraia, a suburb of Thessaloniki. Here, you can stay at the upscale Golden Star City Resort, directly on the beach, or the more affordable Hotel Avra. 

Final words on the best places to stay in Thessaloniki

The beautiful city of Thessaloniki, Greece, is a popular destination not just for travelers from neighboring countries but also for people from all over the world. If it’s on your travel list, too, and you were wondering where to stay in Thessaloniki, I hope this article helped you in that quest! 

We also saw many fantastic accommodation options, so if you’re undecided about which one to pick, I hope my 2 favorite hotels in Thessaloniki will aid you in making a final decision: 

• Electra Palace – at Electra Palace, you’ll get celebrity treatment and many romantic dinners with a view from their restaurant
• Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – a comfortable and stylish hotel in a great location, offering room service and free international calls

Regardless of where you choose to stay, don’t forget to book your hotels in Thessaloniki, Greece, in advance. I myself book the accommodation at least 1 month in advance, and you’d probably want to do it, too! 

If you have any more questions about Thessaloniki and where to stay, please comment below – I will be quick to answer! 

Have a wonderful trip,

Hristina

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