The second largest city in Greece needs no special introduction. Songs have been written, movies have been filmed and people from Greece and abroad visit Thessaloniki as often as possible. Renting a car in Thessaloniki is the best way to explore it, since there is so much more than its famous monument, the White Tower. Book your reservation for an easy-breezy car rental from Let's Drive.
Thessaloniki is a big city, but it is characterized by tranquility and comfort. Also, a large number of students and the constant presence of tourists, create a very pleasant atmosphere. Thessaloniki is famous for its nightlife. That's why everyone does not miss the opportunity to enjoy every single night! From bistros and elegant bars to bouzoukia, bars and rock clubs, that remain open until late. The city center, Ladadika, Athonos Square, Panorama and Kalamaria, are some of the areas that host the best places for food and drinks.
If you arrive by plane, you can organize to book a car at Thessaloniki airport and explore several Greek towns, that you always wanted to. Hit the road to Alexandroupolis, the seaside capital of Evros. it will take you only 3 hours. You can also visit Xanthi, a city famous for its Carnival (little more than 2 hours driving), Kastoria for a romantic walk by the lake (2 hours exactly) and of course the picturesque Ioannina (less than 3 hours driving). Moreover, one of the best fall getaways in Greece is Paleos Panteleimonas in Pieria, which is only 1 hour away from Thessaloniki.
You might be interested: The best destinations in Greece for fall getaways!
The Film Festival, the music Street Mode Festival, the Forest Festival, the Summer Festival, the Documentary Festival and the Street Food Festival, are some of the biggest events that take place every year in the city. At the same time, the Thessaloniki Concert Hall hosts some of the most important artists and performances in Greece.
Thessaloniki is considered one of the cities with the most beautiful sea view. The city is often called “The nymph of Thermaikos” due to the beautiful sea that surrounds it. You can walk next to it on the main street of Nea Paralia, sit in a coffee shop or a restaurant on Nikis Avenue. The morning walks in Thessaloniki will reward you with a unique sight of the sea, as it is often covered by a beautiful veil of fog.
Just half an hour from the city center is the Axios National Park. A green treasure that stretches out on the western side of the Thermaic Gulf. Over 300 species of birds, reptiles and Mediterranean turtles find refuge in this significant complex of wetlands.
Thessaloniki’s attractions consist of little gems of culture and history. The Hagia Sophia of Thessaloniki is one of the oldest and most important Christian churches. It has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List alongside the Rotonda with its distinctive architecture. The White Tower is one of the most visited attractions in the city. There is also a great abundance of museums with the most important ones being the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the War Museum.
The beaches of Halkidiki are of incomparable beauty with Kavourotripes, Vourvourou, Agios Mamas, Posidi and Sani. You need to book your accommodation in advance, if you are planning to visit Halkidiki during summer, since it is one of the top tourist destinations in Northern Greece. As for winter, you can always choose Mount Holomontas for hiking, a region that is included in the NATURA 2000 protection program.
Koulouri (round bread snack with sesame), Bougatsa, Panorama triangles (with pastry and cream), are among the most famous tasty delights of the city. The search to find the best bougatsa and the fluffiest triangles never stops, as new shops with products of excellent taste and quality are constantly appearing in the city. A must-visit is Toumba for appetizers, Perea for seafood and Kalamaria for souvlaki.
The city is located near many beautiful places! Moreover, you can rent a car from Thessaloniki and visit Lake Kerkini in Serres, dive in Halkidiki, or see the waterfalls of picturesque Edessa in less than an hour and a half by car. Visit the always-charming Kavala.
There are many child-friendly places in Thessaloniki. Particularly, our little friends can enjoy Aristotelous Square, Kamara and Nea Paralia. Moreover, you can find shops with toys and clothes on Tsimiski street. Also, the District of Hortiatis is ideal for hiking. The Children's Museum of Thessaloniki and the Zoo are two quite popular activities for families.
So, next time that someone asks you, why they should visit Thessaloniki, you have at least "10 reasons" to name! Discover the beauties of the second largest city of Greece by organizing excursions and tours in Thessaloniki with a rental car from Let's Drive.
