Quick facts
Daily budget
For a full category-by-category breakdown of accommodation, food, transport, and activity costs in Thessaloniki, see the dedicated budget guide.
Practical info
Visa & Entry
- Schengen Zone: EU/UK/US/Canadian citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa
- Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) is 16km from centre: bus 01X runs direct (€2, 45 min) or taxi (€20–25, fixed rate)
- Train connections from Athens (4.5 hours, from €15 advance) via Trainose/Hellenic Train
Health & Safety
- No special vaccinations required. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Thessaloniki
- Very safe city: petty crime is rare. Standard precautions at night in Valaoritou and around the station area
- Pharmacies are well-stocked and pharmacists speak English. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) accepted
Getting Around
- OASTH city buses cover the city: single ticket €1.10 from kiosks. The planned metro is still under construction
- The centre is very walkable: Aristotelous to the White Tower is 1.5km, to Ano Poli about 2km uphill
- KTEL buses for day trips: Vergina, Halkidiki, and other destinations from the main station on 26 Oktovriou Street
Connectivity
- Free WiFi in most cafes, hotels, and public areas. The waterfront and Aristotelous have municipal WiFi
- EU roaming free for EU plans. Non-EU: Cosmote or Vodafone tourist SIMs from €10 for 5GB at the airport
- Download OASTH app for city buses and KTEL Macedonia for intercity bus schedules
Money
- Greece uses the Euro (€). ATMs everywhere. Avoid Euronet ATMs (bad rates). Alpha Bank and Eurobank are reliable
- Cards accepted in most places. Cash needed for kiosks (periptera), some tavernas, and KTEL buses
- Tipping: round up or €1–2 at restaurants. Not expected at cafés. Greeks are generous but don't overtip
Packing Tips
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and the uphill walk to Ano Poli: sandals alone won't cut it
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses May–Sep. A light jacket for evenings: the waterfront gets breezy after dark
- Swimwear if visiting Halkidiki. A cover-up for churches (shoulders and knees covered)
Cultural tips
Food Capital
Thessaloniki is widely considered Greece's culinary capital, influenced by Constantinople, the Sephardic community, and the spice routes. Eating is the main activity. Try everything and eat slowly.
Coffee Obsession
Greeks drink more coffee than almost any nation. A freddo espresso or freddo cappuccino is the summer standard. Sitting at a café for hours is expected, not rude. Never rush a Greek coffee session.
Music Heritage
Thessaloniki has a rich rebetika tradition (Greek blues) and a thriving live music scene. Bouzouki nights, live jazz, and underground electronic events run year-round. Ask locals for recommendations.
Greek Time
Greeks eat late: lunch at 2–3pm, dinner at 9–10pm. Shops may close for afternoon siesta (2–5pm). Nightlife starts after 11pm. Adjust your body clock and embrace the rhythm.
Social Culture
Thessalonians are warm and social. Expect loud conversations, expressive gestures, and genuine warmth. Nodding means "no" and shaking your head means "yes" in Greece. It takes getting used to.
Political Awareness
Thessaloniki has a strong activist culture and university tradition. Student protests are common and usually peaceful. Avoid the area around the university during large demonstrations.
