Tour Highlights
Highlights:
- Explore Thessaloniki’s landmarks and other not-to-miss historic spots, such as the Ancient Agora, the Arch of Galerius, the Rotunda of Galerius and the Galerius Palace, with a highly-knowledgeable local guide by your side.
- Wander through the city’s markets, back streets and alternative neighborhoods getting off the tourist trail.
- Visit the city’s landmark, the White Tower, and admire a beautiful 360° view of the city, the sea and even Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest summit.
- Discover Greece’s oldest Christian church, a marvel well hidden in a residential district.
- Go underground with us and discover the grave of Agios Dimitrios, the patron saint of the city.
Person in a private group
min 2 people
€ 160
Meeting point:
Our guide will be waiting on the corner in front of “Hotel Kinissi Palace”.
Our guide will be holding a Thessaloniki Local Adventures sign.
Hotel Kinissi Palace, Egnatia 41, Thessaloniki 546 30. See the Map .
If you need help with the directions please call at +306980679166 .
Explore Thessaloniki’s Ancient Landmarks
If you’re searching for a comprehensive introduction to the gems of Thessaloniki, then this tour is ideal for you! Spend your morning with us by exploring the city’s landmarks and other not-to-miss historic spots with a local licensed guide by your side who will explain to you all the captivating history of the enthralling city of Thessaloniki. Let’s move together off the beaten path to discover how locals live nowadays by finding your way through the city’s bustling markets and other unique gems hidden in charming back alleys.
Local impact — How you help the local community by joining this tour:
- By visiting Agios Dimitrios church and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we support local cultural heritage, as well as give a sense of the city’s rich history.
- On this tour, we visit 100% local family-owned businesses, such as a local greengrocer, cheesemonger, butcher, and fishmonger who sell their own and Greek-only products are promoted.
- The traditional character of old Thessaloniki is preserved by supporting small-scale, locally-run businesses
- At least one store on your itinerary is dedicated to the preservation of locally produced crafts.
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Your historic Thessaloniki walking tour will begin by meeting your local guide in Aristotelous Square, one of Greece’s biggest and most impressive squares, surrounded by impressive neoclassical mansions.
As you’ll walk along the pedestrian street of the square, you’ll hear fascinating stories of Thessaloniki’s thrilling past, from ancient times till the recent years, until you reach Agios Dimitrios church, a UNESCO heritage site that houses the crypt of Agios Dimitrios, a not-to-miss highlight of the city.
Wander underground into this mystic resting place, where St. Dimitrios, the patron saint of Thessaloniki, was martyred. Venture in the labyrinth of the crypt that has transformed into an interesting exhibition space, including unique historic items such as sculptures and other decorative items that have recovered from the 5th-century-CE great city’s fire.
Continuing the stroll around the city, you’ll visit other noteworthy landmarks of Thessaloniki, such as the ornate Arch of Galerius, nowadays locals’ most popular meeting point, and the monumental Rotunda, as well as, one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.
Then, you’ll head to the commercial area of the city where locals’ daily business life such as charming flower shops and other local stores coexist with old Turkish baths and other historic monuments.
Next, you’ll find your way to the bustling colorful open-air markets of the city, some of which date back to the 12th century. Here, you’ll experience the spirit of Greek life with the same commerce of food that existed hundreds of years before. Your local guide will show you around the best of the markets, taking you to places few tourists venture and helping you to discover a variety of fresh produce including fish, fruit, vegetables, dairy products, spices, and even a traditional butcher.
Your tour will end in the picture-pretty district of Ladadika, once the city’s center of oil trading. Nowadays, this area is one of Thessaloniki’s taste ‘n fun hubs where numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars are located. Stroll around the cobblestone alleys of the neighborhood, hear stories about its interesting past and find out the best hangouts noticed by your local guide.
Before we part away, don’t forget to ask your local guide for more tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay.
Language: English
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Local English-speaking guide, entrance to the crypt, coffee, a local sweet (bougatsa) water, and refreshments during the tour
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Entrance ticket (EUR 2) for Rotunda, additional food and drinks, souvenirs or personal shopping, tips/gratuities for your guide and driver
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- Food Allergies: Unless you suffer from multiple, combined food allergies, or unless you are a vegan, we will figure it out. Vegetarians are welcome on all tours.
- Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. In general, there are few dress restrictions in Europe and dress codes are similar to those you are used to at home. Please note though that in many churches modest dress is required; no shorts or skimpy tops are permitted.
- If you are happy with the services provided by your local a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour.
- All our team members are fully vaccinated.