Thessaloniki

placed in the category: Cities

In a district of Central Macedonia lies Greece's magnificent city called Thessaloniki. Spanning over 3,000 years in history, Thessaloniki is a city bursting with fine culture - from the preserved relics of its Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Jewish past to its modern events and much enjoyed natural wonders. Among the city's main sources of pride are its early Christian and Byzantine monuments and churches which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. The city was also named the European Capital of Culture in 1997.

Known as Greece's hippest city, Thessaloniki has much to offer to each and every traveler. Also known as Salonika or Saloniki, Thessaloniki has gorgeous scenery and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It also has a multitude of historical monuments, sites and museums that will truly educate you of the city's rich past. Some of its most famous monuments and churches you just can't miss are the Church of Ossios David, Agios Dimitrios, the Crypt, the City Walls, the Rotonda, Agia Ekaterini, and Agia Sofia. Famous museums and galleries include the Gallery of Fine Arts, the Museum of Attaturk, the Archaeology Museum, Macedonian Center of Modern Art, and the New Museum of Byzantine Culture. Another noteworthy museum not to be passed by is the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki which is housed in one of the few Jewish structures that survived the big fire of 1917. The museum serves as a silent witness to the huge Jewish presence that once filled the streets of the city.

After immersing yourself in rich history, it's time to unwind and experience what the modern culture of Thessaloniki offers. In the biggest square in the city called Aristotelous Square is where various shops can be found. Thessaloniki is also home to some of the finest hotels, establishments and restaurants in northern Greece and you'll surely enjoy sampling the local cuisine, shopping for both cheap and high-end goods, and discovering the nightlife in one of the many bars lining the promenades of the city. The city also hosts various cultural events like the Thessaloniki Film Festival for movie buffs and the International Trade Fair. Indeed, you'll never be bored in the "hippest city of Greece".