What to Do / Eat in Thessaloniki, Greece

DO

Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda – These fascinating ancient landmarks are right in the middle of the city, so they’re very easy to check out.

Churches – You want to see some impressive old churches?  Yeah, Thessaloniki’s got those.

Vlatadon Monastery – This place is a must-visit for the epic views of the city.  It’s quite breathtaking.

EAT

Archontis – The spanakopita certainly isn’t gourmet, but for one euro for a seriously hefty slice, it’s way better than it has any right to be.

Bougatsa Bantis – If you’re looking for a tasty (and extremely unhealthy) breakfast in Thessaloniki, bougatsa is where it’s at.  It’s dessert for breakfast, and it’s delicious.

Derlicatesen all Souvlaki – You can’t go to Greece and not try souvlaki.

Edessaïkó – The Greek comfort food they serve at this place was so cheap and delicious that I actually went back a second time.  If you’re on a budget, this place needs to be on your list.  And if you’re not, it still needs to be on your list — it’s so good.

Galyfianakis – The custard pie at this place was beyond delicious.  It’s reason enough to visit Thessaloniki; it’s that good.

Gyros Aristotelous – The gyros at Gyros Aristotelous absolutely rocked my world.  So damn good.

McDonald’s – McDonald’s in Greece is pretty boring — the menu is mostly just the usual suspects, though they do have a couple of vaguely interesting items.

Oi Pites Tis Voulas – There are a ridiculous amount of places in Thessaloniki that sell phyllo pies, and this was one of the better ones.

Terkenlis – This is a delightful Greek bakery that sells a whole bunch of seriously delicious sweet pastries.

Trigona Elenidi – Pretty much the only thing they sell here are trigona, a delicious pastry that’s kind of like a baklava and a cannoli had a baby.