Things to do & places to visit in Central Macedonia, Greece

Central Macedonia #5 destination in Greece 2023. The average rating score is 4.45 based on 41.8k traveler reviews, of 197 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Athens, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 17:01.

Top things to do (25)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai (Vergina) (1.241 reviews) from $9.64
- Wonderful museum.
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

We stopped here on our drive from Kastoria to Thessaloniki, stopping 1st at the New Museum of Aigai. It's not completed, like the excavations of the Palace, Theater, Burial Cluster of the Queens, Sanctuary of Eucleia, or the huge cemetery that we tried to access along a narrow lane, all parts of the 1996 UNESCO Archaeological Site of Aigai. We parked in the big lot and walked 300 m northwest to the Great Tumulus Museum. After standing in the opening queue for 20 minutes, we paid $13 each using a credit card and were given an entry # to join another smaller queue at the tunnel entrance. Once inside, after our eyes adjusted to the dark, we took our time strolling through the 5 rooms with displays of treasures, weaponry and other tomb finds, large tomb facades and even some frescoes, all from the 4th C BC and with English descriptions. Wonderful museum. See more..
5.0 Physis Massage Therapy (1.046 reviews)
- True immersion in the world of pleasure
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Health Clubs • Spas

At Physis Massage Therapy in the center from Thessaloniki , through the art of massage, you'll destress, and be rejuvenated resulting in a greater sense of wellbeing. Professionalism is central to our philosophy, beose two of the most precious gifts that you'll ever possess are your body and mind . See more..
5.0 Cave of Alistrati (392 reviews)
- Don't miss Alistrati's Cave
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

The Cave of Alistrati near the town of Serres is considered one of the largest and most beautiful caves not only of Greece but of Europe. The total length of its passages is approximately 3 km, of which 1 km is accessible by the disabled. According to Greek mythology, the Sphinx made her appearance at the position "Petroto" of the Gorge of Aggites that traverses the Alistratis area. Myth also mentions Pluto,the god of the Underworld; when he kidnapped Persephone, the daughter of goddess Demeter, he brought her to this natural ravine where a Gate to the Underworld existed. The area that mythology mentions is situated near the touristic site of the Cave of Alistrati; this area also features a few other caves. At a distance of 250m from the south side of the cave's entrance, one finds the railway tracks connecting Serres to the town of Drama. See more..
5.0 Church of Agios Nikolaos Orphanos (220 reviews)
- Amazing frescos, lovely location
Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

History: The church was founded in the second decade of the 14th century, as the catholicon of a monastery. It is believed that the founder of the church was the Serbian Kral Milutin. The frescoes are among the best preserved in Thessaloniki and reflect the classical perceptions of Palaeologan wall painting. They date from the decade 1310-1320 and constitute one of the most important works of the early 14th century, not just in Thessaloniki, but in the broader region of Macedonia and Serbia. Why there? If you are into Byzantine art and history, you probably know why. If not, just go for the serenity of the yard and mystic ambience of the church. Once in the yard, the noises of the old city district disappear and you can relax on a bench and enjoy the silence. Step in the small church and be cultivated by the painting on the walls. See more..
5.0 Hellenic Pharmaceutical Museum (218 reviews)
- Hellenic Pharmaceutical museum
Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

Nikolaos was very helpful and informed us about the pharmaceutical history and all of its gadgets, tools and medicines See more..
4.5 White Tower of Thessaloniki (4.808 reviews)
- A must for History enthusiasts
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers

A very well maintained historical building with lots of beautiful artifacts on display the staff were very helpful leaving you to wander around at your own pace but on hand for any information..there is also an app which you are able to access giving detailed information whichever area you are in...if you climb to the top there is a magnificent 360° view of the city.. this is most definitely worth a visit for all history lovers The entrance fee is €3 per person It closes at 3pm daily and if your visiting from the UK you will need to show your Covid passport and ID.. See more..
4.5 Aristotelous Square (2.703 reviews)
- The place to be
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Beautiful square which is the heart of the city. Our apartment overlooked it and we had everything it had to offer on our doorstep. An array of restaurants and attractions. Views down to the sea front and lovely sunsets to be seen too. Statues embellish the square and it’s history is all around. Vibrant and lively a pleasure to be there at any time of the day See more..
4.5 Church of Saint Dimitrios - Patron of Thessaloniki (1.907 reviews)
- One of a number of good Romano-Byzantine churches
Sunday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Aside from the Agia Sophia Church which is about two blocks to the south, this church is a wonderful example of Romano-Byzantine architecture. The catacomb/crypt is at the rear of the church on the right hand side, its entrance is not very visible so keep your eyes out. The catacombs are displayed like a museum with information panels and late Roman remains/artefacts. The church itself is free to enter and is wheelchair accessible, however the crypt/catacombs are not friendly with people who have mobility issues See more..
4.5 Ladadika District (1.687 reviews)
- A hidden gem
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Neighborhoods

Nice walks around traditional buildings of the town. Lots of restaurants, fast foods, bars and pubs for all badgets around the area. There are plenty bars with different kinds of music for all tastes. Amazing in the summer, romantic in the winter. See more..
4.5 Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki (1.503 reviews)
- Stunning and informative
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours History Museums

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is one of the largest museums in Greece and the central museum of northern Greece. All visitors are welcome to experience its unique collections of ancient artifacts as well as its rich and extrovert cultural activities. See more..
4.5 Museum of Byzantine Culture (1.045 reviews)
- very good myseum
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

An excellent museum covering the Byzantine period since the 4th century until the fall of Constatinopole and even later, as the byzantine style persisted beyond the epoch of the empire. Very spacious and well organized, with excellent documentation. It's a must for people who are fond of history and arts, but also for tourists interesting into getting educated and informed about this important time in history. See more..
4.5 Edessa Waterfalls (919 reviews)
- Beautiful. Very lovely.
Spent More than 3 hours Waterfalls

Beautiful. Very lovely. Took 10 AM K.T.E.L bus ~8 Euro from Thessaloniki. Arrived 11:30 and walked ~15 minutes to the top of the falls. The stairs to the mid-section of the falls are to the right. See more..
4.5 Rotunda (913 reviews)
- A must if you are in Thessaloniki
Spent 1-2 hours Ancient Ruins • Religious Sites

It is an impressive building and site well worth visiting and the entry fee. Once you are inside and feel the historical vibes you cannot but help to be impressed. The light falls beautifully through the big windows. If in Thessaloniki you must visit. See more..
4.5 Monument of Alexander The Great (893 reviews)
- A monument that respects historic facts.
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Fantastic spot on the coastline with amazing sunsets in the sea. For the traveller's information, Alexander the Great, son of King Phillip the Greek, had a sister with the name Thessaloniki (named after the city of Thessaloniki). King Phillip's grave and palace is found in Veroia close to Thessaloniki. A site that is worth visiting too. The monument of Alexander the Great is true and respectful to historic facts about the Greek origins of Macedonian emperor. His statue (with his horse named Voukefalas) deserve to be on this spot in the city of Thessaloniki. It does justice to history. See more..
4.5 Church of Agia Sofia (657 reviews)
- The Cathedral of the City
Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

This church is an absolute gem of Romano-Byzantine architecture. Modelled on the Hagia Sophia on Constantinople. This church was built in the 6th Century and the dome completed/re-furbished in the 8th Century. All you see is original in its colour and splendour, Luckily the church escaped the great fire in 1917. Entrance is free and is on one level See more..
4.5 Kalogria Beach (559 reviews)
- Perfect beach for a perfect day
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

One of the most beautiful beaches of Sithonia. Certainly the best on the west coast of the peninsula. Amazing color of water, transparency ... The beach on which I taught my children to dive. :) South end of the beach, close to private villas, with a few straw umbrellas, in the morning looks like a landscape from the Caribbean islands. That part is a little more discreet, and the water is usually quite calm. The central part, which is the widest, leaving enough space for various activities. The beach has a diving school and around the rocky islet a few hundred meters from the coast is very interesting seabed. The depth varies between 15 and 30 meters, convenient for beginners. Frankly, it is difficult to say whether Kalogria prettier in the morning or at sunset. It is best to check personally. Don't miss this beach. Roads are good, is easy to reach by car - you have no excuse. See more..
4.5 Ataturk Museum (497 reviews)
- Kemal Ataturk Museum - The Birthplace of Kemal Ataturk
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Historic Sites

Anyone who has been to Turkey and read about the life of the "father of the Turkish nation" Kemal Ataturk while visiting Thessaloniki should definitely visit his home as well. In the courtyard of the Turkish Consulate is a renovated house where he was born and lived until his departure to school. You can get there by bus 23 from downtown. Before you go there, you should check for working hours through internet, during the New Year holidays it was open from 10.00 December 30th. There is crowd of people in front of the entrance and the guard live the people in on groups of 20-30 approximately. The entrance was free.Since the place is formally turkish teritory, you have to take passport with you. The museum is very well organized, there is a lot of rooms full with different photographies and documents from the birth to the end of life of this great man for Turkey. See more..
4.5 Nea Paralia (462 reviews)
- Escaping the city center by sea
Beaches

Having developed over the last decades as a spacious man-built seafront, the complex of playgrounds and green parks, wooden fitted and walking friendly floor, bike rental services, allows the city visitor to escape from the busy city center on foot, riding a bike or jogging by the sea. Must be there on a Sunday morning with family and friends or at night as the clear summer sky allows the romance to evolve. I prefer though misty early morning and rainy afternoons for solo walking. See more..
4.5 Lagomandra beach (445 reviews)
- Our favourite
Beaches

Lagomandra is our favourite beach on Sithonia. It is sandy and good for swimming. We hired a beach umbrella and sun beds for the day. There are also non-organised parts. The bacdrop is of pine woods. The road is hardly visible from the beach even though it is very close. See more..
4.5 Dion Archaeological Park (425 reviews)
- A small Pompeii in Pieria region
Spent More than 3 hours Ancient Ruins • Points of Interest & Landmarks

One of the most important and bigger archeological parks in the area and in Greece. It eirthd the visit and it is very important and interesting to see how it was the place before 2200 years ago. See more..
4.5 Kalamitsi Beach (414 reviews)
- My favorite place in Sithonia
Beaches

Worth Visiting! See more..
4.5 Platamonas Castle (400 reviews)
- Easy climb to the 1222 fortress guarding Tempi Pass.
Castles

We stopped here on our drive from Katerini to Larissa parking at the entrance and joined many others for the 1 km hike up the easy gravel trail. Lots of history; Bold walls started by the Franconian knights, enlarged by the Byzantines, Turks and then the Venetians. Everyone was disappointed it was closed but the views were the reward. See more..
4.5 Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki (392 reviews)
- worth a visit
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Speciality Museums • History Museums

The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki was founded to honor the rich and creative Sephardic heritage as it evolved in the city of Thessaloniki.On the ground level are monumental stones and inscriptions that were once found in the great Jewish necropolis that lay to the east of the city walls. Accompanying these stones are a series of photographs showing the cemetery and visitors as it was in 1914.Central to the first floor is a narrative history of the Jewish presence in Thessaloniki from the 3rd century BCE until the Second World War. A separate exhibit focuses on the Shoah, as it affected the Jewish Community of Thessaloniki. The majority of the community - some 49,000 persons - was systematically deported to Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen where most of them perished.A research and documentation center operates within the premises, which aims to document and digitize archival documents from the Museum's own collection as well as archival material from other sources, thus creating a database accessible to visitors.The Museum provides special educational programs for schools. See more..
4.5 Kerkini Lake (349 reviews)
- One of Greece's wonderlands,a wetland full of birds
Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

A must see if you are in the area, or not. Indulge at least on a boat ride at all seasons, Lithotopos or Kerkini are good areas to find a ride with very different experiences. OIKOPEREIGITIS in Kerkini offers canoe rides, sunset ride is magical in the lake See more..
4.5 Toumba Stadium (346 reviews)
- Toumba stadium!
Spent 2-3 hours Arenas & Stadiums

You need to experience Toumba stadium if you’re in Thessaloniki. It was built 63 years ago by the fans themselves and has seen some amazing days since then. Players like Maradona have praised it’s atmosphere and teams like Cruyff’s Barcelona have lost there. We used to have a season ticket with my dad when I was a teenager and the team was poor, we do again now that we’re older and the times are better and I’ll keep the tradition with my daughter in the new Toumba stadium when it’s ready! See more..
4.5 Alykes beach (327 reviews)
- This beach is unreal!
Beaches

Superb beach for families. Crystal clear turquoise waters and lots of amenities like beach bars and water sports. There is also the possibility to go for a boat ride around the island for 60€. See more..
4.5 Sani Marina (321 reviews)
- Beautiful marina, not extensively large, small shop available as well
Piers & Boardwalks

A luxurious haven for your yacht on the magnificent Kassandra Peninsula, the vibrant Sani Marina is one of the best kept secrets of the Aegean. Promising all the facilities and services demanded of a first-class harbour, this beautiful setting offers an exciting, cosmopolitan environment, as well as being an ideal gateway to the many islands of the Aegean and beyond. See more..
4.5 War Museum of Thessaloniki (319 reviews)
- AMAZING!!
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums

Being in the heart of the city’s urban environment and hosted in a historic building of the early 20th century, the War Museum of Thessaloniki has had active presence since the first year of its operation in 2000. It hosts nine permanent exhibitions with over 10,000 historical relics and heirlooms, and is a comprehensive museum of modern Greek history and culture. Visitors have the chance to see a vivid representation of modern Greek history, starting from the pre-Independence War period through to the late 20th century. In this historical frame, the visitor interacts with relics from different nations that took part in all the eras as enemies or allies of the Greek Armed Forces. The museum relics include: original manuscripts, maps, paintings, medals, clothing, flags, weapons and more. Also the Museum staff offer thorough guided tours and help the visitors experience and understand the essence of history and its link to the modern world. See more..
4.5 Vlatadon Monastery (313 reviews)
- Ffunctioning Byzantine monastery
Historic Sites • Religious Sites

A very interesting Byzantine monastery built in the 14th century. There are many interesting medieval icons in the main church of the complex. From the courtyard there is an excellent view of the whole city, since the monastery is on a hill. See more..
4.5 Toroni Beach (311 reviews)
- Fantastic Beach
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Beaches

The beach in Toroni is exceptionally beautiful. Long white beach with beautiful turquoise color, which is crystal clear. A nice place for complete enjoyment and a relaxing holiday. It is full of interesting beach bars and restaurants, has something for everyone. Excellent for diving and snorkeling. Plenty of fish and marvelous views. See more..