Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city with population of some 1 million and vital cultural, industrial and commercial activity, lies amphitheatrically on the Thermaicos Gulf, on the slopes of Mount Chortiatis.

Founded by the Greek Macedonian King Kassander (315 BC), he named the city Thessaloniki after his wife who was also the half sister of Alexander the Great. During the Roman period, it was the capital of Macedonia Secunda and during the Middle Ages, it was the second city of the Byzantine Empire. For 400 years it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire, until it was finally freed in 1912.

The Apostle Paul preached Christianity here and addressed two of his letters to the Thessalonians.

Thessaloniki today is a modern city bustling with life and activity. Major thoroughfares, shopping centres, neoclassical buildings and historical monuments combine to create an unequalled city that remains friendly and hospitable, famed for its wide range of shops, good food and wonderful nightlife.

Start your excursion viewing the White Tower, a historical landmark before continuing on to visit the Archaeological Museum which houses interesting finds from the Archaic, Classical and Roman periods, with findings of the Sindos area and a stunning exhibition of golden jewels. From here, drive by the International Trade Fair grounds and the Aristotle University, which was established in 1926 and today is the largest university in Greece. Next, make your way up to the once upon a time, Acropolis, located in the upper part of the city. It is here, where you will have a superb panoramic view of the entire city with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background.

Further visit St. Demetrios Basilica which was erected in the 5th century AD. The five aisled basilica suffered a tragic fire in the year 1917 but was later restored in 1948. Marvel at the beautiful mosaics, dating back from the 5th to 9th Centuries. From here, follow your guide to the area located under the basilica, where you will see the famous crypt, which according to tradition, was once the confinement for an officer by the name of Demetrius who was later executed by the Emperor Gallerius. Today, St. Demetrius is the patron Saint of the city.

For more information about the city visit http://www.saloniki.org

Map of City Centre