Car Hire Salonica - Mini guide to Salonica

Greece’s second biggest city is a bustling, cosmopolitan centre. With its wealth of historical elements, amazing natural sights, modern entertainment and hospitable inhabitants, there’s something for everyone in Salonica.

Famed for its many Orthodox churches, Roman ruins and Byzantine castles, Salonica is bursting with attractions. The Orthodox church of Saint Dimitrios, protector of the city, is particularly stunning, as is the magnificent church of Agios Dimitrios. The Old Rotunda, originally built as a mausoleum, later converted to a church dedicated to St George and currently used as a Turkish mosque, is a definite must see.

Salonica is a big city and difficult to cover on foot, however the historical quarter Ladadika, home to many interesting sites and fine buildings, is a good starting point. The neighbouring district is home to the Archaeological and Macedonian Struggle Museums. Both give the visitor an interesting introduction to the town’s 2500-year history. Nearer the waterfront of Thermaikos, the imposing tower Lefkos Pyrgos dominates the bay.

Salonica offers the visitor innumerable leisure activities, entertainment and shopping pleasures. Throughout the year Salonica is teeming with cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, theatre performances and more. Infinite dining choices tempt the visitor, from modern international cuisine to traditional Greek fare. The eastern suburb of Calamaria is particularly renowned for its excellent seafood, Greek music and atmosphere.

Salonica offers easy access for exploring nearby Halkidiki Peninsula. Sithonia (100 kms) is a modern resort with isolated sandy beaches and a well-protected gulf. Similarly, the peaceful nearby village of Vourvourou offers tranquil waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. Inland, the settlement of Panorama nestled on Mount Hortiatis offers the visitor, as the name suggests, stunning panoramic views.

The International Airport of Thessaloniki is the most convenient choice for those arriving from abroad, with connections to all major European cities and regular daily flights (40 minutes) to Athens. The Port of Thessaloniki offers regular connections with Athens’ Piraeus Port and many Greek islands, and both trains and buses link Thessaloniki with Athens, 520kms away, several times per day.