Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece. Located in northern Greece, its international airport makes it a lovely gateway to the northern and central part of mainland Greece. As Thessaloniki is a city with a long history, there are many sights you can visit. The main attractions in Thessaloniki date back to Roman and Byzantine times and include the Roman arch of Galerius, the Rotunda monument, the Church of Saint Demetrius, and the medieval castle. The symbol – and the most important monument of Thessaloniki – is the White Tower, located on the city’s famous seaside promenade. As Thessaloniki is geographically in a central position in the country, it is the ideal location as a base for excursions to places such as Halkidiki, Kavala, and Meteora. This article will focus not only on the attractions of Thessaloniki but also on the ways you can travel from Athens to Thessaloniki.
The White Tower The White Tower of Thessaloniki: The White Tower, on Nikis Avenue, the seaside boulevard, is the symbol of Thessaloniki. The tower dates back to the period of the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent (1520-1566). It was built as part of the city’s fortification, on the site of another tower, which was likely constructed by French knights after the conquest of Constantinople by the Crusaders. It is a circular tower 33.9 m in height with a diameter of 22.70 m. It has six floors connected by stairs. The last floor has a terrace offering a wonderful view of the city.
The Ottomans used this tower as a fortress and prison. It has changed many names since its construction. In the 18th century, it was called the Kalamaria fortress. In 1826, Sultan Mahmud II ordered the massacre of all its prisoners, and after that, the tower was named the Tower of Blood or Red Tower. When Thessaloniki was liberated from the Turks in 1912, the tower was whitewashed as a symbolic act of purification, thus acquiring its current name. According to another version, the tower was whitewashed by a prisoner in 1890, in exchange for his freedom. The tower now has a cafe color but still retains its name.
The White Tower played a significant role in the city’s air defense during the two World Wars and housed the meteorology laboratory of the University of Thessaloniki and, until 1983, the Naval Cadets. King George I of Greece was assassinated a few meters away from the White Tower in 1913. At night, the White Tower is lit up and stands out against the dark background. The avenue below is the favorite seaside walk of the locals. The Arch of Galerius The Arch of Galerius or Kamara is definitely one of the most characteristic monuments of Thessaloniki. The Roman Emperor Galerius ordered its construction to celebrate his victory over the Sassanid Persians. The Arch of Galerius had masonry symbolism with marble sculpted frames that emphasized the emperor’s power.
Originally, it was an impressive building forming a triple arch, the central arched opening had a width of 9.7 meters and a height of 12.5 meters, and the secondary openings on the other side had a width of 4.8 meters and a height of 6.5 meters. Today, only parts of the arches’ symbols and three of the eight pillars survive. The two columns depict Galerius’ wars against the Persians, Galerius fighting with Narses, or celebrating the unity of the tetrarchy with a depiction of tetrarchs standing together. This monument stands very close to Aristotle Square and is a symbol for the city of Thessaloniki.
How can you travel from Athens to Thessaloniki?
Is there a train between Athens and Thessaloniki? The trains from Athens to Thessaloniki have bright and spacious carriages, equipped with comfortable seats while simultaneously offering plenty of legroom and generous space for luggage. The large panoramic windows are ideal for admiring the spectacular view along the route. Hellenic Train operates routes from Athens to Thessaloniki 4 times a day. Tickets cost €9 – €28, and the journey lasts 4h 53m. Flights from ATH to SKG Flights from Athens to Thessaloniki last less than an hour, and there are many non-stop departures daily. Fares vary and can sometimes be even lower than the train or bus. Also, consider the time and expenses of your ground transportation.
Going to Thessaloniki by car
The distance from Athens to Thessaloniki on the national road axis is 500 kilometers, and the journey lasts a little more than five hours. The National Road is in good condition, and driving is pleasant. During your trip, you will pass right next to Mount Olympus, while the rest of the route offers even more beautiful landscapes. There are also many clean and convenient rest stops and gas stations. However, there are also many tolls – a car will pay just over 50 euros in tolls, and also just over 50 euros in fuel costs. Traveling to Thessaloniki by car is an excellent option for two or more people, especially if you enjoy a road trip. Athens to Thessaloniki by KTEL Traveling from Athens to Thessaloniki by public intercity bus KTEL takes about 6 hours and 15 minutes and costs €39. There are 9 departures daily, from early in the morning until late at night.
