The Cosmopolitan City of Thessaloniki

Maria Athanasopoulou, chapter leader of Travel Massive Thessaloniki and local Thessaloniki citizen is here to share with you all the best reasons to check out Thessaloniki next year. Maria has been travel blogging since 2009 and in the same year, she founded the company Respond On Demand, aiming to promote Greek tourism enterprises to travel professionals abroad. Here’s what she has to say about her city:

How did you come to live in this city?

I have lived in Thessaloniki since I was 18 years old. I came for law studies in the University and have since been living in this beautiful city.

What makes your city so unique?

It is a multicultural city. Over the centuries, although the Greeks were the biggest part of the population, many people from neighbouring states came to Thessaloniki. This gave Thessaloniki the image of being a melting pot of cultures, which is still accurate today and helped make it a cosmopolitan city. It is also the second largest city in Greece. Most foreigners know only the capital Athens.

What is the best sustainable travel tip when visiting your city?

Definitely take a stroll from the White Tower, which is the most famous attraction of the city, reaching the Old Town up to the hill to enjoy a spectacular view! Head to the city centre, (around the square of Hagia Sophia) and onward to Ladadika. Visitors will get the chance to see many different views of the city, and also how the locals live and have fun!

What are the best local restaurants?

For dining I prefer the restaurant Karabourno, located in the Mediterranean Shopping Center offering very good seafood. In the city center I strongly recommend the restaurant Symfonia, a very nice place serving tasty plates.

What is the best local drink?

The best local spirit of northern Greece is ouzo. It is not a  light drink but those who try it, love it! You may find it everywhere in town!

What is the best cultural tradition?

A custom that started long ago and is alive and well in Thessaloniki. When we drink an alcoholic drink and clink glasses, we say “Stin igia mas,” meaning we wish to have good health! 

Are there any helpful words or lingo in the local language we should know?

“Chalara” is a  common Greek word used by locals and means stress-free! The citizens of Thessaloniki love the peaceful rhythm of life and try not to have stress.

By creating the Thessaloniki chapter, our great ambition, beyond the networking, is to make our city known across the world and we will work hard to achieve this!

In the City is a monthly series that profiles a unique Travel Massive city around the world. Connect with Maria on Travel Massive and be sure to join the Thessaloniki chapter for updates on their upcoming event.