Itinerary

Thessaloniki is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful parks, and lovely waterfronts. With your fast pace and budget in mind, let’s dive into an exciting 4-day itinerary that balances exploration, swimming, and relaxation in green spaces.

## Day 1: Exploring the City and Parks

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Greek breakfast at a local bakery. Grab a bougatsa (a pastry filled with custard or cheese) for around €2.
• Route: Head to Aristotelous Square (20-minute walk from the bakery). This is the heart of the city, perfect for people-watching.

Mid-Morning:

• Explore: Walk along the waterfront promenade (Nea Paralia) towards Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki. Enjoy the sea breeze and the views.

Lunch:

• Lunch Spot: Grab a quick souvlaki from a street vendor for about €3.

Afternoon:

• Parks: Head to Parks of Nea Paralia. Stroll through the lush gardens and enjoy the sculptures. Spend some time relaxing here, maybe even reading a book or just soaking in the sun.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try a local taverna for a light dinner, like a Greek salad and bread for around €4.
• Night Walk: Take a leisurely walk back to Aristotelous Square, enjoying the city lights.

## Day 2: Culture and Swimming

Morning:

• Breakfast: Grab a coffee and a pastry for about €2 at a café near your accommodation.
• Explore: Visit the White Tower (entry around €3). Climb to the top for stunning views of the city.

Mid-Morning:

• Cultural Sites: Walk to the Rotunda and Arch of Galerius (both are free).

Lunch:

• Lunch Spot: Enjoy a quick meal at a local deli, like a kebap for around €3.

Afternoon:

• Swimming: Head to Peraia Beach (take bus 72 from the city center, about €1.50). Spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing on the beach.

Evening:

• Dinner: Grab a light dinner at a beachside taverna, like grilled fish or a veggie dish for around €4.
• Return: Take the bus back to the city center.

## Day 3: Historical Exploration and More Parks

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a quick breakfast at a local café for about €2.
• Explore: Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki (entry around €8).

Mid-Morning:

• Historical Sites: Walk to the Roman Forum (free entry) and explore the ancient ruins.

Lunch:

• Lunch Spot: Grab a gyros for about €3 from a nearby vendor.

Afternoon:

• Parks: Head to Kapani Market for a quick stroll and then to Ano Poli (Upper Town) for a walk through the charming streets and parks. Enjoy the views of the city.

Evening:

• Dinner: Find a local eatery in Ano Poli for a light meal, like a feta and olive platter for around €4.
• Night Stroll: Enjoy the sunset views from the Heptapyrgion Fortress.

## Day 4: Relaxation and Final Exploration

Morning:

• Breakfast: Grab a quick coffee and a pastry for about €2.
• Explore: Visit the Byzantine Walls for a morning hike and stunning views of the city.

Mid-Morning:

• Parks: Head to Aristotelous Square again and enjoy the green spaces around it.

Lunch:

• Lunch Spot: Try a local pita for about €3.

Afternoon:

• Swimming: Spend your last afternoon at Agia Triada Beach (take bus 72, about €1.50). Relax and swim in the Aegean Sea.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a beachside taverna, perhaps a seafood dish for around €4.
• Return: Take the bus back to the city center for your final night stroll.

Budget Summary:

• Daily Budget: €12
• Total for 4 ## Days: €48
• Estimated Costs:
  • Breakfast: €8
  • Lunch: €12
  • Dinner: €16
  • Entry Fees: €14.50
  • Transport: €6 (4 bus rides)

This itinerary gives you a mix of culture, history, and relaxation while keeping you within budget. Enjoy your fast-paced adventure in Thessaloniki! 🌞🏖️