Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city and the capital of Macedonia, has been recognized by Lonely Planet as one of the 12 best destinations in the world to visit in May. The renowned travel guide publisher highlights Thessaloniki as an ideal choice for a European city break, praising its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife.
“Ancient Thessaloniki, founded in 315 BC, feels young at heart,” Lonely Planet says.
“There’s a palpable buzz to Greece’s second city, and in May that buzz moves outside when locals start hanging out in Navarinou Square, sipping strong coffee and tsipouro (grape brandy) at pavement cafés, and filling the rooftop bars as they begin to open for the season,” it adds.
Thessaloniki has some of the best and biggest universities in the country, and thanks in part to its huge student population the city has some of the greatest nightlife in the Balkans.
Whether you want a cozy night out at a small bar along Nikis Boulevard, prefer barhopping on Valaoritou and Syngrou, or want to go dancing all night at Mylos Warehouse, Thessaloniki has something for everyone.
Warm weather in May makes Thessaloniki a perfect hub for the beach
Lonely Planet notes that with average highs of 24°C (75°F), it’s even warm enough to pop to the beach: Blue Flag Epanomi is only 25km (15 miles) south, and the famed turquoise waters of the Halkidiki Peninsula are a 2–3hr bus journey away.
Halkidiki has long been famed for its beautiful natural landscapes, outstanding seaside resorts, and exotic beaches. The peninsula is divided into three smaller peninsulas, its so-called “legs.”
The southernmost leg, named Kassandra, is replete with luxurious hotels, resorts, and beaches with all possible amenities. The middle leg, called Sithonia, is less commercialized but full of lovely secluded coves.
The easternmost leg, Athos, is made up entirely of different monastic communities and is, for the most part, closed to the public. Only males may be granted access to the peninsula, and they must receive special permission in advance to even land there by ferry.
Halkidiki has the perfect combination of unspoiled landscapes and modern amenities which cater to almost any visitor.
Thessaloniki’s neighborhoods
When you’re done with the beach, take a dip into Thessaloniki’s neighborhoods, Lonely Planet recommends. Egnatia, built on a Roman road, is the main thoroughfare; around it are Roman monuments (including the ruined palace and Arch of Galerius), interesting churches and stalls selling koulouri (pretzel-like sesame rings).
The waterfront, home to the city’s iconic White Tower, is a wonderful place to stroll or cycle. It ends at the port – home to the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art – and Ladadika, the former bazaar district, packed with restaurants and late-night action. Ladadika’s colorful yet historical neoclassical protected buildings radiate the spirit and atmosphere of the old Thessaloniki. The neighborhood is essentially a mix of the past and present, of traditional and contemporary.
Ano Poli is the Upper Town, a messy, atmospheric tumble of old Ottoman alleys.
The long-awaited Thessaloniki metro opened its doors to the public in late November 2024, marking a historic moment for Greece’s second-largest city.
Thessaloniki’s Venizelou metro station was transformed into the world’s first underground metro-archaeological museum because of the sheer amount of archaeological discoveries that were made during the construction of this €3.5 billion metro.
The museum provides travelers with a one-of-a-kind experience of quite literally traveling through time during their everyday commute.
Related: Seven Reasons to Visit Thessaloniki in 2025