Travel
Why you must go to Thessaloniki
Although the intense lights and large points of interest within the Greek capital often overshadow it, the relaxed and welcoming vibe of Thessaloniki – Greece’s second-largest metropolis – shouldn’t be ignored by guests looking for an excellent time.
This pupil metropolis on the coast has an ideal nightlife scene, historical websites, fabulous food and nearby wineries that may hold you coming again for extra throughout the year. Is Thessaloniki good for vacationers? The reply is a powerful sure. That is what you’ll want to know earlier than you go and what to do whenever you get there.
Dive into the unimaginable meals scene
Prepare for a style sensation – Thessaloniki was awarded the distinguished Metropolis of Gastronomy standing by UNESCO in 2021 in recognition of the numerous cultures which have influenced its culinary scene over time. This fusion of Ottoman, Balkan and Mediterranean traditions has produced such specialties as bougatsa, a preferred cream pastry first delivered to town by refugees from Asia Minor within the Twenties.
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Be sure you pattern Greek espresso and native avenue meals similar to koulouri, a sesame bread ring that’s beloved all through Greece – it supposedly originated with refugees in Thessaloniki. Hunt down conventional handmade meals – pumpkin-and-leek pies, cheeses comprised of sheep and goat milk, cured meats, olives and extra-virgin olive oil, and conventional delicacies similar to small fish mezes, and also you’ll perceive the area’s variety via its meals.
Centrally situated Kapani Market, town’s oldest, is a one-stop store for tasting a variety of fish and meat, fruit and greens, sweets, nuts, spices and extra. A gastronomy tour supplied by native outfit Chef Stories is an effective way to mix prime flavors whereas studying extra in regards to the metropolis’s historic middle.
Discover the charming metropolis streets on foot
Compact Thessaloniki is a pleasure to stroll round. The waterfront isn’t greater than a 15-minute stroll from town middle, making it straightforward to delve into town’s historical past and architectural wonders. The imposing 34m-high (111ft) White Tower served as a jail and place of execution throughout Ottoman occasions. As we speak, it’s the anchor of the New Waterfront, a contemporary promenade providing views throughout the bay to Mt Olympus.
There’s no scarcity of historical wonders right here, both. The Seventh-century Church of Agios Dimitrios honors Thessaloniki’s patron saint (his stays are interred within the crypt beneath the church) and the even earlier (Sixth-century) Agia Sofia blends Roman and Byzantine architectural traditions, with an inside coated with beautiful gold leaf that glows within the candlelight. It was modeled on its namesake, the unimaginable Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
Have a espresso break in Aristotelous Sq., the place the statue of the traditional thinker stands proud. Then head as much as the historic neighborhood of Ano Poli (Higher City), with its slender cobbled alleyways protected by the remaining partitions of the Byzantine and Ottoman fortress. Whereas it’s a protracted stroll up, the exceptional views right down to the primary decrease metropolis and sea are definitely worth the effort. If it is a sizzling day, take a taxi to the highest and luxuriate in a leisurely stroll again right down to sea stage.
Again within the new metropolis, be taught much more about Thessaloniki’s previous. The Archaeological Museum paperwork Macedonia’s prehistory, in addition to the Hellenistic and Roman intervals, whereas the Museum of Byzantine Culture showcases greater than 3000 Byzantine objects. Guru Walk gives free strolling excursions with native guides.
Take a wine tasting tour at family-run vineyards
Just a few kilometers exterior town lies Ktima Gerovassiliou, a family-owned vineyard unfold over 48 hectares (118 acres), that has produced wine since 1981. Guests love sampling the whites, reds and rosés right here, and exploring the small on-site museum, with its shows of viticulture, wine-making and bottling instruments from world wide, collected by the household since 1976.
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For a style of single-grape spirits comprised of hand-harvested, natural grapes, head to the Abelon Distillery, a half-hour drive from Ktima Gerovassiliou. Each family-run companies proceed regional traditions in a gorgeous space with views of each the ocean and snow-capped Mt Olympus.
Delve into the realm’s regal historical past
Followers of historical Greek historical past and archaeology ought to make a beeline for a small village about an hour from Thessaloniki. Vergina is the place you’ll discover the UNESCO-protected archaeological web site of the Royal Tombs Museum; the primary tomb is the burial chamber of Philip II, father of Alexander the Nice. It’s one of the crucial necessary historic websites in Northern Greece.
Descend via the tunnel beneath the burial mound to see the tomb door. On show within the surrounding museum are silver chalices, an ivory-and-gold protect, a gold-plated quiver, a full go well with of gilded armor and numerous different treasures discovered buried with the king.
A brief distance away lies the bigger Polycentric Museum of Aigai, which displays objects from Alexander the Nice’s interval of rule in Macedon. It’s the primary spotlight of the restored a part of Macedon’s Royal Palace, which was 3 times greater than the Parthenon throughout its heyday.
Take into account hiring a automobile to completely discover Vergina and the wineries, or be part of a guided tour to get a greater understanding of the historical past and tradition of the realm. Uncover Greece will help with each choices.
To go to Vergina (in addition to the wineries), it’s greatest to lease your personal automobile in the event you favor to tour by yourself. However think about a guided tour to completely perceive the majesty of what you’re experiencing. Discover Greece will help with each.
Take pleasure in artwork on the waterfront
Again in Thessaloniki, head to the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography on Pier A and the Experimental Heart for the Arts, each atmospheric places for artistic expression. Each have pictures displays on social and political themes, together with works by worldwide artists that change each three months or so. The 2 are a part of the Metropolitan Organisation of Museums of Visible Arts (MOMus) community – as is the Museum of Contemporary Art, a nine-minute stroll from the White Tower.
Again on the pier’s entrance, deal with your self to a espresso on the Maritime Cafe and Cocktail Bar. Whether or not you’re sitting inside or out, you may soak within the vigorous waterfront ambiance and look out to Mt Olympus within the distance.
The perfect locations to eat in Thessaloniki
You’ll be spoiled for selection with eating places and tavernas right here. Ladadika, the outdated district to the west of the port crammed with cobbled streets and neoclassical buildings, is Thessaloniki’s nightlife space. You’ll discover espresso outlets and bars galore frequented by college students, plus a number of eating places to select from.
Within the coronary heart of Ladadika, Kazaviti is an effective native selection, with staples similar to moussaka and wine served in jugs to a soundtrack of stay music. The extra upmarket Mamalouka serves quite a lot of dishes that ought to go well with most palates – the tarama fish roe dip is to die for. Within the coronary heart of town, Poster is well-liked with the enterprise crowd; don’t depart with out making an attempt the scrumptious focaccia bread dripping with chili butter and sizzling honey.
Olympos Naoussa Restaurant on the On Residence Resort combines deluxe gastronomy with down-to-earth, “handed down from grandma” recipes. The award-winning Greek chef serves up dishes similar to moussaka with béchamel sauce on the facet. We advocate being adventurous and leaving the selection of dish to your server.
Relaxation your weary head at one in all Thessaloniki’s greatest inns
Wherever you keep in central Thessaloniki, you gained’t be removed from the promenade or major sights. Resort decisions vary from five-stars such because the renovated, historic On Residence alongside the promenade – the Mt Olympus views are the right backdrop for a romantic break. Extra right down to earth however nonetheless central, the Teight Hotel is near procuring streets and the primary sights.
In the event you’re planning an extended keep, Thess Residences occupies a former manufacturing facility that after produced conventional pots and the well-known briki used to brew Greek espresso; right this moment, the constructing homes 25 self-catering residences in a neighborhood neighborhood. This can be a nice selection for unbiased vacationers trying to be within the thick of native life, however solely a 15-minute stroll from the seafront.
Attending to Thessaloniki
Flights from Athens take round 35 minutes, and the airport is simply 13km (8 miles) from town middle. A taxi will take about half-hour, with costs starting from €24 euro (US$25.07) in the course of the day to €32 (US$33.45/midnight to 5am). The 40-minute airport bus prices €1.80 (US$1.88) always; tickets may be purchased on board, however solely with money.
Direct buses from Athens depart each couple of hours and take about 5½ hours (€42.90/US$44.83 a technique). Driving by yourself is marginally quicker, although the price of tolls and gasoline can run upward of €100 (US$104.49) a technique.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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