Greece’s historic northern hub, Thessaloniki, packs in centuries of history and culture through its exceptional guided tours. Having explored dozens of options, the standout experiences include the mouthwatering street food walks that connect visitors with local vendors and traditional Greek specialties. The Jewish heritage tours masterfully reveal the city’s once-thriving Jewish community, while comprehensive city walks cover must-see landmarks and hidden corners. For those willing to venture further, the day trips to Meteora‘s dramatic cliff-top monasteries are unforgettable. Most tours accommodate small groups of 8-12 people, offering intimate experiences with knowledgeable local guides who speak excellent English.
Let’s check out the top-rated tours that showcase the best of Thessaloniki.
Key Points
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Thessaloniki offers a range of highly-rated guided tours, including street food tours, cultural and historical tours, and customized private tours.
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Street food tours provide an authentic culinary experience by sampling local specialties and gaining insights into the city’s vibrant café culture.
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Cultural and historical tours, such as the Jewish Heritage Tour and the Best of Thessaloniki Private Tour, offer in-depth exploration of the city’s rich history and heritage.
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Customized private tours allow travelers to create personalized itineraries based on their interests, with guides available in multiple languages.
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Scenic and nature tours, including day trips to the Meteora monasteries, showcase the breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks around Thessaloniki.
Thessaloniki Street Food Tour With a Local Guide
Why not start your culinary exploration of Thessaloniki with the Thessaloniki Street Food Tour with a Local Guide? This highly-rated 4.8-star tour gives you the chance to experience the city’s vibrant food scene through the eyes of a knowledgeable local guide.
Over the course of the 2-3 hour walking tour, you’ll sample around 5 local specialties, including coffee and breakfast items, at hidden gems and bustling markets.
With a maximum group size of 6 travelers, the experience is personalized, allowing you to engage with the guide and ask questions. Guests often comment that they feel like they’re exploring the city with a friend.
The tour covers both local cuisine and cultural insights, making it a comprehensive introduction to Thessaloniki. Given the tour’s popularity, it’s wise to book early to secure your spot.
Arrive hungry – the tour is designed to provide the full experience. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply want to learn more about the city, this Thessaloniki street food tour is an excellent starting point.
Read our full review: Thessaloniki Street Food Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage: Private Guided Tour
One of the best ways to explore Thessaloniki’s rich Jewish heritage is through the Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage: Private Guided Tour. This 4-hour tour provides a comprehensive look at the city’s Jewish history and culture.
Visitors will be picked up from Thessaloniki and guided by experts to key sites like the Monastirioton Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, the Yad Lezikaron Synagogue, and the Holocaust Memorial.
The tour costs €200 per person and includes entrance fees, though gratuities aren’t covered. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
With positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences, the tour offers an immersive look at Thessaloniki’s Jewish community, which thrived in the city for nearly 500 years.
Visitors will learn about the resilience and legacy of this vibrant cultural group, as well as the tragic impact of the Holocaust, which claimed the lives of over 50,000 Thessaloniki Jews.
Read our full review: Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage: Private Guided Tour Review
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Best of Thessaloniki: Private Guided Tour
The Best of Thessaloniki: Private Guided Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned historical and cultural landmarks. Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 15 reviews, this private tour provides an immersive experience led by an official licensed guide.
Travelers can expect private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and entrance fees to museums and monuments.
The tour is accessible to strollers, and service animals are allowed. Pickup is available from all hotels, Airbnbs, the cruise port terminal, and Macedonia Airport, ensuring convenience for travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized and informative exploration of Thessaloniki.
With a price starting from $209.98 per person and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and value.
A 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence further attest to the tour’s quality and customer satisfaction.
Read our full review: Best of Thessaloniki: Private Guided Tour Review
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Thessaloniki: Guided Food Tour
Offering an immersive culinary journey, the Thessaloniki: Guided Food Tour invites visitors to discover the vibrant flavors and rich gastronomic heritage of this captivating Greek city.
Led by an English-speaking guide, this 3-hour private tour promises an authentic exploration of local specialties, from the beloved Bougatsa to the iconic Greek Souvlaki.
Participants will venture through the city’s bustling open markets, including the famous “Louloudadika,” savoring a variety of herbs, spices, meats, cheeses, and freshly roasted Greek coffee.
The tour also includes a visit to one of Greece’s oldest traditional coffee houses, providing a glimpse into the country’s enduring café culture.
With a 4.6/5 overall rating based on 8 reviews, this guided food tour offers exceptional value for money and a truly immersive cultural experience.
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, as you will be on their feet, delighting in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Thessaloniki.
Read our full review: Thessaloniki: Guided Food Tour Review
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Private Day Tour to Meteora From Thessaloniki Without Guide.
This private day tour to Meteora from Thessaloniki offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the iconic Greek Orthodox monasteries and breathtaking rock formations without the constraint of a guided group.
Boasting a stellar 90% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this private tour provides the flexibility to visit the sites at one’s own pace while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan or minibus.
With ample room for luggage and English-speaking drivers, the transportation arrangements are seamless. The tour’s inclusiveness, such as fuel and tolls, ensures a hassle-free experience.
Travelers can even request a lunch stop to further enhance the day. Plus, the ability to choose the pickup location in Thessaloniki and the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior demonstrate the tour’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour to Meteora From Thessaloniki Without Guide. Review
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Guided Private Tour to Ancient Vergina and Veria City
Although nestled just a short drive from Thessaloniki, the ancient site of Vergina and the historic city of Veria offer a treasure trove of cultural riches waiting to be explored.
This guided private tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover these gems at your own pace. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Thessaloniki in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and the chance to explore the UNESCO-listed Vergina, home to the tombs of ancient royals.
Afterward, you’ll explore the charming old city of Veria, which boasts one of the oldest synagogues in the Balkans. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, you’ll gain valuable historical insights throughout the day.
Reviews praise the tour’s personalized service and educational value, though some note variability in the guide’s communication skills. Ultimately, this private excursion offers a convenient and immersive way to uncover the rich heritage of this captivating region.
Read our full review: Guided Private Tour to Ancient Vergina and Veria City Review
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From Thessaloniki : Full-Day Bus Trip to Meteora W/ Guide
Travelers seeking to enjoy the breathtaking grandeur of Meteora can embark on a full-day bus excursion from Thessaloniki. Priced at €89 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, including roundtrip bus tickets, a customized 4-hour Meteora tour, visits to three monasteries, and panoramic views of all six monasteries.
The journey begins at 9:30 AM from the Thessaloniki Macedonia Intercity Bus Station, with the bus arriving in Kalambaka at 1:15 PM.
The guided tour showcases the awe-inspiring rock formations and historical monasteries of Meteora. Guests can explore the interior of three monasteries and capture panoramic vistas from various photo spots.
After the tour, there’s time for personal exploration in Kalambaka before the return trip, which departs at 7:15 PM and arrives in Thessaloniki at 10:30 PM.
Weekend travelers can opt for a combination of train and bus transportation. Modest attire is required for monastery visits, and itineraries may be subject to change, so it’s advisable to check availability.
Read our full review: From Thessaloniki : Full-Day Bus Trip to Meteora W/ Guide Review
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Guided Walking Tour in the Historical Center of Thessaloniki
Exploring the historical center of Thessaloniki offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s multicultural heritage. This guided walking tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s Roman, Byzantine, and modern landmarks.
Travelers will start at the Holy Church of Saint Demetrius and make their way to the Thermaic Gulf, where they’ll admire the iconic White Tower. Next, the tour delves into the local market, allowing participants to sample delectable Greek delicacies.
As the tour progresses, guests will learn about the significance of the Greek Agora, Roman Forum, and the stunning St. Demetrios Church. The vibrant Louloudadika and lively Ladadika District provide a colorful backdrop to the experience.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per group, the tour ensures an intimate and immersive exploration. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, make the tour inclusive.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who often have degrees in archaeology, elevating the educational value of the experience.
Read our full review: Guided Walking Tour in the Historical Center of Thessaloniki Review
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Thessaloniki : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide
Seeking a personalized exploration of Thessaloniki’s rich history and vibrant culture? Look no further than the private custom walking tour with a guide. Priced from $46.87 per person, this 2-8 hour experience allows you to tailor the itinerary to your interests and preferences.
Your local guide will lead you on a captivating journey, visiting iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Gain insider insights into the city’s culture and daily life as you stroll through the streets.
The tour is fully customizable, with options for 2, 3, 4, 6, or 8-hour durations. Hotel pickup is included if your accommodation is in the city center.
While food and drink aren’t included, your guide can assist with booking attraction tickets. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, and guides are available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5 from past travelers, this private walking tour promises an immersive and memorable experience in Thessaloniki.
Read our full review: Thessaloniki : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide Review
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Thessaloniki : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour )
For those seeking a personalized and immersive experience in Thessaloniki, the private walking tour with a guide offers a captivating opportunity to uncover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
With a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews, this private tour provides a flexible and customizable itinerary focused on the city’s top sights.
The tour includes an English, Spanish, French, or Italian-speaking guide who can assist with ticket bookings and offer historical insights.
While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees or transportation, participants can choose to purchase drinks or food during the experience.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.
Reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides and efficient tours, though one negative review highlighted room for improvement in communication.
The company has acknowledged this feedback and expressed a commitment to continual enhancement of the experience.
Read our full review: Thessaloniki : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ) Review
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METEORA – 2 Days by Train From Thessaloniki – Including 2 Guided METEORA Tours – Daily
Travelers seeking to enjoy the awe-inspiring landscapes of Meteora can embark on a 2-day tour from Thessaloniki, which includes guided explorations of the region’s iconic monasteries.
Recommended by 91% of travelers, this highly-rated experience takes visitors on a journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering both a majestic sunset tour on the first day and a panoramic morning tour on the second.
The tour includes roundtrip train tickets, an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel, and a VIP mini-bus for transportation, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.
Knowledgeable local guides provide insightful commentary as visitors explore 3-4 monasteries, marveling at the stunning rock formations and learning about the region’s rich history.
With modest attire required for monastery visits, the tour caters to a small group of up to 20 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and engaging experience.
While the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, some guests have noted minor organizational and communication issues, making it essential to review all details prior to booking.
Read our full review: METEORA – 2 Days by Train From Thessaloniki – Including 2 Guided METEORA Tours – Daily Review
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Recap
Thessaloniki offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests. Travelers can explore the city’s vibrant street food scene, discover its Jewish heritage, or take a private tour to the stunning Meteora monasteries. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or gastronomy, there’s a guided tour in Thessaloniki to suit your preferences.