Thessaloniki’s hotels are the perfect mix of seaside luxury and historic charm, all set in Greece’s second-largest (and arguably most underrated) city. Picture yourself sipping coffee on a rooftop terrace, gazing at the Aegean, surrounded by centuries of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history—not too shabby, right?
Unlike Greece’s busier tourist traps (we’re looking at you, Santorini), Thessaloniki remains a hidden gem, offering top-tier vacations without the top-tier prices. And with its 4.5 km waterfront promenade, you’ll have the perfect spot for a scenic stroll—or, let’s be honest, a post-dinner food coma walk after indulging in one too many bougatsas.
Now, let’s talk hotels! Whether you’re a budget traveler hunting for a cozy $25 stay or ready to splurge on 5-star luxury over $500 a night, Thessaloniki has a spot for you. But with so many options, where do you even start? Don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work (okay, fun work) and put together this ultimate guide to the city’s top neighborhoods and best hotels.
Let’s find you the perfect stay!
Best Locations to Stay in Thessaloniki
Aristotelous Square and Surroundings
The heart of Thessaloniki, Aristotelous Square, is the largest and most central square of the Thessaloniki. Home to a lively mix of upscale hotels, charming boutique properties, and affordable hostels. If you’re seeking a central location with easy access to all the city’s attractions, this neighborhood is an ideal choice.
Most hotels are a short walk from the White Tower, Archeological Museum, and the bustling Modiano Market. On top of that, many properties have rooftop restaurants with magnificent views of the Thermaikos Gulf that perfectly match the city’s famous food scene.
The Aristotelous square was named after the famous philosofer Aristotle who was born 80 km away from Thessaloniki, in Stageira of Halkidiki.
Historic luxury options
Excelsior Hotel
The Excelsior, a five-star hotel in a stunning 1920s heritage building, shows evidence of the city’s architectural beauty with an impressive 9.3/10 rating from over 1,100 guests.
Electra Palace Hotel Thessaloniki
Electra Palace stands out among historic hotels right on Aristotelous Square. This flagship property has managed to keep a remarkable 9.0/10 rating from more than 3,700 guest reviews. It offers in a reasonable price spacious rooms, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, and a well-equipped spa.
Boutique stays in the heart of the city
S Hotel Boutique
Nestled in the heart of Thessaloniki’s bustling Eleftherias Square, the 5star S Hotel Boutique is a modern, eight-story hotel. It boasts twenty-seven spacious rooms and suites, offering a luxurious stay with a touch of history. What makes the S Hotel truly unique is its location above the city’s southern coastal fortification wall, dated from the 4th centure bc. and is visible from the hotel’s lobby.
The Modernist
The Modernist Thessaloniki combines old-world grace with casual luxury beautifully. This boutique hotel, set in a striking 1920s heritage building, boasts an outstanding 9.5/10 rating from nearly 2,000 guests. The property features a minimalist yet sensual style that creates sophisticated comfort.
Budget-friendly central accommodations
Budget-conscious travelers will find many wallet-friendly options in Thessaloniki’s city center without giving up great location or comfort.
City Hotel
City Hotel Thessaloniki sits just 50 meters from Aristotelous Square. It comes with modern amenities and holds a solid 8.2/10 rating from close to 1,900 reviews.
Caravan Hotel
The Caravan gives excellent value and puts you within walking distance of main shopping streets and vibrant districts.
Ladadika District: Where History Meets Nightlife
The historic Ladadika district sits near Thessaloniki’s busy port, with a rich history as an olive oil trading center. Greece’s Ministry of Culture restored this neighborhood in 1985, and it has grown into one of the city’s best spots to stay.
Olvios Lofts @Ladadika
Olvios Lofts @ Ladadika is a nice modern loft in Ladadika for those who want to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki.
Seafront Accommodations with Stunning Views
Luxury options along the promenade
ON Residence
ON Residence is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel located on Thessaloniki’s historic waterfront. Housed in a restored 1926 heritage building, the hotel blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication. Guests can choose from 60 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, many offering captivating sea views, providing a serene retreat amidst the city’s vibrant culture.
At the heart of ON Residence is the legendary Olympos Naoussa restaurant, once the epicenter of Thessaloniki’s social scene. After a 28-year hiatus, it has been revived to offer an unparalleled dining experience that honors the city’s rich gastronomic traditions while embracing modern creativity. The restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence has been recognized with a prestigious star at the FNL Best Restaurant Awards.
Additional amenities include the stylish Tiger Loop cocktail bar, a tranquil inner courtyard, and a modern gym, all designed to provide guests with a holistic luxury experience. ON Residence’s prime seafront location places guests within walking distance of major attractions, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion in Thessaloniki.
Daios Hotel Thessaloniki
This 4star hotel is located on the seafront, offering stunning views of the Thermaic Gulf. It features spacious rooms and suites, restaurant and spa center.
Daios Luxury Living is perfect for food lovers. We were especially impressed by the offered breakfast, tasty and big variety.
This elegant hotel serves Mediterranean dishes with beautiful views of Thermaikos Gulf. Guests can walk to the White Tower and the city’s best restaurants and cultural spots.
Its carefully selected amenities serve both vacation and business travelers well.
Makedonia Palace Hotel Thessaloniki
Perched on the waterfront, at 20 min walking distance from the city center, Makedonia Palace offers breathtaking Aegean Sea views, spacious accommodations, and a variety of dining options.
This five-star hotel maintains an exceptional 9.8/10 rating from over 1,000 guests. The property features two distinct restaurants and luxury amenities throughout.
Mid-range hotels with Thermaic Gulf vistas
Hotel Queen Olga
Hotel Queen Olga provides excellent value just 1km from the city center. This pet-friendly hotel features comfortable rooms with premium gulf views and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Hotel Mediterranean Palace
Mediterranean Palace boasts a stellar 4.5/5 traveler rating and refined rooms with modern amenities. Some rooms come with private balconies that overlook the bay. The hotel sits next to the historic Ladadika district.
Business-friendly options with conference facilities
Hyatt Regency Hotel
The Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki stands out as a top business destination with two large ballrooms and multiple meeting spaces. The Grand Ballroom fits up to 480 guests, while the Regency Ballroom welcomes 250 dinner guests under its seven-meter-high beamed ceiling. The property features sophisticated conference rooms with translation booths, recessed screens, and built-in stages.
Mediterranean Palace Hotel
Mediterranean Palace serves corporate travelers through seven multipurpose venues that fit 10 to 400 people. The hotel’s experienced team provides detailed support, from audiovisual equipment to secretarial services.
Grand Hotel Palace Thessaloniki
This historic Grand hotel, steeped in elegance, offers spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop restaurant with city views, and a spa with a variety of treatments.
The Met Hotel Thessaloniki.
The modern Met hotel is located in the city center, close to the Aristotelous Square and the waterfront. It features stylish rooms and suites, a rooftop bar with views of the city, and a spa with a variety of treatments.
FAQs
Q1. What are the best areas to stay in Thessaloniki? The city center, particularly near Aristotelous Square, offers excellent luxury and boutique options. The Ladadika district is perfect for those seeking a blend of history and nightlife, while the seafront area provides stunning views. For a quieter stay, consider the Upper Town district.
Q2. How long should I plan to stay in Thessaloniki? A minimum of 3 days is recommended to fully experience Thessaloniki’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. This allows time to explore major landmarks, enjoy the vibrant food scene, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere.
Q3. Are there any family-friendly hotel options in Thessaloniki? Yes, several hotels cater well to families. Makedonia Palace, for instance, offers family-specific room configurations, children’s meals, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Vanoro Hotel also provides family rooms with separate sleeping areas and essential amenities for children.
Q4. What can I expect to pay for a hotel in Thessaloniki? Thessaloniki offers accommodations for every budget. Prices range from as low as $25 per night for budget-friendly options to over $500 for luxury stays. Many mid-range hotels offer excellent value, with prices varying based on location and amenities.
Top Things to See in Thessaloniki
Once you’ve tested out your hotel’s fluffy pillows and maybe “accidentally” raided the minibar, it’s time to explore Thessaloniki. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- The White Tower – Climb to the top for an amazing view… and a free workout! Who needs the hotel gym when you have centuries-old stairs?
- Aristotelous Square – The perfect spot to sip coffee, people-watch, and pretend you’re a philosopher like Aristotle himself.
- Ano Poli (Upper Town) – A charming, hilly neighborhood where every step reminds you that you probably should have done more cardio before this trip.
- Rotunda and Arch of Galerius – Proof that Thessaloniki has been impressing visitors for over 1,700 years.
- Ladadika District – Where you come for the history but stay for the amazing food and nightlife.
- The Byzantine Walls – Amazing views and a great place to reflect on life… or just catch your breath after all that walking.
- The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki – Where you can see incredible ancient artifacts and pretend you totally paid attention in history class.
- The Venizelou Metro Station – Not just any metro stop! This brand-new station is like a time capsule, showcasing stunning archaeological finds discovered during its construction. It’s basically a museum and public transport in one—who said commuting had to be boring?
Thessaloniki is a city that offers culture, history, and food so good you’ll want to extend your stay. So go out there, explore, and remember—bougatsa with cream is always a good idea!
If you are looking for a licensed guide in Thessaloniki get in touch with Persefoni! Ask for the price, and don’t forget to mention that you found her through Moco-Choco to enjoy an exclusive 20% discount!
