Museums in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki has a strong set of museums, and most of them sit close to the water. The Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Archaeological Museum and the cluster of museums on Pier 1 can all be reached on foot or by a short taxi ride. Together they make a full morning or afternoon for anyone who enjoys history and art.
Places to go
White Tower
The White Tower is the 15th-century landmark on the waterfront that stands for Thessaloniki itself. Inside, a permanent exhibition traces the city's history from its founding onward.
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is the city's main collection of Macedonian history, from prehistory through late antiquity. It is one of the top attractions listed for Thessaloniki.
Museum of Byzantine Culture
The Museum of Byzantine Culture sits on the seafront near City Hall, beside the White Tower in Thessaloniki. It holds early Christian, Byzantine and post-Byzantine works, mainly from Macedonia.
Pier 1
Pier 1 is a converted pier beside the port where three cultural venues sit side by side. Visitors come for the photography, cinema and experimental art spaces.
Galerian Complex and Arch of Galerius
Open-air Roman ruins and a triumphal arch in the middle of modern Thessaloniki. You walk among the remains and stop at the arch on Egnatia Street.
Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
The Roman Forum of Thessaloniki is the city's ancient Roman-era forum, a two-terraced complex with excavated stoas and a museum underneath. Visitors walk through the ruins and the nearby baths and theater.
Tours to book
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Ancient Pella Archaeological Site and Guided Museum Visit with Free Time
Private Ancient Thessaloniki Acropolis, Museums and Landmarks Drive and Walk
What to expect
Most visitors start with the Pier 1 museums, which are on the waterfront pier. The Museum of Photography, the Thessaloniki Cinema Museum and the MOMus experimental arts center sit side by side, so you can browse them without much walking. Pier 1 also hosts the Thessaloniki Film Festival and the PhotoBiennale exhibition, so there may be something extra on.
The Museum of Byzantine Culture is the main draw for many. It holds early Christian, Byzantine and post-Byzantine works, mostly from Macedonia, across 11 permanent exhibitions. There is a café-restaurant and a shop, so a break is easy. The Archaeological Museum covers the history of Macedonia from prehistory to late antiquity and takes a couple of hours on its own.
Where to go
- Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. The history of Macedonia from prehistory to late antiquity, one of the top attractions in the city. By taxi or walk. A trip that goes here: Ancient Pella Archaeological Site and Guided Museum Visit with Free Time, 4 Hours 30 Minutes, $149 a person
- Pier 1 museums. The Museum of Photography, the Thessaloniki Cinema Museum and the MOMus art center, all on Pier 1. On Pier 1 at the waterfront, by walk. A trip that goes here: Private Ancient Thessaloniki Acropolis, Museums and Landmarks Drive and Walk, 4 Hours
Getting there
The Pier 1 museums are right on the waterfront. You can walk to the Museum of Byzantine Culture or take a short taxi. The Archaeological Museum is in the city and is reached by taxi or on foot.
When to go
The museums run from October to August. Entrance to the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the White Tower is allowed until shortly before closing, so leave time for a late visit.
Good to know
- Museum entry is paid, so bring a card or cash for tickets.
- Ask at the entry for Museum Visit Cards if you are visiting with children.
- The Museum of Byzantine Culture is wheelchair friendly, with ramps and lifts.
- The Byzantine churches around the city are free to enter, except the Rotunda.
Questions
What museums can I visit in Thessaloniki?
The Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Pier 1 museums are the main choices. Pier 1 houses the Museum of Photography, the Cinema Museum and MOMus, and the other two are a short walk or taxi ride away.
Can I walk to the Museum of Byzantine Culture?
Yes. It is about 15 minutes from Pier 1 and can be reached on foot. It has 11 permanent exhibitions and a café-restaurant, so you can spend a relaxed two hours there.
Can I see Thessaloniki's museums with children?
Yes. Visitors with children can pick up Museum Visit Cards at the entry. These point to selected exhibits, which helps younger visitors find the highlights.
