What it's like
Thessaloniki's Byzantine churches are part of UNESCO's world heritage list. They stand across the city center, and several of the best known are Agia Sophia, Agios Dimitrios and the Rotunda, each with its own history.
A visit is mostly a walk. The churches sit close enough to reach on foot from the center, and most are free to enter. The Rotunda charges a fee. Under the basilica of Agios Dimitrios, the crypt is open as a museum.
Good to know
- Entrance to the Byzantine churches is free except for the Rotunda, which charges a fee.
- The Tourist Information Center is at Tsimiski 136 at Aristotelous Square, closed on Sundays, with hours that change between winter and summer.
Byzantine churches of Thessaloniki
A cluster of UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches in the city center, including Agia Sophia, Agios Dimitrios and the Rotunda. Most are free to enter.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki
The Byzantine Walls run uphill from the center of Thessaloniki, with the Acropolis and the Heptapyrgion along the way. You walk the old fortifications on foot.
Rotunda
The Rotunda stands on St. George Square in central Thessaloniki. It began as a Roman temple and later became a Christian church, so one building holds both periods.
Aristotelous Square
Aristotelous Square is the open heart of Thessaloniki, a broad square where the city gathers for festivals and seasonal celebrations. It is the starting point for much of the old center.
Ano Poli
Ano Poli, the Upper City, is a medieval hillside quarter of narrow stone-paved streets climbing toward Mount Chortiatis. It is a place to wander on foot, with the old city feel most of the way up.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Old town and historic sights
