Best Thessaloniki Shore Excursion: Discover the City’s Highlights

Thessaloniki, Greece
Duration5h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 30 travelers

Overview

If it’s your first time in Thessaloniki, this shore excursion is a simple and enjoyable way to explore the city. Designed just for cruise passengers, the tour includes port pickup and drop-off, comfortable travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, and guidance from a friendly local expert. You’ll visit key sites like the White Tower, the Arch of Galerius, St. Demetrius Church, and the Eptapyrgio Fortress, with clear explanations and plenty of time for photos. After the guided portion, you’ll have free time in the city center to shop, relax, or enjoy a local meal at your own pace. The schedule fits your ship’s timing, so there’s no need to worry about getting back on time. We’ve been guiding cruise travelers for over ten years—so you can just sit back and enjoy your day in Greece.

Options

Shared ShorEx
Ticket for a Shared Tour
Private Tour
Shared Thessaloniki Tour

What's included

  • One complimentary bottle of water per person
  • Full refund if your ship cannot dock
  • Free time for a meal & souvenir shopping
  • Guaranteed return to the ship on time
  • Port pickup and drop-off
  • Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • 24/7 Customer support, assistance with other arrangements and tours
  • Professional, English-speaking local tour guide
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities are welcome if you enjoy your tour. We recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers

What to expect

  1. 15m
    Port Pickup & Introduction
    Once you step off the ship, your local English-speaking guide will be waiting to greet you. From there, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and begin your relaxing day exploring Thessaloniki. No need to worry—everything is taken care of from start to finish.
  2. 30m · Admission ticket not included
    White Tower & Waterfront Promenade
    Your first stop is the White Tower, one of Thessaloniki’s most well-known landmarks. You’ll admire the exterior and enjoy the views along the peaceful waterfront promenade. Your guide will also point out the nearby statue of Alexander the Great as you take in the fresh sea air.
  3. Arch of Galerius
    30m · Admission ticket not included
    Arch of Galerius & the Rotonda
    Next, you’ll visit the Arch of Galerius, a Roman-era monument with detailed carvings that tell part of Thessaloniki’s story. Just a short walk away is the Rotonda, a circular structure that's over 1,600 years old. You’ll view it from outside while your guide shares its fascinating history.
  4. Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica
    30m
    St. Demetrius Church
    You’ll stop by the exterior of St. Demetrius Church, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Your guide will tell you about its background and point out its beautiful design. If you’d like, you’ll also have the option to step inside and see the interior on your own.
  5. Eptapyrgio Castle
    40m · Admission ticket not included
    Ano Poli & Eptapyrgio Fortress
    Then, you’ll head uphill to the Upper Town (Ano Poli) for a visit to the Eptapyrgio Fortress and the historic walls. The area offers fantastic views over the city and the sea. Your guide will walk you through the area's past while giving you time to enjoy the scenery.
  6. The Greek Agora and Roman Forum
    15m · Admission ticket not included
    Roman Forum
    Back in the lower part of the city, you’ll stop at the Roman Forum—an open-air site full of ancient ruins. You’ll walk along the edge while your guide explains what life was like in Thessaloniki during Roman times.
  7. 1h 30m
    Aristotelous Square & Free Time
    The tour wraps up in Aristotelous Square, the city’s main gathering spot. You’ll have some free time to relax, grab a bite to eat, or shop for small gifts. Your guide will be happy to point you in the right direction if you need any help.
  8. Port of Thessaloniki
    15m
    Return to Port
    Finally, you’ll rejoin your group and return to the port in plenty of time for your ship’s departure. You’ll leave Thessaloniki feeling enriched, relaxed, and confident that you made the most of your visit.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting to greet you at the 'Alexander the Great Terminal' in Thessaloniki Port, holding a sign that reads 'VEXPERIO'.

After disembarking from your cruise ship, please remain inside the terminal area. Your guide will meet you in the parking area.

End point

Your guide will be waiting to greet you at the 'Alexander the Great Terminal' in Thessaloniki Port, holding a sign that reads 'VEXPERIO'.

After disembarking from your cruise ship, please remain inside the terminal area. Your guide will meet you in the parking area.

Additional information

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
€49.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Thessaloniki
From
€49.00 per person
Check availability