Because Thessaloniki is now gaining more tourists than Athens

According to a publication by the international travel site traveloffpath, Athens may be one of the most popular destinations in Europe, with a large wave of tourists visiting it every year, but something has changed.

Hypertourism causes strong resentment among its local residents, with many protesting with anti-tourism slogans, even painting “No more Tourism” on the walls of buildings.

According to his research Travel Off Path7.1 million tourists visited Athens in 2023.

Even though the country’s economy is based on tourism, the high traffic in the capital creates reactions.

Areas full of airbnbs exclusively for tourists have the effect of skyrocketing house prices.

Hyper-tourism has also led to a huge influx of people especially in the summer months causing even the discomfort of tourists. Long queues at attractions, expensive restaurants and… souvenirs create negative experiences.

According to the same article, the city that is the alternative destination in Greece is Thessaloniki!

This amazing yet underrated destination remains unexplored by many tourists and these are the main reasons why it is worth visiting.

A beautiful city in Northern Greece

The article states:

“It is the second largest city in Greece, a historic coastal city located in the northern part of the country.

There are several European cities with flights to Thessaloniki available as well as direct flights from Athens only 55 minutes away.

Another option is the 5-hour train ride from Athens to Thessaloniki, which offers delightfully scenic images of landscapes.

Delicious local food

If you are looking for delicious, traditional and affordable Greek food, you will find it in Thessaloniki. It is a culinary paradise!

Due to its seaside location, it is also an excellent choice for fresh seafood. Enjoy a seafood meze at any local tavern and pair it with some ouzo as the Greeks do.

When it comes to street food, souvlaki is always a favorite choice. And for a breakfast or lunch snack, bougatsa is one of the favorites in Thessaloniki.

Many historical sights

It may not have as many impressive ancient sites as Athens, but Thessaloniki has its share of fascinating historical sites to discover.

The White Tower is one of the most iconic locations in the city. This historic tower was built in the 15th century during the rule of the Ottoman Empire.

Another spot not to be missed is Eptapyrgio, a Byzantine castle.

For lovers of ancient sites, the Roman Forum, the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda are some of the oldest parts of the city.

If you are interested in ancient history you should not miss the Archaeological Museum in Thessaloniki.

Best of all, these places are quite cheap to visit — tickets range from €3 to €8, so it’s quite a bit cheaper than Athens, where just visiting the Acropolis is €20!

Economical and less crowded

Prices in Thessaloniki are much cheaper than in Athens.

This applies not only to sightseeing, but also to hotels, food, transport and other activities.

According to BudgetYourTrip, the average price for a hotel in Thessaloniki is just €58 (about $62) per night. Meals in a restaurant will cost you only €10 to €15 per person.

Thessaloniki is also much less crowded than Athens. It offers a more local feel while enjoying your promenade or going out for dinner without being inundated with large tour groups, people trying to sell you souvenirs or even get you into their restaurant.