Kalamaria Waterfront & Aretsou Marina
A picturesque coastal stretch in Thessaloniki, featuring the tranquil Aretsou Marina and a scenic promenade perfect for evening strolls and seaside di...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, beautiful lights
Kalamaria Waterfront & Aretsou Marina
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, beautiful lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque coastal stretch in Thessaloniki, featuring the tranquil Aretsou Marina and a scenic promenade perfect for evening strolls and seaside dining.
"A great place to visit, walk around the boats, and experience the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings."
🌅 Evening Ambiance is Key
The waterfront truly shines in the evening. Enjoy the lights and lively atmosphere for dining and walks.
🚶♀️ Relaxed Waterfront Walks
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. It's a peaceful way to experience the coastal beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aretsou Marina Boats
Aretsou Marina
Wander among the yachts and boats, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings.
Kalamaria Waterfront Promenade
Kalamaria Waterfront
Enjoy a pleasant walk along the promenade, taking in the sea breeze and coastal views.
Seaside Dining
Restaurants near Aretsou Marina
Savor unique flavors and civilized pleasures at restaurants with charming settings and atmospheres.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Evening Ambiance
Manage Expectations for Development
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Evening Ambiance is Key
The waterfront truly shines in the evening. Enjoy the lights and lively atmosphere for dining and walks.
🚶♀️ Relaxed Waterfront Walks
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. It's a peaceful way to experience the coastal beauty.
It seems like an end
🍽️ Enjoy Local Flavors
Explore the restaurants near the marina for distinct tastes and a pleasant dining experience.
🛥️ Marina Views
Walk around the marina to admire the boats and soak in the tranquil, seaside setting.
Best area for long term stay?
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Evening Ambiance is Key
The waterfront truly shines in the evening. Enjoy the lights and lively atmosphere for dining and walks.
🚶♀️ Relaxed Waterfront Walks
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. It's a peaceful way to experience the coastal beauty.
🍽️ Enjoy Local Flavors
Explore the restaurants near the marina for distinct tastes and a pleasant dining experience.
🛥️ Marina Views
Walk around the marina to admire the boats and soak in the tranquil, seaside setting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Aretsou Marina for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and convenient facilities for yacht owners. The Kalamaria Waterfront promenade offers a pleasant walking experience. However, some reviewers note that certain areas show signs of underdevelopment and could benefit from modernization, though the natural beauty and seaside dining options remain a strong draw.
"Marina Aretsou is a great marina if you arrive in Thessaloniki by a yacht. It is also a great place to visit, walk around the boats, and experience the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful surroundings. The restaurants and bars that are reachable by a short walk up the stairs from the marina to the street above are nice in their settings and in their atmosphere. I recommend a visit."
Avner Aviad
"Great price. Easy going. Mooring available all year or winter. Airport not far. And Athens is a train ride away."
Shane Henning
"Beautiful place in respect of view and nature, but it is abandoned for many years. It is such a pitty that places like this remain unexploited for many years while they have the potential of being the top places to go to in the town... It had a beautiful amusement park "Luna Park" right next to it (which is also abandoned nowadays) and the only place which is decent to sit and drink something is the cafeteria right next to it, but is lacking the proper luxurity that maches with this place. Every building you can see from this point looks like it survived from world war 2 bombing, the walls are full of humidity and falling and never being repaired since their construction. As a local citizen it is very sad to see this place falling into the state that it is today."
Liuon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kalamaria Waterfront and Aretsou Marina from Thessaloniki by taxi or bus. The waterfront is an extension of the Thessaloniki coastline, so it's a relatively short journey. Many visitors enjoy walking or cycling along the coast to reach the area.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to look for street parking or designated parking areas in Kalamaria. Arriving earlier in the day might increase your chances of finding a spot.
Yes, it's a scenic walk or bike ride along the Thessaloniki waterfront, which eventually leads to Kalamaria. This route offers continuous sea views and passes by other landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access the Kalamaria Waterfront promenade or to walk around Aretsou Marina. These are public areas for everyone to enjoy.
The marina itself is accessible at all times. Restaurants and cafes in the vicinity typically operate during standard business hours, often extending into the late evening.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a pleasant walk along the promenade, admire the sea views, and visit the nearby Aretsou Marina. The area is also known for its restaurants and cafes, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Yes, Aretsou Marina is a great marina for yacht owners, offering mooring facilities year-round and a convenient location near the airport and Athens.
The waterfront itself is more about the promenade and sea views. Shops and attractions are primarily located in the streets just above the marina and along the Kalamaria district.
You can expect a tranquil atmosphere with beautiful surroundings, especially when walking around the boats. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area offers a variety of dining options, including restaurants and cafes. Visitors mention unique meals and distinct flavors, with some establishments having nice settings and atmospheres.
Yes, there are cafes, including a government-run one, that overlook the waterfront and offer good sunshine and pleasant views.
The waterfront, especially in the evening with its lights and sea breeze, can offer a romantic setting for dinner at one of the local restaurants. 
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the yachts at Aretsou Marina, the expansive sea views from the promenade, and the coastal scenery, especially during sunset or in the evening with the lights.
The waterfront offers beautiful sunset views over the sea, making it an excellent location for photography during the golden hour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Dining options are plentiful, with many restaurants offering family-friendly menus. Consider visiting during the late afternoon or early evening when the atmosphere is lively but not overly crowded. It's a good spot for a relaxed family meal with a view. Remember that some areas might be a bit industrial, so keep a close eye on younger children.
🛥️ Yacht Owners & Sailors
Its central location in Kalamaria is a significant advantage, offering easy access to amenities and transport links. The proximity to the airport and the train connection to Athens further enhance its appeal for international and domestic sailors. It's a convenient and welcoming port of call.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Cyclists
While the promenade itself is a highlight, the surrounding streets in Kalamaria also offer opportunities for exploration. The area is generally considered safe for cycling, and the presence of cafes and restaurants provides convenient stops along the way. It's a great way to experience the local seaside atmosphere at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Aretsou Marina
While the marina itself is a pleasant spot, visitors note that the surrounding infrastructure can be a mixed bag. Some reviews mention that certain buildings in the vicinity appear aged and in need of repair, with visible signs of humidity and wear. Despite this, the natural beauty of the surroundings and the peaceful ambiance of the marina are consistently praised.
Adjacent to the marina, you'll find restaurants and bars accessible via a short walk up the stairs. These establishments are noted for their nice settings and atmospheres, offering a chance to enjoy local cuisine and drinks with a view. It's a place where you can experience 'civilized pleasures' with distinct flavors.
The Kalamaria Waterfront Experience
While the promenade itself is a highlight, the true charm of Kalamaria unfolds in the streets just above the waterfront. Here, you'll find a concentration of restaurants and cafes, many of which are praised for their inviting settings and pleasant atmospheres. These spots are ideal for enjoying a meal or a drink, often with views that enhance the dining experience. One particular government cafe is highlighted as a hidden gem with good sunshine and views.
For those interested in nightlife or a more vibrant scene, the Kalamaria district is mentioned as part of Thessaloniki's broader nightlife options, though some visitors prefer the more relaxed daytime or early evening ambiance of the waterfront itself. The area is seen as a place that can be enjoyed at different paces, from a quiet walk to a lively evening out.
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