City Walls Thessaloniki
Explore the ancient Byzantine walls of Thessaloniki, offering breathtaking city views and a journey through centuries of history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
City Walls Thessaloniki
Best Time
Golden hour views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient Byzantine walls of Thessaloniki, offering breathtaking city views and a journey through centuries of history.
"Walking through history! The ruins, the walls and the old towers are everywhere."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the walls and hills.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views from the walls at sunset are spectacular, offering a magical perspective of the city.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trigoniou Tower (Thessaloniki's Balcony)
Upper City Walls
The iconic triangular tower offering breathtaking panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf.

Heptapyrgion Fortress
Acropolis of Thessaloniki
A historic Byzantine fortress with significant historical importance and commanding views over the old city.

The Byzantine Walls
Various sections across Ano Poli
Explore the remnants of the ancient fortifications, a testament to Thessaloniki's rich history and architectural legacy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating the Historic Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the walls and hills.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views from the walls at sunset are spectacular, offering a magical perspective of the city.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Trigoniou Tower and Heptapyrgion offer the most iconic photo opportunities with sweeping cityscapes.
🚶♀️ Explore Ano Poli
Wander through the charming streets of Ano Poli (Upper Town) to discover hidden gems near the walls.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the walls and hills.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views from the walls at sunset are spectacular, offering a magical perspective of the city.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Trigoniou Tower and Heptapyrgion offer the most iconic photo opportunities with sweeping cityscapes.
🚶♀️ Explore Ano Poli
Wander through the charming streets of Ano Poli (Upper Town) to discover hidden gems near the walls.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water as you'll be doing a lot of walking uphill.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the historical significance and impressive architecture of the City Walls, with many highlighting the breathtaking panoramic views from points like Trigoniou Tower. The charm of Ano Poli adds to the experience, though some note the uphill climbs can be challenging.
"Walking through history! The ruins, the walls and the old towers of Ancient Acropolis of Thessaloniki are everywhere. Walk the streets and you will find at any corner a piece of history of this amazing ancient and medieval fortress and Acropolis."
Alexandru Stefan (Crazy Travel Story)
"Amazing historical importance and long lasting legacy of architecture."
Teresa C
"The walls of the Acropolis. Very impressive, considering how many centuries they've been standing."
Joerg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The City Walls are primarily located in the Ano Poli (Upper Town) district. You can reach them by bus (e.g., routes 23, 57) or taxi from the city center. For those who enjoy walking, it's a scenic uphill trek from the Rotunda area.
Driving is possible to certain points near the walls, particularly in Ano Poli. However, parking can be challenging, and many streets are narrow. It's often easier to park lower down and walk or take public transport.
Yes, there are several access points. The most popular are near the Heptapyrgion fortress and the Trigoniou Tower. You can also find smaller paths and gates as you explore the Ano Poli neighborhood.
While you can see glimpses of the city from the highway on approach, dedicated viewpoints accessible by car are limited. The best elevated views are from the walls themselves, requiring some walking.
The Trigoniou Tower is best reached by walking through the charming streets of Ano Poli. It's a rewarding climb, offering increasingly beautiful views as you ascend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, walking along the exterior of the Byzantine walls and accessing viewpoints like Trigoniou Tower is free. However, some specific structures within the walls, like the Heptapyrgion fortress, may have entry fees or specific visiting hours.
The walls themselves are always accessible. However, any associated historical sites or towers might have specific operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. It's advisable to check locally for any specific structures you wish to enter.
The main sections of the City Walls and many viewpoints are free to access. For specific historical sites like the Heptapyrgion, there might be a small admission fee.
While the walls themselves are not officially lit or monitored at night, many visitors enjoy the experience of seeing the city lights from the higher vantage points. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings if visiting after dark.
Yes, guided tours are often available, especially focusing on the historical significance of the Byzantine walls and Ano Poli. You can find local tour operators or inquire at tourist information centers.
📸 📸 Photography
The Trigoniou Tower offers unparalleled panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Heptapyrgion fortress provides a dramatic historical backdrop. Don't forget to capture the texture of the ancient stones and the charming alleys of Ano Poli.
Absolutely! The sunset views from the City Walls, particularly from Trigoniou Tower, are legendary. The golden light bathing the city and the sea is a photographer's dream.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in urban and historical areas. It's best to check with local authorities or the Thessaloniki tourism board before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for clear, vibrant photos, minimizing harsh shadows. Midday can be too bright, but still offers good visibility.
Look for the different types of stonework, the imposing gates, the battlements, and the unique triangular shape of the Trigoniou Tower. The contrast between the ancient walls and the modern city is also a great photographic subject.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate the walls and viewpoints, allocate at least 2-3 hours. This allows time for walking between sections, enjoying the views, and exploring Ano Poli.
You'll see remnants of the ancient fortifications, including towers like Trigoniou and the Heptapyrgion fortress. The journey itself offers stunning views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding hills.
The walk up to Ano Poli and the walls is uphill and can be strenuous for some. Pace yourself, take breaks, and enjoy the charming streets. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Yes, Ano Poli has many charming tavernas and cafes where you can rest, enjoy a meal, or have a coffee with a view. Some bars offer sunset drinks.
The walls date back to the Byzantine era and were crucial for defending Thessaloniki. They showcase impressive architecture and have a long legacy, with parts incorporated from earlier periods.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ano Poli, the upper town, is also great for families to wander through, with its charming streets and local atmosphere. Look for cafes where you can take a break. The historical context of the walls as a defense system can be a fun story to tell children, making the visit educational and memorable.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money, opt for public buses or walking instead of taxis to reach Ano Poli. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at tourist-heavy spots. Enjoying a picnic with a view from the walls can be a memorable and cost-effective experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore Ano Poli for charming street photography, capturing the essence of the old town. The Heptapyrgion fortress provides a dramatic historical backdrop. Consider black and white photography to emphasize the textures and historical feel of the ancient structures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Byzantine Walls: A Historical Marvel
Originally, a moat filled with seawater and protected by wooden bridges lay outside the walls, further deterring invaders. The Acropolis on the hill served as the central stronghold for the city guard. Throughout centuries, the walls were reinforced and adapted, incorporating elements from earlier constructions. Until 1869, Thessaloniki remained enclosed by these impressive structures, a symbol of its resilience and importance.
Sadly, a significant portion of the walls was demolished by the Ottoman Turks in the late 19th century in an effort to modernize and 'beautify' the city. Despite this, substantial sections remain, offering visitors a tangible connection to Thessaloniki's rich past and its strategic significance throughout history.
Trigoniou Tower: The City's Iconic Viewpoint
What truly elevates the Trigoniou Tower is its unparalleled vantage point. Often referred to as the 'Balcony of Thessaloniki,' it offers breathtaking, sweeping panoramic views of the entire city, the sprawling Thermaic Gulf, and on clear days, even distant mountains. This makes it an absolute must-visit for photographers and anyone wanting to grasp the scale and beauty of Thessaloniki.
Visiting the Trigoniou Tower is an experience that blends history with stunning natural beauty. It’s a place where you can step back in time, imagine the city's past defenses, and simultaneously soak in the vibrant, modern cityscape below. The climb to the top is well worth the effort for the unforgettable vistas it provides.
Exploring Ano Poli: The Upper Town Charm
As you wander through Ano Poli, you'll encounter numerous remnants of the Byzantine walls, often integrated into the fabric of the neighborhood. The area is dotted with small churches, hidden courtyards, and local tavernas offering authentic Greek cuisine. It’s a delightful place to get lost, discover picturesque corners, and feel the pulse of old Thessaloniki.
Many visitors find that exploring Ano Poli is as rewarding as visiting the walls themselves. The combination of historical architecture, local life, and stunning viewpoints makes it a truly immersive experience. It’s the perfect area to combine a historical exploration with a taste of authentic Greek urban living.
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