Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
Iconic waterfront sculpture of stainless steel umbrellas by George Zongolopoulos, symbolizing protection and art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light and illuminated umbrellas
Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
Best Time
Magical light and illuminated umbrellas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic waterfront sculpture of stainless steel umbrellas by George Zongolopoulos, symbolizing protection and art.
"A beautiful and unique landmark by the sea, great for photos, especially at sunset."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Great for pictures, especially at sunset when the lights come on!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The boardwalk is long; wear comfy shoes for a pleasant stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Umbrellas
Thessaloniki Waterfront
A striking 13-meter-high sculpture of stainless steel umbrellas on slender poles, symbolizing protection and artistic innovation.
Sunset Spectacle
Thessaloniki Waterfront
Witness the umbrellas illuminate against a pink sky during sunset, creating an unforgettable and picturesque sight.
Nighttime Illumination
Thessaloniki Waterfront
Experience a different ambiance as the umbrellas light up at night, offering a fantastic and atmospheric view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Umbrellas
Waterfront Stroll Essential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Great for pictures, especially at sunset when the lights come on! 
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The boardwalk is long; wear comfy shoes for a pleasant stroll.
💡 See it by Day & Night
Offers a different, fantastic experience after dark.
🌊 Waterfront Views
Enjoy the beautiful sea backdrop and walk along the extended boardwalk.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Great for pictures, especially at sunset when the lights come on!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The boardwalk is long; wear comfy shoes for a pleasant stroll.
💡 See it by Day & Night
Offers a different, fantastic experience after dark.
🌊 Waterfront Views
Enjoy the beautiful sea backdrop and walk along the extended boardwalk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos, calling it a beautiful and unique landmark perfect for photos, especially at sunset when it lights up. The minimalist design and waterfront location are highly praised, offering a serene yet visually striking experience day or night.
"A beautiful and unique landmark by the sea. The installation is very impressive and a great spot for photos, especially at sunset. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Thessaloniki."
Kostadin Ruskov
"The Umbrellas of Zongolopoulos is a famous public art installation by Greek sculptor George Zongolopoulos. Created in the 1990s, this elegant and minimalist sculpture features tall, slender poles topped with open umbrellas, often arranged in groups. The work symbolizes shelter, protection, and the poetic relationship between everyday objects and the environment. Installed in various locations across Greece and internationally, the Umbrellas have become iconic for their graceful simplicity and ability to transform public spaces into places of reflection and beauty."
Ali Bahram
"First time I went at night, it was fantastic a whole different experience at night the lights the atmosphere will worth the visit.."
ren tsampiras
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Umbrellas are located on the Thessaloniki waterfront, easily accessible by foot from the city center. Many visitors enjoy walking along the promenade to reach the sculpture. Public transport options are also available, with buses frequently stopping near the waterfront area.
While street parking can be challenging in the area, there are several paid parking lots within a short walking distance of the waterfront. Consider using a ride-sharing service for convenience.
Absolutely! The walk along the Thessaloniki waterfront to reach The Umbrellas is a popular and pleasant activity, offering scenic views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Umbrellas are a public art installation on the waterfront and are free to visit and admire at any time.
The sculpture is accessible 24/7 as it is an outdoor public installation. However, the best experience is often during daylight hours or at sunset when it's illuminated.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset, also known as golden hour, is highly recommended. The light creates a beautiful contrast with the pink sky, and the umbrellas are illuminated, making for stunning photos. +1
Yes, the sculpture is illuminated at night, offering a completely different and atmospheric experience for photography.
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the umbrellas against the sea and sky. Wide-angle shots can showcase the entire installation, while close-ups highlight the details.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Umbrellas are situated along the Thessaloniki waterfront, which is perfect for a leisurely walk, enjoying sea views, and exploring the promenade.
Yes, it's a visually engaging and open space that children can enjoy. The waterfront promenade is also great for a family stroll.
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour, especially if they are timing their visit for sunset or enjoying a walk along the waterfront.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
+1 Don't miss the opportunity to capture the sculpture at night when the lighting adds a dramatic flair. 🚶♀️ Leisurely Strollers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Vision of George Zongolopoulos
+1The choice of stainless steel allows the sculpture to play with light and shadow throughout the day, transforming its appearance with the changing sun. This dynamic quality is a hallmark of Zongolopoulos's work, which often explores the relationship between form, space, and natural elements. The installation's placement on the waterfront further enhances its connection to the surroundings, reflecting in the water and interacting with the sea breeze.
Visitors often remark on the sculpture's ability to transform a public space into a place of reflection and beauty. Its graceful simplicity has made it an iconic landmark, drawing people in for both its aesthetic appeal and the contemplative mood it inspires.
Experiencing The Umbrellas: Day vs. Night
However, many visitors and creators emphasize the magic of visiting during sunset and into the evening. As the sun dips below the horizon, the umbrellas are often illuminated, casting a warm glow and creating a breathtaking spectacle against the colorful sky. This is when the sculpture truly comes alive, transforming the waterfront into a romantic and unforgettable setting.
Experiencing the sculpture at night provides yet another unique perspective. The artificial lighting accentuates the forms and creates a different, often more dramatic, atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a peaceful morning walk or a captivating evening display, The Umbrellas deliver a memorable visual experience.
Social
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