Beyond Athens and the Islands: Discovering Thessaloniki

🌟I chose to head north, just a one-hour flight to Thessaloniki. 🌟🇬🇷 This city is very safe, predominantly populated by local Greeks. While motorcycles are everywhere (and can be noisy!), the city has a youthful vibe thanks to Aristotle University, 🌿the Balkans' top humanities institution, located right in the center. 💦Stay: Opt for accommodations near the Hagia Sophia church to save time—almost everything (except the castle and lookout towers) is walkable. 🔺Consider an Airbnb, but if choosing a hotel, prioritize quiet areas (motorcycle noise is real!). 💦🇬🇷 Historically part of the Macedonian Empire, Thessaloniki was named after Alexander the Great’s sister. As the second city of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires,🔺 it’s closer to Istanbul, making it a perfect stopover between Greece and Turkey. Must-Dos: ⭕Archaeological Museum: Excellent free Chinese audio guide (scan the QR code on your ticket).Byzantine Culture Museum: A morning well spent. ⭕Sunset at Heptapyrgion Castle: Take a taxi up, then stroll 10 minutes to the lookout tower for epic sea views—grab a beer and soak it in. #Thessaloniki #GreeceTravel #HagiaSophia