Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, sits by the Thermaic Gulf, offering a mix of modern urban life and ancient history. The cityscape is dominated by the White Tower, which now serves as a museum showcasing the city's rich past. Once part of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, their influence remains visible in the architecture and archaeological sites throughout the city.

The food scene in Thessaloniki is remarkable, with bustling markets, street food vendors, and traditional tavernas. The city is particularly famous for its bougatsa (a sweet or savory pastry) and fresh seafood. Locals take their food seriously, and meal times are treated as important social occasions.

Thessaloniki has a vibrant cultural life with numerous museums, art galleries, and annual events like the International Film Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The waterfront promenade, stretching for 5 kilometers along the coast, is always lively with locals and tourists walking, jogging, or just enjoying the sea view. The city also has a dynamic nightlife scene, from cozy bars in Ladadika district to modern clubs by the sea, making it popular with younger travelers and university students who make up a significant part of the population.