If you like old churches, then Thessaloniki is the destination for you. This historic city is packed with eye-catching Greek Orthodox structures, many of which are as visually interesting inside as they are outside, often more so. Highlights include Ayia Sofia and Ayios Dimitrios, the latter arguably the more interesting. If local life is more your thing then be sure to take a trip to the busy Modiano Market.

Ayios Nikolaos Orfanos
Though the exterior of this church is not especially inspiring, visitors entering the interior will not fail to be impressed by the magnificent 14th-century frescoes on display. Each painting depicts various famous biblical tales with scenes from both the Old and New Testament and an especially impressive depiction of St Nikolaos steering his boat through a stormy sea.

Hagia Sofia
Dating to the Eighth century, this well-preserved Greek Orthodox structure was built to the same design as its namesake in Istanbul. The church’s interior is suitably impressive, featuring a number of splendid frescoes and mosaics that date back to the early Byzantine era. Especially notable is the mosaic depicting Christ’s ascension to heaven.

Ayios Dimitrios
Greece’s largest church and perhaps the most important church in Thessaloniki, this dominant structure and well-known landmark was named after the city’s patron saint. The first church to occupy the site was built in the early Fourth century but the bulk of the current structure was built as recently as the 20th century. Notable features include the crypt with its Roman baths and the collection of Byzantine mosaics featuring Saint Dimitiros. 
Phone: + 30 2310 270 008

Galerius's Palace
Although now offering only ruined remains, the site of Galerius's Palace was once occupied by the royal home of the Roman emperor Galerius Maximianus. The palace was a two-storey building with a large courtyard and was most likely lavishly decorated inside. Of the ruins left standing, the Octagon is one of the best-preserved parts.

Modiano Market
A feature of Thessaloniki since 1922, Modiano Market is a bustling centre for local traders and undoubtedly one of the best places in the city to enjoy a spot of people watching and experience unbridled Thessaloniki culture. The market covers an entire square block and stalls within it sell a huge selection of products, including a good selection of edible goodies.

White Tower of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki’s most significant landmark can be found on the waterfront but due to its size, it can be spotted from many parts of the city. Dating to the 1400s, the structure was erected originally to serve as a fortification but has been used as a prison and place of execution also during its history. Visitors can learn more of the tower and its functions over the years at the interesting museum housed within the structure. 
Phone: +30 2310 267832