Thessaloniki Ferry
The port of Thessaloniki plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Thessaloniki serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.
Ferries depart regularly from Thessaloniki, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.
Popular routes from this port include Skiathos - Thessaloniki connecting Thessaloniki with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.
Operators such as SeaJets run regular services from Thessaloniki, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.
Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Thessaloniki offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.
Route Overview
Date Updated: 2025
Reaching Thessaloniki's Shores
Thessaloniki is easily accessible via its international airport with connections to major European cities, lying just 13km from the city center. Travelers from Athens can reach the city by train in approximately 4 hours, while bus connections link Thessaloniki to Balkan countries and major Greek cities. The ferry terminal is conveniently located near the city center, with regular bus services connecting it to downtown and the main train station. If arriving by car, several parking facilities are available near the port area, though it's advisable to book in advance during summer months.
Routes
Thessaloniki: Greece's Vibrant Coastal Gem
Thessaloniki stands as Greece's cultural crossroads, where Byzantine heritage meets modern Mediterranean energy along the shimmering Thermaic Gulf. This seaside metropolis blends 2,300 years of history with a youthful spirit, thanks to its large student population and thriving arts scene. As a key ferry destination in northern Greece, Thessaloniki serves as both a captivating urban destination and a gateway to the stunning beaches of Halkidiki and islands of the northern Aegean.
When to Experience Thessaloniki at Its Finest
Thessaloniki enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) ideal for comfortable exploration with temperatures between 18-25°C. Summer months (July-August) bring vibrant beach life but also higher temperatures often exceeding 30°C and increased tourist numbers. The Thessaloniki International Film Festival in November and the International Trade Fair in September inject additional energy into the city. Ferry services operate year-round but offer more frequent connections during the warmer months, with winter schedules typically reduced but prices more favorable.
Ferries to Thessaloniki
Island Adventures from Thessaloniki's Port
Thessaloniki serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the northern Aegean. The verdant island of Thasos is reachable in approximately 5-7 hours, offering pristine beaches and mountain villages surrounded by pine forests. The Sporades islands, including Skiathos with its famous Koukounaries beach, can be accessed via connecting services through Volos. Mount Athos peninsula, though requiring special permits, presents a unique destination with its ancient monasteries and dramatic coastlines. For those seeking quieter escapes, the less-traveled islands of Samothraki and Limnos provide authentic Greek experiences with remarkable landscapes and minimal crowds.
Must-Experience Moments in Thessaloniki
Stroll along Thessaloniki's iconic waterfront promenade to witness the sunset behind the White Tower, the city's most recognizable landmark. The UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches, particularly Agios Dimitrios and Agia Sofia, showcase extraordinary mosaics and architecture spanning centuries. Food enthusiasts should head to Modiano Market and surrounding tavernas to sample local specialties like bougatsa (custard pie), koulouri (sesame bread rings), and fresh seafood mezedes. The vibrant Ladadika district, once an oil merchants' quarter, now houses atmospheric restaurants and bars in restored buildings. For cultural immersion, the Archaeological Museum and Museum of Byzantine Culture hold remarkable collections that bring the region's rich history to life.
Thessaloniki's Intriguing Maritime Tales
Thessaloniki's port has operated continuously for over 2,300 years, making it one of the oldest working harbors in the Mediterranean. The city was named after the half-sister of Alexander the Great and has been ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Greeks, each leaving distinct architectural imprints visible throughout the city. Thessaloniki's famous Umbrellas sculpture on the waterfront has become an unexpected Instagram sensation, with the installation originally intended as a temporary exhibit. The city is renowned for its sweet tooth, locals consume more chocolate per capita than anywhere else in Greece, with dozens of traditional confectioneries dotting the urban landscape.
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