A big part of travelling is all about getting that perfect Instagram shot andThessaloniki is one of the most underrated yet stunning cities in Greece. From hidden cobblestone streets, to breathtaking panoramic views, there are so many Instagrammable places in Thessaloniki. After living here for a few years, Thessaloniki has really brightened up my Instagram feed, thanks to its photogenic spots scattered across the city. So without further ado, here are my top recommendations for the most Instagrammable places in Thessaloniki, Greece.
I couldn’t help but start this Instagram photo guide to Thessaloniki without mentioning the city’s most famous landmark, the White Tower, aka Lefkos Pirgos. Yes, the waterfront around the White Tower can get crowded and interfere with securing the best Instagram-worthy shot, so to avoid capturing any tourists in your photos, head up to the roof of the White Tower. The entrance to the White Tower is only 3€ (6€ from April 1stto October 31st) and can be purchased at the entrance. The roof of the tower reveals one of the most beautiful views of the waterfront as well as a 360-degree view of the city center.
The Umbrellas
Not too far from the White Tower and by far one of the most photogenic places in Thessaloniki has to be the famous Umbrellas on the city’s waterfront. Designed by the late Greek sculptor, George Zongolopoulos in 1997, the Umbrellas have now become a top Instagram spot in Thessaloniki. Come visit them in the early hours of the morning to avoid people in your shots or come during the sunset hours for a dreamy orange-red backdrop against the stainless steel sculpture. If you make your way to the Umbrellas it is worth your while to explore the Nea Paralia, also known as the city’s waterfront. Hidden gems such as dog parks, secret gardens and art installations are spread across the 3-kilometer waterfront park.
Filikis Eterias Street
A personal favorite Instagrammable spot in Thessaloniki is Filikis Eterias Street where the cafe,Efimerida is located. This small alley offers a different and unique perspective to the famous White Tower. Impress your Instagram followers with a different take on the city’s most photographed landmark from this street. Include the charming cafes found at the end of the street for a complete composition.
Port of Thessaloniki
The Port of Thessaloniki is another excellent choice for an impromptu photo shoot due to its prime location and various backdrop options. Whether it an all blue background of the Thermaic Gulf or a brick wall from the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography there are so many spots in the Port to change up your Instagram feed. Once again, early in the morning or during the sunset hours are the best times to take stunning photos. Give yourself some time to explore the Port of Thessaloniki for various photo opportunities!
Ladadika
Continuing our list of the most Instagrammable places in Thessaloniki is Ladadika – a neighborhood across the Port that will definitely brighten up your Instagram feed. Ladadika is decked in cobblestone streets, brick walled pubs and traditional Greek taverns. This preserved neighborhood of Thessaloniki gives off Dublin meets Greek island vibes as the cafes and restaurants still maintain their original architecture. Be sure to check out Aigiptou Street in Ladadika, which is perhaps the most colorful and photogenic spot in the neighborhood. And the best part about Ladadika is that it doesn’t get too busy during the day, so you can take plenty of pictures without tourists photo bombing your shots.
Ouzou Melathron – Karipi Street
Just off of Venizelou Street you’ll come across Karipi Street, an Instagrammer’s dream. This small picturesque alley full of traditional Greek taverns is straight out of a fairytale. Quirky and whimsical characters adorn the walls along Karipi Street. Get your camera ready, as the group of taverns under the Ouzou Melathron umbrella is a perfect Instagram spot in Thessaloniki. Step up your Instagram game with this one of a kind colorful and eccentric row of taverns!
Castles of Thessaloniki
No list of the most Instagrammable places in Thessaloniki is complete without mentioning the city’s Castles found in Upper Town (Ano Poli). This is probably the best vintage point of the whole city as well as one of the most visited sites in Thessaloniki. To get some Instagram worthy shots then sunrise and sunset hours are the best times to visit not only because fewer people will be there but also because the pink sky creates a gorgeous backdrop. Either way, the Castle and the Upper Town surrounding it have some of the best photo spots in Thessaloniki.
Upper Town (Ano Poli) of Thessaloniki
The Upper Town also known as Ano Poli to the locals is also flooded with Instagram worthy opportunities from cute, idyllic houses to small secret gardens to cobble stone streets and alleys. Get lost in the labyrinth of streets and alleys on your way up to the Castle or make your way down to Ano Poli after taking some shots at the Castle.
I clicked on this article out of curiosity because Thessaloniki kept appearing on Skyscanner as one of the cheapest destinations to fly to in Europe… You’ve convinced me, I’ll go! I didn’t imagine it to be anything like what you have photographed – amazing!
Ugh, could Greece seriously be any more photogenic?? It’s so pretty – and it’s got everything: beaches, cool art, gorgeous little laneways. A country I’ve still not visited, but these photos show me I need to put it up to the top of the bucket list ASAP.
I clicked on this article out of curiosity because Thessaloniki kept appearing on Skyscanner as one of the cheapest destinations to fly to in Europe… You’ve convinced me, I’ll go! I didn’t imagine it to be anything like what you have photographed – amazing!
Glad to hear that! Thessaloniki is the perfect city break destination! 🙂
Ugh, could Greece seriously be any more photogenic?? It’s so pretty – and it’s got everything: beaches, cool art, gorgeous little laneways. A country I’ve still not visited, but these photos show me I need to put it up to the top of the bucket list ASAP.
Oh you must visit Greece once it’s safe to travel again! 🙂
This is such a cool post! I had no idea there are this many instagrammable places there! Will definitely save it for my next trip! X, Bettina
Glad to hear that! There are so many hidden gems in Thessaloniki! 🙂
Gorgeous photos and guide! I have been to Thessaloniki in over 10 years and I don’t remember much since I was a kid but the city looks amazing!
You must visit again then! So glad you enjoyed this photo guide to Thessaloniki!
OMG Karipi Street looks like a place that I could seriously spend all day at! Your photos make me want to teleport there haha
I’m so happy you think so! Karipi Street is definitely one of my favorite spots too! 🙂