Greece guide

Things to do in Thessaloniki 2026

Thessaloniki, Greece's second city, is the cultural capital of the north and a year-round alternative to Athens. Its 2026 calendar centres on two events that pull visitors well beyond the summer: the Reworks Festival, an electronic-music festival held across the city in September, and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, one of the most important film events in south-east Europe, in November.

Quick answer

Thessaloniki, Greece's second city, is the cultural capital of the north and a year-round alternative to Athens. Its 2026 calendar centres on two events that pull visitors well beyond the summer: the Reworks Festival, an electronic-music festival held across the city in September, and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, one of the most important film events in south-east Europe, in November.

The city itself is made for walking: a long café-lined waterfront leading to the White Tower, the Roman Rotunda and Galerius's Arch, Byzantine churches, the buzzing Ladadika and Valaoritou nightlife districts, and a food scene widely rated the best in Greece.

Top Thessaloniki events in 2026

  • Reworks Festival (September) — electronic and contemporary music across venues around the city.
  • Thessaloniki International Film Festival (November) — major international film festival on the waterfront, screenings and industry events.

Why visit Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki packs Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history into a compact, lively centre. The waterfront promenade to the White Tower is the city's living room; the Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius anchor the Roman quarter; and the Ano Poli (Upper Town) survived the great 1917 fire with its old houses and city walls intact.

The city's airport (Thessaloniki Makedonia, SKG) has wide European connections, and Thessaloniki is the gateway to northern Greece — Halkidiki's beaches, Mount Olympus and Meteora are all within reach.

FAQ

What is there to do in Thessaloniki in 2026?
The headline 2026 events are the Reworks Festival (September) and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival (November). Year-round, the waterfront and White Tower, the Roman Rotunda, Byzantine churches, the Ano Poli and the city's celebrated food scene are the main draws.
When is the Thessaloniki International Film Festival?
The Thessaloniki International Film Festival is held each November. The exact dates and programme are announced by the festival ahead of the edition — check the official site and our event page before booking.
How do I get to Thessaloniki?
Thessaloniki Makedonia Airport (SKG) has direct flights across Europe. The city is also linked to Athens by frequent flights and a fast intercity train, and it is the gateway to Halkidiki, Mount Olympus and Meteora.

Upcoming events

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