Thessaloniki is one of the most important and vibrant cities in Greece. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful coastline, many travelers ask, "Where is Thessaloniki on a map?" Whether you are planning a visit or simply curious, this topic will help you understand the exact location of Thessaloniki, how to find it on a map, and what makes this city special.
Location of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is located in northern Greece, on the shores of the Thermaic Gulf, which is part of the Aegean Sea. The city lies in the region of Central Macedonia and serves as its capital. On a map, you can easily spot Thessaloniki in the northern part of the country, near the border with North Macedonia and Bulgaria.
Geographic Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Thessaloniki are approximately:
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Latitude: 40.6401° N
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Longitude: 22.9444° E
These coordinates place Thessaloniki along the coast, giving the city access to a scenic waterfront.
How to Find Thessaloniki on a Map
If you are looking at a map of Europe, first locate Greece, in the southeastern part of Europe. Then move your eyes toward the northern part of Greece. Thessaloniki is near the top of the Greek mainland, close to the Chalkidiki Peninsula. It is approximately:
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500 kilometers (310 miles) north of Athens, the capital of Greece.
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150 kilometers (93 miles) south of the Greek border with North Macedonia.
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300 kilometers (186 miles) east of the border with Albania.
On most maps, Thessaloniki appears as a major coastal city in northern Greece.
The Region of Central Macedonia
Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece after Athens and is the heart of Central Macedonia. This region is known for its historical landmarks, beautiful beaches, and rich culture. Thessaloniki itself acts as the cultural and economic hub of the region.
Thessaloniki’s Importance on the Map
Historical Crossroads
Thessaloniki has always been a strategic location on the map. It sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a key trading post throughout history. The city was part of the ancient Via Egnatia, a Roman road that connected the Adriatic Sea to Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul).
Modern Significance
Today, Thessaloniki is a major port city and a gateway between the Balkans and the Mediterranean. On a modern map, it stands out as a key European port city with links to transportation, commerce, and tourism.
Nearby Locations to Spot on a Map
Chalkidiki Peninsula
Just southeast of Thessaloniki, you can find the Chalkidiki Peninsula, famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant resorts. The three peninsulas-Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos-are favorite destinations for both locals and tourists.
Mount Olympus
Located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest of Thessaloniki, Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the ancient Greek gods. It’s the highest mountain in Greece and a popular destination for hiking and climbing.
Vergina and Pella
Close to Thessaloniki, you will find Vergina, where the tomb of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, was discovered. Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia and birthplace of Alexander the Great, is also nearby and easily found on the map west of the city.
How to Get to Thessaloniki
By Air
Thessaloniki is served by Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG), which is located about 13 kilometers (8 miles) south of the city center. It connects Thessaloniki to many European cities and destinations in the Middle East.
By Road
You can reach Thessaloniki by road via the Egnatia Odos (A2 motorway), which runs east to west across northern Greece. The A1 motorway connects Thessaloniki with Athens.
By Rail
Thessaloniki’s railway station is a major hub, linking the city to Athens and international destinations like Sofia, Belgrade, and Skopje.
What Makes Thessaloniki Special
Rich History
Thessaloniki is known for its Byzantine walls, ancient Roman ruins, and Ottoman architecture. The famous White Tower is a symbol of the city and is located right on the waterfront.
Vibrant Culture
On the map of Greece’s cultural landmarks, Thessaloniki holds an important place with its museums, art galleries, and annual festivals like the Thessaloniki International Film Festival and the International Trade Fair.
Delicious Cuisine
Northern Greece is famous for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Thessaloniki is a culinary hotspot offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional dishes like bougatsa and gyros.
Beautiful Waterfront
The long promenade along the coast is one of the most attractive places in the city. On the map, this stretch of waterfront shows up clearly, with parks, bicycle paths, and open spaces where locals and visitors gather.
Climate of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This pleasant climate makes it a year-round destination for travelers.
Population and Size
Thessaloniki is home to over 1 million people in its metropolitan area. On a map, it may look smaller than Athens, but it is a bustling and lively city that combines history and modern living.
Travel Tips for Visiting Thessaloniki
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Best time to visit: The months of May, June, September, and October offer warm weather without the extreme heat of summer.
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Language: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
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Currency: The currency is the Euro (EUR).
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Transportation: The city has a reliable bus network, and taxis are easily available. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center.
So, where is Thessaloniki on a map? It is located in northern Greece, along the Thermaic Gulf, in the region of Central Macedonia. Easily identified near the top of the Greek mainland, it’s a city that bridges Europe and the Mediterranean, both geographically and culturally.
Thessaloniki is not just a point on the map; it’s a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and life. Its strategic location, rich traditions, and welcoming atmosphere make it one of Greece’s must-visit destinations. Whether you’re looking at a paper map or searching online, once you find Thessaloniki, you’ll be drawn to explore its many wonders.