Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference in how you experience Thessaloniki. Over the past few years, the city’s hospitality scene has grown tremendously—blending iconic luxury landmarks with a surge of boutique design hotels and flexible short-term rentals.

Here is my curated selection of top spots and accommodation options across the city:

Eco-Conscious & Sustainable

  • City Hotel: An urban eco-friendly oasis in the very heart of the city center, combining green design elements with calm, modern comfort.

Luxury & Landmark Hotels

  • Makedonia Palace: The iconic landmark hotel of Thessaloniki. Located right on the seafront promenade, it offers exquisite views over the Thermaic Gulf and is just a short, beautiful walk from the city center.
  • Electra Palace: Positioned in the grand Aristotelous Square, offering classical luxury and unrivaled views of the sea and sunset from its rooftop.
  • Daios Luxury Living: Elegant design and contemporary style situated directly on the seafront, ideal for high-end boutique living.
  • The Excelsior Hotel: A charming, classic luxury boutique hotel housed in a historic building right in the commercial center.

Modern, Boutique & Design Hotels

  • Colors Urban Hotel: Stylish, colorful, and ultra-chic rooms with a playful vibe, perfect for independent travelers and digital nomads.
  • The Met Hotel: A sleek design hotel with an industrial aesthetic, modern art, and a rooftop pool, located near the port area.
  • Hotel Olympia: Clean, contemporary, and stylish, offering a relaxed environment right near the Roman Agora.

Great Value & Central

  • Hotel Orestias Kastorias: A friendly, budget-conscious choice offering clean, comfortable, and simple accommodation in a historic central neighborhood.

Airport & Resort Escapes

  • Hotel September & Hyatt Regency: High-end resort-style hotels located near Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), ideal if you are attending a conference or seeking a quiet resort feel away from downtown traffic.

Short-Term Rentals & Apartments (Airbnb)

In recent years, Thessaloniki has seen an explosion of short-term rental apartments (Airbnb, Booking.com apartments, and serviced suites).

  • Why choose them: They are ideal for digital nomads, families, or slow travelers staying for longer periods who want a kitchen, washing machine, and a local neighborhood feel.
  • Best Areas to Search: Look for apartments around Ladadika, Valaoritou, Mitropoleos, Roman Agora, or the scenic Ano Poli (Upper Town) if you don’t mind walking up stone hills for great sea views.

Local Booking Tips

  • Book Early for Peak Seasons: Demand is exceptionally high during major city events (like the Thessaloniki International Fair in September, the International Film Festival in November, and large summer concert seasons).
  • Compare Options: Check major travel platforms to compare hotel perks versus full-apartment stays based on your travel needs.