As someone who was born and raised in Thessaloniki, the rhythm of this city runs deep in my veins. My name is Helena, and I'm a digital design and marketing professional, operating throughout the year in this vibrant, historic city. Thessaloniki has always been more than just home—it’s my muse, my community, and the perfect balance of old and new.
My day typically starts with a walk by the sea, along the Nea Paralia promenade. Thessaloniki mornings are calm, with a soft sea breeze and the sound of waves that put me at ease. I’ll grab a coffee at one of the kiosks along the waterfront, my favorite being a freddo cappuccino—an essential part of daily life in Greece. Then, it’s back to work.
Working in digital marketing means that my days are never the same. Some mornings are filled with client calls, discussing the latest design concepts, while afternoons might be dedicated to social media strategies or graphic design projects. One of the benefits of working remotely is that I can set up my office at a cozy café like Estrella or Toms Flagship Store, where a mix of locals and tourists come for brunch or a good cup of coffee.
Evenings in Thessaloniki are magical. Once work is done, I often meet with friends for dinner at a traditional taverna, enjoying local dishes like souvlaki or mussels with rice. Thessaloniki’s food scene is one of the best in Greece—it’s full of flavor and authenticity. We’ll linger over our meals, chatting about life, politics, and philosophy, much like the ancient Greeks used to do.
Local Traditions That Make Thessaloniki Unique
Living in Thessaloniki means being immersed in traditions that have been passed down through generations. There are a few that I hold especially dear:
Vasilopita on New Year’s Day – Every New Year’s, we gather as a family and cut the traditional sweet bread, Vasilopita. A coin is hidden inside, and whoever finds it in their slice is said to have good luck for the year. It’s more than just a superstition; it’s a reminder of the importance of family and shared moments.
the Feast of Agios Dimitrios – As the patron saint of Thessaloniki, Agios Dimitrios is celebrated every year on October 26th. The entire city comes alive with processions, church services, and local fairs. It’s a time when we honor the city’s spiritual roots, while also enjoying Thessaloniki’s lively side.
Name Days – In Greece, name days are often celebrated with more enthusiasm than birthdays. It’s customary to visit friends or family members named after a saint on their name day, bringing small gifts or sweets. It’s one of the ways we stay connected with our loved ones, keeping relationships strong and full of love.
Authentic Crafts Practiced by Locals
Thessaloniki is full of artisans who have kept traditional crafts alive for centuries. Some of these crafts are still practiced in their original forms:
Byzantine Icon Painting – Many artists in Thessaloniki specialize in creating Byzantine-style religious icons, a craft that dates back to the city’s time as a major Byzantine center. These icons are not just art; they carry deep spiritual meaning for Orthodox Christians.
Woodcarving – Especially in the Ano Poli area, you can find workshops where artisans continue the craft of intricate woodcarving. From church furniture to home decorations, these pieces are painstakingly crafted by hand.
Silk Weaving – Silk weaving may not be as prominent as it once was, but there are still artisans in the region of Soufli, close to Thessaloniki, who keep this tradition alive, producing beautiful silk fabrics.
The Five Must-See Spots in Thessaloniki
Whether you're a visitor or a local, there are a few places in Thessaloniki that you simply can’t miss:
The White Tower – The city’s most iconic landmark, standing proudly by the sea. It’s a remnant of Thessaloniki’s Ottoman past and offers a stunning panoramic view from the top.
Ano Poli (Upper Town) – Wander through the cobblestone streets of Ano Poli, where time seems to slow down. The area is filled with traditional houses, Byzantine walls, and hidden cafes.
Aristotelous Square – The heart of Thessaloniki, this grand square opens up to the sea and is a favorite meeting point for locals and tourists alike. It’s perfect for people-watching or enjoying a coffee.
The Rotonda – A massive circular building that has served as a mausoleum, church, and mosque. It’s one of the city’s oldest and most fascinating monuments.
The Ladadika District – Once the heart of the olive oil trade, Ladadika is now Thessaloniki’s most popular nightlife district, packed with bars, tavernas, and clubs. It’s the place to be if you want to experience the city’s energy after dark.
Why I Love Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is a city that knows how to live. It doesn’t rush, it savors. Whether it’s a long meal shared with friends, a sunset walk along the sea, or an afternoon coffee break, the city teaches you to enjoy the little things. And that’s what I love most about Thessaloniki—it has an old soul with a modern heartbeat. There’s a sense of timelessness here, but also a vibrancy that keeps you on your toes.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from living here, it’s that Thessaloniki people have a unique way of thinking about life’s challenges. There’s a laid-back attitude, a belief that “όλα θα γίνουν” (everything will be OK). It’s not about being passive but understanding that rushing and stressing won’t make things happen any faster. Patience is key.
We also believe in community. When life gets tough, Thessalonians don’t hesitate to lean on family and friends for support. Life is about sharing—our joys, our sorrows, our struggles. And most importantly, we keep a sense of humor. Thessaloniki is a city that laughs, even in the face of hardship.
So, my advice to anyone facing challenges? Slow down, breathe, and trust that things will work out in their own time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and always remember to enjoy the ride. Life is full of beauty, even in its toughest moments.
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