White Tower of Thessaloniki

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Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionMuseumHistorical PlacePoint of Interest

Best time to visit

Just before sunset: the light falls magically over the city and the Thermaic Gulf, while the temperature is more bearable during the summer months.

Budget tips

The ticket costs 6€ (reduced 3€ for students and those over 65). Free entry applies every first Sunday of the month from November to March.

Recommended for

History enthusiasts, Photographers, Groups of friends, First-time travelers

Plan your visit

40-60 minutes

About

Quick facts: It stands 33.9 meters tall on the coastal boulevard of Thessaloniki and has a diameter of 23 meters at its base. It was built in the 16th century as part of the fortifications and later acquired its characteristic white color in 1912.

Highlights: The white paint was not always there: the Ottomans left it whitewashed after rumors that it had been used as a prison and torture site. When the city was liberated in 1912, a Greek worker painted it white symbolically, to erase its dark past.

Insider tips

Go up the spiral staircase on foot: it has 96 steps and on each floor there are exhibits about the history of the city.
The best spot for a photo is from the south side of the coastal promenade, when the tower is lit golden at sunset.
Avoid midday in July and August: the queue in the heat is long and there is no shade.
Spend 10 minutes exploring the surrounding area: there are old Ottoman cannons and a small outdoor exhibition.