Thessaloniki with Kids

Thessaloniki, Greece’s vibrant second city, offers a plethora of activities and attractions that make it an ideal destination for families. From engaging museums to expansive parks, and delightful eateries to child-friendly hotels, Thessaloniki ensures a memorable experience for kids and parents alike. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan a perfect family trip to Thessaloniki.

Top Attractions for Kids

Noesis Science Center and Technology Museum

A visit to the Noesis Science Center is a must for families with curious young minds. The museum features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a digital planetarium, providing an educational yet fun experience. Kids can explore various aspects of science and technology through hands-on activities that ignite their passion for learning.

Getting There: The most convenient way is by car. Alternatively, take bus number 10 from the city center and transfer to bus number 66. Another option is taking the 31st bus and transferring to one of the 36 series buses (36, 36B, 36E, etc.).

Tickets: Standard ticket – 12 euros; Family ticket for four – 35 euros.

Waterland

Near the airport, Waterland is Thessaloniki’s premier summer attraction. This expansive water park offers a variety of slides, from simple to complex, and pools with artificial waves and hydromassage. For toddlers, there is a shallow pool with mini slides. The park also features volleyball courts, mini-football fields, and several cafes.

Getting There: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Thessaloniki. By bus, take 02K, 03K, or 1X from the center, then transfer to bus 87.

Tickets: Standard ticket – 15 euros. Open from June to mid-September.

Museum of Illusions

Located in the lively Ladadika district, the Museum of Illusions offers interactive and whimsical exhibits. Families can enjoy a maze of rooms that play with space, color, and shapes, creating perfect opportunities for unforgettable photos.

Getting There: Easily accessible on foot from the city center.

Tickets: Standard ticket – 11 euros; Family ticket for four – 34 euros. Tickets can also be purchased online.

Dino Park

Near Thessaloniki’s northern exit, the Dino Park is perfect for young dinosaur enthusiasts. The park features life-sized dinosaur replicas and several small museums, including the Museum of Mammoths and Ice Age Animals, Mammal Park, Evolution of Man Cave, and Museum of the Human Body.

Getting There: By car or by bus with a transfer. From Aristotle Square, take bus 25, 38, 39, or 35, and transfer to bus 56.

Tickets: Starting from 6 euros.

Museum of Childhood

In the Tumba area, the Museum of Childhood showcases artifacts related to childhood from the 19th and 20th centuries, including school bags, books, dolls, and board games. This quaint museum offers a nostalgic look into the past, appealing to both kids and adults.

Getting There: From the city center, take buses 11, 14, 37, or 12. Visit in the morning as the museum closes at 1 PM.

Magic Park

Situated near the Mediterranean Cosmos shopping center, Magic Park offers over 10 attractions, including a Tunnel of Fear, a 4G swing, and a Ferris wheel. The park also features various food options, from cotton candy to souvlaki, making it a perfect spot for a family day out.

Getting There: By car or bus. From the city center, take buses 2, 3, or 8 to Ikea, then walk 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, take bus 31 from the center and transfer to bus 36.

Termi Park

In the Thermi area, Termi Park features an artificial dam and lakes populated by turtles, along with piers for close observation. The surrounding pine forest offers serene walks, and a local cafe provides a spot for snacks and relaxation.

Getting There: Best reached by car for convenience. By public transport, take bus 58 from the center, transfer to bus 66, and walk 15-20 minutes.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Thessaloniki with kids is from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, outdoor attractions like Waterland and Termi Park are fully operational and enjoyable.

Where to Stay

For convenience and comfort, choose a hotel near the sea, preferably around Aristotelous Square. COLORS Urban Hotel is highly recommended, offering proximity to major attractions, shopping districts, and excellent on-site dining. Its location ensures you can walk to many key sites, reducing the need for transportation.

Where to Eat

Thessaloniki is a culinary delight with numerous family-friendly dining options.

Food Districts

• Ladadika: This car-free neighborhood is home to some of the city’s best restaurants. It’s cozy and quaint, ideal for family dinners.
• Pavlou Mela and Germanou Streets: These streets feature upscale “Paris style” restaurants. While lovely, be mindful that they are on the street, so kids should stay close.
• Gounari Street: This long, car-free road is famous for pizza joints, loved by locals. Most are street food vendors, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Recommended Restaurants

• The Garden Bar: Located at the COLORS Urban Hotel, this restaurant offers delicious brunches and dinners with a car-free road right outside, making it safe for kids.
• Ergon Agora: Outside the city center, this family-friendly restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience.

Transportation

Thessaloniki has an efficient public transportation system, including buses that cover most areas of the city. For convenience, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to visit attractions outside the city center. Taxis are also readily available.

Five-Day Itinerary with Kids

Day 1: City Center Exploration

• Morning: Visit the White Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the Museum of Illusions in Ladadika.
• Evening: Stroll along the marina and enjoy dinner in Ladadika.

Day 2: Educational Day

• Morning: Spend the day at Noesis Science Center.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring interactive exhibits and the planetarium.
• Evening: Dinner at The Garden Bar.

Day 3: Fun and Adventure

• Morning: Head to Waterland for a day of fun on the slides and in the pools.
• Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the facilities at Waterland.
• Evening: Return to the city for a leisurely dinner.

Day 4: Historical and Cultural Day

• Morning: Visit the Museum of Childhood in the Tumba area.
• Afternoon: Explore the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.
• Evening: Dinner in Pavlou Mela and Germanou Streets.

Day 5: Outdoor Exploration

• Morning: Spend the day at Termi Park, exploring the lakes and forest.
• Afternoon: Visit the Dino Park and its museums.
• Evening: Return to the city and enjoy a farewell dinner in Gounari Street.

Tips for Tourists

1. Book Ahead: Popular attractions can get busy, so book tickets online when possible.
2. Stay Central: Choose accommodation near the city center to minimize travel time.
3. Use Public Transport: Buses are convenient for most attractions. Consider a family travel pass for ease.
4. Stay Hydrated: Thessaloniki can get hot, especially in summer, so carry water and wear sunscreen.
5. Plan for Breaks: Schedule downtime between activities to avoid fatigue, especially for younger kids.
6. Explore Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on local delicacies like Trigona Panoramatos and bougatsa.