Vlatadon Monastery is part of the Ano Poli Upper Town. Its also known as the Monastery of the Vlatades. When it was founded, it was called the Monastery of the Pantocrator. It was built during the 14th century during the end of the Byzantine Empire. It's part of Thessaloniki's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dorotheus and Markus Vlatadon founded the monastery in 1351. Historians believe the monastery was built on the same site that the Apostle Paul preached in AD 51. In 1351, Empress Anna Palaiologos retired to Thessalonica and gave the monastery its royal status.

Ottoman Turks began occupying the monastery in 1387. The main church was converted into a mosque, and the Turks plastered over the interior frescoes. Turkish troops billeted in the monastery during this time. When the Turks left in 1403, the monastery was returned to its original purpose. The Turks returned in 1430 but did not sequester the monastery again.

The monastery was renovated throughout the 20th century. The Patriarchal Institute for Patristic Studies operates in the monastery.

Several of the monastery's arches, semi-columns, and pediments are original. Most of the frescoes date to the 14th century. The monastery houses an extensive collection of Byzantine religious icons, scripts, codecs, patriarchal sigillum, and imperial golden seals.

The monastery is 120 meters (394 feet) above sea level and offers beautiful city and sea views.

The Trigonion Tower is the Byzantine city wall's most famous tower. It is part of Thessaloniki's UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built to reinforce an artillery tower after the Turkish occupation began in 1430. The tower's location was strategically important as this portion of the wall when Thessaloniki faced heavy attacks.

During Ottoman rule, the tower was also called Chain Tower or Belted Tower due to a relief in the central section that looks like a belt. It was used as an artillery tower and an armory. The tower is 22 meters (72.2 feet) tall and 24 meters (78.7 feet) in diameter.

The Trigonion Tower is also known as Thessaloniki's balcony. It provides an excellent view of the city's acropolis. In addition, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the old city and the Gulf of Thermaikos. On clear days, visitors can see Mount Olympus 150 kilometers away. Visitors and locals alike often gather here to watch the sunset.

Visitors can stop at a nearby cafe for refreshments before continuing their walk.

The Rotunda of Galerius is an impressive cylindrical structure. Roman co-emperor Galerius built the Rotunda in 306 AD. Some historians believe that Galerius intended the structure to be a mausoleum, while others believe it was a temple.

The Rotunda's walls are over six meters (18 feet) thick and have helped the Rotunda survive earthquakes. The building is over 29 meters (95 feet) tall and 24.5 meters (80 feet) in diameter.

The Rotunda is architecturally similar to the famous Pantheon in Rome.

A road links the Rotunda to the Arch of Galerius. The Rotunda served as a Christian church during the Byzantine Empire era when an additional sanctuary was added to the building.

The interior features mosaics dating to the Early Byzantine period. The Rotunda served as Thessaloniki's cathedral from 1524 to 1591. In 1591, it was converted to a mosque when the Ottoman Empire invaded. The Rotunda served as a mosque until the city's liberation in 1912. After the liberation, the church was dedicated to Saint George.

Visitors will be delighted by the myriad of exceptional mosaics. The mosaics in the barrel vaults feature natural scenes such as birds, flowers, and fruit baskets. The southern niche's mosaic features a gold Latin Cross surrounded by birds, stars, flowers, and fruits.

Earthquakes have damaged the dome's mosaics throughout the centuries. The "martyrs frieze" features mosaics of several saints.

A mosaic medallion is located in the apex of the dome. This mosaic shows angels holding a medallion. Unfortunately, the depiction of a young Christ holding a cross has been heavily damaged.

The semidome of the apse features a painting of the Ascension.

When the Rotunda was converted into a mosque in 1591, a minaret was added. The minaret is one of the few still standing at full height.

The Arch of Galerius was dedicated in 303 AD to celebrate Roman co-emperor Galerius' victory against the Persians. The structure originally featured an eight-pillared gateway that formed a triple arch. A road connected the Arch with the Rotunda and the Palace complex.

Today, only three of the eight pillars survive. However, the Arch of Galerius is still one of Thessaloniki's most distinctive landmarks. Locals know it as Kamara and often use the landmark as a meeting point.

The two central pillars feature sculpted marble slabs, depicting Galerius fighting the Persians. Another marble relief shows the imperial family making a thanksgiving sacrifice. Unfortunately, all faces have been chiseled off the reliefs. This damage was possibly done to commemorate the dead.

Another panel shows the unity of the tetrarchy, with Galerius dressed in armor. The Arch of Galerius is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Palace of Galerius, situated in the heart of Thessaloniki, stands as an impressive example of Roman architecture and history. Built around AD 300 during the reign of the tetrarch Galerius, it was part of a larger urban development showcasing the wealth and power of the Roman Empire.

Today, the ruins of the Palace of Galerius offer visitors a chance to step back in time in Thessaloniki's bustling center. Despite its partial state of decay, the remnants of the palace provide glimpses of its former grandeur. Particularly striking is the Octagon, believed to have been Galerius's throne room, adorned with lavish decorations.

The Palace of Galerius wasn't just a single building but a vast complex covering over 150,000 square meters. It included structures like the Rotonda, Navarino Plaza, and the temple of Agia Sofia, all essential parts of daily life in Roman Thessaloniki. These were connected by the Via Egnatia, highlighting the complex's importance in the Roman trade network.

The palace and its surroundings, including a Basilica and a Nymphaeum, showcased Roman architectural prowess and served various purposes, both religious and monumental. The northern part of the complex, near Kamara, is directly linked to the Via Egnatia. The atrium, with its grand colonnade, mosaics, and statues, exuded power and prosperity.

The Octagon, adjacent to the Basilica, was particularly impressive, likely serving as the tetrarch's throne room due to its ornate decorations and prominent location.

The Galerius Complex played a crucial role in Thessaloniki's social, political, and economic life during Roman times, its scale dwarfing typical Greek constructions.

Archaeological excavations have uncovered remarkable artifacts, many now displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, offering insights into the era's artistry.

Restoration work has been ongoing, allowing the public to visit most parts of the site. Visitors can admire the preserved atrium, arcades, and Basilica, appreciating the restored marble floors and vibrant mosaics. This outdoor museum offers a unique opportunity to connect with Thessaloniki's Roman heritage, making the Palace of Galerius a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Trigona Elenidis Shop, located in Thessaloniki, is celebrated for its outstanding culinary creations, embodying the essence of the city's sweet gastronomic traditions in every delectable bite. Since its establishment in 1960, this family-operated pastry store has become synonymous with Thessaloniki's flavor and culture, attracting visitors from all corners of the world seeking a unique dessert experience.

Central to its menu is the Trigona, a classic Greek pastry that symbolizes the shop's commitment to taste, skill, and culinary legacy. The Trigona pastry is a masterpiece of confectionery craftsmanship, featuring delicate triangular filo pastries soaked in syrup and filled with rich vanilla cream. Handmade on-site for each customer, these signature treats boast a crispy, fragile texture that has remained unchanged over the years, ensuring a fresh and memorable taste.

The addition of delightful ice cream further enhances the indulgent experience, providing a perfect accompaniment to the sweet pastries. With three convenient locations throughout Thessaloniki, Trigona Elenidis transcends being merely a pastry shop; it's a destination offering an unparalleled glimpse into the city's vibrant culinary heritage.

The enduring popularity of Trigona Elenidis, cherished across generations, attests to its quality and the unforgettable flavors it presents. Whether it's the unique cream-filled delicacies or the diverse array of pastries unavailable elsewhere, a visit to Trigona Elenidis is a culinary must for those wishing to delve into Thessaloniki's gastronomic delights. In just two words, Trigona Elenidis encapsulates the essence of the city's culinary landscape, rendering it an essential experience for locals and travelers alike.

The 23 meters (75 feet) tall White Tower is known as the symbol of Thessaloniki. The Ottomans built the tower around 15th century. It is thought that the fortress was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mirmar Sinan. It was originally surrounded by fortified walls and was an essential part of Thessaloniki's defenses.

When it was first constructed, it was known as the Lion Tower to honor the Ottoman's victory. The tower was part of the old city's walls and separated the Jewish quarter from the Muslim quarter.

It was renamed the Tower of Kalamaria in the 17th century. It was then used as a garrison. Next, the tower was used as a prison and became known as the Tower of Blood or the Red Tower. During this time, the tower was the site of torture and execution. For example, in 1826, Sultan Mahmud II ordered the massacre of the rebellious Janissaries imprisoned in the tower.

Finally, the tower was painted white in 1891 and named the White Tower. Some historians suggest that the Ottoman Empire sought to "whitewash" the tower's brutal torture history with a change of paint and a new name. While the truth behind the change is unknown, the White Tower name has stuck.

King George I of Greece was assassinated near the White Tower in 1913. Hopefully this was the last drop of blood for the White Tower.

The tower served as an Allied forces communication center during World War I. At this time, the defensive walls were taken down. The White Tower also protected priceless antiquities during World War I.

Thessaloniki's air defense operated from the tower from 1912 to 1983. The tower also housed a meteorological laboratory.

Visitors can enjoy expansive views of the city and Thermaic Gulf from the top floor. In addition, the promenade in front of the tower is a popular spot for photos and meetings.

The White Tower is home to a museum that celebrates Thessaloniki's history. Exhibitions explore the city's history from its founding in 316 BC to today.

The statue of Alexander the Great shows Alexander the Great riding his horse Bucephalus. The monument is six meters (20 feet) tall. Its height, including the pedestal, is 11 meters (36 feet) tall. The bronze statue was crafted in 1973 by sculptor Evangelos Moustakas.

Alexander the Great was one of the world's most influential politicians and historical figures. Alexander the Great was one of Aristotle's students and became a Macedonian Emperor at 20. He conquered large swaths of land, including Egypt, Palestine, Syria, Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey.

Alexander the Great was undefeated in battle. But, unusually, he didn't seek to change the beliefs or customs of the territories he conquered.

The statue shows Alexander looking east while his faithful horse Bucephalus seems ready to fight. Behind the statue, a low wall depicts the Battle of Issus, which happened in 333 BC. During the battle, Alexander the Great defeated the Persian king Darius III. Other features show shields depicting Alexander's army, a snake, a lion, an ox, a falcon, and Gorgon Medusa.

Alexander the Great was incredibly influential in Macedonia and the ancient world. Thessaloniki was named after Alexander the Great's half-sister, Thessalonike.

The statue overlooks Thessaloniki's waterfront and is part of the Nea Paralia seaside park.