Another must-see attraction is the Rotonda of St. George built by Galerius Caesar in 300 AD when he designated the city as his headquarters. From being a Temple of Zeus to becoming a church and then a mosque, the Rotonda is breathtaking. Also noteworthy is the Kamara or Arch of Galerius nearby which was built in the fourth century AD, part of which still stands majestically over one of the city's main thoroughfares.

The most important and intriguing church with an impressive crypt is Saint Demetrius (Aghios Dimitrios), but also the Chruch of Aghia Sophia which bears resemblance to the famed Aghia Sophia in Constantinople. These are just a few of the historical buildings in the Downtown area, keeping in mind that there are so many others to explore.

Fascinating city attractions also include the castles area (Eptapyrgo) on the upper part of the city, with many charming local restaurants lying near these great castle walls. Adventurous walkers will also want to explore the fresh-food Modiano Market, the Bezesteni Market, and the Bit Bazaar for its boutiques and hidden underground antique shops. Do wander around the old oil market called Ladadika which is full of local eateries and nightspots.

Nature beyond the city walls

The once verdant hills overlooking Thessaloniki all but disappeared during Ottoman times, but have since been replanted and represent a robust ecosystem of fauna and flora. Called by its Turkish name, Sheikh Su (Water of the Sheikh), the hilly area is actually connected to mount Chortiatis which has helped attract a lot of wildlife, from hares and foxes to turtles and hedgehogs. Over 80 species of birds have also been recorded on these hills and surrounding areas during winter.

Just west of Thessaloniki on the Thermaic Gulf lies one of Greece's most important wetlands, including the Kalochorio lagoon, the Galiko River estuary, the Axios River Delta, the Loudia River estuary and the Aliakmona River Delta. This complex of water bodies, along with the nearby Kitrous saltpans, has attracted over 250 kinds of birds including endangered species such as the pygmy cormorant, Dalmatian pelican, glossy ibis and the spoonbill. The whole wetland is designated as one of Europe's most important and is listed under the Natura 2000 network.

Discovering Volvi and Koronia Lakes

Beyond the hills of Thessaloniki lies the Mygdonia basin, with traces of human presence since historic times. In the area around Lake Koronia and Lake Volvi, a longstanding connection between earth and water has developed, creating one of Greece's most important wetland habitats which remains virtually unknown by travelers.

Take a mountain trip to the northern villages above the lakes, such as Lefkochori, Vertiskos, Ossa, Socho and Mavrouda to admire the Macedonian architecture, goat-fur rugs, virgin forests, vineyards, old churches and more. A tour of the southern villages, such as Apollonia, Melissourgo, Kalamoto, Zagliveri, Adam, Petrokerasa and Ardameri is also highly recommended. Stop by the Kalamoto Women's Association for some preserves and pastries. You'll love the village of Melissourgo with its narrow streets, spirit distillery (rakokazano), and farm guesthouse.

Secrets in every corner of the region

The small village of Vertiskos that has only 400 inhabitants in summer and 80 in winter magically attracts 10,000 visitors, mostly students, to the cultural events and surrounding campsites that flourish there every year. The village has an environmental center and a guesthouse which also rents mountain bikes.

North of Thessaloniki lies the village of Dorkada which is known for its superior milk products, complete with seven true Greek yogurt workshops that also offer a variety of delicious cheeses. Ask for the famous Dorkados yogurt and learn how this original delicacy is prepared.

Visit the village of Ossa for its rare examples of traditional architecture, local tavernas with outstanding appetizers and the cherry festival held at the beginning of June. More to the east the village of Socho is known for its rich cultural and folk traditions, including a great celebration on Sunday and Monday before Ash Wednesday every year (i.e. Carnival Period). If you're there in October you might be lucky to attend the walnut festival. Otherwise just enjoy some good horseback riding at the Roida farm resort or explore the area by foot or by bike.

To discover the important Byzantine past of the region head north to the Mavroudas area where a 13th century monastery, water mills and old industrial buildings will fascinate you. There are both Byzantine baths and Ottoman buildings in Apollonia, as well as the Rock of the Apostle Paul where he supposedly preached from.

 The artificial dam of Thermi presents a great lake for birds and for birdwatching where you might spot night herons, buntings, ducks and many other feathered friends. Overall this area is a great place to hike with many natural beauties and places to rest, as well as some good local eateries on the way. The region also boasts a grape and grape pressing festival usually at the beginning of September, which is an ideal time to visit.