Thessaloniki
In northern Greece, in Macedonia, there is a city unlike any other in the whole of Greece. Thessaloniki! The sprawling metropolis of Thessaloniki is a melting pot of cultures. This is also where dreams, ideas, visions and trends merge into an alternative, avant-garde scene.
The history of the city is reflected in everything you see here: In the Thermaic Gulf, the White Tower, Nikis Avenue, Aristotle Square, Mitropoleos and Tsimiski Avenues, the Ladadika district, the Modiano Market Hall, the Bit Bazaar and the Old Town. For thousands of years, this northern harbour town has been a meeting place for people from many different cultures.
5 facts about Thessaloniki
1
Open and diverse community:
Thessaloniki has a vibrant and increasingly visible LGBTQ+ community. The city is known for its open and tolerant atmosphere, making it a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. Many bars, clubs and cafés are LGBTQ+ friendly.
2
Thessaloniki Pride:
Every year, the city organises the Thessaloniki Pride Festival, which is celebrated for a week with various events, concerts and parades. The festival attracts thousands of participants and is an important symbol of acceptance and support for the LGBTQ+ community in the region.
3
History and culture:
Thessaloniki is rich in history and culture and offers many sights that might interest LGBTQ+ travellers, including the White Tower Museum, the Rotunda, and the Byzantine churches. These sights offer an insight into the city's diverse history and culture.
4
Nightlife and entertainment:
Thessaloniki has an exciting nightlife with a number of bars and clubs that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community. Some popular spots are Enola, La Doze Bar and SHARK. These venues offer a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travellers to enjoy the night.
5
Supporting infrastructure:
There are several organisations and groups in Thessaloniki that support the rights and needs of the LGBTQ+ community, such as Thessaloniki Rainbow Youth and the LGBTQ+ group of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. These organisations offer support, advice and events that contribute to the integration and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community.
