Situated on the shores of the Thermaic Gulf, in the northwestern Aegean Sea, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city.
A vibrant urban destination in northern Greece, it combines a rich historical heritage with contemporary culture, exceptional gastronomy and a lively waterfront.
Its cosmopolitan character and welcoming atmosphere make it an inviting destination for participants attending CEST2027.
How to reach Thessaloniki
There are different ways to reach Thessaloniki depending on your departure point.
1. By air: The most convenient way for international visitors to reach Thessaloniki is through Thessaloniki Airport “Makedonia” (SKG). The airport serves domestic and international flights and offers a range of airline connections.
- Detailed information on destinations, airline operators and flights is available at:
https://www.skg-airport.gr/en/
Participants are advised to check flight availability for their travel dates directly with their airline, as connections and schedules vary by season.
- Airport transfers: Public buses connect the airport with Thessaloniki city centre, the New Railway Station and the KTEL Makedonia intercity bus terminal. Additional bus connections serve interchange points for the city’s metro network. Taxis are also available for travel from the airport to accommodation and other destinations.
- For current airport bus routes and transport information, please visit:
https://www.skg-airport.gr/en/category-detailed/ctg_id-37/nd_id-425
2. By train: Thessaloniki is connected to Athens by rail, with services operated by Hellenic Train. The route also serves cities along Greece’s main north–south railway axis.
- For timetables, reservations and service updates, please visit:
https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en
3. By intercity bus: Participants travelling from Athens or Piraeus can also reach Thessaloniki using coach services operated by KTEL Thessalonikis.
- For route information, timetables and tickets, please visit:
https://ktelthes.gr/
Getting around Thessaloniki: The city’s metro, urban buses and taxis offer options for local travel. For metro routes, operating hours and ticket information, please visit: https://www.thessmetro.gr/en/
A few words about Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki stands out as a destination where history, culture and contemporary life come together.
Its waterfront, historical neighbourhoods and vibrant dining scene offer visitors opportunities to explore the city and experience its distinctive atmosphere.
The city has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in archaeological sites, Byzantine churches and Ottoman monuments scattered throughout its urban landscape. Its Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, preserve an exceptional legacy of architecture and art.
The White Tower, the seafront promenade and the historic neighbourhood of Ano Poli are among Thessaloniki’s defining landmarks. Exploring its streets and monuments reveals the many cultural influences that have shaped the city over the centuries.
Gastronomy is an essential part of the Thessaloniki experience.
Recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the city invites visitors to discover its culinary traditions and cultural identity through local flavours and contemporary cuisine.
Walking along the waterfront, discovering historic neighbourhoods, exploring cultural landmarks or enjoying the city’s cafés and restaurants are some of the ways participants can spend their time beyond the conference programme.
Cosmopolitan, lively and welcoming, Thessaloniki offers CEST2027 participants a memorable combination of scientific exchange, cultural discovery and Greek hospitality.
