This is a 7.5 km ‘runseeing’ tour of Thessaloniki, which covers some of the city’s important archaeological and cultural highlights. It’s a mix of roads, paths, and stairs — it can be a bit difficult to follow precisely in sections, so use our map as a guideline.
Roman Forum. CC: Magda MortisiaByzantine Walls paths. Google Street View
Start at the vast, waterfront Aristotelus Square, which is surrounded by mansions & cafes. Continue away from the water through the plaza for 1 km to the ruins of a 2nd-century Roman Forum with a restored amphitheater. Turn RIGHT on Ag. Dimitriou for 0.8 km, then north, uphill, passing a cemetery and Evangelistria Church to Pasha’s Gardens. Next is a ~1.5 km loop around the gardens and exploring the Byzantine City Walls along a series of hilly paths & stairs. Retrace your steps, headed south, crossing Dimitrou (option: add ~1 km around the pedestrian paths of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki), exploring the East Byzantine Walls, Rotunda, and the Arch of Galerius, which dates to 303 CE. Cross Egnatia and continue along the Dim Gounari pedestrian way, to the water & White Tower. The final 1 km is along the waterfront boardwalk to the start.
This is a 7.5 km ‘runseeing’ tour of Thessaloniki, which covers some of the city’s important archaeological and cultural highlights. It’s a mix of roads, paths, and stairs — it can be a bit difficult to follow precisely in sections, so use our map as a guideline.
Roman Forum. CC: Magda MortisiaByzantine Walls paths. Google Street View
Start at the vast, waterfront Aristotelus Square, which is surrounded by mansions & cafes. Continue away from the water through the plaza for 1 km to the ruins of a 2nd-century Roman Forum with a restored amphitheater. Turn RIGHT on Ag. Dimitriou for 0.8 km, then north, uphill, passing a cemetery and Evangelistria Church to Pasha’s Gardens. Next is a ~1.5 km loop around the gardens and exploring the Byzantine City Walls along a series of hilly paths & stairs. Retrace your steps, headed south, crossing Dimitrou (option: add ~1 km around the pedestrian paths of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki), exploring the East Byzantine Walls, Rotunda, and the Arch of Galerius, which dates to 303 CE. Cross Egnatia and continue along the Dim Gounari pedestrian way, to the water & White Tower. The final 1 km is along the waterfront boardwalk to the start.
The iconic run in Thessaloniki. Wide, festive waterfront boardwalk runs for 4.4 km along the Thermaic Gulf, with water views key sites, and lovely gardens. Possible to extend for another 1 km at southern end.
Located 8 km of Thessaloniki, Kalochori Lagoon is a major wetland area, popular for birding, walking, and running! There are many km of easy trails along the water and around the wetlands, with some great views. Additional trails in Axios Delta National Park.
This green oasis located only 15 minutes from the city center is a popular spot for walking, hiking, biking, & running. Large network of paths and trails, some easy & flat, others hilly & rugged. Mix of open and shaded through pine forest & other lovely trees.
The Thermi Ecological Park, located 20 km southeast of Thessalonoki, is the start point of a series of hiking areas & nature preserves. There's a massive network of roads, & paths, with trail running opportunities for all abilities. More rugged headed west.
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!
Review or Comment on This Route/Share a Photo!
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!