Things To Do
in Kalamariá

Kalamariá is a vibrant suburb located east of Thessaloniki, Greece, known for its picturesque waterfront and rich cultural heritage. This area is characterized by its beautiful parks, bustling markets, and a blend of modern and traditional Greek architecture. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Thermaic Gulf and the nearby Mount Olympus.

Kalamariá is also a hub for local art, music, and cuisine, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Greek experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Waterfront
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the Kalamariá waterfront, enjoying the views of the sea and the city. Stop by a local café for a traditional Greek breakfast of bread, olives, and feta cheese.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kalamariá Cultural Center to learn about local history and art. After that, head to the local market to explore fresh produce and handmade goods.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Thermaic Gulf.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Seich Sou Forest, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Byzantine Museum of Thessaloniki to explore fascinating artifacts from Greece's rich history. Take some time to explore the local shops in Kalamariá.

evening
:

Experience Kalamariá's nightlife at a lively bar or music venue, where you can enjoy live music and drinks with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$12
Café latte$3
🍕Slice of pizza$2
🚌Public transportation ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night stay$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful waterfront views and parks.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Easy access to Thessaloniki and surrounding areas.
  • Crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited English proficiency in some local areas.
  • Public transport can be infrequent at times.
  • "Καλημέρα" - Good morning
  • "Σας ευχαριστώ" - Thank you
  • "Πόσο κοστίζει;" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ευχαριστώ, αλλά δεν μπορώ" - Thank you, but I can't.
  • "Ναι" - Yes

Places to Visit in Kalamariá

Visit one of these nice places.

Kalamariá Waterfront

Capture stunning sunset views over the Thermaic Gulf with the city skyline in the background.

Seich Sou Forest

Beautiful landscapes and diverse flora make for excellent nature photography.

Byzantine Museum of Thessaloniki

The architecture of the museum and its surroundings provide great photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kalamariá

Kalamariá offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich array of local dishes and flavors. From fresh seafood to traditional meze, there's something for everyone.

Kalamariá Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, typically served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Must-Try!

Moussaka

A layered dish made with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dolmadakia

Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kalamariá Street Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling traditional snacks like koulouri (sesame bread) and gyros.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kalamariá has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for beach activities. In contrast, winter temperatures typically range from 5-15°C (41-59°F), with occasional rain. Spring and autumn are mild, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet with a smile.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and it's polite to try all dishes offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kalamariá is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it is advisable to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded places. Keep personal belongings secure and be cautious at night in less populated areas. Emergency services can be contacted through the European emergency number 112.

Tipping in Kalamariá

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, while rounding up the bill is appreciated in cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers to the waterfront; expect larger crowds and vibrant nightlife.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop for walks and hikes.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; it's a quieter time to explore local culture and cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Kalamariá at Night

Kalamariá boasts a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues. The waterfront area is particularly popular, offering a variety of options from casual tavernas to upscale cocktail bars. Live music, especially traditional Greek music, can often be found in the evenings, creating an enjoyable atmosphere for both locals and visitors. The nightlife extends well into the early hours, making it a bustling hub for socializing.

Hiking in Kalamariá

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Olympus Trail

A famous hiking trail leading up to Mount Olympus, offering stunning views and diverse flora.

Seich Sou Nature Park

A network of trails suitable for hiking and biking, featuring abundant wildlife and scenic viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach Kalamariá by plane.

Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)

Located about 15 km from Kalamariá, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kalamariá is highly walkable, especially along the waterfront and in the central areas where shops and restaurants are concentrated. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones make for pleasant strolling. However, some hilly areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Kalamariá attracts many young professionals due to its proximity to Thessaloniki and vibrant lifestyle.

Families

Many families choose to live in Kalamariá for its parks, schools, and community atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Kalamariá, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with many youth programs and amateur leagues available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kalamariá can be moderate to heavy during peak hours, especially on main roads leading to Thessaloniki. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the suburb to the city; however, schedules may vary, and having a local map or app is recommended for navigation.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalamariá.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and grilled vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places offer gluten-free bread and dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Kalamariá is generally good, with several public and private hospitals available. Pharmacies are widespread, and many staff members speak English. For serious medical issues, Thessaloniki offers advanced medical facilities and specialists.

Discover Greece

Read more in our Greece 2025 Travel Guide.

Greece Travel Guide