Aristotelous Square
The city's emblematic square, opening onto the sea.
About
Aristotelous Square is the heart of Thessaloniki — the grand square that opens like an embrace toward the gulf and welcomes you into the city.
History & architecture
It was designed by the French planner Ernest Hébrard as part of the reconstruction after the great fire of 1917. The imposing neoclassical buildings framing it (such as the Electra Palace hotel) give it its monumental feel.
What to do
Coffee at the historic cafés, a walk down to the seafront and the White Tower, shopping on Tsimiski. It is the stage for every major event, concert and celebration in the city.
Good to know
Free to access and the ideal starting point for your first walk through the centre.
Updated: 10 September 2026
Where to eat nearby
Boston — Breakfast, Coffee & More
Breakfast, coffee and snacks to take away or delivered. The chain's branch on Konstantinou Karamanli.
★7.1 kmMavri Thalassa
A seafood restaurant overlooking the sea in Nea Krini. A family story that began in 1926 as an Asia Minor refugee's kafeneio.
Where to stay nearby
Similar
★White Tower
Thessaloniki's symbol on the waterfront: a 15th-century tower with a museum and city views.
★Rotunda (St George)
An imposing 4th-century Roman rotunda, a UNESCO monument with early-Christian mosaics.
★Arch of Galerius (Kamara)
A 4th-century Roman triumphal arch and the city's classic central meeting point.
★Byzantine Walls
The old town's walls and the finest view over Thessaloniki. A UNESCO monument.