Summer in Greece often means visiting the islands, spending days on the beach and ending them in a beach bar. But if you are more into city trips, then you may find yourself roaming the streets of Thessaloniki. But one thing you will quickly learn, is that the best way to beat the heat on a summer evening is to head upwards. Here’s a list of the best rooftop bars in Greece’s second city. Perfect for dancing the night away while enjoying incredible views of Thessaloniki.
Fragile
Bar, Contemporary, $$$
Fragile knows how to do summer right
One of the most popular rooftop bars in Thessaloniki, Fragile is located on the roof of a heritage building in Valaoritou, one of the city’s main nightlife areas. Boasting a minimal décor, it has a relaxed vibe that is a hit with the locals and serves creative, unique cocktails and drinks. Add to this an eclectic music selection and Fragile is one of the must-see spots for the summer. An address you won’t want to forget on those warmer nights.
Located inside a stunning neoclassical building in the vibrant district of Valaoritou, Urania is a bar with an easy-going attitude. While the bar organizes a few events throughout the month, it is mostly its low-key and unpretentious vibe, with delicious cocktails and eclectic music ranging from jazz, electronica and house music, that has seduced the Thessalonians. A little gem for summer nights in Thessaloniki.
Little Big House is a hostel located in one of the most scenic districts of Thessaloniki, Ano Poli, aka Upper Town. The building was actually an abandoned refugee home until it was turned into a hostel in 2012. As such, it boasts an old-world charm but the highlight is undeniably the little rooftop terrace, open to both guests and non-guests, where you can sample delicious homemade treats, coffee and refreshments, as well as alcoholic drinks. A great summer hangout to enjoy the views over the lower districts, Little Big House’s rooftop is a perfect spot for cosy afternoons or evening drinks with your buddies.
With décor reminiscent of a Cycladic island with its white and blue accents, Maroco is an ideal summer spot that will make you feel like you’ve travelled to an exotic paradise without jumping on a plane. It’s the ideal place for an afternoon drink that may end up turning into a full night out. The bar also organises themed parties, which will certainly add a touch of fun to your summer evenings.
One of the most impressive views of Thessaloniki from Castra Bar
If you find yourself wandering the streets of the historical district of Ano Poli, make sure to stop by Castra, an all-day bar where you will be rewarded with splendid vistas of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf. For a chilled morning coffee, an afternoon snack or an evening drink, you will love the scenic views, the relaxing ambiance and cool music selection.
It is impossible to create a list of rooftops bars in Thessaloniki without including Orizontes, the rooftop bar of the well-known Electra Palace Hotel. This classic address in the heart of town features panoramic views of Aristotelous Square, the city and Mount Olympus. More than just a bar, Orizontes features an elegant décor and serves decadent gourmet dishes and drinks. Whether you pop by for a mid-morning coffee, lunch al fresco or a romantic dinner, you will definitely remember your time at Orizontes.
With its minimalist yet luxurious touches, Vanilla World Skybar (also known as Vanilla Sky) offers fascinating views over the port of Thessaloniki, a modern aesthetic and delicious signature cocktails to sip on while doing some people watching over the waterfront and listening to a chill playlist. Perfect for those evenings where you want to feel you are back on the islands, Vanilla Sky is one of the best summer hangs in the city.
To Palio Hamam is part of the Bey Hamam, a former Ottoman bath house still standing in Thessaloniki
With its collection of ancient buildings and varied heritage, Thessaloniki boasts little gems that are often left unexplored. One of them is the Palio Hamam, an Ottoman bath house off Egnatia Street, which today hosts cultural events and the odd art exhibition. Its best-kept-secret is undeniably the rooftop bar, which offers views of the hammam and its domes. Perfect for a morning coffee or an evening drink with friends, To Palio Hamam Café Bar is a favourite among locals.
