Big Bus Tours has launched a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing service in Thessaloniki, adding Greece’s second-largest city to its network alongside Athens and giving travel agents a two-destination Greek product to sell.
The London-based operator, which describes itself as the world’s largest provider of open-top sightseeing bus tours, runs services in more than 25 cities across four continents. Thessaloniki marks its second Greek destination.
What the Thessaloniki Tour Covers
The Thessaloniki service operates on open-top double-decker buses along a single comprehensive route covering the city’s main landmarks. Key stops include the White Tower, the Rotunda of Galerius, the Arch of Galerius, the Archaeological Museum, the Cathedral of Agios Dimitrios and the Upper Town district of Ano Poli.
Buses depart from Stop 1 at the White Tower from 09:30, with the last departure at 16:15. Audio commentary is available in 9 languages, with complimentary headphones provided on board. A panoramic night tour is also included with select tickets.
Big Bus Tours offers two ticket types for Thessaloniki: a 24-hour Discover Ticket and a 48-hour Explore Ticket, the latter including the night tour. Tickets can be purchased online, at the Stop 1 ticket shop at the White Tower, or from on-street sales teams at stops across the route.
Athens Remains in the Portfolio
Athens continues as Big Bus Tours’ flagship Greek city, with its classic open-top route covering landmarks including the Acropolis. The two cities now form a paired Greek offering for trade partners looking to package multi-destination itineraries.
Thessaloniki as a Travel Destination
Thessaloniki is the capital of the Central Macedonia region and Greece’s second-largest city. Founded in 315 BC, it has a layered history shaped by Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman rule. Several of its early Christian and Byzantine monuments are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The city’s waterfront promenade, vibrant food scene and relatively lower visitor numbers compared to Athens have drawn growing interest from travellers seeking an alternative Greek urban break. Spring and autumn are considered the most comfortable seasons to visit, with summer temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius.
Big Bus Tours said the addition reflects demand for experiences beyond traditional Greek itineraries. Trade partners can book both Athens and Thessaloniki services through the Big Bus Tours trade portal at bigbustours.com.
