Rising proudly on Thessaloniki’s waterfront, the White Tower is more than a landmark — it is the very emblem of the city. With roots stretching back to the 15th century, this cylindrical stone structure offers visitors a fascinating blend of history, panoramic views, and cultural storytelling.
A Tower with a Complex Past
The White Tower was constructed during the Ottoman rule, most likely replacing an older Byzantine fortification. It served many roles over the centuries: a defensive bastion, prison, and even a site of executions — earning it the grim nickname "Tower of Blood." Its present name was adopted in the late 19th century, possibly after it was whitewashed as part of an effort to improve its reputation.
Today, the tower is a museum managed by the Thessaloniki Ephorate of Antiquities, housing a permanent exhibition that traces the city's long and diverse history — from the Roman and Byzantine eras to the modern age.
What to See Inside
Visitors ascend the spiral ramp that winds up six floors, each featuring thematic exhibits that include:
- Daily life in Thessaloniki across the centuries
- The city’s urban development, trade, and multicultural identity
- Interactive multimedia installations and rare historical photographs
The journey ends at the rooftop, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360° views of Thessaloniki, Mount Olympus in the distance, and the shimmering waters of the Thermaic Gulf.
Visitor Information
- Location: Nikis Avenue, Thessaloniki waterfront
- Opening Hours:
- Summer (April–October): Daily, 08:00–20:00
- Winter (November–March): 09:00–16:00
- Admission Fees:
- General: €6
- Reduced: €3 (students, EU seniors, etc.)
- Free admission on select days, such as the first Sunday of the month (Nov–Mar) and May 18 (International Museum Day)
- Access: The tower is not wheelchair accessible due to its historical structure, but the surrounding promenade is.
Tips for Visitors
- Go early or late in the day for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the Nea Paralia promenade, dotted with modern art installations, gardens, and cafés.
- Photography is allowed — don’t forget your camera for that sunset rooftop shot!
A visit to Thessaloniki is incomplete without stepping into the White Tower, a place where stone walls whisper stories of empires, revolutions, and the heartbeat of a city that has never stopped evolving.
