# Excursion to Thessaloniki from Halkidiki > The easiest big excursion: 1-1.5 hours drive, a route that works (coastal-Kapani-Upper Town) and the best food in Greece. Thessaloniki is the easiest "big" day out from Halkidiki: an hour's drive, and a city awaits that blends 2,300 years of history with the best food in Greece. The secret to a good day: don't try to see everything — pick one route and let it flow. ## The classic one-day route - **Morning — waterfront and centre**: Park near the White Tower, walk the Nea Paralia, then Kamara and the Rotunda. - **Noon — markets and food**: Kapani and Modiano for the city's edible side — souvlaki, bougatsa, tsoureki, coffee everywhere. - **Afternoon — Ano Poli**: The walls, the Byzantine lanes and the city's best view from Eptapyrgio — the part most visitors miss. ## If you love museums Two world-class options side by side: the Archaeological Museum (Macedonian gold) and the Museum of Byzantine Culture — allow 1.5-2 hours each. With kids, NOESIS (planetarium/science) at the eastern exit sits right on the drive home. ## Food: not to miss - **Bougatsa** with cream or cheese for breakfast — the local ritual. - **Souvlaki/gyros**: The city serves them better than anywhere. - **Tsoureki**: Grab one for the drive back — and see the [street food guide](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/blog/street-food-halkidiki) for the Halkidiki version. ## Practical - **When**: A weekday over Saturday — less traffic and parking stress. Avoid the Friday 17:00-19:00 rush towards Halkidiki. - **Parking**: Paid central car parks (Nikis Ave/XANTH) — don't hunt free spots in August. - **Heat**: In July-August the city bakes at midday — do morning + late afternoon with a long lunch between. ## Practical notes for international visitors Thessaloniki doubles up for international visitors: a day trip — and a city bonus on arrival or departure day, since your flight goes through SKG anyway. A late lunch in the market halls beats any airport lounge. English gets you everywhere; tipping is round-up, and park in a paid garage rather than circling — fees are modest. ## Frequently asked questions ### Is it worth it with kids? Yes, adapted: the waterfront by bike or scooter, NOESIS, and ice cream on Nea Paralia instead of a museum marathon. ### How many hours do I need? 6-7 hours in the city is the realistic target — enough for the centre, food and Ano Poli without stress. More ideas: [all the day trips from Halkidiki](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/blog/best-day-trips-from-halkidiki). --- Source: Type: BlogPosting · Halkidiki, Greece