Museums in Thessaloniki

The Archaeological Museum aims to present the way of life and socialization of the tribes that lived in Thessaloniki and the wider region of Macedonia from prehistoric times onward.

The Museum for the Macedonian Struggle is housed in a 19th-century Neoclassical building designed by the famous German architect Ernst Ziller. Through valuable exhibits, the museum presents the fight of the Macedonians and the people from northern Greece to be liberated from Ottoman rule and incorporated into the Greek State.

The two Balkan Wars that took place in the early 20th century are very significant for Thessaloniki and the region of Macedonia in general. To commemorate these historical events, the Museum of the Balkan Wars was created in 1999, housed inside a restored mansion from the late 19th century.

The Museum of Byzantine Culture opened to the public in 1993. It houses 11 rooms in total that host permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as educational programs.

The Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in the Helexpo Exhibition Centre on Egnatia Street. It aims to promote Greek and international contemporary art and contribute to Greek cultural life.

The Thessaloniki War Museum hosts seven permanent collections featuring items of major significance, including the official protocol of surrender of Thessaloniki to the Greeks.

The Folklife and Ethnological Museum in Villa Modiano introduces guests to the culture and traditions of Northern Greece’s recent past.

The Waterworks Museum is housed in the old water supply building that worked continuously from 1894 till 1978. It displays the history of water supply in Thessaloniki.

The aim of the museum is to collect, preserve and display items related to the history of cinema in Greece. The museum is based on the collection of Nikos Bililis, a cinematographer from Thessaloniki.

This museum aims to record Greek sports heritage and promote the Olympic ideal. It is housed in a large area near the Kaftanzoglio Stadium.

Casa Bianca is an imposing building in the district of Epoches that serves as an exhibition space for the Municipal Gallery of Thessaloniki.

The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki is housed in one of the few Jewish buildings that weren't destroyed in the great fire of 1917. Its exhibits present the vast history and culture of the Jews who lived in Thessaloniki since the 15th century. 

The Teloglion Arts Foundation aims to promote and preserve the artistic and cultural heritage of Greece through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural happenings.

Established in 1998, the Thessaloniki Photography Museum highlights Greek and international photography through exhibitions, cultural events, educational programs, and workshops.

The Atatürk Museum is housed in the old home of modern Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. It lies adjacent to the Turkish Consulate.

NOESIS, the most significant science center and technology museum in the country, houses amazing permanent and temporary exhibitions and is complemented by an interactive Technopark, a 3D Cosmotheater, a Planetarium and a thrilling Simulator.

The Kalemkeris Museum houses a unique collection of items related to photography, as well as extensive material related to the history of Greece.

The Greek Pharmaceutical Museum of Thessaloniki is a fantastic space filled with pharmaceutical exhibits, such as recipes, pills, old ingredients, and an array of medicinal tools.

The Museum of Illusions mesmerizes visitors with its unique exhibits of optical illusions, immersive rooms, and mind-blowing visual tricks.

The goal of this center is to save, record and study all kinds of sources referring to the history and culture of Thessaloniki. It has an interesting exhibition and a rich library.

The Thessaloniki Railway Museum showcases the history of Greece’s railways, through exhibits of old railway vehicles, uniforms, manuals, and antique items.

Alaca Imaret is a great sample of Ottoman architecture. It used to rank among the city’s most important buildings but is a not-so-known attraction nowadays.

The YMCA Basketball Museum aims to preserve and promote the history of basketball in Greece through a collection of collectible items, medals, jerseys, and trophies amongst others.

The Children’s Museum of Thessaloniki showcases historical items, books, and toys and organizes events to cultivate the education of children.

Zeitenlik is an allied military cemetery that houses the graves of fallen soldiers from World War I. The Museum of the French military sector showcases historical artifacts and informative documents that shine a light on the events that shaped the region during the war.

The Pontic Ladies Welfare Museum highlights the cultural and artistic heritage of Pontus through exhibits of household items, embroideries, costumes, and other works of art.

This is the first selfie museum in Greece. In it, you’ll find several props and backgrounds to take some of the most special photos through an entertaining experience.