Port information & tips for Salonika
Thessaloniki is the cultural heart of Northern Greece and delights cruise guests as a vibrant metropolis on the Thermaic Gulf. The city impresses with its millennia-old history as well as its lively, Mediterranean flair right by the sea. Highlights like the iconic White Tower, the magnificent Aristotelous Square, and the historic Ladadika district with its cozy tavernas are easily accessible from the port. Cruise ships dock at the central passenger terminal “Makedonia” at Pier 1, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the city center. Thanks to this prime location, visitors can reach the waterfront promenade in just a few minutes’ walk and can relax while exploring the architectural treasures and the famous gastronomy of Greece's second-largest city.
The port of Thessaloniki is located in the heart of the city and is excellently accessible for travelers from the DACH region thanks to its central location and the modern Makedonia passenger terminal. The immediate proximity to the city center and the short distances between the terminal and infrastructure allow for a relaxed start to your cruise through the Aegean.
Airplane
Thessaloniki Makedonia International Airport (SKG) is served directly by numerous cities such as Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich and is located only about 15 kilometers from the port. Thanks to a taxi ride of about 25 to 30 minutes or by using the X1 express bus line, you can reach the cruise terminal in the city center quickly and directly.
Car
The port is optimally connected to the Greek motorway network via the important A1 trunk road from the north and the A2 Egnatia Odos from the east and west. Secure parking areas such as P1 and P2 are available directly on the port premises for short and long-term parkers, and private parking garages in the immediate vicinity also offer convenient parking options near the terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the cultural diversity of Thessaloniki and the terminal's location right next to the historic Ladadika district, arriving the day before is highly recommended. Numerous hotels in the city center are within walking distance of the port, allowing you to explore the city's sights at your leisure and reach embarkation the next morning without any time pressure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
