We were in Greece for a little over two weeks and I enjoyed the food and wine so much I gained 7 pounds while we were there. Oops. Now I’m hitting the gym multiple times a week. It always amazes me how easy it is to gain weight and how hard it is to lose. It’s so unfair.

One great thing about Greek food is no matter what part of Greece you visit the Greek Islands or the mainland, it is easy to find something you like to eat, even if you have dietary restrictions. If you are vegetarian you will be in heaven.

Now, I left out some obvious foods, like olives and tzatziki. The olives in Greece are phenomenal, and I think we ate them with at least one meal today. The same goes for tzatziki. It is served with lots of food and should be enjoyed as much as possible!

16 Greek Foods and Drinks in Greece You Must Try

1. Gyros

Okay, maybe I shouldn’t put it at the top of the list, but they are just so good. I could have eaten a gyro every day we were in Greece. And they are so cheap! In Greece, you can have them add French Fries inside your gyro. Also, many times they offer a gyro plate or a gyro, be careful when you order or you will end up with the plate which tends to cost double.

2. Greek Salad (Choriatiki)

When in doubt, you cannot go wrong with a Greek Salad. Everywhere you go, these salads will be available and they are always good.

3. Souvlaki

One of the most popular things to eat in Greece is Souvlaki. It’s always some type of grilled meat cut into small pieces and served on a skewer.

4. Kebabs

Kebabs is another popular dish that can be served in several ways. When we tried it the meat kebabs were topped with tzatziki and served over pita bread.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmadakia)

Stuffed grape leaves are not my favorite, but if you are in Greece you have to give them a try. They are certainly much tastier in Greece than in the places in America where I have had them. They are grapevine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, and spices.

6. Moussaka

Moussaka is an eggplant- or potato-based dish popular in Greece. Some refer to it as eggplant casserole. Greek Moussaka is layers of minced beef or lamb cooked in a tomato-based sauce, layered with eggplants and béchamel sauce, and baked together.

7. Halloumi

Halloumi is a type of white Greek cheese and in my opinion the best cheese I have ever had. I’m obsessed with it after our last trip to Greece. It’s a mixture of goat and sheep cheese, except I think it tastes nothing like goat cheese. I hate goat cheese.

Fun Fact: In ancient Greece, they believed that the son of Apollo, Aristaios, was the god that brought cheese-making to Greece.

8. Tirokafteri

Tirokafteri also sometimes referred to as Ktipiti is a warm cheese dip.  Ingredients most commonly include feta and sometimes other types of soft white cheese, red cherry pepper, roasted peppers, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and yogurt. It is commonly eaten as part of a  platter, or by itself, with slices of bread.

9. Stuffed Aubergine

Aubergine means eggplant, so this is usually a vegetarian dish. The eggplant is stuffed with things like cheese, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and baked. Sometimes, it is stuffed with meat. This was one of the best things I ate while in Greece.

10. Pastitsio

Pastitsio is a Greek baked pasta dish that contains ground lamb and béchamel sauce. Many people refer to it as Greek lasagna or a Greek casserole.

11. Gemista

Gemista is a stuffed pepper dish that is usually vegetarian but sometimes stuffed with meat.

12. Loukoumades

Loukoumades are like Greek donut holes. Loukoumades are little fried dough balls that are sometimes sprinkled with sweet syrup or honey, nuts, and cinnamon. We found these being served as dessert on a dinner buffet and as breakfast on a breakfast buffet.

13. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a staple for breakfast in Greece. Drizzle some honey over it and add a bit of granola and enjoy.

14. Greek Wines

When in Greece you must experience some of their wines. They have wines I had never heard of before. Try Agiorgitiko the Merlot of Greece, an Assyrtiko, usually from Santorini, a Malagousia, a Moschofilero, and a Xinomavro.

The most popular wine is Restina. Retsina is a Greek white resinated wine, which has been made for over 2,000 years.

15. Ouzo

Ouzo is a dry anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece, Cyprus, Lebanon and Israel. Its taste is similar to other anise liquors like pastis and sambuca. I think it tastes like black licorice. It’s strong, up to 90 proof, so only drink a little!

16. Tsipouro

Tsipouro is a pomace (the residue of the wine press) brandy from Greece and in particular Thessaly, Epirus, Macedonia, and the island of Crete. Tsipouro is a pure grape distillate, similar to Italian Grappa.  Tsipouro is a strong distilled spirit containing 40-45% alcohol by volume.

Take a walking food tour in Athens, Greece.

Have you experienced the fantastic drinks and food in Greece? What is your favorite Greek food?

We would love suggestions for more things to try in the comments below!

Read Next:

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece

Mykonos with Kids

Thessaloniki on a Budget

How to island hop in Greece with Blue Star Ferries

The post 16 Must Try Greek Foods and Drinks in Greece appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Strolling by the Waterfront

Are you confused about the best place to begin your exploration in this great city? There is absolutely no need to rack your brain. This is probably one of the coolest things you can do in Thessaloniki. Believe it or not, the waterfront has got lots of exciting activities that you can explore.

Close to the ocean, is a promenade. You can spot lots of buildings in the town. One of them is the White Tower. It is also possible to enjoy those sounds that are produced by waves. You will definitely have a great time. It is always lively with different categories of people. 

Watching the Sunset

There are two ways you can do this. The first is through a boat. You will come across different ships and cruises which are used by tourists on daily basis. Just enter any of them and you will be taken around Thessaloniki’s Bay. In most cases, these trips are free so long as you can buy a drink.

The second way is going to the waterfront. Just find a quiet space before sunset. For the ultimate experience, it is recommended you avoid the oceanfront. This is because there are always lots of people there. Instead, you can get a perfect view from on top of the hill.

The Backroom

It is quite amazing that many people do know about this restaurant in Thessaloniki. It is the perfect spot where you can get access to Italian and Argentine cuisine. For instance, it has Italian and Argentine waffles for breakfast. There are also pancakes, omelets, and crepes. The burgers, salads, and steaks that you will find here are mouthwatering.

The price for its food ranges from $8-120$. Checking out the backroom restaurant goes beyond eating great meals. In addition to such, it is also known for having amazing ocean views. For the cost of transportation, there is no fixed rate since it depends on where you are coming from. For instance, the distance from the White Tower of Thessaloniki to The Backroom is around 0.2miles.

Church of Agia Sofia

Having been existing since the 8th century, Church of Agia Sofia has managed to stand the test of time. Although that there are other churches in Thessaloniki, it is one of the oldest around. The first thing you will notice about this impressive structure is its dome. For instance, apart from its large domed roof, there is also the altar which is semi-domed.

The wall paintings as well as mosaics that you will stumble upon here are amazing. The latter is what the supporting arch of the dome has been covered with. These have 6-winged angels known as hexapterygon.

Pízza Poselli

There is one feat that Pízza Poselli has been able to achieve over the years. This is being able to present pizza in a way that is special and unique. If you are a huge fan of pizza, never fail to check out what this restaurant has got to offer. The Greeks are really good at making pizzas. Pízza Poselli remains one of the best places to eat in in Thessaloniki.

The street foods you will get access to are of the highest quality. There is no need to be worried because it offers value for money. You can get access to cuisines here for around $2-$12. These have their origins from Southern-Italian, Campania, Neapolitan and other places.

Church of Agios Demetrios

There was a period when Thessaloniki was the largest among others in Byzantine Empire. During this period (629–634 AD), that Church of Agios Demetrios started to gain popularity. As a result of the fire it had experienced in the past, this building has been reconstructed on different occasions. The 40s was the last time it got restructured. 

It was reconsecrated in 1949 using tombstone pieces from Jewish cemetery. The truth is that the Church of Agios Demetrios still remains one of the most ancient churches in Thessaloniki that you must visit. Tourists are treated well so long as you are decently dressed.

Vregmeni Gata Restaurant

Whether you are searching for the best place to have breakfast, lunch or even dinner, Vregmeni Gata Restaurant ticks all the boxes. People are quick to give this place positive reviews due to the varieties available to meet different needs and tastes. The menu is rich and its ingredients are of very high quality.

It is worthy of note to point out that this restaurant has young workers. They are capable of making you have some unforgettable moments. It also offers diets that are vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free.

Visiting Kapani Market

Going to Thessaloniki without checking out its oldest market means your trip isn’t complete. There are lots of facts to find out about this market. For instance, in 1821, it became a martyrdom site where 5 elders got hanged by Turks. This market is located at the heart of the city and has different items you can purchase. These could be drinks, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish and many others. Due to its liveliness, visitors are known to always have an ultimate experience.

In case you can’t visit the Kapani market for some reason, another option to explore is Modiano market. It is enclosed and was built between 1922-1925.

Taking A Walk Around Ano Poli Neighborhood

Ano Poli neighborhood is one place that many tourists do not talk about too often. However, this location tends to offer a unique experience. As compared to the city center, it is calm as well as quiet because you won’t find too many people around. One of the best parts about Ano Poli neighborhood is that you will see different buildings and structures. It is the best way to find out more about the popular Byzantine era. Walking up the hill gives you the chance to see the city from one spot. It is also possible to board any of those local buses instead of walking.

Visit The Trigonion Tower

This is another thing you can do in Thessaloniki. For instance, it enables you to discover more about the popular Byzantine walls. The Trigonion Tower got built back in the 15th century to ensure the city wasn’t invaded. Of course, you can bet that it did a perfect job in that regard. Also, the tower’s entrance offers a perfect viewpoint.

Please note that for adults, the fee for exploring this tower is €6. The opening hours during the summer season are 10 am-5 pm. During winter, it is open from 8:30 am-3:30 pm. It is not open on Tuesdays though.

Visiting The Eptapyrgion

Probably you have been hearing about the Eptapyrgion. This is a fortress which got built during the 14th century. Between 1890 and 1989 (100 years), this place was used as a prison.  However, it is currently a museum that many people check out on their trips to Thessaloniki. This will only cost you €6 and it also gives you access to Trigonion Tower. You can rest assured that it offers the ultimate fun.

Checking Out Rotunda

Rotunda has become a favorite landmark for most tourists that usually visit Thessaloniki during their vacation periods. The Romans decided to have it built for Emperor Galerius (as a mausoleum) around 306AD. It is however important to point out that Rotunda would later be converted into a church. In other words, it was never used as a mausoleum which is the primary purpose for which it was built. This is quite amazing given the reputation of Emperor Galerius when it came to persecuting Christians.

Visiting of Museums

There are 8 museums in Thessaloniki. These are Thessaloniki Museum of Photography, Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art, Jewish Museum, Noesis – Science Center and Technology Museum, Cinema Museum, Byzantine Culture Museum, Atatürk Museum, and Archaeological Museum. Do you want to know the best part? It is the fact that each of these museums offers something very unique.

For instance, Jewish Museum helps to uncover facts about Sephardic Jews residing in Thessaloniki. Cinema museum is a place that is existing for the collection, preservation, and displaying of artifacts that Greece is known for. Just find out the museum that can meet your needs. Their ticket prices usually differ. 

Explored by Phil from JOURNICATION Travel Blog 

In Thessaloniki, I highly recommend staying at the Astoria Hotel. 

Read Next:

Thessaloniki on a Budget

10 Day Family Vacation to Halkidiki, Greece

The post Things to Do In Thessaloniki appeared first on Mommy Travels.

After spending two weeks in Halkidiki with my kids, I cannot recommend visiting there highly enough. From the first day to the last day we had a wonderful experience. In order for you to recreate our trip I have put together a 10 day Halkidiki Itinerary.

About Halkidiki

Halkidiki is a region in northern Greece known for its jutting peninsulas, which feature Mediterranean forests that give way to sandy beaches in sheltered bays. Kassandra, the westernmost peninsula, is the most developed, offering modern resorts and nightclubs. The region’s notable archaeological sites include Stageira, Aristotle’s birthplace, and Olynthus, known for its well-preserved mosaic floors.

The three small peninsulas, known as the three legs of Halkidiki Greece. The first leg is Kassandra and has popular tourist resorts with organized beaches. The second peninsula is Sithonia, with less organized resorts and more secluded coves. The third peninsula, Mount Athos, is a close monastic community where entrance is allowed only to men and that’s after getting special permission.

If you want to experience Greece, but cannot afford the expensive islands this is where you should go. 

This itinerary has you visiting Kassandra, Mount Athos, and Thessaloniki. You will need a car rental to complete this trip.

10 Halkidiki Itinerary for Families

Today is Arrival Day: Fly into Thessanoliki and travel down to Kassandra where I recommend staying at Alexander the Great beach hotel. Now you might be wondering why you do not just start in Thessaloniki instead of heading to the beach. You could do this instead, but I like to spend my jet lag days at the beach instead of a city so I can at least get a tan while I sleep!

Day One

You’ve traveled a long way and need to go easy on yourself. You probably are jet-lagged and in need of a nap or two. Today enjoy the hotel and the beach, including Alexander beach and Agora Beach. Plan to have lunch at Agora Beach a super casual beach bar with no dress code. 

Day Two

Explore Halkidiki’s The round of Kassandra, by car, which is a full day.

Suggested stops along the way:

• Pefkochori  – Plan to have lunch at Smile Gyros. They have super cheap food and you can sit along the beach and watch people swim. There is also an outlet store nearby where you can get super cheap clothes. 
• Kriopigi Village
• Paliouri Village
• Agia Paraskeyi – Loutra this is where you will find thermal baths. Now do not go looking for the “springs” thinking they will be in the forest. This is more like an indoor pool. On the side of the building it will say spa. For a family of four the cost will be around 30 euros. 
• Possidi Beach
• Skioni Fisherman Village

Tonight, visit at the Afytos Village for dinner & drinks. If you are unsure what to order, be sure to read our list of must eat Greek foods!

Day Three: Halkidiki Boat Tour

Take a day sailing cruise with www.daysailing.gr. The day cruise will take up half of the day, but the rest of the day you can relax at the beach. When you get back indulge in a massage down on the Spa beach Kiosk at the hotel.

What to expect Day Sailing!

Pick Up and Return Service from Alexander the Great Beach Hotel is included!
They typically start sailing at 10:00 from Nea Fokea to Athitos, depending on the weather conditions.

Shortly after setting sail, you will make the first stop for swimming. About 45 minutes later, the trip continues to Kriopigi where we will go ashore in a dinghy to have a drink at the amazing beach bar, Agora Beach Bar. Your boat guide will order a fruit salad free of charge, but you may want to bring some money if you want other items. If you like, you can swim at this beach. After you leave the beach bar there is one more stop for swimming at Kalithea Beach. It’s during this break that you will be provided lunch back on board. Obviously, kids will get hungry way before this, so take some snacks. After that, the boat heads back to Nea Fokea and should arrive at the port by 4:30 pm.

I recommend not taking small children day sailing. If you do, take your own life jacket. All of the life jackets aboard are for adults. I recommend this travel life jacket. Also, keep in mind that this is a long day, so it may not be suited for older kids either.

Day Four

After breakfast, head out and start making your way to the adorable town of Ouranoupolis. Here you will check into Xenia Ouranoupolis hotel. There are some nice stops along the way, including the stone village of Arnea. This is a good spot for a light lunch and a traditional Greek coffee.

Arrive by early evening in Xenia Ouranoupolis. You definitely want to be here before sunset. The sunsets we experience each night were stunning. 

Day Five

Boat Rental (you drive by your self – no license required) and discover the DRENIA ISLANDS with your own boat and the beaches of Ammouliani only accessible by boat. Visit the Spa for a massage or facial and head into town for dinner. In Ouranoupolis I recommend eating at Kritikos Restaurant.

Day Six

Check out of your hotel and go on a Mt. Athos Cruise to see the monasteries. This tour is a bit boring for younger kids, but history buffs will love it. They will point out monasteries with artifacts like part of the cross that Jesus was crucified on and part of the cloth Jesus was wrapped after the crucifixion.

After your tour head to the ferry. You will take the ferry with your car to Ammouliani Island and stay the Agionissi Resort. Here you will experience a true disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy the hotel, spa, its beaches, and its serenity.

Day Seven

Enjoy the Island where you will find many photo opportunities. The island is home to a small fishermen village with only 500 residents. It won’t take long to explore the area. 

Day Eight

Depart from Amouliani and head back to Thessaloniki where you will find the closest major airport.

Check in the Astoria Hotel in Thessaloniki in downtown and kick off your urban discoveries. Enjoy the day and night time in the city. Thessaloniki is the second -argest city in Greece. It’s an extremely affordable city for families to visit. Learn more about visiting Thessaloniki on a budget.

Day Nine

Continue exploring, start the morning with a visit to the fish & meat market, White Tower, Trigonion Tower, and many more sites. Many of the historical sites are free or super cheap. 

If you’d like, take a day trip to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the center of the ancient Macedonian dynasty. The Petralona Cave is another great day trip from Thessaloniki. 

Day 10

Sadly, your adventure has come to an end, but I suppose all vacations eventually have to end. Head to the airport and head home of drop down to one of the Greek Islands like Santorini or Mykonos.

Have you vacationed in Halkidiki? We would love to know your recommendations. If you have any tips on places to eat or things to do be sure to leave it in the comments below. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

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There seems to be a myth that Greece is unattainable because it’s un-affordable. I am happy to report that this is not the case.

Yes, you can spend two thousand dollars a night on a hotel room if you choose, but you can also easily stick to a budget staying at a hotel less than $190 a night for a family. Greece like many other places offers a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and activities at all different price points. One of the most affordable cities to see that is packed with history, architecture, phenomenal food and more is Thessaloniki in northern Greece.

Thessaloniki, one of the most affordable cities in Greece

Thessaloniki flies under the radar for most people, especially Americans. We are so far away from Europe that we tend to get only the highlight reel of Europe. And although the highlight reel is fantastic and all those places are worth seeing there are so many more cities, beaches, and islands worth visiting too. And I have no problem admitting that I was one of those Americans that knew nothing of Thessaloniki until the Astoria Hotel invited my kids and I for a visit. I was completely unfamiliar with Thessaloniki, but I have spent enough time traveling through Europe to know it was probably going to be awesome.

Low Cost and Activities in Thessaloniki

One of the best things for families in any city in Greece is that museums or landmarks typically do not charge kids an admission fee. For example, we toured through the White Tower in Thessaloniki and I paid a whopping 4 euros. All three kids were no charge and the English electronic audio tour was free. All four of us got to experience it for essentially one euro each.

Do you realize the amount of money it saves a family not to have to pay for kids? The savings you are going to experience here, not having to pay for your kids to get into various attractions, is going to be enough to cover a night or two of your hotel stay!

We spent just three days in Thessaloniki, but we were able to see so much. Every church we came across was open and free for the public to come in and view. The same went for many of the historical monuments we stopped by. All of them we attempted to go inside were open. We went into the Trigonion Tower and walked all around for free. The views up there were excellent.

Also completely free are the many churches located here. They have absolutely beautiful churches all around town. They are free to go in and look at.

Throughout Thessaloniki are areas for pedestrians only making it much easier to walk around with the kids. These areas are typically loaded with shopping and dining options. Kids will enjoy walking around more with the freedom that comes with no cars.

Affordable Accommodations in Thessaloniki

An easy way to save some money is staying at an affordable hotel. Take it a step further by making sure that the hotel also includes breakfast.

In Thessaloniki, I highly recommend staying at the Astoria Hotel. They hosted us and I am so glad they did. Our rooms were sparkling clean, spacious enough for the four of us, and it included breakfast and dinner. The breakfast each day was a nice buffet as was the dinner. I noticed that they have a kosher kitchen as well. I looked it up when we got home and sure enough, Astoria Hotel is a certified Kosher Chabad center. They provide traditional Greek Kosher meals and Shabbat rituals. Daily a la carte KOSHER menu and special gala menus are available upon request.

I also loved the location, it was fabulous. We were across the street from Ladadiki a vibrant pedestrian-only area full of bars and restaurants. The kids and I enjoyed this area so much we ended up having three meals here.

Find Discounted Flights

The biggest cost you will occur is getting yourself there, but they do have a few budget airlines that fly in there. Watch for good deals, especially on budget airlines that fly in here like Aegean Airlines. There are some sights that let you set up alerts so you get notified if the price drops below a certain point.

If you cannot find an affordable flight to Thessaloniki an alternative option is flying into Athens and taking the train to Thessaloniki. This is what we did. You can read more about that and my tips for taking trains with kids.

Here’s a short video I put together of our two days in Thessaloniki.

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