A scooter ride in Thessaloniki suits the waterfront particularly well, because the city stretches along the Thermaic Gulf and distances are short. On a 125cc scooter you can easily go from the White Tower to the Concert Hall, continue towards Kalamaria and, if you like, reach Peraia. This guide gives a route with stops and the points that need care.
The Thessaloniki waterfront
The city's new waterfront extends over around five kilometres and links the port with the White Tower and, further on, with the Concert Hall. According to tourist guides, it is a place for walking and cycling, with a cycle path, cafes and children's play areas.
The New Waterfront is for pedestrians and bicycles, not for scooters. The scooter stays on the roads beside it, such as Nikis Avenue, and if you want to walk it you park and continue on foot.
Route: from the White Tower to the Concert Hall
Start from the White Tower and follow the seafront road towards the Concert Hall. On the way you will see the statue of Alexander the Great, the Umbrellas and the cafes of the waterfront. It is an easy route and there is no need to hurry.
Stop wherever you like, but park in a permitted spot and lock the scooter. Do not leave your helmet or other things in view, even for a few minutes.
Continuing towards Kalamaria
From the Concert Hall you continue south-east towards Kalamaria, a suburb south of the centre that guides link with its seafront and cafes. The centre of Thessaloniki is easy to reach from there.
The area is busy in the evenings and at weekends. If you want a calmer ride, choose a morning hour or a weekday.
As far as Peraia
If you have half a day, you can continue towards Peraia, which tourist guides regard as one of the closest beaches to Thessaloniki and place about ten kilometres from Kalamaria along the coast. It has cafes, restaurants and bars that fill up on summer evenings.
Allow for the fact that the distance is longer than a ride around the centre. Check the fuel level before you leave and ask the store whether there is a kilometre limit.
When to go
The waterfront faces west, so sunset is one of the best times. At the same time crowds gather, and traffic and parking get harder. Go earlier and stay until sunset.
In summer the midday heat is intense. A helmet and closed shoes protect you, and a bottle of water in the space under the seat, if there is one, helps.
Parking and stops
Park where it is allowed. Do not block pedestrian crossings, ramps for people with disabilities and entrances, and do not ride onto the waterfront pavements. Follow the signs and whatever applies at each spot.
Lock the steering and use the anti-theft lock if the store gives you one. Do not leave documents or valuables in the space under the seat.
Safety on the ride
Wear a helmet on every ride, even short ones. Take care on the seafront road: pedestrians crossing, cyclists, vehicles leaving car parks, and sand or gravel on the road surface that can make the scooter slide.
If you drink alcohol, do not ride. When it rains the road surface is slippery, especially on road markings and manhole covers, so increase your distance from the vehicle ahead and brake more gently.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ride the scooter on the New Waterfront?
No, it is a space for pedestrians and bicycles. Ride on the roads that run alongside it and park in a permitted spot.
How long does the ride from the White Tower to Kalamaria take?
It depends on traffic and stops. The distance is short, but at peak times or on a weekend evening it takes longer.
Is it worth continuing to Peraia?
If you have half a day, yes. It is about ten kilometres from Kalamaria along the coast, and it has cafes and restaurants.
Which scooter should I choose for the ride?
A 125cc scooter with an automatic gearbox is enough for the waterfront. See the available models for your dates.
Where do I leave the helmet when I stop?
Ask the store about space under the seat or a top case and about an anti-theft lock. Do not leave the helmet in view.
Useful destination resources
These routes are editorial suggestions. Check access, conditions and current opening hours before you travel.