Thessaloniki, Greece
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Thessaloniki.
Aristotelous Square is the main hub with cafes, shopping, and waterfront access. Safe and well-lit with police around, but watch for pickpockets in crowds. Central location for everything.
Aristotelous Square is where things happen in Thessaloniki - locals meet for coffee, tourists photograph the neoclassical buildings, street performers work the crowds. The square opens onto the waterfront with direct access to the 4.5km promenade and sea views. A €20M redevelopment project is underway in 2026 to improve accessibility and public spaces. Shopping streets like Tsimiski and Mitropoleos run off from here and stay busy into the evening. Police patrol regularly, lighting is good. The White Tower is 10 minutes along the waterfront. Main problem is pickpocketing when it's crowded - keep valuables secure. Weekends the square has activity until midnight with street musicians and people walking around, but stick to main streets rather than side alleys. Staff at restaurants and cafes generally speak enough English to help with menus and directions. You'll see women eating alone at cafes, which is normal here.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
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"Felt safe walking around late at night with people around"
"Pickpockets in crowded areas so kept phone and wallet secure"
"Lots of cafes where sitting alone felt normal"
"Police visible especially around Aristotelous Square"
"Found English speakers in restaurants and shops"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Navarinou Square mixes Roman ruins with cafe culture. Popular student hub, active 24/7, diverse food options. Constant activity keeps it safe.
Ladadika is the historic nightlife quarter with restaurants and bars in old buildings. Safe with decent security, good for evening dining and drinks. Gets rowdy late - stick with crowds and taxi home when it closes.
Valaoritou has the alternative nightlife - indie bars, rock clubs, underground music. Cheaper drinks, younger artistic crowd. Constant activity provides safety but gets packed and loud late. For people into alternative music and party scenes.
Help other women stay safe in City Center / Aristotelous Square
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.