Snowbird Destination Spotlight: Discover the Magic of Thessaloniki, Greece in Winter

Have you ever dreamed of living life in Greece, savouring its slow pace, enjoying fresh food and wine, and feeling fully immersed in the Mediterranean rhythm? 

For those hoping to experience a lifestyle from one of the world’s Blue Zones, where people tend to live the longest, Greece offers the perfect mix of lifestyle, culture, and cuisine. 

For Mary, 54, Customer Experience Manager at soNomad and originally from Serres, Greece, this dream becomes a reality every few years. She came to Canada when she was younger and used to return every summer, but now she prefers winter visits, travelling mostly with her husband and sometimes her children, while occasionally taking short trips on her own.

Learn how to plan your own winter getaway in Greece through Mary’s tips and experiences.

Why Did You Choose Thessaloniki in Greece for a Long Winter Stay?

“Greece is home for me. I was born in Serres, a small city in the north, so going back is always tied to family. That said, I usually stay in Thessaloniki, which is about an hour away and a lot more lively, kind of like the Montréal of Greece.

When I go, it’s not just for a quick visit. I stay for at least a month, sometimes more if I can swing it. My mother is still in Canada, but the rest of my extended family still lives in Greece. Having that network makes it easy to settle in, feel connected, and enjoy the local pace of life to the fullest.”

Before Travelling to Thessaloniki, How Did You Do Your Research and Prepare?

“I used TikTok a lot to research for my trip. In just 15 seconds, you can learn a great deal about a place, and the visual aspect helps me add spots to my itinerary. I also looked things up online and asked friends for tips.”

Where Did You Stay in Thessaloniki?

“Mostly I stayed with family, since a lot of them still live there. But for the little getaways or when family wasn’t around, I’d book hotels.”

What’s the Weather Like in Thessaloniki During the Winter?

“I love it because the weather stays mild. Even if it’s around 15 to 20 degrees, to me that’s the ideal temperature. I’m not a fan of heat that lasts too long. No need for winter boots or heavy jackets, just a light jacket, which makes exploring the cities much more pleasant.”

Did You Feel Safe in Thessaloniki?

“I felt very safe overall during my stays. Of course, like in any place, I wouldn’t recommend walking alone late at night. It’s always important to stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. 

Since I speak Greek, I feel more like a local, which helps me blend in and feel less vulnerable. The people there are genuinely friendly, and the hospitality is something special.”

What Is Important to Know About Staying Healthy in Greece?

“One thing I always keep in mind is to drink plenty of water, especially when it gets very hot outside. In Greece, it’s common to drink bottled water, and luckily, there’s a law that caps the price of water so you’re not stuck paying crazy amounts, like in some other places.”

How’s the Food in Thessaloniki? Any Local Dishes or Flavours That Stood Out to You?

“You really can’t compare it to anywhere else, especially if you love seafood. It’s fresh from the ocean straight to your plate. Thessaloniki is considered the culinary capital of Greece. 

People actually dress up to go out and eat because it’s an event. Even the fast food in Thessaloniki feels healthier than a lot of what you’d find in the rest of the country. Everything is fresh.

One thing I love is bougatsa, which is popular in Thessaloniki. It’s phyllo dough filled with custard and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon. It’s so good! 

Then there’s koulouri, which is like a bagel but thinner and bigger. Street vendors sell it on almost every corner, and it’s a Greek staple in every home. People go get it every morning. Funny story, my family in Serres used to have a bakery for over 100 years, where they made koulouri.

Greeks really love their coffee, especially a good freddo cappuccino. Honestly, if I have those three things, koulouri, bougatsa, and a freddo, I’m good to go!”

If You Don’t Speak Greek, Is It Possible to Travel There?

“I speak the language, so it’s easier for me. But most people there speak English and actually want to practise it. Even with me, sometimes they switch to English just to get some practice. Greeks love Canadians and genuinely want to talk.

In tourist areas, the signs are usually in English too, so it makes getting around easier for visitors.”

What Did You Enjoy Most About Thessaloniki?

“I love how laid back everything feels compared to the hustle and bustle over here. It’s urban, but there’s this slower rhythm to life that I appreciate. I could spend hours sipping my coffee by the ocean, just people-watching. Greeks in general might be a little too relaxed sometimes, but that’s part of the charm.

Of course, being with my family makes it even more special. The food is incredible, and there’s something comforting about eating dishes I grew up with. It’s home.

And even though I go often, the history and culture always amaze me. I still find new places to explore and things to learn every time I visit. I find there’s always something that makes me feel like a tourist again.”

What Are Some Things That Shook Up Your Routine During the Trip?

“Honestly, the whole don’t worry about it attitude in Greece always throws me off a little, even as someone who’s used to it. Over there, things happen on their own time. If you’re someone who likes to plan every hour of your day, that mindset just doesn’t fly. It can definitely be a bit of a culture shock.

You have to let go, be patient, and trust the process. And once you do, it’s actually kind of freeing.”

Is the Cost of Living More Expensive in Thessaloniki or Less Than in Canada?

“Oh, it’s definitely less expensive than in Canada.”

Transportation:

“It’s cheap. My family either drives me around, or I take the bus or a taxi. Even longer trips, like from one city to another, might cost 7 euros round trip by bus. You can’t beat that.”

Groceries and restaurants:

“Groceries are super affordable. They have weekly markets where you can show up with just a handful of coins and leave with bags full of fresh fruits, veggies, and even meat. 

Eating out is also really reasonable. You’ll see people ordering a whole bunch of appetizers to share with tables covered in small plates, and even with drinks. A full dinner for two can easily come to under 50 or 60 euros ($80-95 CAD).”

Accommodation:

“ If you avoid the high season in the summer, it’s not pricey, even in bigger cities like Thessaloniki. You can find a hotel for around 70 to 80 euros ($110-130 CAD) a night.”

Did You Find Any Tricks to Save Money During Your Long Winter Stay in Thessaloniki?

“Definitely. One of the easiest ways to save is by staying somewhere central, right in the city. That way, you can walk almost everywhere instead of relying on taxis. 

Another good tip is using the hop-on hop-off buses, which are super convenient for getting from one major sightseeing spot to another, especially when things are spread out. And they run all day, so you can get your money’s worth.”

What Day Trips Do You Recommend Around Thessaloniki?

“If you're staying in the north, Halkidiki is a must, especially in the summer. It’s a beautiful beach area that’s a lot less touristy and more affordable than going to the islands. In the off-season, it’s still worth visiting for the scenery and nearby towns. 

Mount Athos, known for its centuries-old monasteries, is also worth visiting. Even if you can’t enter the actual site (since access is restricted), there are day tours or bus routes that bring you close enough to appreciate the atmosphere. Many of these trips leave from Thessaloniki, so it’s quite accessible.”

How Did You Stay in Touch With Family and Friends During Your Extended Stay in Thessaloniki?

“I used an eSIM to stay connected the whole time and found it super convenient. 

You can also get a local SIM card from a shop once you're there, but you'll need your passport. It usually costs around 20 euros, and it’ll give you plenty of data to keep in touch with family and friends or navigate while you’re exploring.”

Did You Have Travel Insurance for This Long Trip to Thessaloniki? Did You Ever Need to Use It?

“Yes, I had additional coverage with soNomad for both medical and trip cancellation/interruption. Honestly, it’s so inexpensive that it’s worth being overprotected, especially if something unexpected happens. My husband’s insurance doesn’t cover much when it comes to pre-existing conditions, so I felt more secure having my own policy with soNomad.

And I’m glad I did! For the first time in my life, my leg swelled up on the plane. When it was time to fly home, the doctor actually recommended I delay my return by a couple of weeks to avoid flying too soon. I had to change my flight last minute, which cost $800, and my travel insurance covered it. The policy itself cost me around $60, so it was totally worth it.”

What Would You Say to Someone Who’s Thinking About Visiting Thessaloniki During a Long Winter Stay but Still Hesitating?

“There’s just so much to see and do in Greece. It’s full of history, yet it still feels modern and lively. Every time I go, I come back with a thousand photos. 

Whether you're looking to explore or just relax, it's the perfect place. You’ll eat like royalty without paying an arm and a leg. And honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who had something negative to say about Greece. It’s such a welcoming, social culture. ”

Greece is Calling You!

You can follow Mary’s lead and spend your winter discovering Greece. You will never get bored with charming streets, lively cafés, and delicious local cuisine. This alternative destination offers Canadian snowbirds a vibrant mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure. 

With thoughtful planning and Mary’s insights, your Greek winter escape could become the ultimate seasonal getaway year after year. And don’t forget to get your travel insurance with a quick quote from soNomad well before your departure, so you can cross that off your prep list!