Greece Set for the Tourism Boost with Thessaloniki Infrastructure Projects, Including its New Metro Expansions, Expressways and Cultural Venue Upgrades

Published on November 28, 2025

Thessaloniki, one of Greece’s most dynamic cities, has embarked on a remarkable transformation that promises to upgrade its tourism sector and rank it among the major international destinations. Large-scale infrastructure works are in full swing, from a metro extension and new expressways, upgrading all cultural sites to form a modern hub for both cultural tourism and business travel.

These ambitious projects, outlined by Greek Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Dimas, will respond to the increased demand for tourism services and enhance mobility in one of Northern Greece’s most important urban centers. These improvements are expected to drive long-term tourism growth by making Thessaloniki more accessible, efficient, and appealing to both domestic and international visitors.

Tourism Impact: Making Thessaloniki a Leading Mediterranean Destination

As tourist demand rises globally, Thessaloniki is making a clear play to become a premier destination in the Mediterranean tourism market. The city’s growing tourism appeal is based not only on its historic significance but also its ability to offer modern amenities, convenient travel connections, and a growing portfolio of cultural and leisure experiences.

The metro extension, set for completion in 2026, is a critical step in improving the city’s accessibility. The extension will add five new stations, providing quicker, more efficient transportation for both tourists and locals. This will make it easier for visitors to access Thessaloniki’s cultural landmarks, including museums, historic sites, and seaside attractions, while also connecting them to nearby cities and tourist areas.

Modernizing Infrastructure to Support Tourism Growth and Job Creation

The Flyover expressway project, which is 36 percent complete, will further ease congestion and enhance mobility within the city. Once completed in 2027, this elevated corridor will significantly improve access between key areas of the city, including Thessaloniki’s airport, port, major hotels, and tourist attractions. Reduced travel times will make the city more tourist-friendly, offering travelers more time to explore Thessaloniki’s rich cultural offerings.

The port of Thessaloniki, another major focus of the city’s tourism strategy, is also undergoing extensive upgrades to handle the rising number of cruise passengers and city-break tourists. The expansion of Pier 6 and the strengthening of rail connections will make Thessaloniki a more competitive port for cruise tourism, contributing to both the local economy and the wider Mediterranean cruise route network.

These infrastructure improvements are expected to create significant job opportunities in the hospitality, transport, and tourism sectors, further strengthening the local economy and supporting community development. As tourism continues to grow, Thessaloniki’s urban transformation will ensure that the city remains attractive to global travelers seeking both luxury and authenticity in their travel experiences.

Sustainability and Green Spaces: Enhancing Thessaloniki’s Visitor Experience

In addition to the major infrastructure projects, Thessaloniki is also focusing on green spaces and sustainable tourism practices. The expansion of the seaside pedestrian zone and the creation of a new park in Harilaou are part of the city’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents while also making the city more welcoming and environmentally friendly for tourists.

These green initiatives reflect a global trend in tourism, where travelers increasingly prioritize destinations that offer eco-friendly experiences and sustainable practices. By improving urban livability and tourism infrastructure, Thessaloniki is setting itself apart as a destination that offers both cultural richness and environmental sustainability.

Cultural and Hotel Developments: Elevating Thessaloniki’s Status as a Cultural Hub

Thessaloniki’s tourism appeal is not just about transportation and infrastructure; it also lies in the city’s deep cultural heritage and the growth of its hotel and cultural venues. The redevelopment of the historic FIX complex by DIMAND will introduce new hotel properties, which will increase accommodation capacity and enhance tourist services in the city. These new hotels, alongside the expansion of Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center, will further support the city’s growing role as a cultural tourism hub.

With new hotel openings and the development of modern cultural venues, Thessaloniki is positioning itself to attract more international visitors looking for an immersive experience that blends historic exploration with modern luxury. The city’s expanding tourism infrastructure will make it easier for travelers to experience both the ancient sites and contemporary cultural events that define the city’s evolving identity.

Looking to the Future: Thessaloniki’s Role in the Mediterranean Tourism Market

As the tourism industry continues to grow in Europe, Thessaloniki is preparing to become a leading player in the Mediterranean tourism market. The city’s focus on improving accessibility, enhancing the visitor experience, and expanding sustainable tourism offerings positions it as a top destination for travelers seeking a combination of culture, nature, and modernity.

With continued investment in transportation, hotel capacity, and green spaces, Thessaloniki is on track to become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations, catering to both business travelers and leisure tourists. The city’s transformation will contribute significantly to Greece’s overall tourism growth, helping to position the country as a leading global tourism hub.

Thessaloniki’s Bright Future as a Modern Tourism Destination

The urban transformation of Thessaloniki, along with its tourism infrastructure upgrading, will have a positive, lasting impact on the city and wider Greek tourism industry. This improvement in mobility, sustainability, and visitor experiences will form the foundation for long-term tourism growth.

Thessaloniki is rapidly developing into a destination to be visited by tourists who look forward to an immersive travel experience, combining the best of historical exploration, modern luxury, and eco-tourism. With steady investment in tourism infrastructure, cultural tourism, and sustainable practices, Thessaloniki is on track to become a premier destination in the Mediterranean, offering travelers a dynamic and authentic experience in Northern Greece.