ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
ESPO Conference Thessaloniki 2025
We hope you had an incredible time at this year's ESPO Conference in Paris! Get ready for even more excitement, because we're thrilled to invite you to Thessaloniki for the 2025 edition, happening on May 8th and 9th. Don't miss out on the next unforgettable experience! See you there!
8 May
9 May
Speakers
ABOUT THE VENUE - Makedonia Palace Hotel
- Address: Leof. Meg. Alexandrou 2, Thessaloniki 546 40
- T: +30 2310 897 197, W: https://makedoniapalace.com/
Only a 10 minutes’ walk from the city center, Makedonia Palace Hotel echoes the city’s rhythm and the Thermaikos wave’s sound. This awarded, recently renovated 5* hotel & conference venue is one of the most authentic places in Thessaloniki, offering high quality services since 1971. It is an iconic point of reference, easily accessible and ideally located right on the seafront and next to the city’s landmark, the White Tower. Numerous international conferences, corporate meetings & business events are being held in the luxurious and fully equipped halls that meet every business need, characterized by the inspiring aesthetics of the premises, with cutting edge logistics services, comfort and an endless view to the Gulf of Thermaikos.
HOW TO GET TO THE CONFERENCE VENUE
By Bus: All information on bus lines and stops available here: oasth.gr/en/
The Makedonia Palace Hotel is in 100 meters distance from the bus stop “Faliro” where buses no. 1X / 3Κ / 5 / 6 pass. You can pick those busses from several stops in the city centre on Mitropoleos street. Bus line 01X connects the airport to the city center, and you can get off at a stop near the hotel (300 meters) also called “Faliro”.
Taxi Service: Taxi service in Thessaloniki is plentiful and economical, with taxi companies operating 24-hour call centers to receive orders or make advance bookings. It’s also safe to catch a taxi on the street, as there are no fake taxi companies in Greece. A double fare applies between midnight and 05:00 am. To book a cab, you can download the Freenow app, which allows both on-the-spot hailing and pre-arranged rides. Alternatively, you can use traditional methods by calling one of these reliable taxi services:
Taxi Makedonia: +30 2310550500; Taxiway: +30 2310866866; Taxithess: +30 6972154399; Taxi Mercedes Club: +30 2310525777
THE DINNER - Avenue Restaurant & Bar
Address: Leoforos M.Alexandrou 6, Thessaloniki
The historic Restaurant & Bar of Thessaloniki invites you on its journey with Mediterranean flavors, unique cocktails as well as selections from a rich wine list. A special venue of three acres on the waterfront of Thessaloniki, with a breathtaking view of Thermaikos Gulf where guests can enjoy every moment of the day and night. The open 360° open kitchen offers the spectacular sight of food preparation, while at the other end the open bar prepares excellent drinks & cocktails of your choice. In the outdoor area, a dreamy garden has been created with two huge bars, lounges and fireplaces that serve coffee, food and drinks throughout the day.
ABOUT THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki, Greece's northern port on the Thermaikos Gulf, offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The city emerges as a comprehensive cultural destination, where the richness of its history is distinguished by the ancient monuments spread across every corner.
Thessaloniki is the city that takes the visitor on a journey from prehistoric times to the era of Alexander the Great, to the glory of the Roman period, to the brilliance of the Byzantine Empire, and to the period of Ottoman rule. Its heritage is a complex mosaic of images, architecture, and culture spanning 23 centuries, something the visitor perceives from their first explorations in the city center, where they will encounter the Roman Forum, Byzantine walls and churches, the synagogue and Jewish Museum, the neoclassical Aristotelous Square straight across from Mount Olympus and the modern, sustainable architecture of the city hall.
Thessaloniki hosts an impressive variety of museums, cultural organizations, archaeological sites and monuments. Is also, by far the liveliest city in Northern Greece. While walking in the city center, one will experience the magic of a very lively area, with incredibly beautiful cafes, taverns, and traditional markets where the aromas of spices, sweets, and food will enchant every visitor. Most of the bars are situated at the old seafront (Nikis Avenue) and in the close area. You can also find a lot of nightclubs, bars and restaurants in Ladadika, the neighborhood with the old warehouses next to the port.
Short videos about Thessaloniki: Thessaloniki: Α Meetings Destination/Youtube; Visit Greece | Invisible Thessaloniki - YouTube
HOW TO ARRIVE IN THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki offers excellent regional and international travel connectivity. The city is served by Makedonia International Airport (SKG) skg-airport.gr/en, which provides both domestic and international flights, with connections to major European cities and beyond.
- Bus: Bus line 01X (or 01N for night) connects the airport to the city centre, running frequently and economically (2€).
- Taxi: A ride to the city centre takes about 20-30 minutes and costs around 25€-30€, depending on traffic and time of day.
- Car Rentals: Various car rental agencies are available at the airport.
MOVING AROUND IN THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki is a highly walkable city, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, the city offers an extensive network of bus lines, oasth.gr/en/, that connect various neighbourhoods and key locations efficiently. Adding to its convenience, the city has recently inaugurated the Thessaloniki Metro, unique worldwide, as it showcases archaeological findings, spanning from the foundation of Thessaloniki in 316 BC to the early 20th century. Metro passengers become visitors to an impressive open archaeological site, culminating in the Venizelou station, offering a spectacular view of the city's 2.300-year history whilst providing residents and visitors with a modern and reliable option for getting around the city quickly. Whether walking, taking the bus, or hopping on the metro, Thessaloniki is is not only convenient to navigate but also enjoyable.
WEATHER IN THESSALONIKI - MAY
In May, Thessaloniki enjoys pleasant spring weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C and cooler evenings around. Days are mostly sunny with occasional light rain.
SHOPPING
The city center is one of the most popular shopping areas in Thessaloniki. Shopping malls and department stores are available both in the city center as well as in other city districts. Some of the best-known shopping malls can be found in Thessaloniki Airport Area and are easily accessible by ring road (public transportation and taxis). The major commercial market of Thessaloniki (shops, boutiques, etc.), shopping malls and big department stores operate as follows:
- Monday - Friday: 09.00 - 21.00
- Saturday: 09.00 - 18.00
PEOPLE AND LIFE
Thessaloniki is a popular destination. You will certainly enjoy a pleasant and interesting stay in the city. People are friendly and happy to help with any question. The atmosphere is unique during the day in the commercial and historic city center, as well as during the evening, in the wide variety of bars, restaurants and theatres for entertainment. Nights in Thessaloniki are an unforgettable experience. In fact, National Geographic included Thessaloniki in the list of the top 10 cities with the best nightlife worldwide.
AREAS TO EXPLORE
- Ladadika
One of Thessaloniki’s most popular neighborhoods and the definition of urban cool. Located west of the city center, near the port, Ladadika was a commercial district known for selling wholesale oil products. Then came a renovation transforming warehouses into tavernas, bistros, pubs, wine bars and even nightclubs.
- Valaoritou Street: The fun continues until late at night at Valaoritou. You will find a whole range of bars, each with a distinct musical style and decoration, and beautiful buildings, samples of eclecticism to remind us that it once was the city’s Frankish quarter.
- Mitropoleos Street: One of Thessaloniki’s main shopping streets, along with the surrounding area, has evolved into a prime entertainment spot with a special atmosphere where you’ll find neoclassical buildings converted into elegant bars, cafes and shops and an array of restaurants.
- Ano Poli and the Castles: For a different view of Thessaloniki, head to the narrow streets and byzantine walls of the Upper Town, known as “Castles - Kastra”. There you can find delicacies in the traditional cafes and tavernas of the Tsinari neighborhood with the view of the city and Thermaic Gulf.
WHERE TO GO FOR A DRINK
City center
- Achilleion All Day Bar Restaurant: Bar-restaurant: Map: Leoforos Nikis 37, Thessaloniki
- CHILAI: Wine Bar: Map: Agiou Mina 4, Thessaloniki
- Cin Cin: Cocktail Bar, Vegan food: Map: Iktinou Street 22, Thessaloniki
- Kafodeio Elliniko: Live Music: Map: Eleftheriou Venizelou Street 45, Thessaloniki
- Olympion: Café, Bar, Restaurant: Map: Plateia Aristotelous 10, Thessaloniki
- Pelosof: Cocktail Bar: Map: Tsimiski 22, Thessaloniki
- The Dubliner: Irish Pub: Map: Katouni 16, Thessaloniki
- Thermaikos bar: Bar: Map: Leoforos Nikis 21, Thessaloniki
Close to the Conference Venue
- Avenue Modern Cuisine: Restaurant: Map: Leoforos Megalou Alexandrou 6, Thessaloniki
- Ciel Bar: Cafe Bar: Map: Leoforos Megalou Alexandrou 12, Nea Paralia
- Dentro Sto Bar: Bar: Map: Leoforos Vasileos Georgiou 25, Thessaloniki
Bars with a View
- Alegro Bar Restaurant: Bar, Restaurant: Map: 25 Martiou & Coastal Road, Thessaloniki Concert Hall
- Orizontes Roof Garden: Bar, Restaurant: Map: Aristotelous 9, Electra Palace Hotel
- SKYLINE Cafe - Bar: Café, Bar: Map: Egnatia 154, Thessaloniki
GASTRONOMY
Thessaloniki is renowned for its lively nightlife and is the first city of Greece designated by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy with famous restaurants and many local specialties.
Try these in Thessaloniki
- Bougatsa: Bougatsa is a traditional pastry consisting of semolina custard, cheese, or minced meat filling between layers of filo pastry. Enjoy it for breakfast or as a snack at any time of day.
- Galaktoboureko: Galaktoboureko is a traditional Greek dessert of semolina-based custard in filo pastry. It is served coated with syrup. Find it in all the major patisseries of Thessaloniki.
- Koulouri: Koulouri -Thessaloniki’s famous bread ring- is a popular treat, made with sesame, mostly enjoyed for breakfast. Find it in all the local bakeries in the city center.
- Gyros: Gyros is meat that is carved from pork or chicken slow cooked on a “spit”, a type of rotisserie that stands vertically. The tender, succulent meat is then served on warm pita bread, creating an authentically Greek sandwich.
- Souvlaki: Souvlaki consists of small, tender pieces of meat -commonly pork, chicken, or lamb-skewered and grilled to perfection over open flames. Souvlaki can be enjoyed straight off the skewer or wrapped in soft pita bread with toppings
- Mezes: Mezes is a key part of Greek cuisine and culture. Mezedes are a variety of small dishes, like appetizers or tapas, served to complement drinks like ouzo, wine, or beer. They're meant for sharing and are a social, communal dining experience. In Thessaloniki, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy this style of dining, especially in places called mezedopoleia – tsipouradika, traditional eateries specializing in mezedes.
- Bonus: Frappé: Frappé coffee has roots in Thessaloniki when it was created by chance in the 1950s. Today, this coffee is perfect for beating the heat on a summer day while still enjoying your daily dose of caffeine.
LOCAL PRODUCTS TO GIFT
- Panorama triangles: A trademark desert. Handmade cone from crunchy, syrupy leaf, filled with velvety, fragrant cream. A dessert that Thessalonians and visitors went up to the Panorama in the 60s and 70s to enjoy.
- Tsoureki: Tsoureki is a braided sweet bread that is mostly associated with the Easter season. However, it is enjoyed throughout the country year-round, and you will be able to find one in every bakery in Thessaloniki.
- Halkidiki honey: Halkidiki is rightly characterized as the center of beekeeping in Greece, with 6,500 beekeepers and about 2,000 tons of excellent quality honey production per year.
SOUVENIRS
- Archaeological Museum and Museum of Byzantine Civilizations Gift Shops: The gift shops at the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Byzantine Civilizations are must-visit spots, even if you don't plan to explore the museums themselves. These shops offer an impressive range of high-quality souvenirs that capture the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.
- Leoforos Nikis, Kapani and Navarinou Square: These are some of the best areas for finding souvenir shops and local products in the city. They offer a wide variety of stores where you can discover unique mementos, handcrafted items, and traditional goods that reflect the local culture.
WHERE TO EAT
Fine Dining
- Clochard: Map: Komninon 10, Mitropoleos Street, Thessaloniki: Website: clochard.gr
- Grada nuevo: Map: Kalapothaki 14, Thessaloniki: Website: gradanuevo.gr
Modern Greek Food
- Ιliopetra: Maps: Aeschylou 5, Thessaloniki
- Mamalouka: Map: Ionos Dragoumi 3, Thessaloniki: Website: mamalouka.com
- MAREA sea spirit: Map: Lori Margariti 13, Thessaloniki: Website: mareaseaspirit.en
Traditional Eating – Mezedopoleio
- Giok Balik: Map: Ethnikis Aminis 34, Thessaloniki
- Mezen: Map: Rogoti 3, Thessaloniki
- Ouzeri lola: Map: Agapinou 10, Thessaloniki
- Stou Μitsou: Map: Vlali Street, 11, Thessaloniki
International Cuisine
- Empire Sushi Bar: Map: Oplopoiou 3, Thessaloniki
- High School Pizza Bar: Map: Leoforos Nikis 9A, Thessaloniki
- Signora Trattoria: Map: Pavlou Mela 38, Paleon Patron Germanou 19, Thessaloniki
- SUSHIJA: Map: Mitropoleos 70, Thessaloniki
Patisserie
- Konstandinidis Patisserie: Map: Pavlou Mela 7, Thessaloniki
- Trigona Elenidis: Map: Dimitriou Gounari 13, Thessaloniki
- Terkenlis: Map: Tsimiski 30, Thessaloniki
Βrunch
- Bougatsa Giannis: Map: Mitropoleos 106, Thessaloniki
- Canteen All day Bar: Map: Dimitriou Gounari 7, Thessaloniki
- The Garden Bar: Map: Agiou Mina 16, Thessaloniki
Deli and Dining
- Ergon Agora: Restaurant, Cocktail Bar, Delicatessen: Map: Pavlou Mela 42 & LoeoforosGeorgikis Sxolis 50, Pylea-Hortiatis
- Mia Feta Bar: Delicatessen: Map: Pavlou Mela 14, Thessaloniki
SERVICE CHARGE AND GRATUITIES
It's extremely rare to have a service charge added but do check before paying regardless. Sometimes restaurants in Greece will include a service fee (about 16%). A small tip is 50 cents to a euro. A better, more substantial tip is a 2-euro coin. Anything above that is considered a big tip.
POWER SUPPLY
In Greece the power plugs and sockets are of type C which also works with plug E and plug F and F which also works with plug C and plug E. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
More Tourist Information Available Here:
- https://www.visitgreece.gr/mainland/macedonia/thessaloniki/
- https://thessaloniki.travel/ ;
- https://www.discovergreece.com/macedonia/thessaloniki ;
- https://thessaloniki.gr/visitor/?lang=en
MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS IN THESSALONIKI
- White Tower: The White Tower stands as a symbol of the city of Thessaloniki, historically serving as part of the city fortifications dating back to the 16th century. The present form of the tower replaced a Byzantine fortification from the 12th century, later used as barracks for Janissaries and as a prison for convicts. Today, it operates as a museum and is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. More Info: lpth.gr
- Castle (Kastra) & the walls of Thessaloniki: Looking north from the White Tower, you will follow the city fortification towards the castles. They were based on earlier Hellenistic fortresses, but they represent the Byzantine era of the city. The walls of the city have been officially designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. More Info: visit-centralmacedonia.gr/castles-(kastra)
- The Arch of Galerius: The Arch of Galerius (known today as “Kamara”) is perhaps the most distinctive and interesting roman structure of Thessaloniki. It was built to honor the Roman Emperor Galerius who returned victorious to Thessaloniki (about 306 AD) after the wars against the Persians. It is one of the 15 Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki that were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988. More Info: Arch of Galerius/odysseus.culture
- The Rotonda: The Rotonda stands just next to the Arch of Galerius in the city center. This cylindrical structure was built in 306 AD by the Roman tetrarch Galerius, who intended it to be his grave. At first, it worked as a temple, but it remains unknown to which god this temple was dedicated. In the 4th century AD, the Byzantine emperor Constantine I converted it into an Orthodox church and many frescoes were painted inside, some of which survive today on the walls of Rotonda. More Info: visit-centralmacedonia.gr/rotonda
- Aristotelous Square & Roman Forum
- Τhe famous Aristotelous Square, a 20th century square designed by Ernest Hébrard in an eclectic style which combines elements from Byzantine and Western architecture and dedicated to Aristotle, philosopher and teacher of Alexander the great. This waterfront square is one of the most famous places in Greece and forms an important part of life in Thessaloniki with some of the city's most beautiful buildings and sights. On the top of the Square, you will find the Roman Forum and Museum, one of the town’s most significant ancient monuments. More Info: Ancient Agora of Thessaloniki
- Modiano Market: The recently renovated Modiano Market or Stoa Modiano is an enclosed market in Thessaloniki, Greece. It was built between 1922 and 1925, after the great fire, on the site of the old Talmud Tora synagogue. It is in the center of the city and forms the central point of the city's market which encompasses several blocks. More Info: agoramodiano
- Saint Demetrius Church: In 313 AD, with the Edict of Milan on religious tolerance, the first temple was built as a prayer room on the site of the martyrdom of Saint Demetrius, where the present-day giant church of Saint Demetrius stands. In the basement of the church lies the martyrdom site of Saint Demetrius. Saint Demetrius is the patron saint of the city, and in 1988, the church was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More Info: thessaloniki.travel/aghios-st-demetrius
EVENTS IN THESSALONIKI – MAY
Thessaloniki in May offers a vibrant calendar of cultural, musical, and gastronomic events that showcase the city's lively spirit. Here are some highlights:
- Thessaloniki International Book Fair | 8-11 May 2025: Unique in its category in Greece, the TBF was first launched in May 2004 with the aim of putting Greece on the map of International Book Fairs. It soon became a hub for cultural exchanges and trade between Europe, the Balkans, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Today, it is one of the most important cultural institutions in the country with international recognition. More Info: thessalonikibookfair.en
- Forest Festival by National Theatre of Northern Greece: The Forest Festival (Festival Dassous), one of Thessaloniki's most significant cultural events, kicks off in May and continues through September. It hosts top performances and concerts in all the stages of the State Theatre of Northern Greece, both indoors and outdoors. More Info: ntng.en
- Thessaloniki Street Food Festival: The ultimate celebration for all Foodies in Thessaloniki, the renewed, modern festival, usually takes place in May, in the outdoor area of the Thessaloniki International Fair fairground, at the end of May. Visitors can indulge in diverse street food flavors at this annual festival, featuring food trucks, local vendors, and live entertainment—a feast for both food lovers and music fans. More Info: thessalonikistreetfoodfestival.com
- 14th World Choir Festival on Musical & Competition | 9 - 11 May 2025: In Thessaloniki, every year at the beginning of May, the World Choir Festival on Musical is held, organized by “Korais” Association and Choir. It is a unique cultural Festival, due to its thematic and innovation, not only in Greece but also in the international choral field. The Festival has a Competitive and Non Competitive part and it is addressed to all types of amateur choirs and vocal ensembles. More Info: xorodiakorais.eng
- Art Thessaloniki - International Art Fair | 15-18 May 2025: Art Thessaloniki Fair has been established as one of the most important artistic events in Greece and the Balkans, gaining international recognition for its contribution to the promotion of art. The fair is a meeting point for artists, collectors, galleries and art critics from around the world, fostering cultural exchange and innovation in the field of visual arts. More Info: art-thessaloniki.helexpo.en
POST CONFERENCE EXCURSIONS
- MOUNT OLYMPUS-DION: The tour starts with a visit to the Archaeological Park of Dion, one of Greece’s most atmospheric archaeological sites. Established to worship Zeus, its monuments are scattered amongst greenery, trees and ponds. A quarter of the park’s 150 hectares is made up of sanctuaries – the oldest (end of 4th century BC) being dedicated to Demeter, two sanctuaries honoring Zeus (Hypsistos and Olympios) and the Sanctuary of Isis accessible over a small bridge. This was the site where Alexander the Great made sacrifices to the Gods before starting a new campaign to conquer the world. Next, we follow a tour along the path of Enipeas Gorge. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by some of the 1,700 plant species that thrive on Mount Olympus. We conclude this excursion with a visit to Litochoro for lunch, a small town located at the base of Mount Olympus where a wide range of restaurants and cafes are found offering astonishing views of the mountain.
- VERGINA-VERIA: The archaeological museum of the royal Tombs, in Vergina, testifies the culture of the Macedonian Kingdom. The discovery of the tomb of Philip II, in 1977, was hailed as one of the greatest archaeological finds of the century. Rich and impressive artifacts were unearthed and can be viewed there along with the tombs themselves and the amazing frescoes, rare samples of painting from antiquity. Veria is our next stop, a picturesque town with a unique landscape and architecture. We will drive through the city, see St. Paul’s Altar, the traditional Jewish quarter of Barbouta and take a rest and enjoy a coffee at a traditional café and walk for a while through the lovely streets of the city, full of old Byzantine churches and unique historical monuments.
- HALKIDIKI: Shaped like Poseidon’s trident and sticking out into the Aegean Sea, Halkidiki is a treat for visitors. Lush green forests that reach right down to the beach; golden sunlight reflected in the turquoise waters; a traditional style with a rich gastronomic and cultural heritage. Endless coves, unique architectural sites, perfectly preserved Christian monument and a host of unexplored treasures all add their own rich touch to the unique canvas that is Halkidiki. Among this blend of blue and green, there are several summer resorts on the beaches of all three fingers where other minor towns and villages are located. You will experience the best of Halkidiki with a two-day excursion that blends relaxation, history, and culture.
Halkidiki Beach Bars to consider
- Sahara Resort: Sahara Resort, New Heraklia. Sahara Resort is located on one of the most beautiful beaches of Halkidiki, awarded with a blue flag. A sunny oasis 20 minutes away from the center of Thessaloniki where you can enjoy the crystal clear waters of Northern Greece
- Cabana Beach Club: Paliouri. Located in Paliouri, this beach is one of Halkidiki’s most dazzling beaches on the first leg of the penisula, just an hour and a half's drive from Thessaloniki
- Agora Beach - Greek Kouzina & Beach Bar: Kryopigi Halkidiki. Just an hour drive from Thessaloniki, experience the magic of Greek summer in this hidden gem called Kriopigi in Halkidiki.
- Glarokavos BeachBar: Glarokavos Beach, Pefkohori. Glarokavos is one of the most attractive and popular partly organized beaches near Pefkochori village, with gentle sand, some fine gravel and shallow waters, just an hour and a half's drive from Thessaloniki.