Thessaloniki Metro to Open Saturday, Celebrations Across the City

Photo source: Elliniko Metro S.A.

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is set to inaugurate its long-awaited metro on Saturday, November 30, marking a historic milestone for both its residents and visitors. This marks the beginning of a transformative era for the city, heralding a major shift in its transportation network.

With a total cost exceeding 3 billion euros — 1 billion of which was funded by European Union programs — the new 9.6-kilometer metro line features 13 modern stations. It is designed to serve over 340,000 passengers daily.

Thessaloniki Metro map (the main line is in red color). Source: Elliniko Metro

The Thessaloniki Metro is expected to significantly alleviate traffic, removing 57,000 vehicles from the road each day and reducing emissions by 212 tons. This aligns with the European Union’s goals for greener, more sustainable cities.

Free rides for first 4 days

In a gesture of celebration, the metro will be free to ride for the first four days, from November 30 through December 3.

City-wide events to mark the launch

To commemorate the launch, a series of cultural events will take place across the city. The MOMus-Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art (at TIF-Helexpo expo center) and the Museum of Photography will host a “free pass day” on November 30, offering visitors a chance to explore art exhibitions while learning about the new metro system.

On the evening of November 30, at 9pm, the State Orchestra of Thessaloniki will perform a concert titled URBAN at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. The concert will be conducted by French maestro Martin Lebel, with pianist Simon Trpčeski as the soloist.

Additionally, the “Lives in the Street” photography exhibition will be open at Chalkos Gallery on November 30 from 5pm to 7pm.

On Sunday, December 1, four Thessaloniki-based radio stations will broadcast live from four metro stations between 11am and 5pm, offering surprises for listeners and visitors alike.

Celebrating with the European Union and the Kapani Project

To further celebrate the opening of the Thessaloniki metro, the European Union, in collaboration with the Central Macedonia Region, will host a festive event on Wednesday, December 4. Taking place at Makedonomachon Square near the “Agia Sofia” metro station, the event will feature art installations, performances, dance workshops, DJ sets, games, and other interactive entertainment.

The celebration is supported by the Municipality of Thessaloniki and Elliniko Metro, as part of the “Experiencing our City Differently” campaign under the “Europe in My Region” initiative.

Due to anticipated rain over the weekend, some events — such as the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Aristotelous Square — will be postponed to Wednesday, December 4.