Thessaloniki is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, but almost everyone agrees that one of its biggest problems is traffic. A problem that could be mitigated if bicycles became a regular means of transport for at least part of the population. After all, this is a flat city that has a long cycling tradition that predates the prevalence of the car.
As in other cities in Greece, the lockdowns were an opportunity – albeit mandatory – for many people to switch to a healthier and more athletic lifestyle. Bicycles are a rather healthy mode of transport that combines physical exercise, leisure and environmental friendliness.
At a time when fuel is a high-cost commodity, perhaps it is time for bicycles to take their rightful place in Thessaloniki. However, it is certain that something has been going on in the city lately, as numerous cycling groups, bicycle-related businesses and even bicycle tourism seem to have emerged. But even those who are not familiar with the two-wheelers will have the opportunity to go for a ride this weekend in Aristotelous Square.
The PPC e-bike Festival goes to Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki will be the next stop of the first festival exclusively dedicated to electric bikes in Greece. The PPC e-bike Festival will take place at Aristotelous Square, on the weekend 21 – 22 May 2022, from 11:00 to 20:00. This alternative festival emerges from the daily mobility needs in urban areas, where traffic congestion and the difficulty of getting around require sustainable solutions. For the first time in Greece, internationally renowned companies, including Greek ones, present the latest bicycle models.
A specially designed area will enable festival visitors to test-ride electric bicycles of various types, free of charge. Visitors to the pioneering event, as in every city-station, will also have the opportunity to take part in a pedal skill game and win memorable gifts from PPC.
In addition, the PPC e-bike Festival team will offer riding lessons, concerning conventional bicycles, to children. On the sidelines of the festival, visitors will be informed on the new energy era by PPC, the country’s biggest electricity producer. Participants will be able to seek information and solutions securing lower energy cost and greater consumption control, as well as for a reduced energy footprint of their households or businesses.
The PPC team will present to the public the new PPC myEnergy platform, a new world of advice for better home consumption management; the PPC myEnergyCoach digital energy saving advisor and will answer any questions about the company’s green products and services, such as GreenPass, which guarantees that all the energy you consume is produced from renewable energy sources; MyHomeOnline and eself-metering, the new integrated sustainable energy solution for heating, myEnergyHeatpump.
Some beautiful bike routes in Thessaloniki:
From the White Tower to the Concert Hall
A favourite route for cyclists in Thessaloniki is along Nea Paralia, from the White Tower to the Concert Hall. The cycle path is long and pleasant, and at night the city lights are beautifully reflected in the water, creating a magical scene.
At the dam of Thermi
The Dam of Thermi is a beautiful place with an artificial lake, lush trees and beautiful paths. Exploring the area by mountain bike is a great option – a fun and healthy way to discover a habitat that is home to many bird species.
On Mount Hortiatis
Another very popular location for mountain biking enthusiasts is Mount Hortiatis. Although it is designed for trained cyclists, anyone who has ever experienced riding a two-wheeler in the mountains will definitely enjoy the ride as well.
From Perea to Agia Triada
Another lovely (and easy) route lies outside the city centre. Take a ride by the sea from Perea beach to Neon Epivaton beach. Ideally, you can combine your ride with a swim and a nice meal in a fish tavern.
From the port to the School of Magistrates
This is another classic and enjoyable route through the city centre, along which you are likely to meet fellow cyclists.
In the forest of Kouri
If you don’t feel trained enough to attempt cycling on mount Hortiatis, but want to cycle in nature, Kouri forest, just after Asvestohori, is a lush green area full of plane trees. Here you will cycle on gentle routes. If you stay in the forest until sundown, you can enjoy the sunset from the top where the chapel of Profitis Ilias is located.
In the Upper City
If you are fit enough or have an electric bike, this picturesque Thessaloniki neighbourhood is worth exploring on two wheels. Note of course that the roads are uphill and quite winding.
The PPC e-bike Festival is implemented in cooperation with the organization “Cities for Bicycle”, member of the European Cyclists Federation and the experienced team of the information portal mbike.gr, with more than 20 years of experience in the field of cycling. All events are supported by the Municipalities and Local Authorities. All safety measures and health protocol for Covid-19 are observed.
