Thessaloniki on Growth Trajectory: Metro, Flyover, Port, and Exhibition Center Lead Development

Thessaloniki and the broader Northern Greece region are experiencing a period of substantial transformation, marked by the advancement of critical infrastructure projects and a notable improvement in economic indicators. Vice President Kostis Hatzidakis highlighted this progress, stating, “In Thessaloniki, we speak with actions. Northern Greece is rising. The Mitsotakis government places Thessaloniki, our Macedonia, and our Thrace very high.”

Since 2019, Central Macedonia has seen unemployment drop from 20.3% to 12.2%, with a 24.3% increase in net per capita GDP. Similar reductions in unemployment were recorded in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (16.8% to 9.9%) and Western Macedonia (27.1% to 11.9%). Over €12 billion has been directed to Central Macedonia for infrastructure and aid since 2020, with significant amounts also allocated to Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (€5 billion) and Western Macedonia (€4.5 billion).

Entrepreneurship is also on the rise, with new company registrations in Northern Greece increasing by 86% between 2019 and 2025. Thessaloniki alone saw a 120% surge in company formations. Exports from Northern Greece grew by 50% during the same period, with Central Macedonia becoming the country's second-largest exporting region. Installed capacity from renewable energy sources in Northern Greece has increased by 160%, and tourism has seen a 14.5% rise in arrivals and a 59.5% increase in revenue for accommodations.

Central to this development are major infrastructure projects. The Thessaloniki Metro, with 13 stations and 9.6 kilometers of track, is already serving approximately 90,000 passengers daily, contributing to a 15% reduction in central traffic. The metro extension to Kalamaria adds five stations and 4.8 kilometers, with pre-studies underway for extensions to Northwestern Thessaloniki. The Flyover, the city's largest road project, is about 60% complete and expected to finish by May 2027. Additionally, a €250 million investment is underway for the expansion of the port's 6th Pier.

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In Thessaloniki, we speak with actions. Northern Greece is rising. The Mitsotakis government places Thessaloniki, our Macedonia, and our Thrace very high.