What kind of business should I start in Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki is a vibrant city with youthful energy and steady commercial activity. Whether you’re starting something new or investing in an existing business, there are many diverse opportunities:

• Cafés & Street Food: In student areas, central squares, or tourist spots, food businesses enjoy constant traffic

• Retail: Clothing, footwear, gifts, and niche product stores in commercial zones and markets

• Beauty & Wellness Spaces: Hair salons, nail bars, barber shops, and small spas, especially popular among women

• Specialized or Local Services: Technical workshops, tutoring centers, logistics, or courier services

• Digital Businesses: Startups, e-shops, or digital agencies leveraging the local market and working nationwide

• Tourism & Experiences: Boutique hostels, travel agencies, and alternative hospitality concepts in high-traffic areas

Your choice depends on your interests, experience, and the area you want to operate in — from the city center to quieter neighborhoods.

What does it take to start or invest in a business in Thessaloniki?

The city’s business landscape is flexible and community-oriented. Depending on the sector, you’ll need:

• Suitable location: The city center, Ladadika, Toumba, Kalamaria, Neapoli, or the developing western suburbs

• Equipment and facilities: From fully organized businesses to slightly renovated opportunities

• Human resources: Hiring new staff or retaining existing teams

• Networking and support: Local hubs, partnerships with suppliers or other businesses

• Legal and accounting coverage: Business registration, transfer processes, contracts, and operating expenses

Capital requirements vary: small investments may start from €10,000 to €30,000, while full business acquisitions with history can reach €100,000 to €250,000+, depending on type and potential.

Why buy or invest in a business in Thessaloniki?

The city combines a large market, quality of life, and expansion prospects. Entrepreneurs operating here enjoy:

• Access to student and tourist audiences, with lower costs than Athens

• Areas with strong demand but less competition, ideal for new ideas

• Stable consumer interest in everyday goods, services, and entertainment

• Support networks such as incubators, business hubs, and young professionals eager to collaborate

In well-organized Thessaloniki businesses, payback can occur within 2–3 years, with high autonomy and local support, making daily operations more sustainable and stable.