The metropolitan area of Thessaloniki is the second-largest urban centre in Greece, with a population exceeding one million residents. The city is characterized by significant cultural diversity, as it is home to individuals from various ethnic and national backgrounds. Additionally, Thessaloniki hosts two major universities, contributing to a substantial student population, which accounts for approximately 15% of the total residents.
Furthermore, the city serves as a key destination for business travellers, attracting visitors from across Greece and Europe, including those on short-term or daily trips.
| Area type | Urban |
| Area (sqkm) |
1.285,7 |
| City population | 1.006.112 (466.651 in area of interest) |
| CCAM solutions available | No |
| Partners, stakeholders involved |
CERTH, RCM (ST), TheTA (ST) |
| SUMP | Yes (2016) |
Geographical relevance
Blend of coastal exposure (10%) and hilly terrain (40%-50%). This topography influences infrastructure development and transportation systems, offering opportunities for port development and challenging road networks. Coastal location and port are assets for trade and transportation, the hilly terrain and proximity to the sea necessitate careful planning to create efficient and resilient transportation networks that serve the needs of the city's diverse population.
Blend of coastal exposure (10%) and hilly terrain (40%-50%). This topography influences infrastructure development and transportation systems, offering opportunities for port development and challenging road networks. Coastal location and port are assets for trade and transportation, the hilly terrain and proximity to the sea necessitate careful planning to create efficient and resilient transportation networks that serve the needs of the city's diverse population.
Cultural relevance
Embraces cultural diversity, with citizens from various backgrounds such as different parts of Greece, immigrants, Roma, Jews (0,5%), and Turkish people. Students correspond to 15% of the population. This cultural tapestry enriches the city's social fabric and influences transportation preferences and needs. 50% or more of Thessaloniki's households may own at least one private vehicle. The average annual disposable income in Thessaloniki was estimated to be € 14.023 per year per capita.
Embraces cultural diversity, with citizens from various backgrounds such as different parts of Greece, immigrants, Roma, Jews (0,5%), and Turkish people. Students correspond to 15% of the population. This cultural tapestry enriches the city's social fabric and influences transportation preferences and needs. 50% or more of Thessaloniki's households may own at least one private vehicle. The average annual disposable income in Thessaloniki was estimated to be € 14.023 per year per capita.
Policy relevance
The Transport Authority of Thessaloniki (TheTA) is the public authority responsible for decision making on urban public passenger transport within the Regional Unity of Thessaloniki, TheTA tries to adopt modern tools and practices aiming at the creation of a new vision for Thessaloniki’s public transport services.
The Transport Authority of Thessaloniki (TheTA) is the public authority responsible for decision making on urban public passenger transport within the Regional Unity of Thessaloniki, TheTA tries to adopt modern tools and practices aiming at the creation of a new vision for Thessaloniki’s public transport services.
Target user groups and stakeholders
Target user groups:
Permanent citizens: Greek inhabitants, immigrants, migrants, elderly
Non permanent citizens: students from other cities (national, European, International)
Commuters from Thessaloniki and other cities/ regions
Tourists and mainly business visitors
Stakeholders:
Thessaloniki Municipality transportation companies (i.e. TheTA, THESSBIKE, Elliniko Metro, TaxiWay, Freenow)
technology providers (i.e. Softweb)
urban mobility consultants (i.e. Tredit)
community groups and NGOs (i.e. Thessaloniki Active Citizens, Anatoliki S.A., KAPH)
academic and research institutions (i.e. CERTH, Macedonia University, AUTH)
