Overview
The second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki is known as the Symprotévousa, or “co-capital,” of Greece. This lively city is situated on the Aegean Sea, which gives it stunning views and fresh seafood. Rich in ancient history, Thessaloniki has many ruins, museums, and monuments that honor the likes of Aristotle, Alexander the Great, and Galerius. Whether you want to explore the street markets, walk along the water, or dine late at night, there are numerous ways to both relax and experience the local culture.
Destination Information
Local Time Now:
8:09am
Official Languages:
Greek
Almost all alumni have not spoken the local language.The City
Must-see locations include the iconic White Tower, the Church of Saint Demetrios, and Aristotelous Square. Though Thessaloniki has more than enough sights to see, other locations like Athens and the iconic Greek Islands are accessible via short flights.
If you’re a foodie, make sure you try the local dishes, including moussaka, gyros, traditional Greek salads, and amazing baklava.
If you’re looking for rich cultural experiences and to make memories you’ll treasure, look no further than the “co-capital” of Greece.
Dates & Availability
Dates
Price
Availability
January 5, 2026 - January 17, 2026 2 weeks
$4,999
Full
May 9, 2026 - May 29, 2026 3 weeks
$6,499
Open
May 30, 2026 - June 19, 2026 3 weeks
$6,499
Open
June 20, 2026 - July 10, 2026 3 weeks
$6,499
Open
July 11, 2026 - July 31, 2026 3 weeks
$6,499
Open
August 1, 2026 - August 14, 2026 2 weeks
$5,499
Open
You may pay over time, fundraise, consider scholarships, and more. Learn about our significant partial need-based scholarships here.
COMING SOON: Add a 3-credit online course to your Atlantis program. Learn more.
What’s Included
Atlantis programs include ~20h/week of shadowing, housing, some meals, transportation, travel health insurance, and more. Airfare is not included but can be very affordable.
What’s Included
On Program Components
Pre/Post Program Components
Hospital Overview
Papanikolaou General Hospital
Established in 1920, Papanikolaou General Hospital began as a facility dedicated to treating tuberculosis patients. Over the years, it has evolved into a comprehensive medical institution, offering a wide range of services across various specialties. Notably, the hospital’s Hematology Department, founded in 1985, is renowned for its expertise in malignant blood diseases and hematopoietic cell transplantation. In 2017, the Coronary Unit underwent significant renovations, enhancing its capacity to provide advanced cardiac care.
Ippokrateio General Hospital of Thessaloniki
General Hospital of Thessaloniki is one of the city’s oldest and most prominent medical institutions, blending rich history with modern healthcare excellence. Established in 1908 as the Hirsch Hospital and designed by architect Pietro Arrigoni, it has evolved into a leading center for primary, secondary, and tertiary care within Greece’s National Health System. Known for its pioneering Hypertension Center—one of Europe’s largest for resistant hypertension and primary aldosteronism—the hospital offers exceptional opportunities for medical observation and education. With strong affiliations to Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ippokrateio is a hub for clinical training and research, featuring specialized departments in cardiology, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics, providing students with invaluable insights into advanced medical practices in a historically significant setting.
AHEPA University General Hospital
AHEPA University General Hospital, established in 1947 with support from the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association and opened for full operation in the early 1950s, is among the largest and most important public university hospitals in Greece. Located at 1 Stilponos Kyriakidi Street in Thessaloniki, it has around 680-700 beds, operates autonomously within the National Health System, and offers nearly the full spectrum of medical, surgical, and psychiatric specialties. As a teaching hospital affiliated with Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA serves both as a major clinical care center and a hub for research, training medical students and residents. Its facilities span some 50,000 square meters, in multiple buildings constructed at various times to keep up with evolving healthcare needs. AHEPA is known for handling high case volumes, providing advanced diagnostic and intensive-care services, and playing a critical role in serving the greater Macedonia-Thrace region.
Thessaloniki Seafront
Thessaloniki’s seafront is of one of the most popular spots in the city. At more than 3 miles long, this relaxing stretch features recognizable landmarks, stunning water views and provides an amazing place to walk, jog or bike.
Excursions
Our excursions are designed to offer a deeper look into your host culture, for both the educational benefit and the enjoyment of exploring a new place with others who share your interests in travel and medicine. Excursions range from historical tours to culinary and cultural explorations.
Your Site Manager will inform you of the excursions they have planned during your program orientation. If you make travel plans outside of your city for a weekend and it conflicts with the events your Site Manager has planned, notify your Site Manager several days in advance so that they can plan accordingly.
Clinical Experience that Stands Out to Schools
Medical schools want 3 things: healthcare exposure, GPA/MCAT, and certain competencies. Uniquely, “360 Shadowing” gives you the best version of the 1st, frees you to focus on the 2nd, and cultivates/shows the 3rd to medical school admissions.
Funding Your Future
The cost of Atlantis isn’t too dissimilar from the cost of many study abroad programs that you may find. And we’re here to help: from our extensive fundraising guide to flexible payment plans and financing options, we make the process simple and easy, allowing you to focus on what really matters.
Bring a Friend
Consider bringing a friend to the same program you’re applying to. Although the vast majority of Atlantis alumni have gone on programs without knowing someone in their cohort, bringing a friend allows your experience to be shared in a unique way, while still allowing you one of the benefits of Atlantis: meeting new pre-health friends from across the country. Consider sharing this idea with your friends.
