The coastal town of Kavala, located northeast of Thessaloniki in Greece’s gorgeous Macedonia, provides as a good base for exploring the historic city of Philippi and wine tastings in the surrounding mountains.
The capital and principal port of the Kavala prefecture is situated amphitheatrically on the slopes of Mt. Symvolo, resulting in one of Greece’s most scenic cities. The vast modern Platies (squares), contemporary buildings, and commercial center on the west side of the city contrast the traditional old houses, little gardens, and flagged lanes on the east side, which transport you back in time.
The port city of Kavala is frequently used as a gateway to the Aegean Islands to the northeast. Nonetheless, it has become a popular tourist destination, particularly in the spring. Quality museums of history and industry, as well as magnificent Ottoman buildings dotted throughout Panagia’s pastel-colored old town, are cultural attractions.
If you are looking for sheer leisure, head to the surrounding, calm beaches for a swim, but the lively harbourfront cafés are the place to go. Araliki Tavern and Bachari (great spots for grilled meat and traditional salads) are must-visits, and for a fantastic Psarotaverna (seafood taverna), try Taverna Savvas and Psaraki Kavala, both of which specialize in fish and have stunning vistas.
When the sun goes down, most people flock to Megalou Alexandrou Pedestrian Street, which is lined with chic boutiques, cafes, and bars, as well as a tobacco warehouse that has been converted into a shopping center. The mesmerizing old district of Agios Nikolaos, next to Eleftherias Square, is home to the namesake church, a former mosque. On the ruins of an antique pillar, you can see what is said to be Apostle Paul’s footprint, which he left there when he first visited Macedonia.
It is also worth driving to Drama for some shopping and dining in the streets that line the Agia Varvara springs. Xanthi is nearby and famous for its wonderful local delicacies, gorgeous antique Ottoman homes, and travelling west. There are mountains, canyons, wine trails, and other natural wonders.
There are ten things to do in Kavala:
- Go to the Kamares Aqueduct, a well-preserved Roman aqueduct from the 16th century.
- Explore the Old Town: Take a stroll around Kavala’s Old Town, which is home to many old buildings and tiny, scenic lanes.
- Go to the Castle of Kavala: This castle has wonderful views of the city and the sea and is a great place to take photos.
- Swim at Batis Beach: One of Kavala’s most popular beaches, noted for its crystal-clear waters.
- Pay a visit to the Imaret: This historic structure has been converted into a magnificent hotel, but it is also open to guests who want to examine the stunning architecture.
- Visit the Tobacco Museum: Kavala is famed for its tobacco production, and this museum is dedicated to the region’s tobacco industry’s history.
- Take a walk along the Panagia peninsula: This is a gorgeous area with stunning sea views, and it’s a great place for a leisurely walk.
- Pay a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Kavala, which houses relics from ancient Greece and the Byzantine era.
- Eat at a taverna: Kavala has many tavernas that serve traditional Greek cuisine, so be sure to eat some of the local fare.
- Take a day excursion to Philippi, which is only a short drive from Kavala and has some remarkable ruins, including a Roman amphitheatre and a church.
