Kavala Guide

Imagine a quiet but charming city on the Aegean coast. With its historical fabric, Ottoman traces, delicious cuisine and peaceful sea views, Kavala is exactly that. Located in northeastern Greece, this coastal city is a great destination for both a short getaway and a cultural journey.

How to get to Kavala?

There are no direct flights to Kavala from Turkey. However, you can fly to Thessaloniki or Athens and take a bus or rent a car from there.

Thessaloniki to Kavala: Approximately 165 km, 1.5-2 hours by car.

Bus from Istanbul: There are regular flights, it takes about 7-8 hours.

For those who want to come by ferry: There are ferry services to Kavala from Rhodes, Kos, Lesbos and especially Limni Island.

Places to visit in Kavala

Kavala's atmosphere is unique: It is neither too touristy nor forgotten. The balance between history and modernity is very well balanced. It is easier to see the city by dividing it into three areas:

• Old town (Panagia Quarter)
• City center (beach and surroundings)
• Nearby (Thassos Island and Philippi Ruins)

1. Old Town - Panagia Quarter

Panagia is the soul of Kavala. It's like an open-air museum with its colorful houses, narrow cobblestones and Ottoman buildings. But it is so pleasant to get lost in its streets that you should visit it without making a plan.

Kavala Castle: At the highest point of the city. The view is breathtaking. The castle, which was expanded during the Ottoman period, attracts attention with its dungeon ruins, bastions and small theater.

Kavala Mehmet Ali Pasha House: The stone house where Mehmet Ali Pasha, the governor of Egypt and a powerful figure of the Ottoman Empire, was born is now a museum. The statue in the garden and the unique sea view are worth seeing.

Imaret: An 18th century Ottoman complex. It has now been restored and turned into a luxury hotel. It impresses with its architecture and historical texture.

St. Nicholas Church: Formerly a mosque, today it serves as a church. An interesting stop with its transformation process and architecture.

2. City Center - Modern Kavala

While walking in the center of Kavala, you can walk under the palm trees and enjoy the cafes along the beach.

Aqueduct (Kamares): The symbol of the city. It was built by Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha in the 16th century. This giant 60-eyed aqueduct is perfect for both photography and history buffs.

Tobacco Museum: Kavala was an important center for tobacco trade in the 20th century. This museum describes that period in detail. A special place for those interested in industrial history.

Archaeology Museum: It has a large collection ranging from the Neolithic to the Roman period. It is a small but informative museum.

City Hall: Built in Gothic style, this building was once the home of a Hungarian merchant. Today it serves as a municipality, but it is remarkable for its architecture.

3. Filippi Ancient City

Filippi, about 15 km from Kavala, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can see the ruins of the ancient theater, forum, basilicas and Via Egnatia. Also, Christianity was taught here for the first time in Europe.

4. Thassos Island

A 40-minute ferry ride from Kavala, Thassos is reminiscent of Bozcaada in Turkey. It's full of quiet coves and historical ruins.

Most popular beaches: Golden Beach, Paradise Beach

Must-see sights: Aliki Archaeological Site, Thassos Harbor

Where and What to Eat in Kavala?

Kavala cuisine carries the flavors of the Aegean and Ottoman past. Seafood, fresh herbs and olive oil dishes are consumed in abundance.

Appetizer plates: Grilled octopus, zucchini hash browns, pepper with feta
Fresh fish: Be sure to check out the daily fish menus at the seaside restaurants
Kavala Cookies: Made with flour, almonds and powdered sugar, this delicious cookie has become synonymous with the city.

Kavala Travel Tips

• It is ideal to go in spring and fall. It can be very hot in summer.
• Renting a car is very useful for sightseeing.
• If you like walking, be prepared for plenty of stairs in the old town.
• If you are planning a day trip to Thassos, take the first ferry in the morning.
• Don't forget to buy Kavala cookies as a gift for your loved ones on your return.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Kavala Hotels page.