Kavala is a "multi-layered" city in the north of Greece, which has passed through the eras and absorbed the features of each of them. If earlier only Greeks came there for vacations, today Kavala is increasingly attracting foreigners. It combined the charm of ancient architecture, the beauty of the beaches and the life of a modern city full of highlights. Where to go in Kavala and what can you do?
Attractions
Part of the time in Kavala should definitely be devoted to its sights. It is a city with a long and interesting history. It was founded by people from Thassos and Paros, changed several names; Byzantines, Turks, Venetians and even for some time the Bulgarians ruled here. Therefore, guests of Kavala will definitely have something to see:
- A 15th-century fortress built on the ruins of early fortifications. The fortification has preserved many monuments from different times. From the height of the fortress, a panoramic view of Kavala opens;
Fortress and views of Kavala - Aqueduct with 60 arches, built by the Turks on the ruins of the Byzantine walls;
Aqueduct - Tobacco Museum, dedicated to the history of Kavala as a center of tobacco production since the beginning of the 12th century;
- City Hall - the former residence of one of the tobacco magnates, reminiscent of a classic castle in the Gothic style;
Town Hall - "castle" - House of Mehmet Ali built in the middle of the 18th century;
- Archaeological Museum with finds from Kavala and the surrounding area. In its collection there are marble busts, jewelry, steles, architectural elements from pagan sanctuaries;
- Ottoman imaret with domes, built at the beginning of the 18th century;
- Church of St. Nicholas in the building of the former mosque. It is decorated with magnificent mosaics.
The appearance of Kavala with its eclectic architecture is conducive to long walks along its streets. The city has preserved neoclassical mansions, definitely worthy of attention.
Beaches
In addition to historical monuments, Kavala has another strong point: its beaches. Rapsani beach is located in the center of the city. The entire infrastructure is concentrated here: from coastal bars to water sports. Despite the location, Rapsani will delight you with the purity of water and sand. On the outskirts of Kavala, you can visit the beaches of Kalamitsa and Batis. This is a great place for a family holiday: water activities are available, there are sun loungers, taverns and children's clubs. The beaches of Kavala are good not only for swimming and relaxing, but also for active pastime. There are playgrounds for sports games and diving clubs, and anyone can buy a sea excursion along the coast of Kavala.
Night life
In terms of nightlife, Kavala differs little from other coastal cities in Greece: they love and know how to have fun here. Kavala is filled with bars and clubs, as well as taverns where you can listen to traditional Greek music in the evening. Look for the best nightlife in the Old Town (Panagia district), where restaurants and bars fit into the color of historical buildings. The noisiest point of Kavala is the embankment. After enjoying the views of Kavala at night, you can go deep into the city, to its center, where quiet and cozy establishments are “hidden”.
Shops
Spending time in local shops is one of the favorite pastimes of Kavala guests. The main commercial area of the city extends from the port to Omonia Street, and also occupies Alexander the Great Street, Eleftheria Square and the surrounding neighborhoods. Here are concentrated stores of world and Greek brands, department stores and shopping centers.
Interesting fact: Kavala is quite a popular city for shopping, and not only among the Greeks. Residents of Turkey and neighboring countries of the Balkan Peninsula come here for shopping
When going shopping in Kavala, it is worth knowing what exactly this city is famous for. From souvenirs you can choose textiles, interior items, ceramics. Kavala is especially famous for its gastronomic gifts: kurabye cookies, the recipe of which was brought from Asia Minor, wine from more than 20 factories in the Kavala region, ouzo, jams and honey.
Out of city
If Kavala has been studied far and wide, it's time to go outside the city. Just 18 km away is the ancient Macedonian city of Philippi, the ruins of which are recognized as a UNESCO monument. Here you can visit the amphitheater, the early Christian basilicas, the agora, which was once full of life, with baths and galleries. The city of Krinides is located 4 km from Philip. It became famous for its mud baths - here you can undergo any cosmetic and therapeutic procedures using thermal waters and healing mud.
10 km from Kavala is the town of Nea Karvali, founded by settlers from Cappadocia. You can spend several hours here: drink coffee in a cafe overlooking the sea, look at old houses, visit the Church of St. Gregory, get acquainted with the traditions in the Museum of Local Lore and taste the kurabye cookies typical of these places.
