The Top Things To Do In Kavala, Greece

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The ancient city of Philippi, an important archaeological site in Eastern Macedonia, was colonized by the people of the island of Thasos, who established the city of Krinides in 360 BC. But in 356 BC, King Philip II of Macedonia renamed the city after himself, after saving it from a Thracian invasion. It was here that the Apostle Paul, in 49 A.D. first preached the teachings of Christianity in Europe and where the first European Christian woman, Lydia, was baptized.

It is said that Kavala has always been a highly fortified city since the 5th century BC and its castle of imposing stature has been rebuilt and reinforced several times, notably by the Byzantines before its destruction in 1391 before the Ottoman Empire took control of the city. The current structure is mainly from the Ottoman reconstruction of 1425.

Built in 1550 by Suleiman the Magnificent, this imposing structure dominating the city center used to supply the city with water. Spanning over 280 meters and including its 60 arches, it features old houses built into the monument.

A beautiful example of Ottoman architecture, the Imaret was built in 1817 by Mohamed Ali Pasha to serve as an educational center. It operated as a religious school until 1902 and later as a charity foundation until 1923. After the exchange of populations between Greece and Turkey in the 1970s, it was inhabited by the ethnic Greek refugees from Anatolia. Later renovated, it now operates as a luxury hotel offering breathtaking views of Kavala and the sea.

This museum opened in 1934, and has occupied its current location since 1964. It is probably the most important archaeological museum in Eastern Macedonia, boasting prehistoric finds from all over the region of Kavala, including excavations at Neapolis, Amphipolis, and other parts of Eastern Macedonia.

Located in the beach resort Batis Multiplex, Selini Bar is one of the main nightlife hotspots in town. With creative bartenders serving tasty cocktails and a line-up featuring edgy artists, Selini offers stunning views over the sea or even the mountain behind the city. If you visit during the summer, make sure to take a break from all the sightseeing and have a swim in the crystal-clear waters. You won’t regret it.

Speaking of crystal-clear waters, why not visit Kavala’s little green paradise island, Thassos? Located 20 kilometers off Kavala, Thassos boasts magnificent beaches, lush and verdant forests and a strong cuisine. And the history buffs can still get their fill of culture with the various historical sites available. Who said you can’t combine entertainment and culture?

Looking for a place to relax after visiting the major landmarks? Head to Wood & Rock, a dive bar set in a traditional house that serves a wide variety of drinks with a pop/rock playlist that will help you get in a good mood. Nothing fancy, nothing posh, just a great all-day bar where you can recharge your batteries before exploring some more.