Discover dramatic scenery and centuries of history, culture and cuisine in East Macedonia and Thrace. This pocket of Greece features exciting cities like Kavala as well as off-the-beaten-track destinations like Nestos National Park and Thasos Island. Whether you’re into museums and cafes or beaches and birdwatching, you’ll find it in East Macedonia and Thrace.
Things to do in East Macedonia and Thrace
From forest-covered mountains to lush river valleys, the landscapes in East Macedonia and Thrace are stunning. In Nestos National Park, you can discover lush floodplain forests, deep gorges and lagoons filled with bright pink flamingos. The lively village of Chrysoupolis is a great base to visit the park.
Get lost in a maze of narrow streets and alleys in the Panagia Quarter. This historic district will charm you with its cobbled streets lined with candy-coloured houses. Follow the steep path up to Kavala Castle, as the 15th-century fortress commands sweeping views over the city and the sparkling Aegean Sea. Cool down with a scoop of ice cream from the café.
Tick birds like European vultures, golden eagles and horned owls off your list at Dadia Forest Reserve. The reserve is set at the foot of the Evros Mountains and protects a patchwork of oak and pine forests.
Sunseekers flock to Thasos Island. The island is a short ferry ride from Kavala and features gorgeous white-sand beaches and jewel-toned water. Relax in the sunshine on Marmara Beach and take a dip in Giola Lagoon, a natural swimming pool surrounded by honey-coloured rocks.
Immigrants from Albania, Bulgaria, Turkey and North Macedonia have shaped culture and cuisine over the centuries. Try local specialties like “kavourmas” slow-cooked meat and “pites” savoury pies. Save room for “syropiasta” pastries soaked in sugar syrup. Locally produced honey, olive oil and wine are sold across East Macedonia and Thrace.
Getting around East Macedonia and Thrace
Rental cars are an easy and flexible way to explore East Macedonia and Thrace at your own pace. Local buses service major towns and cities across the region, while major train stations are located in Drama and Alexandroupolis. Flights land at Kavala National Airport and the International Airport of Democritus at Alexadroupolis. Ferries connect East Macedonia and Thrace with Thassos, Samothrace and the Aegean Islands.