Have you ever been to Northern Greece? Usually when people think of Greece they imagine Athens, Santorini, Crete or other islands that are more south. But there’s much to discover up North as well! There’s the magical Meteora, there’s the second-biggest town in Greece – Thessaloniki and then there’s also Kavala. We went recently there and let me tell you, if you’re ever traveling through Northern Greece, it is definitely worth a stop for a day or two.
It was January when we visited and I expected it to be pretty much “dead” like most beach towns during winter, but I was surprised!
Kavala was super vibrant, the streets and restaurants were full, the sun was shining, people were on their fishing boats and the weather was wonderful!
I remember I even took off my winter jacket at some point, and that’s rare, because I HATE being cold. No cold plunges for me, doesn’t matter how many years it will add to my life and how many seal whiskers I will grow. I prefer to be in a sunny place like Kavala when it gets cold.
So if you ever go to Kavala, here’s some inspiration of things to see and do from our trip there.
Things to Do In Kavala
Keep in mind that activities will depend on when you visit. There will be a lot more to do in Kavala during summer (for example going to one of the beaches), but we enjoyed our short winter trip A LOT!
So outside of the things I will share below in Kavala you could also:
- visit a museum (like the Archeology, Maritime or Tobacco museum)
- visit a winery or a farm
- drive out to the ancient town of Philippi and explore
- go on a boat ride
- take the ferry to Thassos island
- go to one of the many beaches
and many other adventures.
Aqueduct
The first thing we decided to go and see was the Aqueduct, which you can find at the beginning of the old town of Kavala. This aqueduct is one of the city’s landmarks and was rebuilt in the 16th century. It was actually in use well into the 20th century and is a truly impressive structure. We had a view over it from our hotel, which was pretty awesome, because you could peak through the arches and see the Agean see and the sun in the morning.
Hike To The Fortress & Views
From the aqueduct, we started following the signs to the Fortress. I now understand why people back in the day did not need exercise. It was quite the climb, but the views over the sea and the tiny streets of the Panagia (the old town) were a sight in their own right.
Kavala Fortress
So this is probably the most popular attraction in this wonderful Greek city. The fortress stands on top of a hill in the Panagia peninsula and overlooks the city of Kavala on one side and the Aegean sea on the other.
Naturally, due to the position and the good outlook, this place was used for defense since it was built in the 15th century (last in World War II) and it’s one of the best-preserved fortresses in Greece.
The complex includes a tower, a guard house and a prison and we got to see almost all of them.
The best part was visiting the tower and it was quite a squeeze going up the ladder, but well worth it. Don’t skip it, even if you’re a bit afraid of tight spaces and heights (me!), because the views are amazing.
We also went into the prison, which I remember was used as food storage at some point. That impressed me because it smelled quite moldy. Being inside and thinking that it was a prison was quite chilling to be honest with you.
Something interesting is that today, the fortress is also used to host concerts and different events.
Panagia, Mohammed Ali’s House, Church and Sea
After the fortress, we wanted to see the other side of the Panagia peninsula and the beautiful buildings of the old town.
During our walk we got to see the Mohammed Ali’s House, a church and we went all the way to the tip of the peninsula. We tried to see a lighthouse there, but couldn’t find it. However, we did see the port and enjoyed more views of the Aegean sea (I guess you can never get enough of those).
Cats
We stumbled into a group of cats while looking for a place to have lunch in and we fed them whatever snacks we had. It was pretty crazy how many cats there were, I couldn’t even count them.
Lunch
We found this restaurant called To Araliki in the old town and decided to have lunch there. It was typical Greek food and as expected – very very delicious! We got the meat plate for two and honestly, if you also order salads and appetizers it can feed 4 people. It was so much and we especially liked the sausage.
We got a complimentary dessert after, which was also super tasty – so naturally we went there the next day too.
City Center, Port and Siesta
After this nutrient-dense lunch, we needed a loong walk. So we went down (or rather rolled down) the hill to what is now the city center of Kavala.
There were many shops for souvenirs, clothes and shoes, but most were closed because it was “siesta” time. I don’t know the word the long lunch break in Greek, if you do – let me know, please!
Though things were closed, we still managed to get some olives and presents for back home.
We also got to see the Monument of Apostle Paul next to St. Nicholas church, the port as well as the city hall and we visited the shopping mall too!
Afternoon Coffee and Sweets
While we were walking we discovered a dessert shop and wanted to have coffee there, but they didn’t have any sit-down options. So we got the sweets and headed to our hotel, made the coffee there and enjoyed it with the sweets and the view of the old town and the aqueduct.
The desserts? OMG!!!! They were so amazing. Usually, I’m not a huge fan of sweets in Greece (Italy can give me a cavity or two), but these were SO good.
Like, I’m still thinking of the one with the cookie, it was so amazing. It was like a honey cake, just 10/10. I’m giving my rating with the photos.
I don’t know how to write out the name of the dessert shop, so I’m just leaving the link to the location, in case you want to visit it.
Evening Walk
The last thing we did that day was go out for a beautiful evening walk along the sea. It was magical, especially with the views of the port and the Panagia peninsula with the Fortress on top and its reflection in the water. It’s like a postcard, but live.
We didn’t do much more in the evening (since we were still full from lunch and the sweets), but in case you’re hungry or want to go to a bar – there are many, many options you can choose from.
Food & Grocery Stores
As mentioned, we had lunch at To Araliki twice and loved the sweets from this dessert shop.
On the last day we decided to have a picnic next to the beach while enjoying some grilled fish from a fish market (there are multiple around the city). Again, they didn’t have any sit-down places, but you could get grilled fish for takeaway. It was so good and we also got some incredible bread from this bakery too.
So, I don’t know about you, but when I visit another country I love visiting the supermarkets and seeing what products the locals buy. Therefore, we also visited one huge grocery store when we drove to Drama. Whatever you would need, this store would have it. Need a washing machine? You’ll find it. Need shoes? They’ve got them. Cheese, vegetables, fresh fish? Of course, they have those. Need someone to take care of your child while shopping? There’s a daycare as well.
Altogether food and grocery shopping experience in Kavala and Northern Greece – 10/10.
Where To Stay
I hope you got some inspiration of new things to do for your trip to Kavala! If you’re in the area and don’t know whether or not you should visit – VISIT! It is so worth it.
