Known as the Blue City and as the ‘Mecca of tobacco’, Kavala’s past and present sparkle with the first rays of dawn. You are in a city where for centuries Byzantines, Ottomans, Jews, merchants, tobacco workers, refugees and intellectuals mingled and prospered. Here in Macedonia, the sea-routes encountered the East-West axis, cross-fertilising both.
Kavala’s huge but decorative tobacco warehouses and elegant neoclassical buildings recall the city’s glorious past. Take the open bus up the hill to the Old Town and the Imaret and step back in time. And then enjoy a meal and a drink in the lively centre, under the eye of the city’s castle or around the port. Welcome to Kavala, one of the most atmospheric cities in Greece!
What to do in Kavala
The historical Imaret
It’s one of Greece’s most important Ottoman monuments. Imaret means ‘poor house’, though it is anything but. The impressive complex of lead-domed structures was built in 1817 by Mohamed Ali as a kulliye, a place for Islamic instruction, on top of an older imaret. A mixture of curved surfaces and spindly chimneys, enclosing three citrus orchards – one with a cistern – it is a magical place. Following centuries of mishaps and neglect, it has been renovated to become a hotel that symbolises a part of the city’s history.
Panagia, the old city of Kavala
Are you ready for a blast from the past? Panagia, Kavala’s old town, will take you back in time with its castle, acropolis and old lighthouse. There are so many sights and attractions to explore. There’s Mohamed Ali Square (named after the 19th century Ottoman governor of Egypt who was born in Kavala and whose home and statue can be found here), the church of the Virgin, the Hussein Bey mosque, the 17th-century madrassa and Macedonian-style houses in fabulous colours. Every step will reveal new treasures from across the centuries.
The castle and the acropolis
The story is too long to fit in a few lines but the view can be captured in a single word: unbelievable. Spread out below you are the old and new town, picturesque bays and the wine-dark Aegean Sea.
Kamares: The aqueduct
These imposing arches are one of Kavala’s trademarks. Originally, they were part of a system that transported water to the rock of Panagia. Measuring 6.4km and uncovered, the aqueduct was constructed not on the principles of communicating vessels but rather on a very precise inclination. It took its present form in the time of Suleiman the Magnificent sometime between 1520 and 1530. Nearly half a millennium later, it is no less impressive.
Hidden gems of Kavala
The flavourful meze of Kavala
If you follow the example of the locals, you’ll take a table at the meze-bar in the old shipyard and other similar eateries to dig into the best food in Kavala. Washed down with raki, ouzo or wine, you’ll be served delicious fried red mullet, cod, smoked mackerel, grilled octopus, steamed mussels and fresh clams. Have we whetted your appetite yet?
The tobacco warehouses
Scattered around town, the giant tobacco warehouses date from the time Kavala was a tobacco hub. If you’re interested in the history of the city’s tobacco production, visit the excellent Tobacco Museum.
Agios Nikolaos
The old neighbourhood of Agios Nikolaos, with its many small shops and kafenia, can be found near Eleftherias Square. You’ll discover the church of Agios Nikolaos here, which was transformed from a mosque into an Orthodox Christian place of worship. Outside the church is a digital presentation of its history and on its southern side is a wonderful memorial to the Apostle Paul.
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Where to stay in Kavala
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Kavala offers a wide variety of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets. In the city centre, you can find modern hotels and boutique stays that provide easy access to the old town and harbour area. For beach lovers, seaside resorts and cosy guesthouses are available in nearby areas like Nea Iraklitsa and Nea Peramos. Those seeking tranquility can opt for traditional guesthouses near Mount Pangaio, where the serene surroundings and local charm add to the experience.
You can find more information on our accommodation page.
Public buses link the city centre to nearby beaches and surrounding villages, making it easy to explore the region. Renting a car is recommended for travellers wishing to venture into the mountainous areas or explore vineyards and lesser-known historical sites at their own pace.
Kavala is known for its traditional Greek flavours that are complemented by influences from Asia Minor and fresh local ingredients. The city is renowned for its seafood, including grilled sardines, mussels and octopus, served at the many seaside tavernas. Signature local products include alipasta (salted fish) and fasolia Chrisoupolis (known for their sweet taste and glistening white colour). Kavala is also known for its connection to the vineyards of Mount Pangaio, producing excellent wines such as Malagouzia and Assyrtiko, which go well with the local cuisine. For a snack, don’t miss Kavala’s kourabiedes, almond-flavoured butter biscuits, and other sweets inspired by the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Kavala is a safe and welcoming destination for visitors. There are medical facilities, including a hospital on the outskirts of town and pharmacies and other health services in the city centre and surrounding settlements. Food safety standards are high. In case of emergencies, dial 112, Greece’s universal emergency number. With its relaxed atmosphere, Kavala is a safe location for solo travellers, families and groups.
For more health and safety tips, you can visit our Useful info page.
The best way to get to Kavala is by flying to Kavala International Airport (KVA), located about 30 km from the city centre. It has year-round direct flights from Athens and direct international flights in the summer months. Kavala is also an easy drive (171km) by car or by bus from the international airport of Thessaloniki via the Egnatia Odos highway.
Kavala is also well-connected by its port, with ferry services to the nearby island of Thassos and, on certain days of the week, the North Aegean islands of Lemnos, Chios, Lesvos and Samos.
Kavala also has year-round ferry connections to the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio, near Athens.
The easiest way to reach the city centre from Kavala Airport is by taxi, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, bus services and rental cars are available for more flexibility.
Kavala is worth visiting at any time of year as every season is different. From May to October, the weather is warm and ideal for visiting beaches and exploring historical sites. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and excursions to nearby destinations, like Xanthi.
Kavala is famous for its rich history, including landmarks like the Kamares aqueduct, the Imaret, and the charming old town. It’s also known for its beautiful coastal setting, fresh seafood and its proximity to Thassos Island and the ancient site of Philippi.