Kavala Sights and Landmarks Guide, Greece

With its pristine harbors and picturesque hillside villas one cannot deny the romantic appeal of Kavala. As the second largest city in northern Greece and the key seaport in eastern Macedonia, Kavala is the idyllic destination for travelers seeking the ultimate union of business and pleasure.

Lying on a promontory that juts out into the Aegean Sea, Kavala is a haven where tourists are greeted by the sound of waves lapping on sandy shores and the airy scent of florid botanical gardens interspersed around the city. The most enjoyable way to soak in the sights that Kavala has to offer is to take a leisurely stroll along the winding roads and beachfronts.

Like a sentinel standing guard over a battlement, the Kavala Castle sits majestically atop the city where intricate walls and fortifications that have stood the test of time serve as constant reminders of Kavala's colorful history. Century-old mansions line Kyprou Street, their elegance never failing to leave a lasting impression on tourists.

For the historically inclined traveler several ruins and pertinent landmarks abound in and around the Kavala area. The citadel of Philippi is one such example. The journey to the ruins alone offers breathtaking views of the towering Mt. Pangaion. On a hillside just across the citadel lies the beautiful Paleochori Castle. This Byzantine structure affords unparalleled views of the distant mountains of Drama and the Philippi plain below.

 Travel to the quaint village of Orfani where another historical Byzantine castle is preserved in all its splendor. Surrounding the castle are several other ruins that only add to Kavala’s old-world charm and mystique.

Hands down, the most renowned landmark in Kavala is the Panagia, a beautifully preserved district that had once served as the city’s capital. The traditional buildings scattered all over this majestic headland are triumphs in Macedonian architecture. Picturesque sceneries of the city’s seascape and the verdant gardens that litter the Panagia make the ascent towards the apex a stroll of a lifetime.

Being the first Christian settlement in Europe, numerous monasteries are littered all over the hillsides of Mount Paggaio. If you want to invest some quality time in spiritual pursuits these monasteries are more than enough to appease and placate tired souls.

For tourists that can’t get enough of the sun, sea and sand, Kavala is brimming with the best beaches that will surely leave you sun-kissed and satisfied. From deep sea diving to parasailing, pristine beaches such as Batis, Perigiali, Kalamitsa and Patio offer a plethora of aquatic and seaside activities. And while you’re laying on the powdery white sand at sunset be sure to take a sip or two of tsipouro Kavala’s local brandy.

The city of Kavala is truly a world-class destination for romance and adventure. Those seeking a contemporary yet traditional sabbatical can look no further than this magnificent gem in eastern Greece.