Imagine turquoise waters, winding streets, and delectable Greek cuisine. This isn’t a scene from Athens or Santorini – it’s Kavala, a hidden gem nestled in Greece’s Macedonia. Lonely Planet describes this region as a haven of ‘ancient cities, holy places and natural wonders,’ and while you might not have heard of Kavala, known as the ‘Blue City’ due to its embrace of the Aegean Sea, it’s time to add it to your summer getaway list.
Described as a ‘crossroad between the East and West,’ Kavala is a cultural melting pot boasting mountain views, pristine beaches, and local delicacies waiting to be savored. Tourists have fallen head over heels for this charming city. TripAdvisor reviewers rave about its beauty, architecture, and delicious food, vowing to return for more. With TUI launching a new direct route from Gatwick, reaching Kavala is now a breeze. This three-hour flight (compared to the previous eight-hour journey) opens doors to a captivating destination.
Flights to Kavala with TUI start from £100 in July, while August flights cost upwards of £191. Aegean Airlines and Wizz Air offer flights with a stopover, starting from £200. British Airways also flies to popular Greek destinations like Thessaloniki, which is a two-hour drive from Kavala (with toll roads). While it’s possible to drive from Athens, the journey takes over seven hours.
Kavala caters to every traveler’s taste, boasting history, culture, architecture, vibrant floral courtyards, crystal-clear beaches, and natural wonders. Ammolofi Beach, a must-visit, stretches for 3km of fine sand and sparkling blue waters. Relax on sunbeds, explore beach clubs, or sip cocktails at bars. This beach is actually three natural bays, allowing for quiet escapes. Koo Beach Bar, a large beach club in Ammolofi, is a perfect spot for daytime relaxation and nighttime revelry. Kalamitsa Beach is another gem, and further down the coast, Kavala Almyra Beach Bar offers a boho vibe with an infinity pool and comfortable loungers.
If you prefer being on the water, embark on a boat trip along Kavala’s coast. Consider a day cruise to the island of Thassos in the Aegean Sea, allowing for swimming and dolphin spotting.
For those seeking culture, Greece is a treasure trove of history. Start your Kavala exploration at the house of Muhammed Ali and its dedicated museum. This isn’t the famous boxer; it honors Ottoman ruler Mohammed (Mehmet Ali), who rose to become Egypt’s de facto ruler. Tickets for the Institute Muhammed Ali, located near his family home, cost €5 (£4.23).
Kavala’s Old Town of Panagia offers a glimpse into 2,500 years of history, with cobblestone streets lined with bars and shops. Climb the hilltop fortress, once owned by various empires, including the Byzantines, Ottomans, Lombards, and Franks. Be mesmerized by breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the Imaret, a 19th-century complex serving as a charitable foundation during Ottoman rule.
While the Imaret is an expensive hotel, curious travelers can explore it on hourly tours (10:00 to 15:30) for €8 (£6.77). Alternatively, enjoy a bite or drink at the hotel.
You’ll notice the impressive Aqueduct, a stunning stone structure transporting water throughout the city, making for picture-perfect moments. Kavala was a major tobacco exporter, so a visit to the Tobacco Museum offers insights into this historical industry. After a day of exploring, Bostani restaurant is a popular choice for dinner, offering local fresh produce and a unique twist on Greek dishes.
Kavala is renowned for its almond cookies, known as kourabiedes, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. These melt-in-your-mouth, crescent-shaped biscuits are made with ground and crushed almonds and vanilla. In some parts of Greece, they’re traditionally eaten at Christmas.
If you’re looking for accommodations, the Imaret is a luxurious option, but it comes with a hefty price tag. A two-night stay in early July will set you back £1,277. However, there are other five-star hotels that are more budget-friendly.
The Lucy Hotel, a beachfront hotel opposite Kalamitsa Beach, offers a junior suite with a sea view for £191. The Anthemion House, a charming hotel housed in a restored neoclassical building, provides free bikes, a fitness center, and a shared lounge. However, it’s booked out through the summer. September dates are available at £135 per night.
The Egnatia City Hotel & Spa offers a more budget-friendly option, with a junior suite with a sea view costing £135 per night for two people in July. The Oceanis Kavala, a four-star hotel, is just a short walk from the Archaeological Museum and ferry terminal. Double rooms start at £69 per night.
Like most Mediterranean destinations, Kavala enjoys pleasant weather. Expect temperatures around 29°C in the summer, but be aware that it can get extremely hot depending on the time of year. Remember that some areas of Greece, including Athens, have experienced extreme heat, leading to closures in certain tourist areas like the Acropolis.
Currently, Kavala’s weather is in the late 20s, perfect for a summer getaway. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Kavala, Greece’s hidden gem.
