September is definitely the perfect time for a late beach holiday in Kavala, Greece. The coastal town is only 300 km away from Sofia, Bulgaria, making it a great choice for a longer weekend beach break. The crystal clear water of the Aegean Sea is still warm. The flow of tourists has decreased. And the temperature is still suitable for the beach. I won’t even mention Greek cuisine and hospitality – they are present all year round.
We had the opportunity to visit Kavala and the surrounding area in the last week of August for a late beach holiday. Although the end of the season is near, the weather was perfect for the beach. Therefore, I am rushing to share our impressions and recommendations if you are thinking of visiting this coastal town in Northern Greece.
Since there is a lot of information, I decided to divide my Kavala guide into three parts – hotels and what to look out for, beaches and restaurants, sightseeing.
SIGHTSEEING IN KAVALA
Kavala is a relatively big city, so it can definitely offer several interesting places for every tourist to explore. Here is what we were able to visit:
The Old Town of Kavala/Panagia
The Panagia (Old Town) quarter was originally the historical core of Kavala. The city is based on this rocky promontory, and the neighborhood has been continuously inhabited since the 7th century BC. You can catch a glimpse of the old city from almost every point in Kavala and because of its geographical and historical importance I have put it at the top of my list of sights to see in the city. The best way to explore the old town is undoubtedly on foot, but don’t forget your comfortable shoes. The majority of the streets are steep hills, so prepare yourself for a steep walk. But it will definitely be worth it – the small streets have an incomparable charm.
Kavala Fortress
In the heart of the old city you will find the fortress of Kavala. We ourselves were not able to see it from the inside. However, if you decide to visit it properly, you will see several preserved buildings (including a prison), as well as the high tower. From its top you will be able to observe an incredible panorama of the whole city. The entrance fee in August 2022 is EUR 4.50 per person.
The Lighthouse of Kavala
At the very edge of the old town you will also find the lighthouse of Kavala. It is located in the yard of an elementary school and for the sake of the children it is surrounded by a fence, so you cannot actually get to it. However, the view of the sun setting over the city is phenomenal and definitely worth the walk up there.
Holy Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary
In the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse you will also find the Holy Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. The church is important for the Panagia neighborhood (“Παναγία” in Greek means Virgin), because during the Ottoman rule, a large number of Orthodox Christians lived here. It was built in 1957 on the site of an important monastery for the Christian community.
Mohammed Ali Museum and the Imaret
Mohamemed Ali founded the dynasty that ruled Egypt until 1952 and was born in Kavala. His house has been turned into a museum. The Imaret is a late Ottoman building, a typical example of Islamic architecture. It was built by Mohammed Ali and is located in the old town. Originally used as a school, today it is a luxury hotel.
The Kamares Aqueduct
You can’t miss the Kamares Aqueduct. It is 280 meters long and 28 meters high in places, making it one of the most significant landmarks in Kavala. It was built during Roman times to protect the city. And between 1520 and 1566, the Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent restructured it into an aqueduct to facilitate the transport of water from a mountain spring to Kavala.
The Promenade
A stroll along the promenade is a must-do part of any visit to Kavala. Not only because you will have a great view of the old town from here, but also because you will be able to watch the boats and ferries that leave the port. Enjoy the evening with a nice ice cream on one of the many benches along the street.
Have you ever visited Kavala? Which landmark made the biggest impression on you? Tell me in the comments. For more information about Kavala, you can also read the other articles in the series about the city.
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