Alexandroupoli: The Gateway to Thrace and the Aegean

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Neh]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na miosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

Alexandroupoli, located in the Thrace region of Greece, has its roots dating back to the early 19th century. Originally a small fishing village known as Dedeağaç, it was inhabited by various Greek, Turkish, and Bulgarian communities. Its strategic location along the Aegean Sea made it a vital spot for trade and cultural exchange.

During the Ottoman Empire, Dedeağaç gained prominence as a crucial port city. The Ottomans recognized its strategic importance for both military and commercial purposes. The construction of the railway connecting Dedeağaç to Istanbul and Thessaloniki in the late 19th century further boosted its significance, leading to rapid urban development.

In 1919, following the Balkan Wars and World War I, the Treaty of Neuilly transferred Dedeağaç to Greece. The city was renamed Alexandroupoli in honor of King Alexander I of Greece. This period marked a significant shift in the city's demographic and cultural landscape, as Greek refugees from Asia Minor settled in the area, bringing with them their traditions and way of life.

During World War II, Alexandroupoli fell under German occupation. The city endured hardships, including the deportation of its Jewish population. However, it remained a hub of resistance activities against the Axis powers. The end of the war saw Alexandroupoli liberated and slowly rebuilding its community and infrastructure.

After World War II, Alexandroupoli experienced significant growth. The construction of new infrastructure, such as the port and the Democritus University of Thrace, transformed it into a modern and vibrant city. Its strategic location near the Turkish border also made it an important center for diplomatic and military activities during the Cold War.

Today, Alexandroupoli is a blend of historical richness and modern vibrancy. The city's landmarks, such as the iconic lighthouse and the Ethnological Museum of Thrace, stand as testaments to its diverse cultural heritage. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine, Alexandroupoli continues to attract visitors from around the world, eager to explore its unique history and culture.

Alexandroupoli is accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airport is Alexandroupolis International Airport 'Dimokritos' (AXD), located about 7 kilometers from the city center. The airport has regular flights connecting to Athens and other major cities. Alternatively, you can reach Alexandroupoli by train from major cities like Thessaloniki and Athens, with the Alexandroupoli railway station being a central hub in the city. Buses run frequently from Thessaloniki, Kavala, and other regional cities, operated by KTEL. For those who prefer driving, Alexandroupoli is well-connected by the Egnatia Odos (A2) motorway.

Within Alexandroupoli, transportation options include buses, taxis, and rental cars. The local bus network is operated by Astika KTEL Alexandroupolis and covers major routes within the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Car rentals are also an option for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, with several rental agencies located in the city and at the airport. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore the city.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Alexandroupoli. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city, including at the airport, major streets, and shopping areas.

Alexandroupoli is generally a safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, which connects you to police, medical services, and fire departments. The local hospital, University General Hospital of Alexandroupoli, provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and casual clothing, but avoid overly revealing outfits, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs; dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous, give up your seat for elderly passengers, and avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalispera' (good evening), and a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don’t rush through meals, as dining is a social activity in Greece.

To experience Alexandroupoli like a local, visit the local markets such as the Dimotiki Agora (Municipal Market) for fresh produce and traditional delicacies. Engage with locals at cafes and tavernas, as they are often friendly and eager to share stories and recommendations. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Evros Delta, a unique wetland area rich in biodiversity. For a relaxing day, spend time at the city's beaches or stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade. Participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the region.