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East Macedonia and Thrace
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East Macedonia and Thrace pairs ancient Philippi, Aegean islands, Thracian towns, mountain forests, wetlands and distinctive northern Greek cuisine.

East Macedonia and Thrace occupies Greece’s north-eastern corner, stretching from the wooded slopes of the Rhodope Mountains and the Nestos River to the Aegean islands and the Evros frontier. It is a region of marked contrasts: Kavala rises above a harbour and island-dotted sea, Drama lies beneath forested mountains and abundant springs, Xanthi combines a preserved old quarter with Thracian landscapes, while Evros reaches from Alexandroupoli’s waterfront to wetlands, forests and the borderlands around Orestiada and Soufli.
Read more about East Macedonia and Thrace
The region’s long history is unusually visible. Near Kavala, the archaeological site of Philippi preserves a major ancient city later associated with Saint Paul and early Christianity. Thasos, Samothrace and ancient Maroneia add island and coastal layers of Greek, Roman and Byzantine history, while Ottoman-era houses, tobacco warehouses, aqueducts and traditional settlements reveal the importance of trade across the Balkans. The Roman Via Egnatia, which crossed the area from west to east, helped connect the Adriatic with Byzantium and left a lasting imprint on the region’s strategic importance.
Nature is central to the experience. The Nestos River winds through steep forested gorges before reaching a broad delta, a notable habitat for birds and wetland wildlife. The Evros Delta is one of Greece’s most important migratory-bird areas, and the Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park protects a landscape associated with raptors and Mediterranean woodland. Inland, the mountains of Falakro, the Rhodopes and Samothrace offer walking, canyoning and cooler summer air, although rural excursions require careful planning and respect for changing conditions.
The region’s cultural character reflects centuries of movement and coexistence. Muslim communities, including Turkish-speaking and Pomak communities in parts of Xanthi and Rodopi, form an important part of Thrace’s contemporary identity, alongside Christian communities and traditions shaped by refugees who arrived from Asia Minor and eastern Thrace in the twentieth century. Xanthi’s old town, Komotini’s multi-layered urban life, Soufli’s silk heritage and Kavala’s tobacco-era architecture each offer a different perspective.
Food draws on both land and sea: Aegean fish, Thasian olive oil and honey, mountain dairy products, Thracian pastries, regional meats and wines from Drama and Kavala. A rewarding itinerary combines archaeological sites and historic towns with river landscapes, island ferries and mountain roads. Distances are manageable but significant, particularly towards Evros, so the region is best explored through several bases rather than treated as a single urban destination.

When is the best time to visit East Macedonia and Thrace?

Best: May–June, September · 24–29°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1050
February1140
March1540
April1840
May (best)2430
June (best)2920
July3120
August3120
September (best)2630
October2040
November1450
December1050

Getting to and around East Macedonia and Thrace

How to get there

East Macedonia and Thrace is served by Kavala International Airport, located near Chrysoupoli in the regional unit of Kavala, and Alexandroupolis International Airport in Evros; both have seasonal and changing connections, so routes should be checked before booking. Thessaloniki Airport lies outside the region but is a major international gateway for Kavala, Drama and western parts of the region. The Egnatia Odos motorway provides the principal road approach from Thessaloniki and continues east towards Xanthi, Komotini and Alexandroupoli. Long-distance buses connect the main cities, while rail services and ferry routes can change, particularly for Thasos and Samothrace.

Transportation

A car is useful for reaching archaeological sites, mountain villages, the Nestos area, Soufli, Dadia and the Evros Delta, although main towns are connected by intercity buses. Kavala, Xanthi, Komotini, Alexandroupoli and Drama have local urban transport and taxis, while rural services are less frequent and may not reach trailheads or remote villages. Ferries connect the mainland with Thasos from ports including Keramoti and Kavala, and Samothrace is reached from Alexandroupoli; crossings are weather- and season-dependent. Allow extra time on mountain roads and avoid assuming that a single base will cover the whole region.

Top city travel guides in East Macedonia and Thrace

The cities of East Macedonia and Thrace, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Best attractions in East Macedonia and Thrace

East Macedonia and Thrace offers an unusually broad mix of archaeology, wildlife and outdoor landscapes. The archaeological site of Philippi is the region’s major classical and early Christian centre, with theatres, basilicas, streets and civic buildings spread across a substantial landscape near Kavala. Thasos and Samothrace add island archaeology, beaches and mountain walking, while the Sanctuary of the Great Gods on Samothrace is especially significant for its religious history. Inland, the Aggitis cave and river area near Drama, the forests and ski terrain of Falakro, and the Nestos river gorge provide different forms of nature-based travel. The Nestos Delta and Evros Delta are important for birdwatching and wetland exploration, while the Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park protects a distinctive forest ecosystem in Evros. Xanthi’s old town, Kavala’s hillside streets and tobacco warehouses, Soufli’s silk heritage and the archaeological remains at Maroneia and Mesimvria-Zone broaden the cultural offering beyond the principal cities. Activities range from swimming and boating to hiking, canyoning, birdwatching and visits to museums, though access in protected and mountainous areas should be planned locally.

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Best landmarks in East Macedonia and Thrace

Philippi is the region’s defining archaeological landmark, where the remains of a Macedonian and Roman city include the theatre, forum, basilicas and streets associated with Saint Paul’s visit. Kavala’s hillside old town is distinguished by the long, arched Kamares aqueduct, the fortress above the harbour and the compact Imaret building, which reflects the city’s Ottoman past. On Thasos, the ancient theatre, sanctuary area and marble heritage of Limenas reveal the island’s long relationship with the Aegean and its mineral resources. Samothrace is marked by the Sanctuary of the Great Gods and the mountain mass of Saos, whose summit is the highest point in the Aegean islands. In Thrace, the old quarters of Xanthi preserve Ottoman-era houses and narrow streets, while the Evros landscape is defined by the broad delta, the forested hills around Dadia and the silk-town character of Soufli. The Nestos River and its steep forested passages form a natural landmark as important to regional identity as any monument.

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Best restaurants in East Macedonia and Thrace

The region’s food reflects both the Aegean and the inland Balkans. Kavala, Thasos, Alexandroupoli and the coastal villages are strong places to look for grilled or simply cooked fish, shellfish and meze, while Thasos is associated with olives, olive oil, honey and other island produce. Inland tables draw on mountain herbs, dairy products, beans, game where legally sourced, and meat dishes influenced by Thracian and refugee cooking. Xanthi and Komotini are particularly good places to explore pastries, sweets, spice-led dishes and savoury filo specialities, with culinary traditions shaped by Christian, Muslim, Pomak and Turkish-speaking communities. Drama, Kavala and parts of Thrace also belong to a productive northern Greek wine zone, and local labels are increasingly found in restaurants and wine shops. Seek out family-run tavernas, village grills, bakeries, cafés and farmers’ markets as well as contemporary restaurants; menus and availability can be seasonal, especially on the islands and in mountain settlements.

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Best bars in East Macedonia and Thrace

Evening life varies considerably across East Macedonia and Thrace. Kavala has the broadest year-round choice of waterfront cafés, bars, restaurants and later venues, with summer activity extending around the harbour and seafront. Alexandroupoli also has a well-established promenade culture, while Xanthi, Komotini and Drama offer student-oriented cafés, modern bars, traditional cafés and occasional live-music venues. In Thasos, nightlife becomes more seasonal and is concentrated in the main resort settlements, whereas Samothrace is generally quieter and centred on tavernas, cafés and informal music rather than large clubs. Smaller towns and villages typically favour ouzeries, meze restaurants, local wine and beer, and traditional coffeehouses. Visitors should treat nightlife as part of the region’s social and dining culture rather than expect a major club scene everywhere; opening arrangements and seasonal schedules change frequently.

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Best nightclubs in East Macedonia and Thrace

Evening life varies considerably across East Macedonia and Thrace. Kavala has the broadest year-round choice of waterfront cafés, bars, restaurants and later venues, with summer activity extending around the harbour and seafront. Alexandroupoli also has a well-established promenade culture, while Xanthi, Komotini and Drama offer student-oriented cafés, modern bars, traditional cafés and occasional live-music venues. In Thasos, nightlife becomes more seasonal and is concentrated in the main resort settlements, whereas Samothrace is generally quieter and centred on tavernas, cafés and informal music rather than large clubs. Smaller towns and villages typically favour ouzeries, meze restaurants, local wine and beer, and traditional coffeehouses. Visitors should treat nightlife as part of the region’s social and dining culture rather than expect a major club scene everywhere; opening arrangements and seasonal schedules change frequently.

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Best shops in East Macedonia and Thrace

Shopping is strongest in the region’s historic and commercial towns rather than in one large retail district. Kavala combines an urban high street and waterfront shops with delicatessens selling Thasian olive oil, honey, sweets and other northern Greek products. Xanthi’s old town and central market area are useful for traditional foodstuffs, cafés, ceramics, textiles and small independent shops, while Komotini has a broad local retail scene shaped by its role as a commercial centre in western Thrace. Drama and Alexandroupoli offer everyday shopping, bakeries, wine merchants and specialist food shops, with larger centres and branded stores concentrated in the cities. Soufli is associated with silk production and is the natural place to look for silk-related products, while island visits provide opportunities to buy olive products, honey, herbs and locally made crafts. Market days vary, so ask locally rather than relying on a fixed timetable; choose labelled regional products and buy crafts from established shops rather than removing materials from archaeological or natural sites.

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East Macedonia and Thrace essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the euro (EUR), as throughout Greece. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, supermarkets, restaurants and larger towns, while cash remains useful for small cafés, village businesses, taxis, markets, parking and some rural services. ATMs are common in urban centres and tourist areas but less dependable in remote mountain districts and on smaller islands. Bank charges and dynamic currency conversion can vary, so visitors should check the terms offered by their card provider and choose to be charged in euros where appropriate.
Safety
Ordinary precautions are appropriate in busy transport areas, beaches and crowded historic quarters. Outdoor visitors should take heat seriously in summer, carry water and check weather and fire information before walking in forests or mountains. The Nestos gorge, Samothrace’s ravines and island trails can involve slippery rocks, strong currents or difficult access; swim only in suitable conditions and do not underestimate river levels. Drivers should expect winding rural roads, livestock, agricultural vehicles and limited lighting. In protected landscapes, follow marked routes and posted restrictions, especially during periods of high fire risk.
Emergency Situations
The European emergency number 112 operates in Greece for police, fire, ambulance and other urgent assistance. Police can also be contacted on 100, the fire service on 199 and the ambulance service on 166, although 112 is the most useful number for international visitors who need coordinated help. Give a precise location, road name or landmark, particularly in forests, ravines and rural areas where mapping can be difficult. For coastal incidents, ask emergency services for coastguard assistance, and do not enter closed fire zones or restricted border areas.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress respectfully when entering churches, monasteries or mosques, and ask before photographing people, religious services, military facilities or border installations. In villages and smaller towns, modest behaviour and a polite greeting are appreciated; Greek national etiquette around queueing, dining and tipping generally applies here as elsewhere in Greece. Do not remove stones or artefacts from archaeological sites, and never light fires in woodland or leave rubbish on beaches, trails or wetlands. Keep dogs under control near livestock and wildlife, and respect the privacy of communities in minority and border areas.
Local Tips
Plan nature visits around the seasons: wetlands are especially rewarding during migration periods, while mountain areas offer relief from summer heat but can have rapidly changing weather. Xanthi and Komotini are useful bases for exploring western Thrace, whereas Alexandroupoli is practical for the Evros Delta and Samothrace ferry. Hikers should obtain local advice before entering gorges or remote forest routes. Market visits in Kavala, Drama, Xanthi and Komotini are good opportunities to find regional cheeses, honey, olives, pastries and wines, but market days and trading hours vary.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloΓειά σου[Yia sou]
GoodbyeΑντίο[Adío]
YesΝαι[Ne]
NoΌχι[Óchi]
Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ[Parakaló]
Thank youΕυχαριστώ[Efcharistó]
Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη[Signómi]
How are you?Πώς είσαι;[Pós íse?]
Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;[Kalá. Esý?]
Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;[Milás Angliká?]
I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω[Den katalavéno]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ[Tha íthela na do to menó, parakaló]
I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας[Den tróo créas]
Cheers!Στην υγειά μας![Stin ygeiá mas!]
I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ[Tha íthela na pliróso, parakaló]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Βοήθεια![Voítheia!]
Go away!Φύγε![Fýge!]
Call the Police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία![Kaléste tin astynomía!]
Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό![Kaléste énan giatró!]
I'm lostΕίμαι χαμένος[Eímai chaménos]
I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος[Eímai árrosos]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...[Tha íthela na agoráso...]
I'm just lookingΑπλώς κοιτάω[Aplós kitáo]
How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;[Póso kostízei?]
That's too expensiveΕίναι πολύ ακριβό[Eínai polý akrivó]
Can you lower the price?Μπορείς να μειώσεις την τιμή;[Borís na meióseis tin timí?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;[Ti óra eínai?]
It's one o'clockΕίναι μία η ώρα[Eínai mía i óra]
Half past (10)10:30[Deka kai μισή]
MorningΠρωί[Proí]
AfternoonΑπόγευμα[Apógevma]
EveningΒράδυ[Vrády]
YesterdayΧθες[Chthes]
TodayΣήμερα[Símera]
TomorrowΑύριο[Ávrio]
1Ένα[Éna]
2Δύο[Dýo]
3Τρία[Tría]
4Τέσσερα[Téssera]
5Πέντε[Pénte]
6Έξι[Éxi]
7Επτά[Eptá]
8Οκτώ[Októ]
9Εννέα[Ennéa]
10Δέκα[Déka]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Πού είναι το...;[Poú eínai to...?]
What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;[Poia eínai i diéfthynsi?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείς να μου δείξεις (στο χάρτη);[Borís na mou deíxeis (sto chárti)?]
When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);[Póte eínai to epómeno (leoforeío)?]
A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)[Éna eisitírio (gia ....)]

History of East Macedonia and Thrace

Prehistoric Settlements and Ancient Thrace

The region has deep prehistoric roots, demonstrated by sites such as Dikili Tash near Krinides, close to Philippi, where occupation extends back to the Neolithic period. Ancient communities developed agriculture, metallurgy and trade across the plains, river valleys and Aegean coast. Thrace was never a single uniform kingdom: the area was inhabited by diverse Thracian groups and influenced by neighbouring Macedonian and Greek centres. Coastal colonies and trading settlements connected the mainland with Thasos and the wider Aegean, while inland routes linked the coast with the Balkans.

Philippi, Thasos and the Hellenistic World

Philippi was founded by Philip II of Macedon in 356 BC at a strategic position near the Pangaion region and important mineral resources. Thasos, an island with an influential ancient city, prospered through maritime trade, agriculture and mineral wealth. The wider coast contained settlements including Maroneia and Mesimvria-Zone. These centres demonstrate how eastern Macedonia and Thrace participated in the Hellenistic Aegean while also acting as a meeting ground between mainland Balkan communities and maritime Greek culture.

Roman Roads and Early Christianity

After the Roman conquest, the area became strategically important within the province of Macedonia. The Via Egnatia crossed the region, connecting the Adriatic with Byzantium and supporting military movement, commerce and urban development. Philippi became particularly important in Christian history because Saint Paul visited the city in the first century AD; the New Testament describes the conversion of Lydia there, and Philippi later developed prominent Christian basilicas. Roman and early Byzantine remains survive at Philippi, Maroneia, Mesimvria-Zone and other sites across the region.

Byzantine and Ottoman Borderlands

For centuries, the towns and fortresses of eastern Macedonia and Thrace occupied a shifting frontier between Byzantine, Bulgarian, Serbian and Ottoman powers. Kavala’s harbour, the Nestos corridor and the Thracian plain all carried strategic value. Ottoman rule left a visible architectural and cultural legacy, especially in Xanthi’s old town, Komotini and other settlements. Mosques, markets, bridges, baths and houses formed part of an urban world shaped by Muslim, Christian and Jewish communities, as well as by commercial links extending deep into the Balkans.

Tobacco, Commerce and the Rise of Kavala

From the eighteenth century into the early twentieth century, tobacco transformed the economy and appearance of Kavala, Xanthi, Drama and surrounding districts. Eastern tobacco varieties were prized in international markets, and merchants, warehouses, processing buildings and transport connections expanded around the trade. Kavala became one of the principal tobacco ports of the region, while Xanthi and Drama also accumulated commercial wealth. Tobacco declined as an economic force during the twentieth century, but its warehouses, mansions and urban street patterns remain important elements of the region’s heritage.

Wars, Population Exchange and New Communities

The Balkan Wars and the First World War altered political control across Macedonia and Thrace, while the 1923 population exchange between Greece and Turkey brought major demographic change. Refugees from Asia Minor and eastern Thrace settled in many communities, adding new agricultural, religious and culinary traditions. Muslim populations remained in western Thrace under the terms of the Treaty of Lausanne, including Turkish-speaking and Pomak communities. These overlapping histories help explain the particularly varied cultural landscape of Xanthi, Rodopi and Evros today.

Twentieth-Century Industry, Borders and Conservation

During the twentieth century, the region’s economy broadened into agriculture, food processing, trade, transport, mining and tourism. Its northern borders gave Kavala, Xanthi, Komotini and Alexandroupoli continuing strategic importance, while ports and the Egnatia motorway strengthened links with the rest of Greece and the Balkans. More recently, wetland and forest conservation has become central to regional identity through protected areas such as the Nestos Delta, the Evros Delta and the Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park. These landscapes now support research, birdwatching and carefully managed nature tourism.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to East Macedonia and Thrace

Discover East Macedonia and Thrace with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Plan your trip effortlessly!

  • Comprehensive details on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Explore East Macedonia and Thrace like never before with Evendo, your comprehensive, free travel guide app. Discover attractions, book hotels, tours, and experiences all in one place!

  • History of East Macedonia and Thrace
  • Travel essentials and tons of local advice
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • Curated local tips to experience the region like a local
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to East Macedonia and Thrace, a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With Evendo, your journey becomes an unforgettable adventure.

Explore iconic landmarks such as the ancient city of Philippi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the breathtaking Nestos River Gorge. Discover the vibrant nightlife in Kavala, with its bustling bars and nightclubs, or enjoy a serene evening in the picturesque town of Xanthi, known for its charming old town and annual carnival.

Food enthusiasts will delight in the local cuisine, with must-visit restaurants like the renowned 'Odos Oneiron' in Drama, offering delectable Greek dishes. Evendo provides detailed descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details for these and many more attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

But that's not all. Evendo allows you to easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. Say goodbye to the hassle of separate bookings and hello to seamless travel planning. Whether you're looking to explore the region's rich history, indulge in local delicacies, or embark on thrilling adventures, Evendo has it all - in one place.

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