Kavala: The Jewel of Northern Greece

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Anglika?]
• 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 menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘέλω να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Thelo na plirosou, 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 meiosete 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 (δέκα)
  [Misi (deka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧτες
  [Htes]
• 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;
  [Poia 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 (προς το ....)
  [Ena isitirio (pros to ....)]

Kavala, originally known as Neapolis, was founded in the 7th century BCE by settlers from Thasos. It quickly became an important port city due to its strategic location on the Aegean Sea, providing a crucial link between the islands and the mainland. In antiquity, it served as a vital trade and military hub, facilitating commerce and cultural exchange across the region.

In 168 BCE, Kavala fell under Roman control. The Romans recognized its strategic significance and developed the city further. Kavala became a key point along the Via Egnatia, the major Roman road that connected the Adriatic Sea to Byzantium. This period saw substantial economic growth and urban development, including the construction of major infrastructure such as aqueducts and public buildings.

During the Byzantine period, Kavala continued to thrive as a significant port city. It was renamed Christoupolis, reflecting the city's adoption of Christianity. The construction of fortifications and churches during this era underscored its importance as a religious and military stronghold. However, it also faced numerous invasions and was repeatedly captured and recaptured by various forces.

In the 14th century, Kavala fell to the Ottoman Empire, marking the beginning of a long period of Ottoman rule. The city was known as Kavala during this time and saw the construction of significant Ottoman architecture, including mosques, baths, and the famous aqueduct, known locally as Kamares. The Ottoman influence is still visible in the city’s architecture and cultural heritage today.

Kavala played a critical role in the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century. It was eventually incorporated into the modern Greek state in 1913 after the Balkan Wars. The 20th century brought industrialization and economic development, with the city becoming known for its tobacco production. Kavala also played a significant role during World War II, enduring occupation and resistance movements.

Kavala's rich cultural heritage is a mosaic of its varied history. It hosts numerous festivals and events that celebrate its diverse past, from Byzantine music festivals to Ottoman-inspired culinary fairs. The city's museums, such as the Archaeological Museum of Kavala and the Tobacco Museum, offer deeper insights into its historical and economic background, making Kavala a living testament to its multifaceted history.

Kavala is accessible via Kavala International Airport (Alexander the Great), which is about 30 kilometers from the city center. The airport offers flights to and from major cities in Greece and Europe. Alternatively, Thessaloniki International Airport is approximately 165 kilometers away and provides more extensive international connections. From either airport, you can reach Kavala by car rental, taxi, or bus. Kavala is also well-connected by bus services from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major Greek cities. Additionally, Kavala is a port city, and you can travel by ferry from nearby islands and other coastal cities in Greece.

Kavala offers various transportation options for getting around the city and its surroundings. The local bus service (KTEL) is reliable and covers most areas of the city. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Car rentals are a convenient option for exploring the broader region, including nearby beaches and historical sites. For a more leisurely experience, consider walking or biking along the city's scenic routes. Kavala's waterfront and old town are particularly pedestrian-friendly.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Kavala. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and most offer instructions in multiple languages. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, in banks, and at some travel agencies.

Kavala is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions as you would in any other city. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and be cautious of pickpockets, especially in tourist hotspots. Areas like the old town and the port are bustling but usually safe, though it's always good to stay vigilant. Emergency contact numbers should be saved in your phone for quick access.

In case of an emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Kavala has several medical facilities, including the Kavala General Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widespread and can provide over-the-counter medications and some basic medical advice. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For police assistance, dial 100, and for fire services, dial 199.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering churches, cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid loud conversations. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). A handshake is generally acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant food culture. Don't rush meals; dining is a leisurely and social activity in Greece.

To experience Kavala like a local, visit the weekly farmers' market (laiki agora) for fresh produce and local products. Engage with the locals; they are known for their hospitality and love to share stories about their city. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the old town (Panagia) with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and the impressive Castle of Kavala. For a unique local experience, try the traditional 'ouzo' or 'tsipouro' in a seaside taverna while enjoying the stunning view of the Aegean Sea. Also, take part in local festivals and events, which are great opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Kavala.