With its picturesque harbor and neoclassical buildings, Kavala is one of Greece’s most visually stunning port cities. Yet surprisingly few international visitors discover its historic charm, cuisine, and nearby beaches. Reaching Kavala is part of the adventure when traveling by ferry from Thessaloniki or other Northern Aegean islands. Embark on a journey reminiscent of a bygone era by boarding a ferry to experience this port city’s blend of modern amenities, Greek island vibes and ancient ruins waiting to be explored. Kavala rewards those intrepid travelers venturing off the beaten path.
How to get to Kavala by ferry
Though often overlooked, Kavala provides a delightful ferry journey for travelers craving adventures not found along typical tourist trails. Visitors can sail across azure waters from cities like Thessaloniki or island hop their way east among Northern Aegean gems scattered around Kavala.
Most ferries embark from Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest metropolis, situated around 160 km west along the coastline. Catch an early morning ferry to arrive in Kavala in time for lunch, giving you ample daylight to explore. Expect dazzling sea views along your two to three hour sailing.
Island aficionados can also use Kavala as a gateway to a number of islands, including Limnos, Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Mykonos, Agios Efstratios, and Ikaria. Indeed, it’s the perfect place to include during your island-hopping excursions.
Disembarking the ferry, Kavala’s characteristic blue and white buildings clustered around its picturesque harbor make an unforgettable first impression. From your very arrival, the adventures of this less traversed Greek port city begin.
Which ferry companies operate services to Kavala?
There are multiple ferry companies offering routes to Kavala, giving travelers plenty of choice when it comes to choosing a ferry company. Blue Star Ferries and Seajets are the two primary options, with both offering routes connecting Kavala with other destinations.
Blue Star Ferries
With Blue Star Ferries, you can get to Kavala from Mykonos, Piraeus, Syros, and Vathy (Samos). Trip lengths vary. For instance, Mykonos to Kavala is around 20 hours and 15 minutes, while Piraeus to Kavala is approximately 25 hours and 20 minutes.
Seajets
Seatjets also offers services to and from Kavala, with regular crossings from Limonos and Agios Efstratios. Check out Ferryscanner for the most current schedules and to book tickets, as well as anything else you need to know about Kavala crossings.
Best areas in Kavala
With its bustling harborfront, ancient ruins, and seaside promenade dotted with cafés, Kavala rewards intrepid explorers who venture off the beaten path. Discover some of this Northern Greek gem’s most captivating neighborhoods.
Panagia District
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea, Kavala’s Panagia district unveils awe-inspiring vistas along with intriguing historic landmarks. The postcard-perfect Panagia church stands surrounded by whitewashed homes cascading down the slope. Meander through narrow cobblestone streets to uncover small boutiques and restaurants frequented more by locals than tourists. Make your way to the iconic Kavala Aqueduct for the district’s finest views.
Old Town
Get lost amid the labyrinth of stone lanes comprising Old Town near the port to encounter intimate squares, lively tavernas, and neoclassical mansions from Kavala’s 19th century tobacco trade heyday. Soak up folkloric ambience while sampling mezedes washed down with ouzo or Greek wine at a quintessential ouzeri. Don’t miss the Mohamed Ali statue honoring the Egyptian Pasha who transformed Cairo starting from this very Greek port city.
Harborfront
Join locals and visitors strolling the scenic harbor promenade with its sleek yachts, traditional caiques, and seaside cafés perfect for whiling away hours. The stately Imaret building now houses a museum and restaurant but first served as an Islamic school. Its architecture alone warrants a dedicated visit. End your evening at one of the rustic fish tavernas lining the harbor to savor ultra-fresh seafood catches.
With its alluring coastal setting, ancient sites and modern conveniences, Kavala’s unique districts reveal this city’s rich layers of history still being written today. Meander and explore.
Landmarks and attractions in Kavala
Beyond its picture-perfect port and sloping neighborhoods, Kavala lures curious travelers with its landmarks spanning ancient ruins to contemporary culture. Discover some quintessential sites not to miss.
Archaeological Museum
Peer into Kavala’s ancient past at this compact yet treasure-trove museum located right in town. Peruse 5,000 years of regional history—from prehistoric tools and statues to Hellenistic and Roman artifacts, intricate mosaics excavated from nearby Philippi. Don’t miss the intricate gold wreaths dating back to Philip II, Alexander the Great’s father.
The Castle
Set atop the Panagia peninsula, the imposing Kavala Castle dates back to Byzantine times but still stands guard over the harbor today. Walk along its sprawling stone walls and gaze out at unobstructed Aegean vistas. Catch a reenactment taking place within the castle arena before exploring three distinct levels now open to the public as an architectural museum.
Tobacco Museum
For 200 years, tobacco fueled Kavala’s economy and culture. This unique museum housed in a former tobacco factory weaves an intriguing tale. See how tobacco processing shaped everyday life through historical exhibits like the original machinery hailing from top facilities. Relax afterwards on the leafy patio with a coffee or ouzo.
Imaret
Regardless of religious affiliation, this architectural beauty astonishes. Originally an Islamic school constructed in 1817, today the Imaret holds a museum and one of Kavala’s finest dining destinations. Dinner here amid gorgeous arches and columns makes for an unforgettable Greek culinary experience.
Philippi
Just a 15 minute drive inland from Kavala uncovers the sprawling archaeological site of Philippi. Founded by Philip II of Macedonia, Philippi later became a prosperous Roman city, as evidenced by remnants like the intricately tiled Basilica and ancient theater carved from stone. Wandering these magnificent ancient ruins offers an unforgettable glimpse into Kavala’s surrounding region.
From ancient ruins and Byzantine ramparts to remnants of more recent eras, Kavala rewards visitors for taking time to peel back its many fascinating layers of history still so integral to local traditions today.
Are there any beaches in Kavala?
While this port city entices with its slopes, historic quarters, and architecturally stunning sites, you may also yearn for golden sandy shores. Good news, as Kavala boasts beaches rivaling some of Greece’s most acclaimed. Choose among tranquil coves, family-friendly strands or beaches graced with Blue Flag ecologically pristine status.
Batis Multiple Times Award Winner
Perhaps Kavala’s finest beach, Batis repeatedly claims Blue Flag accolades for its sparkling clean waters and smooth sandy stretch. Gaze out at Thassos island floating on the horizon as you swim or rejuvenate under colorful umbrellas dotting this organized beach. Beachside cantinas keep swimmers and sunbathers refreshed.
Tosca Beach
Palm trees sway over swathes of sand lapped by azure seas at laidback Tosca Beach just outside Kavala. Its sheltered cove location translates to calm waters ideal for families. Tosca thankfully remains crowd-free except at the height of summer. Savor dinner at the rustic beach taverna after a satisfying day relaxing seaside.
Ammolofoi
For more isolated escapades, secluded Ammolofoi Beach awaits 15 minutes south of the city. Soak up uninterrupted views of the Aegean at this human-scale hideaway, where the real luxury lies in solitude. Pack a picnic, hiking shoes, and a beach read for ultimate Amnolofi enjoyment.
Kavala wears its ancient history proudly, but dazzling stretches of sand and sea make a compelling case to throw on a swimsuit and go coastal during any Kavala escape.
Ferry hopping from Kavala
After uncovering Kavala’s slopes, monuments, and sensational stretches of coastline, extend your Northern Greece explorations by ferry hopping to captivating nearby islands and villages. With regular summer service, venturing further by sea from Kavala’s port proves both accessible and rewarding.
Thassos
This forested island gem sits just an hour west of Kavala across crystalline waters. Step ashore to discover Thassos’ olive groves, traditional stone villages seemingly frozen in time and more than 30 beaches lapped by impossibly aquamarine coves. Buzzing Limenas offers both boutique hotels and tavernas with freshly grilled fish. Or escape into the remote mountain countryside to disconnect completely.
Samothrace
For intrepid travelers craving mystique and mythology, the farthest reach of Greece awaits. The westernmost island in the Northern Aegean, Samothrace astounds with gushing waterfalls slicing through woodlands and the ancient Sanctuary of the Great Gods site with its iconic Winged Victory sculpture. Veer off the beaten path even further by calling it home for a few nights in isolated paradise.
Ammouliani
Fly past larger, more touristy islands for this 4-mile long speck situated just offshore from mainland Halkidiki. Glimpse Mt. Athos across the channel on clear days while enjoying Ammouliani’s tranquil pace. This dollop of serenity has just two quaint villages bookending brilliant beaches begging for barefoot walks and swims.
The Northern Aegean sea breezes call to keep the adventure going. Extend time discovering Greece’s beauty and history by sailing forth from lovely Kavala to islands and coastal treasures awaiting nearby.
Ferry to Kavala
Sometimes veering off-the-beaten-path is necessary for a truly unique trip. While there might be other islands more in demand with tourists, Kavala offers something different and the chance to experience a slice of Greek life like the locals. So, hop on a ferry and explore the best of Kavala.