If you are looking for a destination that combines history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, then Kavala is the place for you. Kavala is a city in northern Greece, the principal seaport of eastern Macedonia and the capital of Kavala regional unit. It is situated on the Bay of Kavala, across from the island of Thasos and on the Egnatia motorway, a one-and-a-half-hour drive to Thessaloniki and a forty-minute drive to Drama and Xanthi.
Kavala has a rich and diverse heritage that spans from ancient times to the present day. You can admire the impressive aqueduct that was built by Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, visit the castle that overlooks the city and offers stunning views of the sea and the mountains, explore the old town of Panagia with its narrow streets and traditional houses, and learn about the life and legacy of Mohammed Ali, the founder of modern Egypt, who was born in Kavala in 1769.
But Kavala is not only about history and culture. It is also a vibrant and lively city that offers plenty of options for entertainment, relaxation, and fun. You can enjoy the sun and the sea at one of the many beaches that surround the city, such as Kalamitsa, Batis, Perigiali, Tosca, or Ammolofoi. You can also take a boat trip to Thasos, the green island with its pine forests, olive groves, and crystal-clear waters.
And of course, you cannot miss the opportunity to taste the local cuisine and nightlife of Kavala. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, grilled meats, salads, cheeses, pies, and sweets. You can find a variety of restaurants, taverns, ouzerias, and mezedopolia that serve delicious dishes made with local ingredients and accompanied by local wines or spirits. Some of the specialties that you should try are:
- Sardines from Kavala: These small fish are caught in the Bay of Kavala and are grilled or fried with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. They are usually served with bread or boiled potatoes.
- Gouna: This is a traditional way of preserving fish by salting, drying, and smoking it. The most common fish used for gouna are mackerel or bonito. Gouna is usually grilled or baked and served with tomato sauce or garlic dip.
- Kavourmas: This is a type of cured meat made from beef or pork that is cooked with spices, herbs, vinegar, and wine. It is then stored in jars with its own fat. Kavourmas can be eaten cold or warm as an appetizer or a main dish.
- Kapamas: This is a festive dish that consists of lamb or goat meat that is stuffed with rice, liver, herbs, nuts, raisins, and spices. It is then wrapped in grape leaves or caul fat and cooked in a clay pot with wine and tomato sauce.
- Kourabiedes: These are Greek almond butter cookies with a crunchy-crumbly-melt-in-your-mouth texture and wonderful flavor of toasted almond. They are similar to shortbread but more crumbly and always include a liquor of some sort, commonly Greek Metaxa or brandy. They are generously dusted with powdered sugar and often shaped like crescents or rounds. They are traditionally prepared for Christmas and other festive occasions.
After enjoying a hearty meal, you can continue your night out at one of the many bars, clubs, cafes, or live music venues that Kavala has to offer. You can find places that suit your mood and style, whether you prefer rock, jazz, pop, folk, or electronic music. You can also enjoy a drink or a cocktail at one of the waterfront establishments that offer stunning views of the illuminated aqueduct and castle.
Kavala is a city that will surprise you with its beauty, charm, diversity, and hospitality. It is a place where you can experience the authentic Greek way of life and discover its rich flavors and aromas. So don’t hesitate to visit Kavala and taste its local cuisine and nightlife. You will not regret it!
Sources:
- Kavala – Wikipedia
- THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Kavala – Tripadvisor
- Kourabiedes Authentic Recipe | TasteAtlas
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