Alexandroupoli
Introduction
You will find Alexandroupoli, also known as Alexandroupoli, situated as a vital port and commercial center in Northern Greece. Located in the Greek Thrace region, this city serves as the capital of the Evros regional unit.
As you explore the area, you will experience the atmosphere of the largest city in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
Before you go
Prepare for your journey by noting that Alexandroupolis serves as the final major Greek town before reaching the Turkish border on the highway toward Istanbul. You can expect a coastal atmosphere featuring a local harbor, an airport, and a rocky beach.
While some descriptions characterize the area as dusty, you will find a typical Greek nightlife to enjoy during your stay.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air via Alexandroupolis International Airport "Dimokritos," where flights connect you to Athens and destinations on Crete, including Heraklion or Sitia. For those traveling by rail, several trains run from Thessaloniki, with options for both slow and fast journeys. While train connections are frequent throughout the country, note that the rail link to Bulgaria is currently suspended.
If you prefer road travel, a frequent bus schedule serves all major cities in the country, including hourly connections to Thessaloniki and daily shuttle buses to Athens. You can also take a daily bus shuttle from the main station toward Istanbul. For those traveling by sea, the primary connection is the ferry to Samothrace.
Getting around
You can easily explore the city on foot because the area, particularly the center, is small and flat. If your plans include visiting sights located outside the city limits, you will need to use a vehicle.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of accommodations ranging from modest options to upscale seaside retreats. While there are no budget youth hostels available, you can find numerous one-star hotels or opt for more luxurious stays located directly on the coast. For those seeking a different experience, a municipal campsite is situated right on the beach.
Depending on your preference for amenities and location, your options include:
- Upscale seaside hotels featuring extensive facilities such as private beaches, spas, fitness centers, and heated pools.
- Mid-range and two-star hotels offering features like air conditioning, balconies, and swimming pools.
- Smaller one-star hotels providing essential comforts like breakfast or balcony views.
Food & drink
You can find a wide variety of dining options and fast food establishments along the promenade by the harbor and in the area between Promenade and Leof.Dimokratias street. For a taste of traditional flavors, you can visit a small hole in the wall spot that serves delicious homemade Greek food.
The local nightlife is active due to the presence of many young people and the nearby university. You can find cafes and bars located primarily in the district at and above the promenade and within the city park, including options for wine and late-night drinks.
What to see and do
Explore the historical layers of the region by visiting the Alexandroupolis Cathedral, where a museum displays sacred artifacts dating back to the 16th century. You can travel toward the Byzantine fortresses of Potamos and Avanta to see the rock church of Agii Theodori, which features frescoes from the 10th century. Nearby, the Castle of Avanta offers impressive medieval towers and a grand gate overlooking the plain. For a different historical experience, visit the ruins of Traianoupolis to see former bathing facilities or explore Mesimvria, where you can view the Shrine of Demeter and the archaic temple of Apollo.
Experience the local landscape through these sites and activities:
- Tsepel Kagia Hill, featuring rock formations carved into furniture and murals of constellations.
- The well-preserved monastery of Panagia Kosmosoteira, built in 1151.
- The Evros Delta, a wetland nature reserve where you can go birdwatching for the rare sotos.
- The stretch of sandy beaches from the west of the city to Panorama, offering both lively beach bars and quiet areas for swimming.
Three days in Alexandroupoli
Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of Greek Thrace by exploring the local sights. You can walk along the promenade on Leof Dimokratias to experience the atmosphere of this region in Eastern Macedonia.
Day two, you can visit the Alexandroupolis Cathedral to admire its Byzantine architecture. You can also spend time wandering through the nearby areas of Potamos and Avanta.
Day three, you can explore the surroundings of Agii Theodori as you conclude your stay in Alexandroupoli.