Xanthi

Xanthi (Ξάνθη) is one of the most beautiful cities in northern Greece, renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved old town and its exuberant spring Carnival. Built at the foot of the Rhodope Mountains, the city was a prosperous tobacco-trading centre in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and this golden era left a legacy of magnificent mansions with distinctive Macedonian architecture — overhanging upper storeys, decorative plasterwork, and cobblestone streets. The old town (Palia Poli) is a jewel, with more than 500 listed buildings winding up the hillside below the medieval acropolis.

Modern Xanthi is a lively university city with a youthful energy. The city's Muslim minority adds another layer to its character, visible in the minarets of the mosques, the Turkish quarter, and the culinary scene. Xanthi is perhaps best known for its carnival (February–March), the largest in northern Greece, which draws thousands of costumed revellers from across the Balkans and beyond. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers ideal for exploring the nearby Rhodope Mountains and Nestos Delta, and cool, wet winters that are perfect for wandering the old town's cobbled lanes.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Kavala International Airport "Megas Alexandros" (KVA), about 45 km south. From the airport, take a taxi (€40–€50) or a KTEL bus to Xanthi (via Kavala city centre, about 2 hours total).

By Train

Xanthi's railway station is on the Thessaloniki–Alexandroupoli line. There are several daily trains from Thessaloniki (3.5 hours, €12–€20), Kavala (1 hour via Drama), Komotini (45 minutes), and Alexandroupoli (1.5 hours). The station is a 15-minute walk from the centre.

By Car / Road

Xanthi is directly on the Egnatia Odos (A2), 50 km east of Kavala and 50 km west of Komotini. KTEL buses connect Xanthi hourly with Thessaloniki (3 hours, €20–€25), Kavala (1 hour), and Alexandroupoli (2 hours).

The old town is steep and pedestrianised — comfortable shoes are essential. The modern centre and the area around the main square (Plateia Dimokratias) are flat and walkable. Local taxis are affordable for longer journeys (€3–€5 within the city).

• Old Town (Palia Poli) — A warren of narrow cobblestone streets lined with 18th- and 19th-century mansions, many restored as museums, galleries, and restaurants. The Sammartza neighbourhood is the most photogenic.

• Folklore and Historical Museum of Xanthi — Housed in a stunning old mansion, this museum displays traditional costumes, household items, and a remarkable collection of photographs documenting Xanthi's tobacco era. Open daily, €3.

• Archaeological Museum of Xanthi — Contains finds from the region, including the ancient cities of Abdera and Maroneia. Well-presented with English information. Tuesday–Sunday, €4.

• Church of the Panagia Archangeliotissa — A 19th-century Greek Orthodox church in the old town, with beautiful frescoes and an ornate wooden iconostasis.

• Old Tobacco Warehouses — The massive tobacco warehouses (Kapnopothikes) along the river are striking examples of early 20th-century industrial architecture, now partially repurposed as cultural spaces.

• Acropolis of Xanthi — The ruins of the Byzantine fortress above the old town offer panoramic views of the city and the Rhodope Mountains. Free entry.

• Xanthi Carnival — Greece's premiere carnival (40 days before Easter). Three weeks of masquerades, treasure hunts, parades, and the famous "Night of the Masqueraders" with costumed balls and street parties. Book accommodation months in advance.

• Old Town Festival of Arts — Held in May, this open-air festival features art exhibitions, theatre performances, and live music in the old town's squares and courtyards.

• Visit the Nestos Delta — A 20-minute drive south leads to the Nestos River Delta, one of Greece's most important wetlands. Take a guided boat ride or walk the trails through the riparian forest.

• Hike in the Rhodope Mountains — The mountain villages north of Xanthi (Erasmio, Kentavros, Thermes) offer excellent hiking, thermal springs, and traditional architecture.

• To Katoi — Located in a beautifully restored old-town mansion, this restaurant serves excellent Greek and Thracian cuisine with a modern twist. Mid-range, €12–€20 per person.
• Filarakia — A traditional taverna in the old town specialising in grilled meats and meze. The atmos-phere is cosy and rustic. Mid-range, €10–€15.
• Patrikousis — The confectioner famous for kariokes and other traditional sweets. A must-visit for dessert. Budget.
• O Romios — A friendly, family-run taverna serving classic Greek dishes at unbeatable prices. Budget, €6–€10.
• Ethnikon — A historic café-restaurant on the main square serving breakfast, coffee, and light meals since 1928. Perfect for people-watching.

Xanthi's café culture is strongest on the main square (Plateia Dimokratias) and in the old town's rooftop bars. Tsipouro is the local spirit of choice. Try a meze-and-tsipouro session at one of the old-town ouzeris. The Kentro rooftop bar offers panoramic views over the city.

• Budget: Hotel Xanthippion — A no-frills central hotel near the market. From €30/night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Z Palace — A modern, comfortable hotel with good amenities just outside the old town. From €60/night.
• Upscale: Hotel Orfeas — A beautifully restored historic mansion in the old town offering boutique rooms and a rooftop terrace. From €90/night.

Xanthi's old town is filled with small artisan shops selling handmade jewellery, ceramics, icons, and textiles. Local specialities include kariokes (chocolate-and-coconut sweets) from the famous Patrikousis pastry shop, and thyme honey from the Rhodope foothills. The Saturday market (laiki agora) near the railway station is the largest in the region.

• Kavala (45 km south, 45 minutes) — The bustling port city with its Byzantine fortress, Imaret, and waterfront promenade.
• Komotini (50 km east, 40 minutes) — The multicultural capital of Thrace with its Ottoman heritage and lively old quarter.
• Nestos Delta (20 km south, 25 minutes) — A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with boat trips through the river channels.
• Abdera (30 km south, 30 minutes) — The ancient birthplace of the philosophers Democritus and Protagoras, with an extensive archaeological site.
• Thermes (40 km north, 50 minutes) — A mountain village known for its thermal springs, hiking trails, and Pomak culture.