Places to Vısıt ın Dedeagaç (Alexandroupolı)

Gather round, we're off to Alexandroupoli!

In today's trip notes, we'll share with you the places you should see, food and drink recommendations and our accommodation experience.

Border Crossing: The border crossing was quite fast; we reached the Greek side in about 45 minutes. We tried both Pazarkule and Ipsala border gates. Pazarkule is usually quieter as it is located in the north. However, setting off early in the morning is a great advantage at both gates. A note for those planning to travel with pets: You can only enter through Ipsala. When we reached the centre, we took a quick tour in Demokratias, the most lively street of the city, and settled in our hotel. Now it's time to start travelling!

Places to visit

If you are interested in history, there are some places in Alexandroupoli that will impress you:

Ethnographic Museum

Ethnographic Museum: The perfect starting point for exploring the cultural past of the region.

Mesimvria Archaeological Site: A fascinating stop for those who want to see the traces of antiquity.

Traianoupolis Ruins: This historical site from the Roman period evokes the feeling of travelling back in time.

Visiting these places, especially in spring and autumn, offers a more comfortable experience in terms of both weather conditions and crowds.

Flavour Stops: In the region, which is famous for its olive oil products, be sure to stop by @kyklopas_premium_olive_oil olive oil factory to try local flavours. Here, you can shop by tasting the olive oils specific to the region.

Final Notes: Every corner in Alexandroupoli offers a story worth discovering. Whether you are a history buff or a flavour hunter, there is something for everyone. Add in comfortable accommodation and friendly locals and this trip will be unforgettable!

Have a good trip in advance! 😊

9 Things Not to Miss in Alexandroupolis:

1.Alexandroupolis Lighthouse: Comparable to Thessaloniki's White Tower, the lighthouse stands out as a circular tower built by a French company in 1880, during the Ottoman era. Although lighthouses are typically found on headlands, this one sits in the middle of a rather flat coastline, making it quite unique.

2.Dadia Forest: Spent two full days hiking on wonderful trails in this beautiful and untouched forest. The informational signs along the trails were fantastic. An unexpected bonus was encountering a vulture feeding spot along the route.

3.Thrace Ethnological Museum: Located in the heart of Alexandroupolis, this small museum was built with the efforts of the Giannakidis family. The building itself is very interesting, being a neoclassical house from 1899! You'll see various exhibitions showcasing traditional Thrace and the stories behind them. An hour-long visit is sufficient!

4.Agia Paraskevi Beach: A beautiful beach with average prices and beach bars. The water gradually deepens, providing a large area where children can play or even non-swimmers can enjoy the water!

5.Evros Delta Information Center: The Evros Delta is a nationally, European, and internationally significant wetland area. It has been a protected area for many years due to its great value for wildlife and humanity. The nature here, teeming with thousands of birds including wild geese, flamingos, etc., is truly stunning. Our guide had a great sense of humor, and the boat trip here was incredible.

6.Metropolis Square: A major attraction for architecture, religious, historical, and folklore enthusiasts in Alexandroupolis. It houses the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, a church museum, and a school in magnificent buildings.

7.Kokkina Vrachia Beach: This is a public beach accessible by car, with sandy shores. It's not overly crowded, even on weekends, and offers amenities like beach bars akin to those on island beaches.

8.Makri Beach: Another beautiful beach, located 5 km from Alexandroupolis. Makri offers a lovely beachfront, businesses, and restaurants along the shore.

9.Aya Paraskevi Beach: Both the beach and restaurant service here are excellent and highly recommended.

Where to Eat in Alexandroupolis: Best Restaurants and Bars

You can find many nice fish restaurants in the center of Alexandroupolis. Ntsiotiko and Loukoulos are popular fish restaurants among us Turks. Let's also mention the others.

1.Nisiotiko: Always fresh fish, seafood, vegetables, and a wide range of wines. Open to anyone who loves good food and wine! My favorite is the seafood risotto. However, I've visited many restaurants in Greece since 2000. For example, Full to Meze in Thessaloniki is one of the best in terms of food quality, service, and hospitality. But Nisiotiko doesn't deserve 4.5 stars. The food is good, but the portions are very small, the service is okay, the hospitality is average, and it's extremely expensive.

2.Gialos Seafood Tavern: An inspiring seafood restaurant. Everything we ordered was fresh, well-cooked, and had an inspiring touch. A great choice for enjoying Greek cuisine by the sea. They also have a Turkish menu. If you want to enjoy live Greek music after dinner, head to Pico by night.

3.Taverna Loukoulos: We went here with my family. We really liked it. The staff was incredibly fast and helpful. We ordered our meals, and the table was full in 5 minutes. Everything arrived very quickly. The food was very tasty, and the prices were good. The portions were large. You can smoke inside, but there are also non-smokers, of course. And the pancakes were delicious. You must try them.

4.Masa Soura: A pleasant place with good and fresh food. The owner is kind and friendly. Highly recommended.

5.Hovoli: You can find this Armenian restaurant on a small side street off the boulevard. We didn't have anything special in mind, so we asked what typical Armenian dishes were. We were served mouth-watering baked potatoes and very thin, spicy meatballs with plenty of vegetables. They had nice white wines and (for me as a driver) non-alcoholic beer that many restaurants still don't offer.

6.Ell'Oinon Geuseis: We discovered this restaurant during our visit to Alexandroupolis and were not disappointed. A perfect family taverna. Fresh seafood prepared in a minute. I can wholeheartedly recommend this place, and while you're there, try the octopus!

7.Taverna Ai Giorgis

8.Limanaki: I also recommend Limanaki. I think you'll like it for its ambiance, view, food, and service.

9. Nama Beach:The best restaurant with the most amazing seafood in the area! A little more expensive than normal but worth every cent! From the 2 waiters who welcome you and serve you to the food and the view ...

10. Salih Usta's Place: A shabby tavern serving meat products. You can try meatballs, cutlets and sausage or goat tandoori if you have leftovers.

11. Barbun Restaurant: Located in the square of Makri village.

12. Zourafa's menu and atmosphere are very pleasant.

13. For gyros, Greek doner, I recommend Maintanos.

14. Aya Yorgi: an elegant restaurant with fish products and a beach.

15. If you are looking for a tavern by the sea, I recommend Gilos.

16. Tsitsiko for a meat-based restaurant.

Coffee and Bars

For a coffee, you may prefer The Shot (take away) or Caffeine Roastery. For a wine bar concept, Kellari Pro is a very pleasant place. Cocktail bars Thema and Bar Cohen. If you are looking for a nice book cafe style, consider Kafka. A nice courtyard and good cocktails await you.

Coffee Lab, Evergreen, The Espressionist and Coffee Island for new generation coffee and frappe.

Breakfast and Bakeries

The most common options for breakfast are bakery-style places. Kerouac, Fleur de Lis, Kevrekidis, Breadroom, Zafra in the centre, Zopyron are among our recommendations. These bakeries usually run out of products towards noon.

Accommodation: We preferred Dias Hotel, the owner is Turkish. It is located in Alexandroupoli, about 1 km from EOT Beach. It is a clean and decent hotel. The price was around 70 Euro, including breakfast for 2 people.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alexandroupoli

How many days to stay in Alexandroupoli?

1-2 days is enough to visit the center and surroundings of Alexandroupoli. For a quieter vacation, 3-4 days can be preferred.

Do I Need a Car in Alexandroupoli?

Although the city center is within walking distance, a car may be useful to go to the surrounding beaches or villages.

Where to Rent a Car in Alexandroupoli?

You can get service from many local and international car rental companies at the airport and city center.

Is there public transportation in Alexandroupoli?

Yes, public transportation is provided by buses and taxis, but transportation to some points may be limited.

What is famous in Alexandroupoli?

It is famous for its seafood, ouzo (Greek raki), beach cafes and lighthouse.

Which Greek Islands to visit from Alexandroupoli?

You can reach Samothraki (Samothrace) Island by ferry.

When to go to Alexandroupoli?

Spring and summer months (May-September) are the best time. It is also very pleasant in the fall.

Do I need a visa for Alexandroupoli?

Yes, a Schengen visa is required. Visa at the door application may be valid in summer months.

How much is a visa at the door in Alexandroupoli?

The cost of a visa at the gate usually varies between 55-70 Euros. Check the current status.

How long does it take between Kusadasi and Alexandroupoli?

It takes approximately 9-10 hours by car.

Is There a Car Ferry to Alexandroupoli?

There are car ferry services to Samothraki Island.

Which language is spoken in Alexandroupoli?

As throughout Greece, Greek is spoken. English is also widely understood.

Is Alexandroupoli a Beautiful Island?

It is quite enjoyable with its historical and natural beauties.

Are There Any Mosques in Alexandroupoli?

There are a few mosques from the Ottoman period but they are not active.

Can I Visit Alexandroupoli in Winter?

Yes, it is suitable for a quiet winter vacation, but it lacks the vibrancy of the summer months.

What is required to go to Alexandroupoli?

Passport, Schengen visa (or visa at the gate) and travel plan.

How much is the nightly hotel tax in Alexandroupoli?

It usually varies between 0.50-4 Euros. Depends on the hotel category.

Which Greek Island is the Most Beautiful?

It depends on personal preferences; Santorini for romance, Mykonos for fun, Rhodes for history.

This is our Alexandroupoli notes for now, if you have any suggestions about Alexandroupoli, I will wait for comments.