Greece
Philippi is a UNESCO World Heritage ancient site located near Kavala. It is an important historical and religious monument, known for the Battle of Philippi and as the place where the Apostle Paul first preached in Europe.
Built in the 4th century BC by Philip II, the theater underwent alterations in Roman times to host animal combats and remains the most iconic structure of the site.
An imposing 6th-century Early Christian church with characteristic piers still standing upright, bearing witness to the grandeur of Byzantine architecture.
Tour of the Ancient Theater of Philippi
Archaeological Site of Philippi · 1 hour
Start your day at the imposing theater built by Philip II in the 4th century BC, which offers stunning views of the entire plain. You will admire its architectural evolution from the Hellenistic to the Roman era, when it was converted into an arena for animal fights.
Why it's worth it: Morning visits offer the best light for photography and avoid the intense midday heat.
Walking through the Roman Agora (Forum)
Center of Archaeological Site · 45 minutes
Explore the huge rectangular space that served as the administrative and commercial center of the city during Roman times. You will see the ruins of porticoes, temples, and public buildings that testify to the wealth of the Roman colony.
Why it's worth it: Located in a central spot of the site, making it easy to transition to the other monuments.
Traditional Taverns · Greek · €€
Made-to-order meats and casseroles
Restaurant / Snack Bar · Mediterranean · €
Fresh salads and light meals
Casual Dining · Greek · €€
Traditional pies and ember-roasted coffee
Fish Tavern · Seafood · €€€
Fresh fish and charcoal-grilled octopus
Cookhouse · Home-style Cooking · €
Moussaka and stuffed vegetables
Kavala International Airport 'Megas Alexandros' (KVA), at a distance of about 30 kilometers.
The archaeological site is very large and requires walking on uneven terrain. Access between monuments is done exclusively on foot.
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Sign inBest time to visit
April, May, October
Recommended duration
1-2 days
Estimated cost
60-120€ per person/day
Climate
Mediterranean with continental influences, warm summers and cold winters
Language
Greek
A small vaulted room traditionally used for the imprisonment of the Apostle Paul and Silas after the unrest in the agora.
The administrative center of Philippi during the Roman period, a unified rectangular space with porticoes, temples, and public buildings preserved in good condition.
The first Christian church of Philippi, dedicated to the Apostle Paul, which got its name from its octagonal shape and features impressive mosaic floors.
Visit to the Prison of the Apostle Paul
Archaeological Site · 20 minutes
Visit the small vaulted room traditionally identified as the place where the Apostle Paul was imprisoned after his preaching. It is a spot of great religious devotion that connects the city's history with the spread of Christianity.
Why it's worth it: It is one of the most important religious landmarks within the archaeological site.
Admiration of Basilica B
Southern part of Archaeological Site · 30 minutes
Stand before the imposing piers of this 6th-century Early Christian church, which although never completed, remains a masterpiece of Byzantine art. The ruins of the dome and the massive walls evoke awe with their size.
Why it's worth it: Its location offers a unique sense of the grandeur of the Byzantine period of Philippi.
Guided tour of the Archaeological Museum of Philippi
Entrance of Archaeological Site · 1.5 hours
Conclude your historical journey by exploring the museum's collections, which include finds from prehistoric times to late antiquity. You will see impressive sculptures, coins, and everyday objects found during excavations.
Why it's worth it: The air-conditioned museum space is ideal for the warm afternoon hours.
Krinides
Krinides · Traditional Greek
Start with fresh bougatsa or handmade pies at one of the village's local bakeries before entering the archaeological site.
Caption: Bougatsa with cream
Krinides
Krinides · Greek Tavern
Enjoy traditional dishes with local meats and fresh vegetables from the plain of Philippi at one of the taverns near the square.
Caption: Meatballs with local herbs
Krinides
Krinides · Grill House
Relax with quality grilled meat and local wine in a friendly environment frequented by locals.
Caption: Handmade pork souvlaki
Pilgrimage to the Baptistery of Saint Lydia
Lydia (Zygaktis River) · 1 hour
Visit the spot where the Apostle Paul baptized the first European Christian, Lydia of Philippi, on the banks of the Zygaktis River. The modern church-baptistery is an architectural jewel with impressive mosaics and hagiographies.
Why it's worth it: The morning tranquility by the river enhances the spiritual experience of the place.
Exploration of the Octagon
Archaeological Site of Philippi · 45 minutes
See the ruins of the first Christian church of Philippi, named after its octagonal shape. You will be impressed by the elaborate mosaic floors preserved in excellent condition.
Why it's worth it: It complements the visit to Lydia, showing the evolution of Christian worship in the city.
Relaxation at the Krinides Mud Baths
Krinides · 2-3 hours
Experience mud therapy in a place known since antiquity for the healing properties of mud and thermal water. It is the ideal opportunity for detoxification and relaxation after walking the previous hours.
Why it's worth it: It offers a unique wellness experience directly connected to the region's geology.
Climb to the Acropolis of Philippi
Hill above the archaeological site · 1.5 hours
Follow the path leading to the top of the hill to see the Byzantine walls and the towers of the acropolis. The panoramic view towards Mount Pangaion and the plain of Philippi is the best reward for the climb.
Why it's worth it: In the afternoon, the temperature is more bearable for hiking and the sunset colors are magical.
Performance at the Philippi Festival
Ancient Theater of Philippi · 2-3 hours
If you are visiting the area in the summer, do not miss the opportunity to watch an ancient tragedy or a concert in the ancient theater. The site's acoustics under the starry sky create an evocative atmosphere.
Why it's worth it: It is the ultimate cultural experience that brings the archaeological site to life.
Lydia
Lydia · Local Products
Try local honey and yogurt at one of the cafes near the Baptistery, enjoying the peace of nature.
Caption: Yogurt with Pangaio honey
Krinides Mud Baths
Krinides Mud Baths · Light Meal / Snack
After the bath, choose a light meal with salads and local cheeses at the mud bath's refreshment stand.
Caption: Greek salad with local feta
Old Town of Kavala (Panagia)
Old Town of Kavala (Panagia) · Seafood & Meze
Take a short 15-minute drive to Kavala to dine in the alleys of Panagia overlooking the port.
Caption: Fresh seafood and ouzo
There is a pharmacy in the neighboring village of Krinides. The General Hospital of Kavala is about 15-20 minutes away by car.
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