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Thrace

Thrace

Thrace (Greek: Θράκη) is a lesser-known yet fascinating region in northeastern Greece, bordering Turkey and Bulgaria. With a unique blend of Christian and Muslim cultures, ancient history, natural beauty, and untouched villages, Thrace offers an off-the-beaten-path experience.

🗺️ Regions of Thrace

Thrace consists of three main prefectures:

  • Evros (border with Turkey)
  • Rhodope (Komotini)
  • Xanthi (charming old town)

📍 Top Places to Visit

1. Alexandroupoli

  • Port city with a laid-back coastal vibe
  • Visit the Lighthouse, Ethnological Museum, and nearby Evros Delta National Park (ideal for birdwatching)

2. Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park

  • UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve
  • Home to rare species like vultures, eagles, and wildcats
  • Great for hiking and wildlife photography

3. Soufli

  • Known for its silk production
  • Visit the Silk Museum and explore the town’s Ottoman architecture

4. Komotini

  • A cultural mix of Christian and Muslim Greek communities
  • Check out the Old Market, Yeni Mosque, and Archaeological Museum
  • Try traditional pomak and Turkish-influenced food

5. Xanthi

  • Famous for its Old Town with preserved mansions and cobbled streets
  • Known for the Xanthi Carnival (February) – one of the biggest in Greece
  • Visit the Folklore Museum and stroll along the Kosynthos River

6. Porto Lagos

  • Picturesque fishing village on a lagoon
  • Visit the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, built on a pier over the water

🏞️ Natural Attractions

  • Evros Delta Wetlands – 300+ bird species
  • Nestos River Gorge – canoeing, hiking, stunning landscapes
  • Rhodope Mountains – traditional villages, cool climate, and pine forests
  • Pomak Villages – remote, beautiful, and culturally unique (e.g., Echinos)

🍽️ Local Cuisine

Try:

  • Kavourmas (preserved pork)
  • Bougatsa with meat or cream
  • Keskeki (wheat and meat stew)
  • Baklava and saragli
  • Ouzo and tsipouro from local distilleries

🎭 Culture & Events

  • Xanthi Carnival (February)
  • Komotini Spring Festival
  • Traditional Pomak music and dance festivals
  • Thracian cultural festivals in summer months

🏨 Accommodation

  • Xanthi and Komotini offer boutique hotels
  • Evros and Soufli have eco-lodges and guesthouses
  • Beach resorts near Alexandroupoli (e.g., Makri)

🚗 Travel Tips

  • Getting there: Fly to Alexandroupoli Airport (AXD) or drive/train from Thessaloniki (4–5 hrs)
  • Transport: Car rental recommended for remote areas
  • Best time to visit: May–October for nature and festivals; February for carnival
  • Language: Greek; English widely understood in tourist areas