A classic Thracian town in Northern Greece, Xanthi continues to charm travellers with its ancient curving streets, house museums, friendly tavernas and bustling town centre. Preservation of history is evident at every turn, with renovated tobacco factories and repurposed architectural structures.
Things to do in Xánthi
Once the heart of Europe’s tobacco trade, Old Xanthi harbours a fine collection of Byzantine churches and Greek Neoclassical mansions. Once belonging to wealthy tobacco barons, some now serve as museums, such as the Folk Museum of Xanthi. Here you’ll find displays local folk costumes, agricultural tools, jewels, paintings and original ceiling frescoes.
Renowned museums abound throughout Xanthi, so put on your walking shoes and explore the Natural History Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Abdera. At the Abdera site, you’ll encounter ancient swords and sling bullets, as well as exhibitions featuring pottery, weaving and burial customs.
Step into the quirky side of Xanthi at the House of Shadow, an experimental gallery featuring tin sculptures by artist Triandafyllos Vaitsis. Using trash and light, the artwork creates unpredictable shadow forms throughout the venue.
Feel like mingling with locals? The heart of local life in Xanthi is without a doubt Plateia Kendriki, the central square brimming with nightlife, wine bars and family-friendly cafes. You can also head back to Old Xanthi for dining and drinking on Orfeas Street. On Saturdays, scoop up olives, herbs and famous regional sweets at Xanthi Bazaar.
Getting around Xánthi
Many visitors to Xanthi arrive by train or bus from Athens and other major Greek cities. If arriving by air into Kavala or Alexandroupoli, you can rent a car and explore the region. Once in Xanthi, taxis and intercity buses give numerous transport options. It’s best to explore the compact Old Xanthi neighbourhoods on foot.