Fun for All Ages
Xanthi, amphitheatrically built at the foot of the Rhodope Mountains, is a vibrant destination throughout the year. With the dynamism of its thousands of students from Democritus University and its rich history, the city offers a unique experience of exploration and fun.
The Heart of the City and Culture
Dimokratias Square, with its iconic Old Clock, serves as a central meeting point. The vibrant commercial and nightlife scenes flourish around it, extending northwards through the charming narrow streets of Old Town. Here, traditional meze tavernas coexist with bars with unique ambience, while the "beachfront" area (Vassilissis Sofias and Ydras streets) buzzes with activity in its popular cafés and night clubs.
The Progressive Association of Xanthi (FEX) plays a leading role in the local cultural scene. Through initiatives that include the Folk Museum, the historic Film Club (established in 1971), and a plethora of workshops, FEX serves as the cultural heart of the region. The Municipal Amphitheatre, ‘East of Nestos’ theatre, and the Odeon cinema host theatrical performances and film screenings.
Traditions and Nearby Escapes
Every Saturday, Emporiou Square hosts the renowned Xanthi Bazaar. Dating back to the 15th century, it is one of the largest in the Balkans, offering a vibrant tapestry of colours, aromas, and products from diverse cultures along a one-kilometre stretch.
Just outside the town, Avdira, the birthplace of Democritus, offers a picturesque marina for pleasure boats, while Porto Lagos remains a tranquil fishing village, perfect for savouring fresh seafood.
Local Flavours
Before you leave, try the Kasseri of Xanthi PDO cheese, the renowned wines of Avdira, and the exquisite cured meats. This culinary journey culminates with the legendary syrupy sweets, such as kariokes (crescent-shaped chocolates with nuts), kazan dipi (caramelised milk pudding), seker pare (semolina cake drenched in lemon infused syrup), and saragli (crispy fyllo wrapped around nuts, drenched in syrup), which represent the sweetest memento of Thrace.
The Heart of the City and Culture
Dimokratias Square, with its iconic Old Clock, serves as a central meeting point. The vibrant commercial and nightlife scenes flourish around it, extending northwards through the charming narrow streets of Old Town. Here, traditional meze tavernas coexist with bars with unique ambience, while the "beachfront" area (Vassilissis Sofias and Ydras streets) buzzes with activity in its popular cafés and night clubs.
The Progressive Association of Xanthi (FEX) plays a leading role in the local cultural scene. Through initiatives that include the Folk Museum, the historic Film Club (established in 1971), and a plethora of workshops, FEX serves as the cultural heart of the region. The Municipal Amphitheatre, ‘East of Nestos’ theatre, and the Odeon cinema host theatrical performances and film screenings.
Traditions and Nearby Escapes
Every Saturday, Emporiou Square hosts the renowned Xanthi Bazaar. Dating back to the 15th century, it is one of the largest in the Balkans, offering a vibrant tapestry of colours, aromas, and products from diverse cultures along a one-kilometre stretch.
Just outside the town, Avdira, the birthplace of Democritus, offers a picturesque marina for pleasure boats, while Porto Lagos remains a tranquil fishing village, perfect for savouring fresh seafood.
Local Flavours
Before you leave, try the Kasseri of Xanthi PDO cheese, the renowned wines of Avdira, and the exquisite cured meats. This culinary journey culminates with the legendary syrupy sweets, such as kariokes (crescent-shaped chocolates with nuts), kazan dipi (caramelised milk pudding), seker pare (semolina cake drenched in lemon infused syrup), and saragli (crispy fyllo wrapped around nuts, drenched in syrup), which represent the sweetest memento of Thrace.
