Exploring Drama , Northern Greece's best-kept secret!

Our country may be famous for its beautiful islands or the emerald beaches of Halkidiki in Northern Greece, but there are still pristine and untouched places where you can spend a few days relaxing!

Drama, a northern city in eastern Macedonia, is a rich mountainous region bordering Bulgaria and has amazing experiences to offer tourists who visit!

Drama city is just 150 km from Thessaloniki and is ideal for a three-day break from the daily routine – where you can enjoy amazing cafes lining the turquoise springs of Agia Varvara!

However, the wider area of the Drama region offers many outdoor activities, a chance to connect with nature, and special mention must be made of the various wineries in the area.

To explore the area, you will definitely need a car, so if you're flying into Macedonia Airport, you can then proceed to rent a car in Thessaloniki and from there travel to Drama.

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Old Town and Agia Varvara

A stroll around Drama's old town will immediately reveal the blend of old and new architectural influences, stemming from Northern Europe.

The city's turbulent history is evident in the buildings of the area.

The Byzantine walls and the Church of Agia Sophia date back to the 11^th century!

But the most beautiful aspect of the city lies around the exquisite springs of Agia Varvara.

There you can have a picnic in the beautiful park nearby or wander along a path filled with water, springs, and dining establishments.

 

Drama Wineries

The area and topography of Drama, protected by the Rodopi mountain range, shield it from strong winds, thus preventing damage to the vineyards.

Drama wines are well-known throughout Greece and are successfully exported worldwide.

In recent years, the 'Dramoinognosia' wine festival has been held with great success, aiming to bring consumers and wine producers closer – it usually takes place in the last week of May.

There are 6 wineries in the area that are open to the public, where you can visit, enjoy a wine tasting, and see their amazing cellars.

Many international grape varieties are cultivated here, with Assyrtiko being the most famous of all.

 

What to try in Drama

In Drama, you will find excellent meats from animals grazing freely in the region's mountains.

Wild strawberries, raspberries, and cherries are abundant here and you'll find them literally everywhere!

Tip: Don't miss trying local pastourma and gioufkades – they are the region's traditional pasta!

 

Lisse Fort

In Kato Nevrokopi, 40 km away from Drama, there is the amazing Lisse Fort and museum.

The Fort has 4 'Turtles' that stand in utmost secrecy – only one Turtle is accessible to the public.

In these Forts, the Greek army bravely fought the German and Bulgarian divisions in 1941.

In the museum, you can find several exhibits such as pistols, grenades, mortars, etc.

 

Ancient city of Philippi

The ancient city of Philippi is located 21 km away from Drama.

It was named after King Philip II of Macedon.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is the local theatre, believed to have been built by Philip II, and is used every summer for events and concerts!

 

Aggitis River Cave

For a refreshing escape from the scorching summer sun, the Aggitis River Cave is just the ticket, welcoming you 80 metres underground with the temperature at 17 degrees!

The cave is 20 million years old and was only discovered in 1978!

Many stone tools and animal bones dating back approximately 50,000 years were found here!

 

Rodopi Mountain Range

Hiking and mountain lovers will need at least a week to explore the many delights offered by the Rodopi mountains, which have been designated a National Park since 2009!

Here you can enjoy a hike along the International E6 trail, relax in the shade under the trees, or seek out the waterfalls fiercely pouring their water.

In several places, you will also find local businesses offering activities such as rowing, canoeing, mountain biking, etc.

If you are a photography enthusiast, then you can capture the best photos of birds and more that you have ever taken!

The wildlife here is truly spectacular!

Cuckoos, woodpeckers, golden eagles, red deer, wild boars, bears, and many other animals that are rare in any other region!

 

Falakro Ski Resort

If skiing is your life, then the Falakro Ski Resort awaits you for thrilling experiences!

At an altitude of 1720 metres, the ski resort opens during winter, as soon as there's enough snow for skiing.

Before you visit, it's a good idea to check if it's open.

Beyond skiing, here you'll find paragliding and other extreme activities!

 

Useful information for Drama

• Find cheap hotels in the area
• Flights to Thessaloniki – the nearest available airport to the area