Where to stay in Alexandroupoli: The best areas and 27 accommodations

Alexandroupoli is the largest city in Thrace, built around a port that continues to define its pace. The lighthouse on the waterfront, one of the city's landmarks, is a reference point for evening strolls, while its proximity to Turkey and Bulgaria makes it a stop for many travellers heading further afield.

At the same time, the city also serves as a starting point for the Evros Delta, Samothrace, which is served by ferry from its port, and the forests of the region towards Dadia. The choice of accommodation largely depends on whether you want to stay by the sea, in the commercial centre, or just outside the city near an organised beach.

Below you will find the main accommodation areas, with the strengths and weaknesses of each, as well as specific accommodations, from hotels on the waterfront to apartments in the centre and larger units outside the city.

What to see and do in Alexandroupoli

The city took its current form in the late 19th century, when the lighthouse was built in 1880 and the settlement, then known as Dedeagac, developed around it. The lighthouse remains the most recognisable point on the waterfront and a good starting point for a walk along the promenade, which stretches for several kilometres alongside the sea.

The Ecclesiastical Museum and the Metropolitan Church of Agios Nikolaos are located in the centre, while just outside the city, in the Dadia forest, one of Europe's most important raptor sanctuaries operates, with an observatory open to the public. A visit there requires approximately an hour's drive from the city.

Alexandroupoli's gastronomy has a strong seafood character, with fish tavernas around the port and the waterfront, while Thracian cuisine adds meat and pasta dishes, such as the famous Giaourtlou. In the city's old market, you will also find meze restaurants with a more local flavour.

Alexandroupoli port is the gateway to Samothrace, with the ferry journey taking approximately two hours, which leads many visitors to combine the two areas in the same trip. To the west, the Evros Delta offers birdwatching routes, while the organised beaches towards Makri are about twenty minutes away by car.

The city experiences significant activity in summer due to tourism and travellers passing through to Turkey and Bulgaria, while in winter the pace is calmer, with the student life of Democritus University bringing some movement to the centre. Spring and autumn are good times for a stroll on the waterfront without the summer heat.

The best areas to stay in Alexandroupoli

1. Waterfront and lighthouse, For sea views and promenade strolls

Alexandroupoli's waterfront road, with the lighthouse in the background, is the most popular spot for accommodation for those who want views and easy access to the promenade and fish tavernas. Hotels here range from more basic to larger units with sea views, and the distance to the city centre and port is short, usually a few minutes' walk.

Pros:

• Sea and lighthouse views
• Strolls on the seaside promenade
• Close to fish tavernas

Cons:

• A bit more expensive than the city centre
• Can be busy in summer

Recommended accommodations:

1. Lighthouse Hotel
A hotel near the lighthouse, with direct access to the waterfront, a good choice for those who want an evening stroll on the promenade.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

2. Dias Hotel
A hotel in a good location near the waterfront, with functional rooms, suitable for families and couples.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

3. Grecotel Astir Palace
A large hotel by the sea, with more amenities and larger rooms, suitable for those who want a more comfortable stay on the waterfront.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

4. Thalassa Apart Hotel
Hotel-style apartments near the sea, with cooking facilities, suitable for families staying for several days.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

5. The Mulberry House Heritage by the Sea
Accommodation with a more unique character near the sea, in an old building, suitable for those who want something different from a typical hotel.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

6. Plaza Hotel
A hotel near the waterfront, with simple rooms and good value, convenient for short stays.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

2. City centre, For easy access to shops, restaurants, and the port

Alexandroupoli's city centre, around its main pedestrian streets and market, hosts most of the city's classic hotels. It's a good choice for those who want to be close to shops, restaurants, and the port, without needing a car for their daily commutes. The sea and waterfront are usually just a few minutes' walk away.

Pros:

• Close to the market and port
• More dining options
• Good value for money

Cons:

• A little further from the beachfront
• Potential noise on main streets

Recommended accommodations:

7. Hotel Angelos
A classic hotel in the city centre, with simple rooms, suitable for travellers seeking affordable and central accommodation.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

8. 31 Doors Hotel
A small hotel with a modern aesthetic in the centre, a good choice for couples who want something more contemporary.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

9. Hotel Marianna
A hotel in the city centre, with functional rooms and consistent service, suitable for short visits.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

10. Hotel Erika
A simple hotel near the centre, with affordable prices, convenient for those travelling on a budget.

• Average cost: approximately 40€ per night

11. Grecotel Egnatia
A larger hotel in the city centre, with more amenities, suitable for business trips as well as family holidays.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

12. Hotel Isidora
A hotel in the city centre with simple rooms, a good option for a short stay near the city market.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

13. Hotel Chilia
An affordable hotel in the centre, suitable for travellers who want basic accommodation without many extras.

• Average cost: approximately 38€ per night

14. Hotel Alkyon
A hotel near the centre, with clean rooms and a good price, suitable for families.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

15. Sali Boutique hotel
A small boutique hotel in the centre, with a more refined decor, suitable for couples who want something more special.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

16. Hotel Vergina
A hotel in the city centre, with functional rooms, suitable for business or short stays.

• Average cost: approximately 48€ per night

17. Park Hotel
A central hotel with consistent quality, a good choice for those who want easy access to all parts of the city.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

3. Apartments and suites in the centre, For more space, autonomy and groups

In the centre of Alexandroupoli, the number of rental apartments has increased in recent years, most of them in renovated buildings near the main streets. They are suitable for those travelling with friends or family who want a kitchen and more space, while maintaining proximity to the centre and the sea.

Pros:

• More space and autonomy
• Cooking facilities
• Good value for groups, families

Cons:

• Usually no 24-hour reception
• Quality varies by apartment

Recommended accommodations:

18. Magico Suites City Heart Luxury Apartments
Apartments in the city centre with modern furnishings, suitable for couples or small families who want comfort.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

19. Spartacus Apartment
An apartment with basic kitchen equipment, near the centre, suitable for short or longer stays.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

20. PineParkView Apartment
An apartment in a quiet location, close to greenery, a good choice for those who want a little distance from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

• Average cost: approximately 48€ per night

21. HUB Urban Suite
A modern suite in the city centre, with functional design, suitable for couples or solo travellers.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

22. Nice & Quiet Apartment in Best Area
A quiet apartment in a good area of the city, with air conditioning, suitable for those who want peace and quiet close to the centre.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

23. HotelApart Filoxenia
Hotel-style apartments with basic amenities, a good choice for families staying for several days in the city.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

4. Outside the city, towards the beaches, For large units, organised beach, and tranquility

A few kilometres west of Alexandroupoli, towards Makri, larger hotel units with access to an organised beach can be found. They are suitable for those who want a quieter holiday, with less urban traffic, but require a car for travel to the city centre and port.

Pros:

• Organised beach
• Less urban traffic
• More space and tranquility

Cons:

• A car is needed for the city centre
• Fewer options for evening entertainment

Recommended accommodations:

24. Alexander Beach Hotel & Spa
A large hotel next to an organised beach, with a spa area and event halls, suitable for family holidays with more amenities.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

25. Chalet Safari
Accommodation with a more rustic character outside the city, suitable for those who want peace and contact with nature.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

26. Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Thraki
A large hotel with conference facilities on the outskirts of the city, suitable for business trips and for those who want comfortable rooms with less urban traffic around them.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

Practical tips before booking

• Book your ferry to Samothrace early in summer. Services from Alexandroupoli port fill up quickly during the summer months, especially on weekends.
• Stay on the waterfront if you want an evening stroll. The promenade next to the lighthouse is the liveliest spot in the city on summer evenings.
• Go to Dadia during the day. The raptor sanctuary requires about an hour's drive; it's best to plan it for the morning.
• If you want an organised beach, look towards Makri. The large units west of the city have direct beach access, unlike the city centre.
• Try fish near the port. Fish tavernas around the port and waterfront consistently offer fresh fish, especially during the summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I stay in Alexandroupoli if I'm taking the ferry to Samothrace?

It's best to stay near the centre or on the waterfront, as the port is just a few minutes' walk from there, meaning you won't need a car on the morning of departure.

Do I need a car in Alexandroupoli?

Within the city, not necessarily, but for Dadia, the Evros Delta, and the beaches towards Makri, a car is very helpful.

Which area is best for families with children?

The larger units west of the city, near an organised beach, or the apartments in the centre with cooking facilities, are better suited for families.

How far is Samothrace from Alexandroupoli?

The ferry from Alexandroupoli port to Samothrace takes approximately two hours, depending on weather conditions.

Is it worth staying near the waterfront or in the centre?

The waterfront offers views and seaside strolls, while the centre is closer to shops and restaurants, with only a small difference in distance between them.

Are there cheap accommodations in the centre of Alexandroupoli?

Yes, there are several affordable hotels and apartments in the centre, with prices considerably lower than the larger units on the waterfront or outside the city.

Conclusion

If your trip includes a ferry to Samothrace or walks along the waterfront, the area around the lighthouse is the most convenient option. For those who want access to shops and restaurants at a better price, the city centre covers most needs, while families and groups who want space and autonomy will find good solutions in the city centre apartments. Finally, those who prefer an organised beach and a quieter environment can look at the units west of the city, provided they have a car for their daily travel.

See also our guides for where to stay in Igoumenitsa and accommodation in Komotini.