Thessaloniki to Filippoi and Kavala Private Day Tour

Your first stop is the Sacred Baptistery of Saint Lydia, set peacefully beside the Zygaktis River. This is where the Apostle Paul is said to have baptized Lydia of Thyatira — the first recorded Christian convert in Europe, as described in Acts 16. The modern octagonal church is beautifully decorated with icons, mosaics, and stained glass, and visitors can touch the water of the river where history was made. A serene and moving place to begin the day.

Step into the ruins of ancient Philippi itself — one of Macedonia's most important cities, founded by Philip II (father of Alexander the Great) and later the site of the famous Battle of Philippi. Highlights include the Roman forum, two great Byzantine basilicas, a well-preserved theater, and the tradition site of Paul and Silas's prison

Spend time at the compact but excellent Archaeological Museum of Philippi, which provides rich context for the UNESCO World Heritage Site next door.

Your first sight in Kavala is the magnificent Ottoman aqueduct known as Kamares, built under Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century. Its multi-tiered stone arches rising through the middle of the city are one of the most photogenic sights in northern Greece.

A short walk uphill brings you to the Byzantine castle, with its impressive walls, towers, and sweeping panoramic views over the harbor, the sea, and the island of Thasos on the horizon

Wander the cobblestone alleys of the Panagia quarter — a beautifully preserved neighborhood of Ottoman-era houses cascading down to the sea. This is the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch at one of the local tavernas, where fresh seafood from the Aegean is the star of the menu.