Sightseeing in Thassos - what to see. Complete travel guide

The resort has started attracting the attention of foreign tourists not so long ago. Perhaps, the main advantage of this place is in its quiet and calm atmosphere. The number of visitors here is not so large comparing to other popular Greek resorts. Picturesque scenery, beautiful and mild sea, and chestnuts bushes – this is a real paradise ideal for lovers of secluded relaxation.

Despite its relatively small popularity Thassos is a modern and beautiful city. The local hotels and entertainment centers here are as good as centers in well-known resort areas. Best beaches and restaurants are located in the eastern part of the town. You will also see several medieval buildings here. Agora is by far the most interesting area for tourists. Here are located City Museum, the ancient Roman port, and several monuments.

You will also find several souvenir shops and restaurants in this part of the town. The majority of cafes and restaurant are surrounded by olive trees and shrubs. The area looks more like a small fisherman's quarter rather than a historic center. The remote part of Agora is the location of a spiral staircase that goes skyward. Climb it up and you will find yourself at the entrance to the theater. The beautiful Genoese fortress stands just opposite to it. These two buildings are the most beautiful ones in the city. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Temple of Apollo is another monument of antiquity located in Agora. Through the backdoor of the temple you can go down into the tunnel, which will lead you to the downtown area. According to archaeologists, this underpass was constructed in the 6th century BC. If the attractions of the city don’t seem enough for you, attend an excursion to the nearby town named Kavala. You will also find here numerous old buildings and monuments.

Mount Ipsarion is the highest point of Thassos island. Its height is more than 1200 meters above sea level. Hiking to the mount is a popular tourist activity. There are many nice routes along its slopes. You can admire rare plant and bird species and visit some picturesque villages. In each village, travelers are welcomed to national restaurants and handicraft shops. An interesting museum of a local sculptor is open to public visits in Potamya village.

The historic monastery of Panteleimon founded in 1843, is found in the deepest part of the island. The monastery got its name after St. Panteleimon. According to a legend, the saint has stayed the cave nearby for some years as a hermit. The historic monastery attracts pilgrims from around the world. Numerous amazing stories of magical healing from the most complicated diseases are linked with it. Every year on 27 July, they have a beautiful holiday in honor of the patron saint.

No less spectacular is the monastery of the Archangel Michael. It was founded in the 18th century and is currently considered one of the largest on the island. One part of the convent has been converted into a museum nowadays. It keeps a collection of ancient religious articles and literary works on religious life whose authors are the monks of the monastery. The monastery is located on the edge of a cliff. Its adjacent territory offers spectacular views of the coast.

There are some large archaeological areas on the island. Travelers can visit the Archaeological Museum and see the finds discovered in these places. They began to form a collection in 1935. Since 1999, the museum has been located in a new building. Its exposition keeps about 1500 pieces. The oldest ones are dated 7th century BC. Beautiful stone sculptures of Greek gods, antique mosaics and pottery, jewelry made of precious metals and ancient coins - these and many other exhibits are presented in the museum. It is situated directly on the territory of one of the archaeological areas, so visitors can see the ruins of ancient Greek constructions which are more than 2000 years old.