Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Kavala gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from KVA to the city takes roughly 90 minutes by Public Bus (KTEL Kavala), and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of KVA:
- Can you legally enter Greece? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 90-minute journey each way by Public Bus (KTEL Kavala), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Alexander the Great International Airport to Downtown
From KVA, the Public Bus (KTEL Kavala) gets you to Kavala in around 90 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 110 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Public Bus (KTEL Kavala) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Kavala layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kavala.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Kavala, two standouts are:
- Kavala Castle (Kavala Fortress) — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Kamares Aqueduct (Aqueduct of Kavala) — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Kavala.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside KVA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Hellenic Duty Free Shops
- Airport Café Relaxation
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kavala: Bouboulis (ÎÏοÏμÏοÏληÏ) and Baleare (ÎÏαλÎαÏε). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for KVA Airport Snack Bar or KVA Airport Coffee & Bakery. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Bag Storage Near KVA
Specific locker facilities at KVA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kavala itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at KVA should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Greece and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at KVA.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kavala is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Kavala.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.