Things To Do
in Kilkís
Kilkis is a small city in northern Greece, set on the fertile Kilkis Plain just inland from the Aegean coast. It blends a quiet town center with nearby hills and lakes, making it a good base for day trips into Central Macedonia. The streets reveal a mix of Ottoman-era architecture, neoclassical buildings, and traditional Greek tavernas.
Visitors come for approachable culture, outdoor trails, and a chance to experience everyday life beyond Greece's bigger destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kilkís and settle into your accommodation, taking in the quaint charm of this lesser-known Greek town. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Greek pastries and coffee. Take a stroll around the nearest square, absorbing the local atmosphere and culture.
Explore the town’s historical sites, starting with the impressive Kilkís Fortress that offers panoramic views. Wander through the small streets lined with shops and galleries showcasing local art and crafts. Stop for lunch at a taverna where you can savor regional dishes made from fresh ingredients.
As night falls, experience a local dining option, enjoying grilled meats and local wines. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the town’s promenades, enjoying the lively ambiance. Conclude the evening with some traditional ouzo at a local bar while immersing yourself in Greek music.
Begin your day with an early morning trip to Lake Kerkini, a natural paradise teeming with wildlife. Rent bicycles to explore the serene surroundings and enjoy the fresh air while taking in stunning views. Stop for a delicious breakfast at a lakeside café, enjoying local delicacies.
Spend the afternoon boating on the lake, getting a chance to see migratory birds in their natural habitat. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the shore, making the most of the idyllic setting. Afterward, visit the nearby wetlands that allow for delightful nature walks.
Return to Kilkís and indulge in dinner at a restaurant specializing in fresh fish from the lake. Spend some time mingling with locals, perhaps even catching a glimpse of a traditional folk dance. Reflect on your day by sitting in a cozy bar, enjoying the views under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel room (budget hotel) per night | $40-70 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location for exploring northern Greece
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Good base for outdoor activities (hiking, lakes)
- Affordability compared to major cities
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Smaller transport links to far destinations
- Can be hot in summer and chilly in winter
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Kalispera" - Good evening
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakaló" - Please
- "Milate Anglika?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pou einai to..." - Where is the...?
- "Poso kostizei?" - How much does this cost?
- "Geia sou" - Hello
Places to Visit in Kilkís
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over Kilkis and the surrounding plain, especially dramatic at sunrise.
Calm waters, reed beds and reflections, ideal for tranquil landscape shots and birdlife.
Narrow lanes, stone houses and a central square that capture traditional Macedonian charm.
Sweeping vistas across the region; best during golden hour for dramatic light.
Food in Kilkís
Kilkís Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Skewered grilled meat served with pita, tomatoes, onion and tzatziki.
Must-Try!
Grape leaves stuffed with herbed rice, sometimes with meat, served with lemon.
Layered eggplant, potato and ground meat casserole with a creamy béchamel topping.
Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion, feta and olive oil.
Sesame-coated bread rings commonly found at markets and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market with fresh produce, cheeses, olives, honey and local specialties; a great place to taste and buy ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalispera' (good evening); use polite forms when first meeting someone.
Dress modestly for churches; remove hats and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Address older individuals with respect; pleasant conversation about local topics is welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Kilkís
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; cafes may be rounded up.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common; contactless payments increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot and dry; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days with pleasant colors; occasional rain showers; great for hiking and photography.
Cool to cold with potential rain and rare snow on higher elevations; pack layers and waterproofs.
Greens and wildflowers; comfortable temperatures and outdoor festivals.
Kilkís at Night
Hiking in Kilkís
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest paths and viewpoints on Paiko Mountain; varied difficulty.
Rings the lake with flat, easy walking routes, ideal for birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Kilkís by plane.
Main international gateway; about 60-70 km from Kilkis; frequent flights and connections.
Megas Alexandros International near Kavala; serves regional and seasonal international flights; about 150-180 km from Kilkis.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Greek locals with aging population in some neighborhoods; a few migrant workers and seasonal residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular throughout Greece; local clubs and friendly matches around Kilkis.
Local teams and school leagues; community sports facilities.
Athletics at municipal facilities and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kilkís.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most taverns offer vegetarian meze and salads; ask for vegetable-based dishes and avoid meat-based stocks when needed.