In this most ancient region in Europe visitors will find some of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Greece. The region of East Macedonia and Thrace is packed with atmospheric villages, fascinating traditions, hospitable locals, rich cuisine, and a long and complex history.

This the home of ancient philosophers and endangered animals, of the legend of Orpheus and the Dionysian cult, and of the splendid mountains of the Rhodope, with their dramatic peaks and deep valleys and rivers. Thrace's wetlands are rich with protected fauna and flora, and are a real birdwatchers paradise.

There are caves here and fertile plains, luscious valleys and amongst the best alpine resorts in the country. Occupying the north-eastern area of Greece, the region of East Macedonia and Thrace is bordered by Bulgaria and Turkey, which means that this is the absolute point of contact between the Western and Eastern worlds.
In this region of Greece, both civilizations and cultures coexist, creating one of the most complex regions in Greece. As such, the region is a place of diverse cultural, ethnic and religious diversity and this is the way it has always been. There are Greek Orthodox here, but also Muslims and numerous other minorities adding to the culturally kaleidoscopic atmosphere.

The region has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic Age. There were once ancient Thracian tribes here, and even the Persians passed through here. This is a region of ancient empires and provinces, of Barbarian raids and of prosperous civilizations with flourishing trade and culture. The region was incorporated into the modern Greek state much later that other regions of Greece, in 1920

There are big, cosmopolitan cities here too, such as Alexandroupoli, Komotini and Xanthi, with bustling activity throughout the day and night. The cities are full of modern clubs and bars alongside more traditional restaurants and tavernas. There are shopping-centres and small family-owned stores in the traditional agoras selling the characteristic souvenirs of the region, such as copper and silverware and the region's world-famous embroidered items, such as table and bed linen.

Alexandroupolis, the largest city in Thrace, is thoroughly charming and well-designed, with unique architecture telling the story of its history. There are ancient sites and monasteries and caves throughout the region, in fact, the mythical Cyclops made his home in one of the region's deep, dark caves.

There are foods here that are rich in taste with influences that are both strictly Greek and also Turkish and Balkan, such as soutzouk-loukoum and bourek. There are numerous festivals that take place throughout the year and sporting activities are always very popular, as is sailing at the Nautical Club in the city of Alexandroupolis.

Today, the region is one of the least developed regions in all of Greece in terms of tourism, but this is what makes East Macedonia and Thrace an excellent choice for travellers who are seeking something that has authentic charm without the, often, superficial atmosphere of the more touristy regions.