Efkarpia Car Hire

Things to do in Efkarpia

Efkarpia is a peaceful suburb with plenty to see and do, whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local atmosphere.

Visit the Agios Ioannis Theologos church: This historic Byzantine church is one of the oldest in Thessaloniki and features beautiful frescoes and mosaics.

Explore the Municipal Art Gallery of Efkarpia: This small gallery showcases the work of local artists and hosts regular exhibitions and cultural events.

Take a hike on Mount Chortiatis: This nearby mountain offers scenic hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Attend a local festival or event: Efkarpia has a rich tradition of traditional music and dance, and there are often festivals and cultural events celebrating the region's folk heritage.

Enjoy a drink at a local craft brewery: Efkarpia has a growing craft beer scene, with several microbreweries and beer bars offering a range of locally brewed beers.

Go shopping: Efkarpia has several small shops and boutiques selling locally made crafts and products.

Relax in one of the local parks: Efkarpia has several small parks and green spaces where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air.

Visit the Hellenic Open University: This distance learning university has its headquarters in Efkarpia and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various fields.

Eating Out in Efkarpia

Efkarpia, Thessaloniki and the entire northern region is known for its delicious cuisine, heavily influenced by Ottoman, Balkan, and Mediterranean flavours. Here are some local dishes that you can try during your stay in Efkarpia and the surrounding areas:

Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of meat (usually pork or chicken) served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.

Moussaka: A traditional Greek casserole made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, minced meat, and a creamy bechamel sauce.

Gyro: A popular street food made with slices of seasoned meat (usually pork or chicken) served on a pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.

Saganaki: A fried cheese dish made with a variety of local cheeses, such as feta, kefalotyri, or graviera.

Greek salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar.

Taramasalata: A creamy dip made with fish roe, bread, olive oil, and lemon juice, served with bread or pita.

Spanakopita: A savoury pie made with phyllo pastry and a filling of spinach and feta cheese.

Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.

There are also many seafood dishes available in Thessaloniki and the nearby coastal towns, such as grilled octopus, fried calamari, and seafood soups. Don't forget to try some of the local wines, such as Xinomavro and Assyrtiko, which are highly regarded for their quality and flavour. Some of the best restaurants to visit are:

Canteen: A cosy restaurant that serves a wide range of Mediterranean and Greek dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu includes grilled meats, seafood, vegetarian options, and a variety of meze plates.

Byzantium: A family-run restaurant that specializes in traditional Greek cuisine. The menu features classic dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and grilled fish, as well as a variety of meze plates and homemade desserts.

L'Arte del Gusto: A charming Italian restaurant that serves authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, handmade pasta, and a variety of Italian specialties. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines and cocktails.

To Steki Tou Ilia: A popular grill house that serves a variety of meat dishes, including pork chops, beef steak, and lamb souvlaki. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable.

Chimaera: A trendy restaurant that serves contemporary Greek cuisine with a creative twist. The menu includes seafood, meat dishes, and vegetarian options, as well as a variety of cocktails and local wines.

Transport in Efkarpia

There are plenty of transportation options available to get around Efkarpia and Thessaloniki, depending on your budget and preferences.

Bus: There are several bus routes that connect Efkarpia with Thessaloniki and other nearby suburbs. The buses are operated by OASTH, the local public transportation company.

Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Thessaloniki and can be easily hailed on the street or called by phone. They are a convenient way to get around if you prefer a more personalized service.

Bicycle: Thessaloniki is a bike-friendly city, with several bike rental companies and bike-sharing schemes available. You can rent a bike and explore the city and the nearby countryside on two wheels.

Walk: Efkarpia is a small suburb with several shops, cafes, and restaurants within walking distance. Walking is a great way to explore the local area and get some exercise at the same time.