Orestiada Car Hire

Things to do in Orestiada

Orestiada is an exciting place to explore with nearby mountains, culture to dive deep into and history to unravel. Here are some activities to embark on:

Explore the Orestiada Castle: This Ottoman-era castle is a must-see attraction in Orestiada. Visitors can explore the castle's towers and walls, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Orestiada: This museum displays artefacts from the ancient Thracian period, including pottery, sculptures, and jewellery. It is a great place to learn more about the region's rich history.

Birdwatching in Evros Delta National Park: This protected wetland area is just an hour and half's drive away from Orestiada and well worth the visit. It's home to a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park or go birdwatching on their own.

Hiking in the Rhodope Mountains: The Rhodope Mountains are located a couple of hour's drive away from Orestiada and offer a range of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding countryside.

Visit nearby villages: There are several small villages located near Orestiada that offer a glimpse into traditional rural life in Greece. Visitors can explore the villages' narrow streets and enjoy the local hospitality.

Attend cultural events: Orestiada hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and traditional dance performances. Visitors can experience the town's lively atmosphere and learn more about its cultural heritage.

Eating Out in Orestiada

One of the many positives of being a town located close by to two different countries, is that the influence of neighbouring cultures makes the local cuisine absolutely delicious! As you can imagine, the local dishes that you'll find in Orestiada are filled with a unique blend of flavours and ingredients. Here are some foods you must try during your visit:

Kebab: This Turkish-inspired dish is popular throughout Greece, and Orestiada is no exception. Kebabs are typically made with grilled meat (usually beef or lamb) served with pita bread and various toppings, such as tomato, onion, and yogurt sauce.

Tzatziki: This classic Greek dip is made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. It's often served as a side dish with meat dishes, or as a dip for bread or vegetables.

Saganaki: This fried cheese dish is a popular appetizer in Greece. The cheese is typically made with sheep's milk and is served with lemon wedges and crusty bread.

Baklava: This sweet pastry is made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios), and honey syrup. It's a popular dessert in Greece and can be found in many pastry shops in Orestiada.

Moussaka: This baked dish is made with layers of eggplant, ground meat (usually beef or lamb), and a creamy béchamel sauce. It's a hearty and flavourful dish that's popular throughout Greece.

Taramasalata: This creamy fish roe dip is a popular appetizer in Greece. It's typically made with cod or carp roe, lemon juice, and olive oil, and is often served with bread or crackers.

Souvlaki: This grilled meat dish is a Greek staple. It's typically made with marinated pork or chicken, served on a skewer with pita bread, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes, and while you're tucking in, make sure you also try the local wine and spirits, such as the anise-flavoured drink called ouzo. Some of the most popular restaurants that are worth visiting to try these dishes are:

To Xani: This cosy restaurant is known for its authentic Greek and Balkan cuisine. The menu features a range of grilled meats, meze dishes, and fresh seafood. The restaurant also has a selection of Greek wines and spirits.

Taverna To Steki: This traditional Greek taverna is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The menu features classic Greek dishes, such as souvlaki, moussaka, and stuffed grape leaves. The restaurant also has a cosy outdoor seating area.

Mavros Gatos: This elegant restaurant is located in the centre of Orestiada and is known for its creative Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features a range of dishes made with local ingredients, including fresh seafood and organic vegetables.

To Koutouki: This casual taverna is a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. The menu features classic Greek dishes, such as grilled meat, souvlaki, and Greek salads. The restaurant also has a selection of Greek wines and beers.

L'Artista: This cozy restaurant is known for its Italian cuisine, including pizza and pasta dishes. The restaurant also has a selection of Greek and Italian wines.

Ouzeri To Kallikantzaros: This traditional Greek ouzeri is a great spot for an evening of drinks and meze dishes. The menu features a range of small plates, including grilled meats, cheese, and olives. The restaurant also has a selection of Greek spirits, including ouzo and raki.

If you want to have the full experience of dining out in Orestiada, then make sure you end the night with dessert at one of the town's cafes or pastry shops, which offer a range of delicious Greek sweets and pastries!

Transport in Orestiada

Seeing as Orestiada is a very small town, public transportation options are limited, however it is easy to get around on foot. There won't really be a need for you to require any form of transport unless if you wish to explore nearby areas, for which there are the following options:

Bus: Orestiada has a local bus service that connects the town with nearby villages and cities. The bus station is located in the centre of town and offers regular services throughout the day.

Taxi: Taxis are available in Orestiada and are a convenient way to get around the town and its surrounding areas. Taxis can be found at taxi stands throughout the town, or can be booked in advance by phone.

Bicycle rental: Bicycles are available for rent in Orestiada, which is a great way to explore the town and its surrounding areas. There are several bike rental shops located in the town centre.

It's important to note that Orestiada is located near the borders of Turkey and Bulgaria, so visitors should make sure that they have the necessary travel documents if they plan to travel outside of Greece.