Drama Car Hire

Guide of Drama

Geography

Drama sits at the foot of Mount Falakro, which translates literally as ‘bald mountain’. Don’t be put off though, locals have fondly nicknamed it ‘the mountain of flowers’. The region boasts forests filled with unique flora, fauna and flocks of birds, caves crammed with stalactites, bubbling hot springs, sprawling tobacco plantations and renowned ski resorts. The city itself enjoys an abundant water supply, which means plenty of lush, green spaces too.

Climate in Drama

Drama boasts a semi-continental climate, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. It is one of the coldest parts of the country in winter. So much so, that Kato Nevrokopi has earned the nickname ‘Siberia of Greece’. The hottest months in Drama are June, July, August and September, when temperatures reach highs of 33.1°C. The start of September is a popular time to visit Drama, when the temperatures are falling but the days are still pleasantly sunny.

Culture

Drama boasts a rich and fascinating history. Archaeological findings have revealed that an area of the settlement, named Dyrama or Hydrama, was a place of worship for the many Gods of the Greco-Roman Pantheon. During the Byzantine years, the city was renamed ‘Draviskos’ and by the 13th century, it had become a fortified city with a castle. Tobacco production and trade took off in the region in the late 19th century, putting the city back on the map and connecting it to other cities via a new railroad. The city was occupied by the Bulgarians and participated in the Macedonian Struggle in the early 20th century, but was liberated by the Greek Army in 1913.

Things To Do in Drama

Stroll around the Old Town

Drama’s Old Town is a charming mix of old and new. Its architecture has been heavily influenced by its Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman rulers, from the Byzantine walls to its neoclassical mansions.

Explore bubbling springs at Agia Varvara Park

Possibly one of the most picturesque spots in the region, these main springs are located inside Agia Varvara Park. According to local lore, when the Turkish occupied the city they attempted to demolish the church but water poured from the mountains and saved the church. The springs are still an important wetland and make a beautiful picnic spot.

Visit local wineries

Drama’s semi-continental microclimate makes it perfect for winemaking. There are six wineries dotted across the Drama region that are open to the public, each growing international grape varieties and local asyrtiko. Some of the most popular wineries include the Oenogenesis and the Chateau Nico Lazaridi, which has a gallery devoted to its wine labels. A new festival, Dramoinognosia, has launched in June to celebrate Dionysos, the God of Wine, too.

Catch a movie at the film festival

If you’re travelling to Drama in September, you’re in luck. Every year, the International Short Film Festival brings together cinema lovers from across the country and abroad to enjoy short films, as well as photography, book launches, concerts and workshops.

Venture into a cave

Mara’s Cave in Kokinogies is around 20 km from Drama. The cave, which takes its name from the river that runs through it, is crammed with colourful stalactites, some as long as 2 metres. Only 2.5 miles of the 5-mile cave is accessible to visitors.

Brush up on local history

The Archaeological Museum of Drama is well worth a visit. Its three main halls contain collections from the Palaeolithic Period until the early 20th century. The reproduction of a Neothlithic House is particularly popular with little ones. The Ecclesiastical Museum is the city’s second blockbuster museum. It houses a collection of icons dating from Byzantine rule to the 20th century. The Folklore Museum of Drama displays a collection of authentic folk costumes and artefacts from the wider area.

Eating Out in Drama

Drama and the surrounding areas offer the ideal conditions for growing quality produce. The potatoes from Nevrokopi have Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) and you’ll find them served with their skins and slathered with oregano and butter in many restaurants. Other local specialities include pastourmas (cured beef) and giofkades (local pasta served with spinach or tomato).

You’ll find dozens of excellent restaurants, tavernas and bars dotted across the city. Some of the most popular establishments include Entrades Restaurant for seafood, Mpses Kai Pies for souvlaki and Idonas for hearty meat grills. For coffee and cake, try Kafe Elefteria. It’s one of the oldest coffeehouses in the city.

Transport

Airport

The closest airport to Drama is Kavala International Airport (KVA). Dozens of mainstream airlines operate flights here, including TUI Airways, Australian Airlines and Olympic Air. It takes around to drive from the airport to the city centre. For more flight options, you could also choose to fly into Thessaloniki. From here it’s a 1-hour 45-minute drive or a four-hour direct train journey.

Getting Around Drama

Many of Drama’s best city sights can easily be reached on foot, but to explore the surrounding areas of outstanding natural beauty you will need a car. Buses outside the city run infrequently and seasonally and many of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences are not served by public transport. For more flexibility, we recommend hiring a car.