The working harbour is the liveliest part of the lower town, and the morning fish market near the port is the best place in Kavala to feel the city's identity as a fishing port and commercial hub. Arriving early — before 8am — is ideal: the catch has just been landed and the market fills with local buyers, taverna owners selecting the day's seafood, and the general organized chaos of a real fish trade.
The waterfront promenade runs from the ferry terminal west toward the tobacco warehouses. In the evenings, the harbour-front cafes and ouzeris fill with locals. The smell of grilled fish drifts from the tavernas in the side streets behind the quay. The ferry pier is also the departure point for boats to Thassos island — the schedules are posted at the terminal and the crossing takes about an hour.