Our visit at Alistrati Cave was very cool, both figuratively and literally. While it was quite warm outside, it was quite cool and humid underground. Photographs are not allowed and you have the luck of draw with how well you may be able to communicate with your mandatory guide in English (or other language) if you don’t understand Greek. The cave structures were interesting to see and the in-and-out path was easy to follow. We were provided a sheet that explained this history and some of the interesting structures along the way. Fortunately, our guide Thanasis patiently provided explanations in both Greek and English. He captivated us with effusive and exuberant movements matching his words. At the time, we paid 8€ per person and it was quite worth it. The hardest part is getting there.

We organised our visit to the caves when our cruise ship stopped in Kavala. It was about an hour each way in the car from the town. The caves themselves are in the middle of nowhere so public transport seems difficult. I asked if we could get there early to avoid the crowds. We arrived about 10am and were almost the only people there. Our tour was scheduled for 10:35, so we had a coffee and water at the cafe while we waited. There is also a small shop with some local goods and our inevitable fridge magnet. When it was actual tour time, there were a few more visitors; Greek, Dutch and ourselves, English. Maybe 20 in all, 2/3 Greek. Our guide, and it seems all guides, was a university (masters) student. We, and the Dutch family were given information sheets in our respective languages for the key stops on the tour - they weren't needed. You enter through a long tunnel which seems very basic and no way prepares you for the interior. This was also the only place we could take photos. We were told why by the guide and, afaik, everyone respected it - hence why I have no photos to share. At each stop along the way, our guide explained in Greek and then in English. The whole journey was amazing with huge and unusual stalagmite and stalactite formations and a comfortable cool temperature. When we got to the far end of the tour it looked like there was more, but it was cordoned off. The explanation for this wasn't clear, but we turned round and headed back; it's about 1-1.5km each way. On the return journey the young guide was happy to talk about any aspect of the cave. It was absolutely worth the journey. However, I have one issue of consistency. We couldn't take photos because it was deemed, by the government ministry responsible, that it would impact the delicate environment. However, the whole walkway through the cave is modern concrete and super smooth, well lit and accessible. Parts of the cave's formations were damaged during its construction (you could see). Also there are power cabinets and cables all throughout. Finally they told us the bats had moved on due to people's presence. Given all this, and our physical presence, surely flashless photography would have minimal impact? If this is going to remain the case then can I suggest that they get a professional photo shoot done as a one-off and sell the digital photo album?? Win-win!! Despite this, go along and exercise your eyes and memory the old way.

Great experience, well worth the visit. We also had an excellent guide, Dimitra, who made the experience even better. She spoke in English, as the group was mixed and she was very informative without being overwhelming. The cave itself is spacious, well organised, great even with small children. Very decorated and interesting to see everything. I think the tour starts every half na hour, our was at 2.30 and lasted almost an hour.

A truly amazing place. Tucked away in the Greek countryside this is well worth a visit. Our guide spoke very good English and was a perfect in explaining the history of the caves being discovered to how all the formations have been created. I’ve never seen anything as vast as this, it is breathtaking. Well worth the €8 entrance fee. All tours are guided and last about 1hour. Unfortunately you are not allowed to take pictures inside the cave but there’s a gift shop where you can purchase postcards of the caves.

It was the 3rd time I visited the cave on a five-day excursion with students of the 3rd high school. I always leave excited. This time I was surprised by Persephone, the robot supposed to replace the human guide. Impressive, but without emotion...

One of the largest caves we have visited so far. There are 3 courses, one of which is open to the public, distance about one kilometer there, same route back. Several large spaces to visit with stalagmites and stalagtites, but also an unusual species, heccentrite, looks like coral. Different colors to distinguish, very beautiful. Impressive especially because of the dimensions. With Guide who gave alternate explanations in Greek and English. Taking pictures is not allowed. While waiting for the start it was good to stay on the terrace.