Edessa is small, compact, and above all: uniquely situated. The city seems to perch on a rock, high above the valley, with views that in some places are almost dizzying. Between steep cliffs, ancient walls, and constantly flowing water, it feels as if the town is half suspended in the landscape and half growing out of it.

Edessa is best known for its waterfalls, which lie right in the center of town and plunge thunderously into the depths — first and foremost the great Karanos Waterfall. Small paths and walkways wind through green gorges, past viewpoints and clouds of mist. Nearby lies the open-air Water Museum, where you can see how water once powered mills, tanneries, and factories.

The (very small) old town of Varosi, with its narrow lanes and traditional houses, conveys the feeling of an authentic, unpretentious Greece. Right next to it is a small pedestrian zone with cafés, ice cream shops, and a few stores offering selected local products, handicrafts, and delicacies — no mass tourism, but charming and lively enough for an evening stroll.

Edessa isn’t a place where you need to stay for days on end — two or three days are usually enough, unless you want to enjoy its relaxed rhythm or use the city as a base for excursions in the area.
 Below, we’ve listed a few shops and addresses we particularly like — places where you’ll find genuine Greek products and get a feel for everyday life in this small town.