Ioannina, on Lake Pamvotis, mixes Ottoman-era monuments, a lively student scene and great food. It is a favourite winter city break and the gateway to the stone villages of Zagori.
Highlights
- The castle (Kastro) and Its Kale citadel with the Fethiye Mosque
- Boat ride to the lake island (Nisi) and its monasteries
- Perama cave
- Silversmith workshops and the Silversmithing Museum
- Epirus pies, trout and syrupy sweets
Ioannina's old town lies inside castle walls on a promontory in Lake Pamvotis. Inside are the Its Kale citadel, the Fethiye Mosque and the Byzantine Museum. A short boat ride takes you to the island, with its car-free village and monasteries.
In winter the city is festive and atmospheric, with lights along the lakefront and plenty of tavernas serving hearty mountain food. It is the natural base for Zagori, Metsovo and the Vikos Gorge.
☀️ Best time to visit
All year. Winter for a cosy city break, spring and autumn for hiking in Zagori.
🧭 Getting there & around
Ioannina airport (IOA) has flights from Athens. By car it is about 4.5 hours from Athens via the Ionia Odos, and about 3 hours from Thessaloniki via the Egnatia motorway.
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Ioannina guides & articles
Top Things to Do in Zagori
Zagori is a mountain region of forty-odd stone villages in Epirus, linked by old mule paths and arched bridges. Here is how to make the most of it.
Top Things to Do in Metsovo
High in the Pindus mountains of Epirus, Metsovo is a stone-built village of wood smoke, smoked cheese and local wine. Here is how to make the most of a visit.
Greek Village Festivals (Panigyria): How to Join In
Attending a panigyri is the most authentic way to experience Greek culture. These traditional village festivals offer a window into local life, music, and community spirit.
Christmas in Ioannina: Lakeside Lights, Castle Walks and Zagori
Ioannina transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season, blending Ottoman history with the crisp mountain air of Epirus. It is the perfect base for exploring the lake and the nearby Zagori villages.
Christmas in Metsovo: Stone Houses, Snow and Fireside Feasts
High in the Pindus mountains, Metsovo offers an authentic winter escape defined by stone architecture, wood-burning hearths, and robust Epirus cuisine.
What to Eat in Metsovo: A Local Food Guide
Metsovo is a culinary destination defined by its high-altitude terroir. Discover the smoked cheeses, robust wines, and hearty pies that make this Epirus village a true gastronomic standout.
The Best Beaches in and Around Zagori
Zagori is famous for its stone villages and the Vikos Gorge, but its mountain landscape also offers stunning natural pools and river spots for a refreshing swim.
What to Eat in Zagori: A Local Food Guide
Zagori is defined by its rugged stone architecture and ancient mule paths, but its culinary identity is just as distinct. Learn what to eat in this mountainous corner of Epirus.
Greek Lenten Food (Nistisima): Delicious Meat-Free Dishes
Discover the vibrant world of Nistisima, Greece's traditional Lenten cuisine. This guide explores the seasonal, plant-based dishes that define Greek fasting periods.
Greek Pies (Pites): A Regional Guide
Greek pies, or pites, are a cornerstone of the country's culinary heritage, varying wildly from island to island and mountain village to mountain village.
Metsovone and the Cheeses of Metsovo
High in the Pindus mountains, Metsovo is the heart of Greek artisanal cheese production. Learn about the iconic smoked Metsovone and the local culinary traditions that define this Epirus village.
Ouzo, Tsipouro and Raki: Greek Spirits Explained
Understanding the nuances of Greece's traditional spirits is essential for any cultural exploration. This guide details the history, production, and proper etiquette for enjoying Ouzo, Tsipouro, and Raki.
