Have you ever heard of Ioannina? Chances are high you aren’t conscious of this city in northern Greece. Ioannina typically goes unnoticed by most vacationers however one thing tells me that is about to alter. As folks seek for alternate options from the crowds and tour teams whereas touring Greece, Ioannina makes for an important base or place to begin to discover the beautiful area of Epirus. (Keep tuned for our full information to Epirus)
Issues to do in Ioannina
Earlier than you’re taking off for adventures within the mountains and on the seashores of the Ionian Sea, take a look at all of the issues to do in Ioannina and spend a day or two exploring this beautiful city on the shores of Lake Pamvotida.
1. Go to the Island of the Lake
Situated in Lake Pamvotida, the Island with no title is among the high sights in Ioannina and it was the primary place we visited within the metropolis. Take a brief 10-minute boat experience to The Island to view the monasteries of this island. The monastery settlement of Ioannina is one in every of three necessary monasteries together with the monasteries of Meteora and Mount Athos.
It’s a straightforward stroll across the island to comply with the cobblestone streets and path to see the seven Byzantine monasteries and revel in views of the town from throughout the water. Be sure to go to the museum to study a bit about its historical past and you’ll have lunch at one of many waterfront cafes on the marina earlier than heading again to the city heart.
2. Monastery of Philanthropist
Probably the most spectacular monastery of the seven monasteries on the Island of the Lake is the Monastery of Philanthropist which dates again to 1204. Contained in the church, there are stunning work and mosaics. Photographs aren’t allowed inside, however you’ll be able to go in to see them after which proceed on to see the exteriors of the opposite monasteries on the island.
3. Ali Pasha Museum
One other of the highest issues to do in Ioannina additionally occurs to be situated on the Island With No Identify. The Ali Pasha Museum homes relics from the Greek revolutionary interval within the nineteenth century and a set of objects from the reign of Ottoman chief Ali Pasha from 1788 to 1822. One unusual exhibit showcases a recreation of a narrative the place girls have been thrown into the lake to drown after they have been believed to be spies. The black and white film is a little bit weird to see however attention-grabbing to find out about.
4. Cave of Perama
Some of the spectacular issues to do in Ioannina is to take a tour of the huge Cave of Perama. It’s actually probably the most spectacular caves now we have visited with enormous caverns stuffed with stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Comply with your information as you discover the formations. On the finish of the tour, you come out to probably the greatest views of Ioannina overlooking lake Pamvotida and the town. It’s simply 7 Euro to enter.
5. Ioannina Citadel
Ioannina Citadel is exclusive in the truth that it’s nonetheless inhabited. Its partitions run via the historic district of the town and it’s straightforward to discover. Relationship again to 528 AD, it’s the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece. There are a number of sights inside the citadel partitions together with Fethiye Mosque, The Byzantine Museum, The Kale Acropolis, and the Historic Synagogue Of Ioannina.
There’s a fascinating Jewish historical past in Ioannina with the Jewish group of Ioannina being the middle of the Romaniote Jewish inhabitants courting again to the ninth century.
6. Its Kale (Inside Citadel)
Among the finest locations for sundown in Ioannina is Its Kale. Its Kale means internal citadel and is situated on the high of a hill overlooking the lake. When you enter the principle gate, you’ll be immersed in its archeological website housing a guardhouse, a warehouse that was used to retailer ammunition by Ali Pasha’s military, and a Byzantine fortification. After taking within the views and the restored ruins, head to the cafe for some Greek espresso and scrumptious dessert.
7. The place to Eat in Ioannina
Relating to issues to do in Ioannina, consuming is among the primary sights and meals can final for hours. Listed here are just a few eating places the place we ate in Ioannina that have been stands outs and we extremely suggest. Learn extra: Delicious Greek Food – 29 Traditional Greek Dishes To Try Now
Thamon
This was actually one of many stand-out eating places that we ate at in Ioannina with a gastronomical extravaganza of recent Greek and Mediterranean dishes paired with wine. The chef and workers take nice satisfaction in making ready the perfect meals expertise in Ioannina.
Frontzou Politia
Situated within the Frontzuou Politia resort, this protected historic website is a gorgeous vacation spot for dinner with beautiful views of the town. Situated only one km from the town, this complicated feels as in case you have stepped again in time. Be sure to sit down out within the atrium with the perfect view of Ioannina from above.
No Ties
No Ties is a superb Italian restaurant within the previous metropolis with a relaxed environment in a full of life a part of the previous heart. We sat outdoors on the road and loved household type eating.
Seirios
Seirios has a stunning out of doors patio situated within the lakeside space. It has been operating since 1997 and prides itself on combining conventional Greek meals with a contemporary twist. It has a enjoyable and relaxed environment.
The place to Keep in Ioannina
Lodge du Lac Congress Middle and Spa
Lodge du Lac is among the greatest locations to remain in Ioannina situated strolling distance (20 minutes) to Previous City. Its buffet breakfast was a spotlight for us with the eating space immediately by the tranquil pool. Verify charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
The Lake Lodge
Situated close to the airport, this can be a excellent spot to remain in your first or remaining day in Ioannina. The Lake Lodge can also be a preferred convention heart with a gorgeous pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. We sat on our terrace watching rowers cross on the tranquil waters because the solar got here up over the lake and felt as if we might keep eternally. Verify charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
Ioannina was a shocking Greek Metropolis that’s stuffed with Byzantine historical past, stunning monasteries and museums, and full of life nightlife. This city is a college city with a big pupil inhabitants making it one of many liveliest cities within the nation. As soon as the solar goes down, we barely noticed a bar or restaurant and not using a packed patio stuffed with college students ingesting apero sprirtz and tapas whereas having fun with the nice and cozy summer season solar.
In case you are on the lookout for an alternative choice to the Greek Islands, remember to add Ioannina to your listing.
