Have you ever heard of Ioannina? Chances are high you aren’t conscious of this metropolis in northern Greece. Ioannina typically goes unnoticed by most vacationers however one thing tells me that is about to alter. As folks seek for options from the crowds and tour teams whereas touring Greece, Ioannina makes for an ideal base or place to begin to discover the attractive area of Epirus. (Keep tuned for our full information to Epirus)
Issues to do in Ioannina
Earlier than you are 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
Positioned in Lake Pamvotida, the Island with no title is likely one of the high sights in Ioannina and it was the primary place we visited within the metropolis. Take a brief 10-minute boat trip to The Island to view the monasteries of this island. The monastery settlement of Ioannina is considered one of three vital monasteries together with the monasteries of Meteora and Mount Athos.
It’s a straightforward stroll across the island to observe the cobblestone streets and path to see the seven Byzantine monasteries and revel in views of town from throughout the water. Be certain that to go to the museum to be taught 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 middle.
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 lovely work and mosaics. Pictures are usually not allowed inside, however you may 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 Title. The Ali Pasha Museum homes relics from the Greek revolutionary interval within the nineteenth century and a group 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 ladies had been thrown into the lake to drown after they had been believed to be spies. The black and white film is a little bit weird to see however attention-grabbing to study.
4. Cave of Perama
One of the vital spectacular issues to do in Ioannina is to take a tour of the large Cave of Perama. It’s actually probably the most spectacular caves now we have visited with big caverns stuffed with lovely stalagmites and stalactites. Observe 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 town. It’s simply 7 Euro to enter.
5. Ioannina Fort
Ioannina Fort is exclusive in the truth that it’s nonetheless inhabited. Its partitions run by means of the historic district of town and it’s simple to discover. Courting again to 528 AD, it’s the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece. There are a number of sights inside the fortress partitions together with Fethiye Mosque, The Byzantine Museum, The Kale Acropolis, and the Historical Synagogue Of Ioannina.
There’s a fascinating Jewish historical past in Ioannina with the Jewish neighborhood of Ioannina being the middle of the Romaniote Jewish inhabitants relationship again to the ninth century.
6. Its Kale (Inside Fort)
The most effective locations for sundown in Ioannina is Its Kale. Its Kale means inside fortress 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
In terms of issues to do in Ioannina, consuming is likely one of the essential sights and meals can final for hours. Listed here are a couple of eating places the place we ate in Ioannina that had been stands outs and we extremely advocate. Learn extra: Scrumptious Greek Meals – 29 Conventional Greek Dishes To Attempt Now
Thamon
This was definitely 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 pleasure in making ready one of the best meals expertise in Ioannina.
Frontzou Politia
Positioned within the Frontzuou Politia lodge, this protected historic website is a good looking vacation spot for dinner with gorgeous views of town. Positioned only one km from town, this advanced feels as when you’ve got stepped again in time. Be certain that to take a seat out within the atrium with one of the best view of Ioannina from above.
No Ties
No Ties is a good Italian restaurant within the previous metropolis with a relaxed environment in a energetic a part of the previous middle. We sat outdoors on the road and loved household fashion eating.
Seirios
Seirios has a beautiful outside patio situated within the lakeside space. It has been working 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 likely one of the finest locations to remain in Ioannina situated strolling distance (20 minutes) to Outdated City. Its buffet breakfast was a spotlight for us with the eating space instantly by the tranquil pool. Examine charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
The Lake Lodge
Positioned close to the airport, this can be a excellent place to remain in your first or last day in Ioannina. The Lake Lodge can be a well-liked convention middle with a good looking pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. We sat on our terrace watching rowers move on the tranquil waters because the solar got here up over the lake and felt as if we may keep endlessly. Examine charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
Ioannina was a shocking Greek Metropolis that’s stuffed with Byzantine historical past, lovely monasteries and museums, and energetic nightlife. This city is a college city with a big scholar 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 with no packed patio stuffed with college students consuming apero sprirtz and tapas whereas having fun with the nice and cozy summer time solar.
If you’re searching for an alternative choice to the Greek Islands, make sure to add Ioannina to your checklist.