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 alternate options from the crowds and tour teams whereas touring Greece, Ioannina makes for a fantastic 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, try all of the issues to do in Ioannina and spend a day or two exploring this pretty city on the shores of Lake Pamvotida.Â
1. Go to the Island of the Lake
Positioned in Lake Pamvotida, the Island with no title is among the prime 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 among 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. Ensure that to go to the museum to be taught a bit about its historical past and you may have lunch at one of many waterfront cafes on the marina earlier than heading again to the city middle.
2. Monastery of Philanthropist
Essentially 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 possibly can 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 slightly weird to see however attention-grabbing to study.
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 really probably the most spectacular caves now we have visited with large caverns crammed with lovely stalagmites and stalactites. Comply with your information as you discover the formations. On the finish of the tour, you come out to among the finest 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 simple to discover. Courting again to 528 AD, it’s the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece. There are a number of sights throughout the citadel 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 group of Ioannina being the middle of the Romaniote Jewish inhabitants relationship again to the ninth century.
6. Its Kale (Inside Citadel)
Among the finest locations for sundown in Ioannina is Its Kale. Its Kale means inside citadel and is situated on the prime 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 fundamental 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 suggest. Learn extra: Scrumptious Greek Meals – 29 Conventional Greek Dishes To Attempt 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 delight in making ready the very best meals expertise in Ioannina.
Frontzou Politia
Positioned within the Frontzuou Politia resort, this protected historic website is a gorgeous vacation spot for dinner with beautiful views of the town. Positioned only one km from the town, this complicated feels as if in case you have stepped again in time. Ensure that to take a seat out within the atrium with the very best view of Ioannina from above.
No Ties
No Ties is a superb Italian restaurant within the outdated metropolis with a relaxed ambiance in a full of life a part of the outdated middle. We sat exterior on the road and loved household model 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 ambiance.
The place to Keep in Ioannina
Lodge du Lac Congress Heart and Spa
Lodge du Lac is among 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 immediately by the tranquil pool. Examine charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
The Lake Lodge
Positioned close to the airport, this can be a good spot to remain in your first or closing day in Ioannina. The Lake Lodge can be a well-liked convention middle with a gorgeous 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 ceaselessly. Examine charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
Ioannina was a stunning Greek Metropolis that’s crammed with Byzantine historical past, lovely monasteries and museums, and full of life 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 crammed with college students ingesting apero sprirtz and tapas whereas having fun with the nice and cozy summer season solar.
If you’re searching for a substitute for the Greek Islands, make sure to add Ioannina to your checklist.
