Things to do in Ioannina – A Little Known Greece Escape

Have you heard of Ioannina? Odds are you are not mindful of this city in northern Greece. Ioannina frequently goes unnoticed by most visitors but something tells me this is about to alter. As people research for possibilities from the crowds and tour groups even though touring Greece, Ioannina tends to make for a good base or starting off issue to explore the beautiful region of Epirus. (Stay tuned for our finish tutorial to Epirus)

Points to do in Ioannina

In advance of you choose off for adventures in the mountains and on the beaches of the Ionian Sea, verify out all the points to do in Ioannina and shell out a working day or two checking out this pretty city on the shores of Lake Pamvotida. 

1. Check out the Island of the Lake

Situated in Lake Pamvotida, the Island with no identify is a single of the top sights in Ioannina and it was the initial location we frequented in the metropolis. Just take a small 10-moment boat experience to The Island to see the monasteries of this island. The monastery settlement of Ioannina is just one of 3 essential monasteries like the monasteries of Meteora and Mount Athos.

It’s an easy stroll all-around the island to abide by the cobblestone streets and path to see the 7 Byzantine monasteries and get pleasure from sights of the town from across the water. Make sure to stop by the museum to master a bit about its record and you can have lunch at one particular of the waterfront cafes at the marina in advance of heading back again to the town center.

2. Monastery of Philanthropist

The most spectacular monastery of the seven monasteries on the Island of the Lake is the Monastery of Philanthropist which dates back again to 1204. Inside the church, there are stunning paintings and mosaics. Shots are not authorized within, but you can go in to see them and then continue on to see the exteriors of the other monasteries on the island.

3. Ali Pasha Museum

Another of the best factors to do in Ioannina also comes about to be found on the Island With No Identify. The Ali Pasha Museum houses relics from the Greek innovative time period in the 19th century and a collection of objects from the reign of Ottoman chief Ali Pasha from 1788 to 1822. One peculiar show showcases a recreation of a story exactly where gals were thrown into the lake to drown following they were believed to be spies. The black and white movie is a very little bizarre to see but interesting to learn about.

4. Cave of Perama

1 of the most spectacular issues to do in Ioannina is to choose a tour of the massive Cave of Perama. It is definitely 1 of the most outstanding caves we have visited with enormous caverns stuffed with beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. Observe your tutorial as you check out the formations. At the stop of the tour, you arrive out to one of the best sights of Ioannina overlooking lake Pamvotida and the town. It is just 7 Euro to enter.

5. Ioannina Castle

Ioannina Castle is one of a kind in the simple fact that it is still inhabited. Its walls run by the historic district of the town and it is uncomplicated to take a look at. Relationship back to 528 Advertisement, it is the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece. There are various points of interest within just the castle walls including Fethiye Mosque, The Byzantine Museum, The Kale Acropolis, and the Ancient Synagogue Of Ioannina.

There is a interesting Jewish heritage in Ioannina with the Jewish neighborhood of Ioannina getting the middle of the Romaniote Jewish populace dating back to the 9th century.

6. Its Kale (Internal Castle)

1 of the most effective places for sunset in Ioannina is Its Kale. Its Kale implies interior castle and is located at the best of a hill overlooking the lake. At the time you enter the main gate, you’ll be immersed in its archeological website housing a guardhouse, a warehouse that was used to retail store ammunition by Ali Pasha’s army, and a Byzantine fortification. Just after getting in the views and the restored ruins, head to the cafe for some Greek coffee and delectable dessert.

7. In which to Take in in Ioannina

When it comes to things to do in Ioannina, feeding on is a person of the principal attractions and foods can very last for several hours. Here are a handful of dining establishments exactly where we ate in Ioannina that ended up stands outs and we really advise. Browse much more: Delectable Greek Foods – 29 Conventional Greek Dishes To Try Now

Thamon

This was certainly a single of the stand-out places to eat that we ate at in Ioannina with a gastronomical extravaganza of present day Greek and Mediterranean dishes paired with wine. The chef and staff take terrific pleasure in preparing the most effective food stuff expertise in Ioannina.

Frontzou Politia

Located in the Frontzuou Politia resort, this guarded historic web page is a gorgeous location for meal with spectacular views of the town. Positioned just a single km from the town, this sophisticated feels as if you have stepped back in time. Make sure to sit out in the atrium with the finest watch of Ioannina from previously mentioned.

No Ties

No Ties is a great Italian cafe in the old town with a calm atmosphere in a lively section of the previous centre. We sat outside the house on the avenue and liked family model eating.

Seirios

Seirios has a attractive outside patio positioned in the lakeside area. It has been operating given that 1997 and prides alone on combining standard Greek food with a present day twist. It has a fun and comfortable atmosphere.

Where to Remain in Ioannina

Resort du Lac Congress Middle and Spa

Resort du Lac is just one of the ideal sites to remain in Ioannina situated walking distance (20 minutes) to Old City. Its buffet breakfast was a highlight for us with the dining place instantly by the tranquil pool. Look at costs and availability on TripAdvisor / Scheduling.com

The Lake Resort

Positioned in the vicinity of the airport, this is a great location to continue to be on your 1st or last day in Ioannina. The Lake Resort is also a well-liked meeting center with a stunning pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. We sat on our terrace seeing rowers move on the tranquil waters as the sun came up about the lake and felt as if we could continue to be eternally. Verify charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Ioannina was a shocking Greek Town that is crammed with Byzantine historical past, attractive monasteries and museums, and energetic nightlife. This town is a university city with a large college student populace making it 1 of the liveliest cities in the state. As soon as the sunlight goes down, we hardly noticed a bar or cafe devoid of a packed patio crammed with pupils consuming apero sprirtz and tapas when taking pleasure in the heat summer season sun.

If you are looking for an different to the Greek Islands, be certain to incorporate Ioannina to your list.