Have you ever heard of Ioannina? Likelihood is you aren’t conscious of this metropolis in northern Greece. Ioannina usually goes unnoticed by most vacationers however one thing tells me that is about to vary. As folks seek for options from the crowds and tour teams whereas touring Greece, Ioannina makes for an important base or start line 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, 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.
1. Go to the Island of the Lake
Situated in Lake Pamvotida, the Island with no identify is without doubt one of the high sights in Ioannina and it was the primary place we visited within the metropolis. Take a brief 10-minute boat journey to The Island to view the monasteries of this island. The monastery settlement of Ioannina is one among 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 the town from throughout the water. Make certain to go to the museum to study 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 stunning work and mosaics. Pictures 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 ladies have been thrown into the lake to drown after they have been believed to be spies. The black and white film is a bit 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 large Cave of Perama. It’s actually one of the vital spectacular caves we’ve visited with big caverns full of stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Comply with your information as you discover the formations. On the finish of the tour, you come out to among the best 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 by 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 throughout the fortress 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 (Interior Citadel)
Among the finest 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 primary gate, you’ll be immersed in its archeological web site 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 without doubt one of the foremost sights and meals can final for hours. Listed below are a number of eating places the place we ate in Ioannina that have been stands outs and we extremely suggest. Learn extra: Scrumptious Greek Meals – 29 Conventional Greek Dishes To Strive Now
Thamon
This was actually one of many stand-out eating places that we ate at in Ioannina with a gastronomical extravaganza of contemporary Greek and Mediterranean dishes paired with wine. The chef and employees take nice satisfaction in making ready the most effective meals expertise in Ioannina.
Frontzou Politia
Situated within the Frontzuou Politia lodge, this protected historic web site is a lovely vacation spot for dinner with beautiful views of the town. Situated only one km from the town, this complicated feels as you probably have stepped again in time. Make certain to sit down out within the atrium with the most effective view of Ioannina from above.
No Ties
No Ties is a superb Italian restaurant within the previous metropolis with a relaxed ambiance in a full of life a part of the previous middle. We sat outdoors on the road and loved household fashion eating.
Seirios
Seirios has a stunning out of doors 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 ambiance.
The place to Keep in Ioannina
Resort du Lac Congress Heart and Spa
Resort du Lac is without doubt 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 immediately by the tranquil pool. Examine charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
The Lake Resort
Situated close to the airport, it is a excellent place to remain in your first or last day in Ioannina. The Lake Resort can also be a preferred convention middle with a lovely pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. We sat on our terrace watching rowers go on the tranquil waters because the solar got here up over the lake and felt as if we may keep perpetually. Examine charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
Ioannina was a shocking Greek Metropolis that’s full of 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 with no packed patio full of college students ingesting 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, be sure you add Ioannina to your listing.
