Things to do in Ioannina – A Little Recognized Greece Escape

Have you heard of Ioannina? Chances are 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 vary. As individuals seek for options from the crowds and tour teams whereas touring Greece, Ioannina makes for an awesome base or start line to discover the beautiful area of Epirus. (Stay tuned for our full information to Epirus)

Things to do in Ioannina

Before 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 pretty city on the shores of Lake Pamvotida. 

1. Visit the Island of the Lake

Located in Lake Pamvotida, the Island with no identify is without doubt one of the high points of interest 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 certainly one of three necessary 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 luxuriate in views of the town from throughout the water. Make certain 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 heart.

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 again to 1204. Inside the church, there are stunning work and mosaics. Photos 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

Another of the highest issues to do in Ioannina additionally occurs to be situated on the Island With No Name. 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 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 study.

4. Cave of Perama

One of essentially the most spectacular issues to do in Ioannina is to take a tour of the huge Cave of Perama. It is really one of the vital spectacular caves we have now visited with enormous caverns stuffed with stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Follow your information as you discover the formations. At the top of the tour, you come out to the most effective views of Ioannina overlooking lake Pamvotida and the town. It is simply 7 Euro to enter.

5. Ioannina Castle

Ioannina Castle 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. Dating again to 528 AD, it’s the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece. There are a number of points of interest inside the citadel partitions together with Fethiye Mosque, The Byzantine Museum, The Kale Acropolis, and the Ancient Synagogue Of Ioannina.

There is an enchanting Jewish historical past in Ioannina with the Jewish neighborhood of Ioannina being the middle of the Romaniote Jewish inhabitants courting again to the ninth century.

6. Its Kale (Inner Castle)

One of the perfect locations for sundown in Ioannina is Its Kale. Its Kale means inside citadel and is situated on the high of a hill overlooking the lake. Once 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. Where to Eat in Ioannina

When it involves issues to do in Ioannina, consuming is without doubt one of the foremost points of interest and meals can final for hours. Here are just a few eating places the place we ate in Ioannina that have been stands outs and we extremely advocate. Read extra: Delicious Greek Food – 29 Traditional Greek Dishes To Try 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 employees take nice satisfaction in getting ready the perfect meals expertise in Ioannina.

Frontzou Politia

Located within the Frontzuou Politia resort, this protected historic web site is a gorgeous vacation spot for dinner with beautiful views of the town. Located only one km from the town, this advanced feels as when you have stepped again in time. Make certain to take a seat out within the atrium with the perfect view of Ioannina from above.

No Ties

No Ties is a good Italian restaurant within the outdated metropolis with a relaxed environment in a vigorous a part of the outdated heart. We sat outdoors on the road and loved household fashion eating.

Seirios

Seirios has a beautiful 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 environment.

Where to Stay in Ioannina

Hotel du Lac Congress Center and Spa

Hotel du Lac is without doubt one of the finest locations to remain in Ioannina situated strolling distance (20 minutes) to Old Town. Its buffet breakfast was a spotlight for us with the eating space immediately by the tranquil pool. Check charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

The Lake Hotel

Located close to the airport, it is a excellent place to remain in your first or remaining day in Ioannina. The Lake Hotel can be a well-liked 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. Check charges and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Ioannina was a stunning Greek City that’s stuffed with Byzantine historical past, stunning monasteries and museums, and vigorous nightlife. This city is a college city with a big pupil inhabitants making it one of many liveliest cities within the nation. Once the solar goes down, we barely noticed a bar or restaurant with no packed patio stuffed with college students ingesting apero sprirtz and tapas whereas having fun with the nice and cozy summer time solar.

If you might be in search of a substitute for the Greek Islands, you should definitely add Ioannina to your checklist.