Ioannina

Ioannina is the capital of Epirus and one of the most atmospheric cities in Greece. Dominated by the element of water, Pamvótida Lake impressively surrounds the city. Locals and visitors walk by the lake, in the so-called Paralímnio area, enjoying the cool breeze and the shade of the plane trees, before visiting the local tsipouràdika (small tavernas that serve tsípouro, a quintessential Greek distilled spirit) and tasting traditional delicacies and fine dishes of the local cuisine. The historic islet of Kyra-Frosíni is also located here. The city has both Greek and Ottoman influences that make it a truly enchanting blend of cultures. You can walk to the citadel of Its Kalé (meaning “the inner castle”). Here you will find the Byzantine Museum, the Fethiye Mosque and the tomb of Ali Pasha.

There are several sights around, such as the Archaeological Museum of Ioannina, the Silversmithing Museum and the Castle. Ioannina is a true Castropolis, testifying to the need of the inhabitants to effectively protect themselves from invaders who threatened the city in the past. So, you should definitively visit the Castle with its arched gate located in one of the busiest streets of the city. In fact, it is one of the few castles in Greece that is partially inhabited to date! If you are in the mood for walking a little further, head to “Tabákika”, the area that housed the tanning workshops until the 1970s. Close to Ioannina, you can also find the Pérama cave and the archaeological site of Dodóni, which are well worth a visit.