Epirus Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Epirus, Greece with this comprehensive guide.
- Introduction to Epirus
- List of Places to Visit in Epirus
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Epirus
- Mount Smolikas
- Mount Tymfi
- Voidomatis River
- Best Things to Do in Epirus: Activities and Tours
- Rafting
- Jeep Safari Tours
- Olive Oil Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Epirus
- Food and Drink Scene of Epirus
- Where to Stay in Epirus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Epirus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Epirus
- Best Time to Visit Epirus
- Do’s and Don’ts of Epirus
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Epirus: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Epirus
- Where to Go Next from Epirus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Thessaloniki
- Athens
- Conclusion
Introduction to Epirus
Epirus is a region located in the northwestern part of Greece, bordered by the Ionian Sea to the west and the Pindus Mountains to the east. It is a region of great historical significance, as it was once home to the ancient Molossian kingdom and has been inhabited since the Stone Age. The rugged terrain and abundant natural beauty make it a perfect destination for those seeking outdoor adventures.
List of Places to Visit in Epirus
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Archaeological Museum of Ioannina
Located in the city of Ioannina, the Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from the Stone Age to the Roman period, including the impressive Bronze Age artifacts unearthed at the nearby Dodona oracle.
Ali Pasha’s Castle
Located in the city of Ioannina, Ali Pasha’s Castle is a massive citadel built in the late 18th century by Ali Pasha, an Ottoman ruler who sought to establish an independent state in Epirus. It is a must-visit historical landmark.
Necromanteion of Acheron
The Necromanteion of Acheron is an ancient oracle site located near the village of Mesopotamos. It was believed to be the entrance to the underworld, and visitors would consult with the dead.
Natural Attractions of Epirus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Vikos Gorge
Vikos Gorge is a canyon in the Pindus Mountains, and is one of the deepest canyons in the world. It is home to rare fauna and flora, as well as a number of traditional villages.
Zagori Villages
Zagori Villages are a collection of traditional villages located in the heart of the Pindus Mountains. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and cultural heritage.
Meteora Monasteries
Located in central Greece, the Meteora Monasteries are a series of rock formations with Orthodox monasteries perched atop. The stunning views and architecture make this a popular attraction for visitors to the area.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Epirus
Epirus is known for its many hiking and biking trails, which provide visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Some popular routes include:
Mount Smolikas
Mount Smolikas is the second highest mountain in Greece, and has a variety of trails for both experienced and beginner hikers.
Mount Tymfi
Mount Tymfi offers stunning views of the Vikos Gorge and the Pindus Mountains. The trail to the summit takes around seven hours.
Voidomatis River
The Voidomatis River is a popular destination for kayaking and rafting. The crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Things to Do in Epirus: Activities and Tours
Rafting
The crystal-clear waters of the Voidomatis River provide an excellent opportunity for rafting, with tours available for various skill levels.
Jeep Safari Tours
Jeep safari tours are a great way to explore the rugged terrain of Epirus. These tours take visitors off the beaten track to explore hidden villages and stunning natural landscapes.
Olive Oil Tours
Epirus is known for its high-quality olive oil, and tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the production process and sample the oil.
Week-Long Itinerary for Epirus
Day 1-2: Visit Vikos Gorge and the Zagori Villages
Day 3-4: Explore Ioannina, visit Ali Pasha’s Castle and the Archaeological Museum
Day 5-6: Hike Mount Smolikas or Tymfi
Day 7: Take a jeep safari tour to explore hidden villages
Food and Drink Scene of Epirus
Must-Try Dishes
- Bourdeto – a spicy fish stew
- Tsigarelli – a traditional vegetable dish made with greens and onions
- Kakavia – a hearty fish soup
Local Beverages
- Tsipouro – a strong spirit made from grapes
- Metaxa – a Greek brandy
- Local wines – try the sweet Mavrodaphne or the dry Kefalonian Robola
Where to Stay in Epirus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Epirus has a range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some popular choices include:
- Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas
- Hotel du Lac
- Mitsis Grand Serai
- Saxonis House
- Zagori Suites
What to Buy in Epirus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Some great souvenirs to bring home from Epirus include:
- Olive oil
- Local honey
- Handmade jewelry
- Pottery
- Traditional woven textiles
Local Culture and Customs of Epirus
Epirus has a rich cultural heritage, with strong ties to Greece’s Byzantine and Ottoman past. The area is also known for its traditional music and dance, as well as its cuisine.
Best Time to Visit Epirus
The best time to visit Epirus is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Do’s and Don’ts of Epirus
Do:
- Try the local cuisine
- Explore the outdoor activities available
- Respect the local customs and traditions
Don’t:
- Haggle over prices in shops and restaurants
- Ignore dress codes at religious sites
- Ignore safety warnings when hiking or participating in outdoor activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Epirus
Epirus is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should take normal precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.
Health in Epirus
Epirus is generally a healthy destination. Visitors should take normal precautions against sunburn, and ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Getting to Epirus: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Epirus
The closest airport to Epirus is Ioannina National Airport, which offers domestic flights to Athens and Thessaloniki.
Bus Stations Near Epirus
Ioannina is the main transportation hub in Epirus, with regular bus services to Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities.
Other Options
Visitors can also hire a car or book a private transfer to explore the region at their own pace.
How to Get Around in Epirus
The best way to get around Epirus is by car, as many of the attractions are located in rural areas.
Where to Go Next from Epirus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Thessaloniki
The beautiful city of Thessaloniki is located about 4 hours’ drive from Ioannina. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and excellent cuisine.
Athens
The capital of Greece is about 5 hours away by car or by bus from Ioannina. Athens is known for its ancient landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon.
Conclusion
Epirus is a beautiful and rugged region of Greece, with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, hiking through the mountains or simply soaking up the local culture, there is something for everyone in Epirus.
Epirus Image Gallery
![Zagori Vikos Gorge](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5a/Zagori_Vikos_gorge_Oxia_towards_Vikos.jpg/100px-Zagori_Vikos_gorge_Oxia_towards_Vikos.jpg)
![Plaka Bridge, Tsoumerka](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Plaka_Bridge_Epirus_Greece.jpg/100px-Plaka_Bridge_Epirus_Greece.jpg)
![Dodona](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2c/GR-dodona-theater.jpg/100px-GR-dodona-theater.jpg)
![Kipina Monastery](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7e/MoniKipina.jpg/100px-MoniKipina.jpg)
![Parga Lichnos beach](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7e/Parga_Lichnos_beach.jpg/100px-Parga_Lichnos_beach.jpg)