Prespa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Prespa. Learn about the local culture, food scene, and transportation options to help plan your trip to this beautiful region in Greece.


Introduction to Prespa

Located in the northern part of Greece and on the borders with Albania and North Macedonia, Prespa is a nature lover’s paradise. The region is made up of three interconnected lakes: Great Prespa, Little Prespa, and Mikri Prespa. These lakes are surrounded by picturesque mountains, forests, and a unique ecosystem of flora and fauna. Prespa is a hidden gem in Greece, with stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and a rich cultural heritage worth exploring.

List of Places to Visit in Prespa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Prespa is known for its rich history and culture. Visitors can explore numerous historical sites and museums, including:

  • Varnous monastery: A Byzantine monastery built in the 14th century, located on the western shore of Great Prespa.
  • Agios Germanos: A picturesque village with traditional architecture and old churches, including the famous church of St. Achilleios.
  • Old Prespa: A former Greek village that was abandoned in the 1940s due to conflicts with Yugoslavia, which is now a ghost town.
  • Folklore Museum of Agios Germanos: Exhibits showcase the local history and culture, including traditional costumes, tools, and household items.

Natural Attractions of Prespa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Prespa offers plenty of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenic views, including:

  • Hiking: The region is perfect for hiking, with several well-marked trails, including the Prespa National Park, which spans across the borders of Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia.
  • Biking: Explore the local villages and scenic trails through bike excursions.
  • Bird watching: Prespa is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 260 bird species identified in the region.
  • Boating: Explore the three lakes of Prespa by boat or kayak.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Prespa

Prespa National Park offers several hiking and biking routes, including:

  • Dragon Lake Trail: A 4-hour hiking route that takes you through the breathtaking landscape of the national park, leading to a hidden lake.
  • St. Achilleios Trail: A 3.5-hour hiking trail that takes you through the historic village of Agios Germanos, where you can visit the famous church of St. Achilleios.
  • Prespa Lakes Trail: A 5-hour bike or hiking trail that takes you around the three interconnected lakes of Prespa, providing scenic views of the region.

Best Things to Do in Prespa: Activities and Tours

Prespa offers a range of activities and tours to suit all interests, including:

  • Prespa Lakes Boat Tour: Explore the peaceful waters of the three lakes, with a guided boat tour.
  • Agios Germanos Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional dishes from the region in a famous local restaurant.
  • Horseback Riding: Discover the countryside by horseback through a scenic riding tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Prespa

Day 1: Arrive in Thessaloniki

Day 2: Drive or take a bus to Prespa (4-hour journey)

Day 3: Explore the Prespa Lakes and take a boat tour

Day 4: Hike or bike through the Prespa National Park

Day 5: Visit historical sites and museums in the region, including the Varnous monastery and Old Prespa

Day 6: Enjoy a day of horseback riding or take a cooking class in Agios Germanos

Day 7: Depart Prespa and return to Thessaloniki

Food and Drink Scene of Prespa

Must-Try Dishes

Prespa has a unique culinary history, with traditional dishes that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Turlu: A slow-cooked vegetable stew, typically made with seasonal vegetables and herbs.
  • Fish Plaki: A fish dish cooked in a tomato-based sauce, typically made with locally caught fish.
  • Saganaki: A fried cheese dish, typically made with local cheeses and served with honey or figs.

Local Beverages

Prespa is also famous for its beverages, including:

  • Tsipouro: A local spirit made from grape pomace, typically served with meze dishes.
  • Mountain tea: A herbal tea made from wild herbs, typically served hot or cold.

Where to Stay in Prespa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Prespa offers a range of accommodation options, including:

  • Hotel Limneon Resort & Spa: A luxurious hotel located on the shores of Great Prespa, with a spa and outdoor pool.
  • Lake Prespa Hotel: A modern hotel located in the village of Laimos, with a restaurant overlooking the lake.
  • Guesthouse Agios Germanos: Traditional guesthouse located in the heart of Agios Germanos village.

What to Buy in Prespa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Prespa is famous for its locally produced products. Some of the unique souvenirs to bring back home include:

  • Prespa Honey: Locally produced honey made from wildflowers, available in most shops and supermarkets in the region.
  • Handmade pottery: Traditional pottery made by local artisans, showcasing the local designs and culture.
  • Prespa Wine: Wine made from locally grown grapes, typically sold in the local wineries.

Local Culture and Customs of Prespa

Prespa is steeped in history and tradition. The local culture and customs have been shaped by the region’s unique geography and cultural history. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, including:

  • Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly when entering monasteries or churches.
  • Respect for nature: Visitors should respect the natural environment and avoid littering or damaging the local flora and fauna.

Best Time to Visit Prespa

The best time to visit Prespa is during the spring and summer months, from March to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities and scenic views.

Do’s and Don’ts of Prespa

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Take part in outdoor activities and explore the natural wonders of the region

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the nature
  • Ignore the dress code when visiting monasteries and churches

Safety and Health

Safety in Prespa

Prespa is a safe and friendly region for visitors. The local authorities have taken measures to ensure the safety of tourists.

Health in Prespa

Prespa is a relatively healthy region, with no major health risks for visitors. However, visitors should take necessary precautions, including:

  • Wear sunscreen and hats while hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Getting to Prespa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Prespa is located approximately a 4-hour drive from Thessaloniki, the nearest airport. Visitors can also take buses or taxis to reach the region.

Airports Near Prespa

  • Thessaloniki International Airport

Bus Stations Near Prespa

  • Florina Bus Terminal: Services available from Thessaloniki and other nearby towns

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in the area and can be booked in advance or hailed on the street.

How to Get Around in Prespa

The easiest way to get around Prespa is by car, but visitors can also use taxis or buses to visit nearby villages and towns.

Where to Go Next from Prespa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations and excursions from Prespa include:

  • Ohrid, North Macedonia: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, only an hour’s drive away.
  • Korce, Albania: A historic town with many cultural attractions, located just across the Albanian border, only a 30-minute drive away.

Conclusion

Prespa is a unique and beautiful region in Greece, with plenty to offer visitors. From the picturesque lakes and mountains to the rich history and culture, Prespa is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan a perfect trip to this hidden gem in Greece.

View of lake Prespa View of lake Prespa