Ioannina
City of legends, with a youthful freshness
Located in the Νorthwestern part of the country, Ioannina sits in the center of a valley, amongst enormous mountains. The town was built on the famous Egnatia Odos, the road that connects Europe with Asia, one of the most ancient routes in history, spanning over 2000 years, once used by the Persians and ancient Greeks.
With its rich history as a melting pot of traditions and cultures, Ioannina's multicultural characteristics are still visible in everything, from its architecture and traditions, to lifestyle and cuisine.
The city's identity has been shaped by the Christian, the Islamic and the Jewish communities coexisting and leaving their mark in the city's historical center.
From the Stone Age, the ancient Greek civilizations, the Roman magistrates and the Byzantine despots through to the Ottoman pashas and the modern Greek democracy, the history trail leads to the unmissable attractions of today’s multicultural Ioannina: six amazing museums, a unique primordial cave, art galleries, twelve churches, one synagogue, sixteen monasteries, twelve well preserved Muslim monuments, and an array of townhouses and public buildings of architectural interest.
Dozens of attractions
The magnificent Castle of Ioannina was built in 528 A.D. by Emperor Ioustinianos and was the epicenter of the city's cultural life. A walk within its walls will transport any visitor to the days of Old, when legends were alive and traditions upheld. It is a place where you can feel the spirit of the city, from its darkest dungeons and stunning mosques all the way to the impressive Acropolis.
Pamvotida, the lake of Ioannina, is a place of unmatched natural beauty, where even a simple walk or bike ride is sure to enchant your soul. Even more impressive is the Island located in the middle of the lake, one of the few inhabited lake islands in Europe.
Just four kilometers outside the city of Ioannina is the 1,5 million-year-old Cave of Perama, one of Europe's most exquisite caves. The beauty of its chambers is breathtaking and the visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the grandeur of nature in one of its most impressive forms.
Endless moments of enjoyment and pleasure
Walk in the town and wander in the silversmith shops. You will find the legendary craftsmen whose work and creations are known all over Europe. The local cuisine of Ioannina will satisfy the appetite of even the most demanding visitors. The local pastries of Ioannina are known all throughout Greece. Every last bite is a mouthwatering reminder why Ioannina is a culinary crossroad between Europe and the East.
Ioannina is the city that never sleeps. And how can it sleep with more than 20,000 students living here? The nightlife options are countless, especially during the summer season. The bars and clubs by the lake make for unforgettable fun under the star lit night sky. Summer is also the time of year when dozens of cultural events and promotions of local products take place as well as the famous village fairs.
A trip to Ioannina will offer many different experiences to a visitor with an interest in history, art and nature.
No matter whether you are looking for an adventurous trip or want to enjoy the beauty of nature, Ioannina has something for everyone!
