Your Complete Guide to Arachova
Arachova, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in central Greece, is a picturesque mountain town often referred to as the "Winter Mykonos.Read more
Top Visited destinations in Greece in 2024
In 2024, Greece continues to be a top destination for travelers due to its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture.Read more
Andros: An All-Seasons Destination
Andros, the northernmost of Greece’s Cycladic islands, is an ideal destination year-round, offering something unique in every season. Known for its blend of Cycladic charm and lush, green landscapes, Andros combines beautiful beaches, mountainous trails, traditional villages, and a rich cultural heritageRead more
Top Ski Destinations in Greece
Greece may not be as well-known for skiing as other European countries, but it offers excellent ski resorts, beautiful mountain scenery, and a rich après-ski culture. Here’s a full guide to the best ski destinations in Greece.Read more
Ioannina: The Jewel of Epirus
Ioannina, located in the northwest of Greece, is a charming city known for its rich history, stunning lake views, and vibrant culture. Nestled by Lake Pamvotis and surrounded by mountains, it’s a destination that offers both natural beauty and cultural experiences. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit to Ioannina:
Top Attractions in Ioannina
- Lake Pamvotis and the Island of Ioannina
Lake Pamvotis is the heart of Ioannina, and a stroll along its shores is a must. You can take a boat to Ioannina Island, one of Greece’s only inhabited lake islands, known for its quaint streets, Byzantine monasteries, and the Ali Pasha Museum. - Ioannina Castle
The oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece, Ioannina Castle offers impressive views over the lake and a journey through the city’s history. Inside the castle, you’ll find:- Its Kale Acropolis: The inner citadel with beautiful Ottoman-era buildings.
- The Fethiye Mosque: A striking monument from the Ottoman period.
- The Byzantine Museum: Exhibiting artifacts from the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods, including intricate jewelry and religious icons.
- Ali Pasha Museum
Located on the island, this museum focuses on the life of Ali Pasha, an important figure in Ioannina’s Ottoman history. You’ll learn about his influence over the region and see a unique collection of personal artifacts. - Archaeological Museum of Ioannina
Situated near the castle, this museum is dedicated to the history of Epirus and features exhibits from the Paleolithic era to the Roman period. Highlights include Neolithic artifacts, ancient pottery, and well-preserved jewelry from the region. - Perama Cave
Just a short drive from the city center, Perama Cave is a fascinating underground site with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours take visitors through this labyrinthine cave, believed to be over a million years old.
Outdoor Activities and Nature Spots
- Drakolimni (Dragon Lake): For nature lovers and hikers, the Dragon Lake in the Pindus Mountains is a beautiful alpine lake accessible via a hike starting from the village of Papingo. The route can be challenging, but the views are rewarding.
- Vikos Gorge: Part of the Vikos–Aoös National Park, this gorge is one of the deepest in the world and offers breathtaking landscapes. It’s a great spot for hiking, and guided tours are available for those who want more structure.
- Zagori Villages: A group of 46 picturesque villages in the mountains near Ioannina. These villages are famous for their stone architecture, arched bridges, and scenic landscapes.
Cultural Experiences
- Silversmithing Museum
Ioannina is known for its silversmithing heritage, and this museum inside the castle showcases traditional silver-making techniques. You’ll see beautiful examples of local craftsmanship and learn about the art that’s unique to the region. - Local Festivals
Ioannina hosts various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year. Here are some notable festivals in Ioannina:- Folk Dance Festival
This festival showcases traditional Greek music and dance, often featuring performances from local dance groups and visitors. It’s a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage and community spirit. - Taste of Epirus
This food festival typically takes place in the summer and highlights local gastronomy, offering visitors the chance to taste traditional dishes, local wines, and artisanal products from the Epirus region. - Cultural Events at the Castle
Throughout the summer, Ioannina Castle hosts various cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances, making it a lively hub of activity. - Epiphany (Theofania)
Celebrated on January 6th, this religious festival involves a ceremony of the Blessing of the Waters at Lake Pamvotis. It includes a procession and the traditional diving for the Cross, where local divers attempt to retrieve a wooden cross thrown into the water.
- Folk Dance Festival
Food and Dining
- Traditional Tavernas
Ioannina offers a variety of traditional Greek tavernas, especially in the historic center and around the lake. Try local specialties like kontosouvli (grilled meat skewers), gianniotiki pie (a savory pie with various fillings), and baklava. - Local Specialties
- Bougatsa: A delicious pastry with creamy custard filling, perfect for breakfast.
- Fresh trout from Lake Pamvotis, often served grilled at lakeside restaurants.
- Tsipouro: The local grape-distilled spirit is commonly enjoyed with meze (small dishes) and a must-try in Ioannina.
Best Times to Visit Ioannina
- Spring and Autumn are ideal, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery.
- Winter can be chilly but brings a cozy atmosphere and the possibility of snow, especially in the surrounding mountains.
- Summer is warm, and the town is more lively, with tourists enjoying the lake and festivals.
Getting Around
Ioannina is walkable, especially around the lake and the castle area. For visits outside the city, like the Perama Cave or Zagori Villages, renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended for convenience.
Where to Stay
- Historic Center: Close to most attractions and great for those wanting to explore the cultural sights.
- Lakeside: Offers beautiful views and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Ioannina is a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding destination in Greece. Whether exploring ancient castles, enjoying traditional Greek cuisine, or hiking in the nearby mountains, Ioannina provides an authentic experience that combines Greece's rich past with its picturesque landscapes.
Overtourism in Greece: The Surprising Hotspots
The findings from the Money Transfers study are quite illuminating regarding the issue of overtourism in Greece. It's interesting to see that Heraklion and Rhodes are highlighted as the most affected destinations, rather than the more commonly recognized tourist hotspots like Mykonos and Santorini. Read more
Lesvos: The island of Poets
Lesvos is a beautiful island in the northern Aegean Sea. It’s famous for its natural beauty, rich history, traditional villages, and excellent food, particularly its olive oil and ouzo. Lesvos is also known as the "Island of Poets" due to its historical association with several famous ancient poets, most notably Sappho, who was born on the island in the town of Eressos. Sappho's lyrical poetry has made her one of the most celebrated figures of ancient Greek literature.
Here's a guide to Lesvos to help you explore the island.
1. Top Attractions
- Mytilene: The capital city, with its beautiful waterfront, impressive castle (Mytilene Castle), and several museums like the Archaeological Museum and the Teriade Museum of Modern Art.
- Molyvos (Mithymna): A picturesque town built on a hill with stone houses, narrow streets, and a stunning castle offering panoramic views of the Aegean.
- Petrified Forest: This UNESCO Geopark near Sigri is one of the largest petrified forests in the world, formed 20 million years ago.
- Eressos: Birthplace of the poet Sappho, it's a popular spot with beaches, great food, and a relaxing vibe.
- Thermal Springs: Lesvos is home to several natural hot springs, including those at Eftalou and Polychnitou, where you can relax in thermal baths.
- Plomari: Known for its ouzo, Plomari is a must-visit for lovers of this iconic Greek spirit. You can also visit the Ouzo Museum and enjoy the charming town and nearby beaches.
- Sigri: A small fishing village known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the Petrified Forest, Sigri is also home to the Natural History Museum.
2. Beaches
- Skala Eressos: A long sandy beach popular with tourists and locals alike, with cafes, bars, and restaurants lining the shore.
- Anaxos: A more relaxed beach with shallow waters, perfect for families.
- Vatera: The longest beach on the island, known for its clear waters and natural surroundings.
- Eftalou Beach: Famous for its hot springs, this beach combines wellness with stunning views of the sea.
- Tsichranta Beach: A hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and fewer crowds.
3. Outdoor Activities
- Hiking: Lesvos offers a variety of trails through olive groves, pine forests, and coastal routes. Some popular trails are in the Mount Olympus area and around the Gulf of Gera.
- Birdwatching: The wetlands of Kalloni Gulf are a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons when thousands of birds, including flamingos, pass through.
- Water Sports: In places like Petra and Sigri, you can find options for windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
4. Cultural and Historical Experiences
- Castles and Fortresses: Apart from the castles of Mytilene and Molyvos, visit the Castle of Sigri for a more secluded experience.
- Monastery of Saint Raphael: A significant religious site, famous for its serene atmosphere and religious significance.
- Churches: Lesvos has numerous beautiful churches, such as the Church of Agios Therapon in Mytilene and the Panagia Glykofilousa in Petra.
5. Food and Drink
- Ouzo: Lesvos is known for producing some of the best ouzo in Greece. A visit to a distillery in Plomari is a must.
- Local Dishes: Try local specialties like sardeles pastes (salted sardines from Kalloni), ladotyri (a hard cheese preserved in olive oil), revithokeftedes (chickpea fritters), and traditional loukoumades (sweet dough balls).
- Olive Oil: Lesvos produces high-quality olive oil, and you can find many small, local producers offering tours and tastings.
6. Festivals and Events
- Ouzo Festival (Plomari): Held in the summer, this festival celebrates the island’s famous spirit with tastings, music, and dancing.
- Sardine Festival (Kalloni): Celebrates the sardine fishing season with fresh fish, music, and local traditions.
- Summer Cultural Festivals: Many towns host summer festivals featuring music, theater, and dance performances, especially around Mytilene and Molyvos.
7. Practical Information
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May) or early autumn (September–October) offers pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.
- Transportation: Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended to explore the island at your own pace.
- Accommodation: Mytilene, Molyvos, and Petra offer a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. For a more peaceful experience, consider staying in smaller villages like Sigri or Eressos.
8. Day Trips
- Boat Tours: Visit hidden beaches, sea caves, and nearby islands.
- Excursions to Turkey: Lesvos is close to the Turkish coast, and you can take day trips to Ayvalik or other Turkish coastal towns.
Lesvos is an island rich in tradition, natural beauty, and authentic Greek culture. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, the island offers something for everyone.
Saudi Cultural Week in Athens
Saudi Cultural Week in Athens is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia. From September 27th to October 1st, visitors can expect a vibrant and engaging program featuring various activities, workshops, performances, and exhibitions that showcase the unique stories and artistry of Saudi Arabia.Read more
The New International Airport of Heraklion, Crete.
The development of the New International Airport of Heraklion, Crete, in Kastelli, is indeed a significant step towards enhancing the transportation infrastructure and services in the region.Read more
Heliport Vs. Helipad
A heliport is a designated area that is used for the takeoff, landing, and servicing of helicopters. Heliports are typically smaller and more localized than airports, allowing for quicker and more convenient access for helicopters. They are commonly used for emergency medical services, law enforcement, military operations, and private transportation and they typically have dedicated facilities for fueling, maintenance, and passenger services.
On the other hand, a helipad is a simple landing area for helicopters, which may or may not have additional facilities or services. Helipads are often smaller and more basic than heliports and can be found on buildings, ships, hospitals, or other locations where helicopter landings are required. They are marked with a distinctive "H" symbol to indicate their purpose.
In summary, a heliport is a complete facility for helicopter operations, while a helipad is a simpler landing area without the same level of infrastructure.