11 photos of Ioannina

Welcome to Ioannina in the northwest of Greece. Here I have spent at least a few weeks every summer the last 30 years. Ioannina is our family’s home base in Greece. The city is visited by Greeks and foreigners who love nature experiences of all kinds. In other words there are mountains, exciting landscapes, high mountain peaks, rapids, ravines and many trails to wander in. My 11 photos of Ioannina gives you a small preview of what this city has to offer.

So finely last year Ioannina got its first charter travellers from Sweden. As an example you can check the charter flights from Sweden to Zagori region and Papigo at allacharterresor.se . Its only 45 minutes drive to the 46 stone villages of Zagori from the city. In addition its one hour to Albania if you want to take your first day trip there. 

Famous stories from Ioannina

The most famous family is probably the family of Averoff. Evangelos in the Averoff family were foreign minister and defense minister in Greece. He founded Metsovo’s art museum, a vineyard and spent time with other cultural activities for the area. Secondly the most famous woman is Kyra Frosini, a woman from the upper class by the end of the 1700s. Probably immersed in the lake Pamvotida along with 16 other women by Ali Pasha. Ali Pasha was an Albanian ruler who ruled over region where Ioannina was the capital. If that happened because of political reasons or of jealousy there are different opinions about that. Thirdly the city’s most famous sport is the canoe. You may get a glimpse of the canoeists as you walk by the lakeside.


What to do & see

Pamvotida lake

Walk down the main street Averoff towards the lake and explore the history of the city. This is the meeting point in town with a lot of cafes, restaurants and bars. Take a walk by the lakeside or Molos as it called by the locals. And why not capture 11 beautiful photos or more of Ioannina for your Instagram stories.

The Island

To Nisi means The Island in Greek. After 15 minutes boat trip from Molos you will be able to explore the little village of the families living with fishing and tourism on the island. There are charming houses and alleys to stroll in, shops with handwork from the neighborhood and silver jewelry to see as Ioannina is famous for its many silver smiths. Seven monasteries was built here and was once an excellent place to live as a monk. Most important The Island is known for the murder of the powerful ruler Ali Pasha. His home and house on the island is now a museum and attracts many visitors.

Old Castle

Ioannina’s old castle was built during the Byzantine era, its the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece. Besides the culture sights in old town you will find charming houses and alleys here. Most importantly is Its Kale where you find nicely preserved buildings from the Ottoman Empire. The area used to be Ali Pasha’s palace. For example you have the minaret, a large kitchen that is now a charming café. Likewise the Byzantine Museum, and a Silversmiths museum are located in the park. I addition concerts and other cultural events might be on the agenda while you strolling or sit at the café. 
Another impressive building is Aslan Pasha Mosque building, which today houses the Ethnographic Museum of Ioannina. Below you find my 11 best photos of Ioannina in the top locations of the city.

Where to eat

Every autumn, new students come from all over Greece and Cyprus and are looking for accommodation, Ioannina is a university city. Here, it is bursting with life in the city’s cafes, bars and restaurants. Below you find a few examples of restaurants I have visited more than once.

  • Seirioskouzina - Patriarhi Evangelidou 1. Located near the lakeside serves greek dishes with a meditarrenian touch.
  • Parko Naftikou Omilou - Kanari 10 Limnopoula . Trendy restaurant by the lake with greek food and a lot of vegetarian dishes.
  • Mpoukia Mpoukia - Akadimias 4. Cozy restaurant resided in a two-storied neoclassical house with a lovely garden.
  • Frontzu Politia - Agia Triados Hill. If you want to have the best view of Ioannina in a classy restaurant this is your choice.
  • Rakoumel - Kallari 30. Located just outside one of the entrances of the old castle. Here you will find mezedes in a cozy atmosphere, a meeting point for all ages.

Do you have a question about Ioannina or weddings in Greece? Let me know if you plan a destination wedding in this area. I will be more than happy to help you photograph your dream day here. Read more about Epirus and my 5 reasons to getting married in Greece.