Ioannina is a picturesque city in the northwestern part of Greece. It is the capital of the Ioannina regional unit, and is the largest city in the Epirus region. The city is home to a number of historical monuments, archaeological sites, and natural attractions. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife, Ioannina is a great destination for travelers of all ages. Here are the top 20 places to see in Ioannina, Greece.
1. Castle of Ioannina: Located on a hilltop in the heart of the city, the Castle of Ioannina is one of the most important monuments in the region. The castle was built in the late 13th century and served as the residence of the Despots of Ioannina. The castle is surrounded by a wall and has a number of towers, gates, and churches. Inside the castle, visitors can explore the archaeological museum, the Church of Agios Ioannis, and the Byzantine Museum.
2. Ali Pasha's Mosque: Built in the 18th century, Ali Pasha's Mosque is one of the most impressive monuments in Ioannina. The mosque is located in the center of the city and is easily recognizable by its two minarets. The interior of the mosque is decorated with beautiful marble and frescoes.
3. Lake Pamvotis: Lake Pamvotis is the largest lake in the Epirus region and is located in the center of Ioannina. The lake is surrounded by a number of islands, and the most notable one is the Island of Ioannina. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake and explore the many churches, monasteries, and other monuments located on the islands.
4. Ioannina Archaeological Museum: Located inside the Castle of Ioannina, the Ioannina Archaeological Museum houses a large collection of artifacts from the Neolithic, Classical, and Hellenistic periods. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which include sculptures, pottery, coins, and jewelry.
5. Municipal Art Gallery of Ioannina: The Municipal Art Gallery of Ioannina is located in the city’s old town and is home to a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and engravings. The gallery also houses a number of temporary exhibitions, which feature works by local and international artists.
6. Municipal Ethnographic Museum of Ioannina: The Municipal Ethnographic Museum of Ioannina is located in the old town and is dedicated to the city’s cultural heritage. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, jewelry, pottery, and furniture.
7. Perama Cave: Perama Cave is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Ioannina. The cave is located near the village of Perama and is home to a large number of stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can explore the cave’s chambers and admire its unique rock formations.
8. Zagori Villages: Zagori is a region in the northwestern part of Greece and is home to a number of traditional villages. The villages are located in the Zagori National Park and are known for their stone-built architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful landscapes.
9. Monastery of Panagia Spiliotissa: The Monastery of Panagia Spiliotissa is located near the village of Vitsa and is one of the most important religious monuments in the region. The monastery was built in the 16th century and is home to a large collection of icons and other religious artifacts.
10. Vrellis Wax Museum: The Vrellis Wax Museum is located in the city of Ioannina and is home to a large collection of wax figures. The museum’s exhibits include figures of historical figures, religious figures, and famous personalities from the region.
11. Ioannina Lake: Ioannina Lake is located in the northern part of the city and is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake is surrounded by a number of small islands, which are home to a number of churches and monasteries.
12. Dodoni: Dodoni is an archaeological site located near the village of Dodoni and is home to a number of monuments, including the Temple of Zeus and the ancient theater. The site is also known for its impressive acoustics, which makes it a popular venue for concerts and other performances.
13. Ioannina Botanical Garden: The Ioannina Botanical Garden is located in the city’s old town and is home to a large collection of plants and trees. The garden is a great place to relax and admire the city’s natural beauty.
14. Ioannina Folklore Museum: The Ioannina Folklore Museum is located in the old town and is home to a large collection of artifacts related to the city’s cultural heritage. The museum’s exhibits include traditional costumes, jewelry, pottery, and furniture.
15. Byzantine Museum of Ioannina: The Byzantine Museum of Ioannina is located inside the Castle of Ioannina and is home to a large collection of Byzantine artifacts. The museum’s exhibits include icons, coins, manuscripts, and other artifacts from the Byzantine period.
16. Museum of Natural History: The Museum of Natural History is located in the city of Ioannina and is home to a large collection of fossils, minerals, and other natural artifacts. The museum also houses a number of temporary exhibitions, which feature works by local and international artists.
17. Ioannina Aquarium: The Ioannina Aquarium is located in the city’s old town and is home to a large collection of aquatic animals, including fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The aquarium also has a number of interactive displays, which visitors can explore.
18. Monastery of Saint Panteleimon: The Monastery of Saint Panteleimon is located near the city of Ioannina and is one of the most important religious monuments in the region. The monastery was built in the 17th century and is home to a large collection of icons and other religious artifacts.
19. Archaeological Site of Dodoni: The Archaeological Site of Dodoni is located near the village of Dodoni and is home to a number of monuments, including the Temple of Zeus and the ancient theater. The site is also known for its impressive acoustics, which makes it a popular venue for concerts and other performances.
20. National Park of Vikos-Aoos: The National Park of Vikos-Aoos is located in the northern part of the region and is home to a number of stunning landscapes, including mountains, gorges, and rivers. The park is also home to a number of rare species of plants and animals. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or by boat.