Last Updated on March 2, 2025

Where to stay and what to do in Ioannina, Preveza and Arta:

‘I have travelled for three days through the most picturesque country’

This praise for Epirus, from Lord Byron in a letter to his mother in 1809, could well have been written by myself after three days there in 2022. While I could easily end the article at this point, declaring that it pretty much sums up how I felt about this lovely region of Greece, allow me to inspire you to go and see Epirus for yourself. From stunning walks and beautiful ruins, to boutique hotels, and delicious Greek food, I’ve got you covered.

Epirus is the geographical region stretching from the Pindus mountains down to the Ionian Sea. Due to its natural geographical isolation from the surrounding era, Epirus is one of the most culturally distinct regions in Greece, and is ripe for exploration. The region is perfect for those who love to ramble, strolling along stunning beaches, seeing native wildlife and exploring ruined cities. However, being a bit of an adventurer doesn’t have to mean you can’t indulge in some of the finer things Epirus has to offer. This guide is ideal for those planning to explore the Theatres of Epirus tour.

Ioannina:

Ioannina is the Capitol city of Epirus and is home to a buzzing city night life and several archaeological sites – possibly my favourite combination of things ever. Ioannina has its own airport, connected by Olympic Airlines, but it is also only a four hour drive away from Athens, if you fancy a road trip. Ioannina is perfect for a city break, but also worth visiting as part of a wider tour of the Epirus region. 

Dine on the streets of Ioannina at Greek Bistro Thamon/θamõn:

Thamon is a new age Greek Bistro run by Chef Patron Thanasis Tassos, and boasts some of the best food in Ioannina. The thing that makes Thamon really special is its commitment to using produce from the surrounding area, while also experimenting with flavours outside of traditional Greek food. It’s all fresh fish and locally produced organic wines, but with the odd Italian inspiration or touch of French flair, making the Thamon’s cuisine a complete culinary tour of Epirus, as well as exceptionally good grub. I strongly recommend trying their delicious smoked trout with seasonal greens and their perfectly balanced mushroom risotto, but to be honest, everything was top-notch.

Address: Averof 63, Ioannina 452 21, Greece

 

Stay at the La Suite, Boutique Hotel and Spa, Ioannina:

With views stretching over Lake Pamvotida, La Boutique Hotel and Spa in Ioaninna is just ten minutes from the centre on Ioannina, and is the ultimate place to unwind after a long day of exploring.

The rooms are well appointed without feeling cramped, and those facing the centre of Ioannina have views of the hotel’s inviting swimming pool and then onto Lake Pamvotida. Trust me, a room with a balcony view is worth the splurge here. As well as a stunning pool, the La Suite hotel also have a Spa and Wellness centre, complete with saunas and a hot tub. They also do a decent breakfast buffet too.

Address: Αμφιθέα, 455 00, Greece

 

Stay at The Hotel MiRTALi:

The Art Hotel MiRTALi is a bit further out than The Suite Hotel, a half hour drive from Ioannina, but what it loses in distance it makes up for in hospitality, concept and its stunning views. The hotel looks over the archaeological site of Dodoni, and the rooms have views of the ancient theatre are utterly unbeatable. The Hotel Myrtali is perfect for those looking for more of a rural retreat than a city break. The owners grow their own produce on-site, and it is a genuine treat to sit on their balcony, drinking their homely distilled spirits and eating cherries off their tree.

Address: Μαντείο 455 00, Greece

 

Preveza:

Preveza is about as touristy as Epirus gets, but it nevertheless still possesses its own unique character.  It is at the mouth of the Ambracian Gulf, making it the launchpad for the rest of Epirus, and the perfect place to start a road trip. The highlight of central Preveza is the marina, aligned with bijoux little eateries and cafes, but if you look a bit further out you’ll find the ruins of ancient Nikopolis. Preveza is the perfect place to visit if you’re as keen on relaxing as you are on seeing the sites. 

 

Walk along the Port in Preveza:

A walk around the marina in Preveza is the perfect way to end a hot Greecian summers day, ice cream, and for the romantics amongst us, partner in hand. My top recommendation here are to indulge in an iced cappuccino from the bankside Prevere Café, or grab some delicious fresh seafood from Treli Garida.

 

Take a ride along the Ionian coast with The Preveza Equestrian Park:

What could be more romantic than a walk along the Ionian Coast? The only correct answer is a horseback ride along the Ionian Coast. The Preveza Equestrian Park is just a short drive from the city, and is home to a family run stable and lemon grove. They offer lessons to both young and old, with tours ranging in level from beginner to expert. The setting is dreamy, the park staff represent the best of Greek hospitality, and you might even get a glass of fresh lemonade before your ride out!

Explore the Ambracian Gulf:

The Ambracian Gulf, sometimes known as the Gulf of Arta, or The Gulf of Actium is one of the largest wetlands in Greece. Site of the battle of Actium and home to about 100,000 species of flora and fauna, it makes for the perfect late afternoon drive or stroll.

See the Monument of Zalongo:

Located on Mount Zalongo that overlooks Preveza, The Monument of Zalongo is a statue by famous architect, sculptor and painter George Zongolopoulos. The monument commemorates the deaths of the women of Souli, who chose to die rather than submit to Ottoman invasion in 1803. The sculpture is considered one of the most important monuments of modern heritage in Greece and can be seen from over 30 kilometres away.

Address: Zaloggo 481 00, Greece

 

Explore the Ancient City of Cassope/ Kassope:

The Monument of Zalongo overlooks The Ancient City of Kassope, which in turn overlooks the Ambracian Gulf, and the Ionian sea. Kassopi is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Epirus, and stretches all the way from a small theatre, past a Katagogeion (dormitory), and right up to the crest of the mountains, to the large ancient theatre. The ruins are indescribably vast, and completely beautiful. If you’re into cultured travel, the city is well worth a look.

Arta:

About an hour’s drive from Preveza, Arta is situated on the opposite side of the Ambracian Gulf. Though not quite as impressive as Preveza or Ioannina, Arta has several sites worth seeing if you’re in the area. Known for its stunning medieval bridge, inventively named the Bridge of Arta, it is worth a day trip if you’re staying in Preveza.

Visit The Church of Panagia Parigoritissa:

The Church of Panagia Parigoritissa is a must-see when in Arta. Built in around 1290 by the despot of Epirus Nikephoros I Komnenos Doukas (1271-1296) and his wife, the building is home to one of the most impressive Ottoman mosaics outside of Thessaloniki or Constantinople.  The church has had a fascinating history, which is best experienced at first hand.

Address: Parigoritras 3, Arta 471 00, Greece

 

Stay at The Hotel Vyzantino:

The Hotel Vyzantino is a lovely option for those staying in the southernmost region of Epirus. It is a ten-minute drive from Arta and a forty-minute drive from Preveza. With stunning swimming pools, tennis courts, and poolside dining, this is an idyllic place to spend a holiday.

Address: National Road, Filippiada 470 42, Greece

 

London-Unattached is very grateful for the hospitality and kindness of the organisers of the I-Thea Project, for making this trip possible.