Thessaloniki to Ioannina – Private Day Trip
Myths surround the city of Ioannina They hover in the mist that often hangs over its lake and the island in its centre. This time, the myths don’t revolve around gods and heroes, but rather historical personalities. Chief among them is Ali Pasha, the maverick 19th century Turko-Albanian ruler and his court. Intertwined with Ioannina’s history, in this corner of Western Greece, other myths haunt the old, walled district, the Kastro, the citadel of Its Kale, the Byzantine monasteries on the Island and the rich museums.
Options
For 1, 2, 3, or 4 persons
Car
Pickup included
What's included in Thessaloniki to Ioannina – Private Day Trip
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Lake Pamvotis
Lake Pamvotis: a 20,000-year-old attraction! City life revolves around this romantic, silver-grey lake. Get to know it by strolling along its banks, taking a boat ride, fishing, rowing, or having a drink or a bite on the lakefront. According to geologists at Cambridge University, it was formed between 20,000 and 26,000 years ago.
Ali Pasha Museum
Nisi: the Island, a Byzantine realm. It’s only a short boat ride to the Island, but once there, you’ll have to walk. Make sure you visit the Byzantine monasteries, which all have wonderful frescoes. And then take some time to learn about Ali Pasha, the Lion of Epirus. Regarded by Napoleon as an equal, he was erratic, a heady brew of fierce and fearsome, cultured and charismatic, hosting a great number of foreign dignitaries in his palace, including Lord Byron. He ruled over greater Epirus for 30 years in defiance of the Sultan. In the Ali Pasha Museum, arranged to resemble a traditional Ioannina home of the period, you’ll learn the whole story, which ended with his assassination in the monastery of Agios Panteleimon. Finish your visit on a lighter note with a feast of local specialties, such as grilled trout and eel, at one of the island’s tavernas.
Ioannina Castle
The Kastro, a melting pot of religions and cultures. For centuries, Jews, Christians and Muslims coexisted in the alleys of this oldest, walled part of Ioannina. And their children played amongst Muslim monuments and synagogues. Today many of their pastel-coloured Macedonian-style houses are still lived in or have become boutique hotels. As you wander these atmospheric streets in the shadow of its sturdy walls, fascinating attractions will catch your eye; the Old Synagogue, the House of Pasha Kalou, the 18th century Soufari Serai, where Ali Pasha’s horses were exercised, the Turkish baths (hammams) and lots, lots more.
Inclusions
- Transportation by air-conditioned V.I.P. car or mini van
- WiFi on board
- Pick up and drop off service from your hotel in Thessaloniki
- After the trip you will receive with email photos and video of your trip.
- Professional chauffeur (English-speaking)
- Bottle of water and coffee during the route (free)
- Entrance fees
- Gratuities (optional)
- Guide who speaks your language
- Coffee, Tea, Refreshments, Drinks or Juice, Snacks
- Lunch or dinner
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 10 minutes before departure time.
