Ioannina and Zagorochoria in Epirus, Greece 5-Days Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Epirus, a region steeped in history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. This 5-day tour takes you to the enchanting city of Ioannina and the picturesque villages of Zagorochoria, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of northwestern Greece.
Greece is renowned for its breathtaking mountains, with over 300 peaks soaring above 1000 meters. Epirus, in particular, boasts a diverse array of landscapes that will leave you in awe. From the rolling slopes of Mitsikeli mountain to the world-famous Vikos Gorge, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and charming villages.
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Destinations: Ioannina, Zachorochoria
Region: North-West Greece: Epirus
Accommodation: 1 night in Kalambaka, 2 nights in Zachorochoria, 1 night in Ioannina
Tour Language: English
Age Range: 1 to 99 year olds
Available: April – September
As you explore the cobblestone paths of Zagorochoria, immerse yourself in the rustic ambience and warm hospitality of the locals. Discover the rich history of the region, from the Byzantine Despotate of Epirus to the golden era of the 18th and 19th centuries, when the area thrived under Ottoman rule. Listen to fascinating tales of local healers who harnessed the power of nature to treat ailments using remedies from the Vikos Gorge.
Itinerary of the five days to Ioannina and Zagorochoria
- Day 1: Thermopylae – Kalambaka – Meteora,
- Day 2: Metsovo – Zagorochoria,
- Day 3: Monodendri, Vikos Gorge,
- Day 4: Voidomatis river, Ioannina.
- Day 5: Ioannina – Athens
- Visit the picturesque and welcoming villages of Zagorochoria, including Mikro and Megalo Papingo, Aristi, and Vitsa
- Explore the stunning Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world
- Discover the vibrant city of Ioannina, with its rich history and cultural heritage
- Experience the unique beauty of Lake Pamvotida and visit the only lake island in Greece
- Marvel at the famous Perama Cave, a natural wonder with impressive stalactites and stalagmites
- Visit the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking architecture and stunning views
- Enjoy the gorgeous landscapes of Central and Western Greece during a scenic road trip
Join us on this captivating 5-day tour to Ioannina, Zagorochoria, and Meteora, and let the beauty, history, and warmth of Epirus leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Day 1: Thermopylae, Meteora
Thermopylae: The Battlefield of the 300
After leaving Athens early in the morning, your private tour begins with our first visit to Thermopylae. Thermopylae is the battlefield where the famous battle of the 300 Spartans led by King Leonidas against the Persians took place in 480 BC. It is considered one of the most important sites in Greece due to the significance of the battle for Greece and the entire European continent at the time.
In Thermopylae, you will see a memorial statue of King Leonidas of Sparta, featuring the phrase “Molon Lave,” which means “Come and get it.” This was the famous response given to the Persians by Leonidas when their army demanded the Spartans give their weapons and surrender.
Meteora’s Heavenly Monasteries
After our visit to Thermopylae, we will drive to the breathtaking Monasteries of Meteora. These awe-inspiring structures, perched atop the majestic Meteora Rocks, seem suspended in midair.
The Meteora Monasteries were built in the 14th century and are home to priceless religious artifacts and stunning Byzantine art. As the second-largest collection of Byzantine Monasteries in Greece after Athos, this UNESCO-protected wonder is an absolute must-see highlight of your tour.
Your accommodation for the night will be in the charming town of Kastraki or Kalambaka.
Day 2: The Charm of Metsovo and Papingo
The second day of the tour takes you to important towns in West Greece, such as Metsovo. This quaint town offers an array of activities, from savoring red wine and smoked cheese to enjoying breathtaking mountain views.
Metsovo, known as Amintziou by its Vlach inhabitants, was a major wool supplier to the Balkan region and North Africa during the 17th and 18th centuries. Immerse yourself in the Vlach population’s language and customs, adding a unique dimension to your experience.
After exploring Metsovo, you’ll arrive at Papingo, a renowned village in the Zagorochoria region, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Exploring Zagorochoria Villages
Discover the beautiful region of Zagorochoria, a cluster of 46 villages nestled on the slopes of Mount Mitsikeli. Wander along cobblestone paths, admire picturesque stone houses and historic churches, and explore ancient stone bridges. For adventure seekers, Zagori offers activities such as kayaking, hiking, and climbing.
Immerse yourself in the charm of small villages like Papingo, Aristi, and the renowned Voidomatis River. The Voidomatis River, known as the cleanest river in Europe, boasts crystal-clear drinking water and a consistent temperature of 6 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
Spend the night in one of the enchanting Zagorochoria Villages.
Activities in Zagorochoria!
The 4th day of the private tour finds you in Papingo of Zagorochoria; after breakfast, we will drive to Monodendri the largest village in Zagori, setting off for the Vikos Gorge, the deepest Gorge in the world and one of the main outdoor activity hubs in Greece, where trekking, climbing, and rafting are the most common things to do. We’ll visit the impressive monastery of Agia Marina, and admire from the balcony (Balkoni) the impressive Vikos gorge with breathtaking views! If Guinness is to be believed, this plunging gorge cutting the Pindos Mountains to the north of Ioannina is the world’s deepest canyon based on a width-to-depth ratio. Carved by the Voidomatis River, this seven-mile gorge on the southern slopes of Mount Tymfi descends half a mile and at any point is no wider than 400 yards.
And if you want to visit the impressive gorge, a rocky and at times indistinct trail follows the tree-shaded waterway beneath the gorge, linking the clifftop village of Monodendri, at its southern end, to the hamlet of Vikos, in the north. Allow at least four hours for the challenging trek, which involves a steep descent from Monodendri and an equally steep switchback ascent to Vikos, where you’ll be happy for a hearty meal (perhaps wild boar stew) and a refreshing beer in a taverna (must be pre-arranged). Horse riding, rafting, mountain bike rides, hiking, monoraft, 4×4 off-road routes or any other activity you have in mind can be enjoyed right here. (You must pre-book any of the activities above, and it is subject to availability at the time of booking.)
You will enjoy a late lunch and then head towards Ioannina; 4km away from Ioannina you will visit the Cave of Perama, which is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Greece covering a total area of 14,000 sq. meters. The caves’ house remains from the prehistoric era, fossils, and murals which are inspired by the myth of God Hades and Persephone.
Day 4: Vikos Gorge and Ioannina
On the fourth day, visit two of Zagorochoria’s most renowned villages: Vitsa and Monodendri.
Your destination is the magnificent Vikos Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world and a popular spot for outdoor activities. The Vikos Gorge is approximately 7 miles long, 0.5 miles deep, and no wider than 400 yards at any point.
Experience a carefree evening in Ioannina with a leisurely walk by Greece’s magnificent Pamvotida Lake and visit the island in the middle of the lake. Spend the night in Ioannina.
Day 5: From Ioannina to Athens
On the fifth day, explore the historic city of Ioannina and visit the impressive Perama Cave, which stretches over 14,000 square meters and features prehistoric remnants, fossils, and dazzling murals. The Perama Cave is home to stunning stalactites and stalagmites, some of which are over 1 million years old.
As you journey back to Athens, enjoy a scenic cruise from Antirio to Rio, where you can marvel at the largest and most impressive cable bridge in Europe. The tour concludes in Athens, arriving in the late afternoon.
Tour Type
- Shore Excursion – Private tour
- Activity level: Moderate
Included in the tour
- Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle or similar appropriate for the size of your group
- Your tour will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver or escort possessing in-depth knowledge of Greece’s history and culture. They will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, guiding you until the entrance of archaeological sites and museums. However, please note that drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside these venues.
- If you desire a licensed state tour guide to escort you within the archaeological sites and museums, providing comprehensive insights and explanations, we can gladly arrange one for an additional cost. These licensed guides are freelance professionals, and their availability is subject to your tour date.
- When a licensed tour guide or English-speaking tour escort accompanies a group, the professional driver may not necessarily speak English fluently. Their role is focused on providing safe transportation.
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Athens. Extra charge for hotels outside Athens.
- Pick up and drop off at Piraeus Port or Athens Airport.
- Pick up and drop off at our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athens, Greece.
- Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple-day tours only)
- Road tolls and all local taxes
Excluded from the tour
- Wine tasting fee (for wine tours)
- Olive oil tasting fee (for olive oil tasting tours)
- Optional Gratuities
- Food and beverage
- Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost. Read more for the Differences between a Tour Guide and a Tour Driver
Cancellation Policy
Additional info
- Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
- Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
- Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
- City Tax for Hotel Stays: Effective from January 1st, 2018, a City Tax for hotel overnights is applicable and not included in our excursion rates. Clients will need to pay this tax directly at their hotel upon check-out. The amount per room is as follows: 5-star hotel: €4/overnight || 4-star hotel: €3/overnight || 3-star hotel: €1.50/overnight
- Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Archaeological Sites and Museums in Greece
- Entrance Fees for Children from Non-EU Countries: Starting November 1st, 2019, children aged 6 and above from non-European Union (non-EU) countries will be required to pay the full entrance fee for Museums and Archaeological sites. For children from EU countries, the existing rates remain in effect. However, it is crucial to have their passports readily available to prove their nationality.
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
