10-Day Central Greece

DAY 5: IOANNINA – DODONI – IOANNINA

After breakfast we will explore the city of Ioannina, the Epirus’ capital and a charming city that is rich in attractions and museums. We will start with a nice stroll around the historic centre, touched by plenty of cultures and with Christian, Muslim and Jewish influences. One of the most notable attractions of Ioannina is the islet on Lake Pamvotis. The island is known as “Nissaki”. We will visit the monastery of Agios Panteleimon which has been transformed into a museum and where Ali Pasha spent the last days of his life waiting for a pardon from the Sultan. Then, we will head to the fascinating museums that lie within the Castle of Ioannina, built in 528 AD. It is the oldest Byzantine fortress in the country. The National Archaeological Museum of Ioannina, Ioannina castle located in the city center, the Fethiye Mosque, whose final form was given by Ali Pasha in 1795. The Aslan Pasha Mosque and the historic center of Ioannina among others.

Later, we will drive toward to the site of Dodoni, which is located in a narrow valley at the foot of Mount Tomaros. This ancient city was a major site of religious importance for Ancient Greece. It was mostly known for its oracle, which is the oldest Hellenic oracle in the country. The theatre of Dodona, built in the early 3rd c. BC, is currently in the UNESCO Tentative List. It is one of the largest theatres in Greece, with a capacity of approximately 15,000-17,000 spectators. After visit the archaeological site with its Acropolis, the theatre and the stadium we will return to our hotel in Ioannina in the early evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 6: IOANNINA – METSOVO – KALAMBAKA

Morning departure to Kalabaka, passing through the village of Metsovo (50 km), best known for its traditional architecture, churches, restored mansions and famous for its wine and cheese. We’ll enjoy the lovely Metsovo, a scenic mountain village in the north western Greece and we will take a walk in the cobbled streets and visit the famous Katogi Averoff Winery, which makes some of Greece’s most celebrated wines.  There, you’ll enjoy a tour “a unique, rich initiation into the world of wine, the rich history of Katogi and its winemaking process” and an awesome wine tasting experience in the cool ambiance of the cellars.

After lunch we will continue to Kalabaka and Meteora monasteries. Arrival in Kalabaka in the late afternoon. Time permitted visit one or two of the six monasteries still in use. Enjoy a unique and imposive scenery of ageless monasteries, containing priceless historical and religious treasures, standing between Earth and Sky atop huge rocks. We are going to visit the first great monastery of Varlaam, founded on the 16th century and located on the top of a rock at 380m height! Our second visit will be at the Monastery of St. Stephan, of the 15th century, also built on the top of the top of another huge rock where you will admire a small treasure of Byzantine and Christian items at the museum inside the monastery! Dinner and overnight in Kalabaka. (Breakfast, dinner)