A blue lake with unique geological formations.
An rv parked on the side of a dirt road
A sign that is on the side of a dirt road
A close up of a map with a pin in it
A wall with a large map on it
Photo by 阿沛 on Unsplash

Holiday in Epirus

Region in Greece — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇬🇷

Country

Greece

Type

Region

Best time to travel

May–June, September–October

Budget/day

60–100 €

Getting there from Germany

Flight to Ioannina (seasonal) or Athens/Thessaloniki and rental car. Zagori is located 30–60 km north of Ioannina.

What makes Epirus special as a destination?

Epirus is the wild, undiscovered Greece — a region of dramatic gorges, untouched mountain forests, and stone bridge villages in the northwest of the country. Here lies the Vikos Gorge, considered the deepest gorge in the world in relation to its width, and the UNESCO-protected Zagori with its 46 stone villages. The Pindos mountain range, the 'backbone of Greece', runs through the region and reaches its second highest peak at Smolikas with 2,637 meters. Ioannina, the capital of Epirus, is picturesque by Lake Pamvotis and combines Byzantine fortress architecture with a vibrant student life. The Perama Cave, one of the largest in Greece, is located right at the city's gates. On the coast, Parga surprises with its Venetian castle and colorful houses above turquoise blue waters — a hidden gem reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. Preveza and the Ambracian Gulf offer quiet beaches and the ancient Nikopolis, founded by Emperor Augustus after his victory at Actium. The Voidomatis River in Zagori is considered one of the cleanest rivers in Europe and is a paradise for rafting, kayaking, and canyoning. The Acheron River — in mythology the entrance to the underworld — can be walked and swum through, a unique experience. The Epirotic cuisine is the heartiest in Greece: Pita variations (Spanakopita, Tiropita, Kreatopita), slowly braised lamb, yogurt from sheep's and goat's milk, and the strong Tsipouro spirit shape the gastronomy. Epirus is perfect for travelers who prefer adventure, nature, and authenticity over mass tourism.

Nature
100
Adventure
90
Safety
82
Food
80
Relaxation
70

What are the top highlights in Epirus?

The top highlights in Epirus include Vikos Gorge, Zagori Villages, Voidomatis River, Stone Bridges, Acheron River.

The places you absolutely must not miss.

1

Vikos Gorge

The deepest gorge in the world (relative to its width) offers a spectacular hike through untouched nature with over 1,000 m high walls.

2

Zagori Villages

The 46 stone villages with their arched backs, cobbled paths, and guesthouses are a paradise for hikers.

3

Voidomatis River

One of the cleanest rivers in Europe – perfect for rafting, kayaking, and refreshing swimming in crystal clear water.

4

Stone Bridges

The Ottoman arched bridges over the gorge rivers are masterpieces of engineering and popular photo motifs.

5

Acheron River

The mythical 'River of the Underworld' now offers canyoning and river walks through a fairy-tale landscape.

Hotels in Epirus

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Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen

Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie

When is the best time to visit Epirus?

The best time to visit Epirus is May–June, September–October. Pleasant in the mountains, 20–28 °C In winter: Cold, 0–8 °C, much snow in the mountains

Recommended travel time

May–June, September–October

Summer

Pleasant in the mountains, 20–28 °C

Winter

Cold, 0–8 °C, much snow in the mountains

How much does a holiday in Epirus cost?

Budget travellers: 30–50 €/day, mid-range: 60–100 €/day, luxury: 120–220 €/day.

Average costs per person per day

Budget

30–50 €

Hostel, Street food, Public transport

Mid-range

60–100 €

Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions

Luxury

120–220 €

Boutique hotel, Fine dining

How do I get from Germany to Epirus?

Flight to Ioannina (seasonal) or Athens/Thessaloniki and rental car. Zagori is located 30–60 km north of Ioannina.

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What travel tips are there for Epirus?

Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.

The Vikos hike takes 5–7 hours – start in Monodendri and end in Vikos village or Papingo.

Stay in one of the traditional guesthouses (Archontika) in Papingo, Monodendri, or Kipi.

The Voidomatis is suitable for rafting from April to October – local providers are available in Konitsa.

Bring warm clothing – even in summer, nights in the mountains can be cool.

Epirus is excellent culinary-wise – Pites (pies) and grilled meat in the villages are a delight.

What should you eat in Epirus?

Typical specialities in Epirus: Kontosouvli (spit-roast), Pites (all variations), Trachana soup, Galatopita (milk pie), Mountain herbal tea, Grilled goat meat.

These specialties you must try!

Kontosouvli (spit-roast)
Pites (all variations)
Trachana soup
Galatopita (milk pie)
Mountain herbal tea
Grilled goat meat
Suitable for:HikingGorgesZagoriAdventureNatureUntouchedOutdoorMountains

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