Arta travel guide

Arta, a picturesque city nestled in the Epirus region, boasts a rich tapestry of history that spans millennia. Founded in ancient times, Arta was initially known as Ambracia, a Corinthian colony established in the 7th century BCE. This historic city rose to prominence during the rule of King Pyrrhus of Epirus, who made it the capital of his kingdom. Pyrrhus is famously remembered for his costly military victories, which gave rise to the term 'Pyrrhic victory.'

Throughout the Byzantine era, Arta flourished as a significant cultural and religious center. The city is adorned with numerous Byzantine churches and monasteries, including the renowned Church of the Parigoritissa, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. After the fall of Constantinople, Arta became the capital of the Despotate of Epirus, continuing its legacy of regional influence.

The Ottoman period saw the construction of the iconic Arta Bridge, an engineering marvel that spans the Arachthos River. This stone bridge, steeped in legend and lore, symbolizes the city's resilience and enduring spirit. Today, Arta's rich historical heritage, coupled with its scenic landscapes and vibrant cultural life, makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Arta, nestled in the Epirus region of Greece, is a town rich in history and tradition, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences. One of the most prominent features of local culture is the celebration of religious festivals, with Easter being the most significant. The town comes alive with vibrant processions, traditional music, and communal feasts. Visitors are encouraged to participate and observe respectfully, especially in sacred spaces like the Byzantine churches and monasteries, such as the Panagia Parigoritissa.

Traditional Greek hospitality, known as 'philoxenia,' is deeply ingrained in the local customs, and tourists will often find themselves warmly welcomed. It is customary to greet locals with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening) and to express gratitude with 'Efharisto' (Thank you).

When dining, it is polite to try local dishes such as 'bourdeto' (a spicy fish stew) and 'pastitsada' (a meat dish with pasta), often accompanied by locally-produced wines. Sharing meals is a significant aspect of the culture, and it is common to see large groups enjoying mezedes (small dishes) together.

Respect for elders is a cornerstone of the local culture, so showing courtesy to older individuals, such as offering them a seat or allowing them to be served first, is appreciated. Understanding and embracing these customs will enhance your experience and foster deeper connections with the people of Arta.

The best time to explore Arta is during the spring and early fall months, specifically from April to June and September to October. These periods offer pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During these months, the town is less crowded compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience of Arta’s historical sites and natural beauty.

Another excellent time to visit is during the Epiphany celebrations in January, where you can witness the traditional Blessing of the Waters ceremony, a unique cultural experience. While the winter months from December to February are cooler and less popular among tourists, they can be a good option for those seeking a quieter visit.

Summer, from July to August, brings warm weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). While this is peak tourist season, and you may encounter larger crowds, it’s also the time for various local festivals, providing a lively atmosphere. Regardless of when you choose to visit, planning your trip around these considerations will ensure you experience the best of what Arta has to offer.

When visiting Arta, make sure to carve out some time to explore the hidden gem of the city's traditional coffee houses, known locally as 'kafeneia.' These cozy spots offer more than just a caffeine fix; they serve as social hubs where locals gather to chat, play backgammon, and savor a variety of local delicacies. An insider tip: try to visit one in the early afternoon, around siesta time. This is when the atmosphere is most authentic, with the older generation sharing stories and local musicians sometimes playing impromptu tunes. Opt for a Greek coffee or a refreshing 'tsipouro' (a local spirit) and pair it with some 'loukoumades,' delicious Greek honey doughnuts. This experience offers a genuine taste of Arta's culture, far removed from the typical tourist trail. By embracing this insider tip, you'll not only enjoy local flavors but also gain a deeper connection to the community and its traditions.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Arta, Greece. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Arta, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Greece. Check out the best things to do in Arta. Compare the rates and services of the 4 types of stays and car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Arta with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Arta from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Arta with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Arta travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Arta!

With destinations such as Arta, a trip to Greece needs no further explanation. Spanning over 131,957 square kilometers, Greece is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Greece has something to enchant every traveler.

In Arta alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Arta's Bridge, Archaeological Museum of Arta, and Parapotamio Parko Άrtas. Thus, a trip to Greece becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Greece offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Greece. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Greece and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Arta, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Arta offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Arta travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Booking a vacation package to Arta means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Arta to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Arta also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Arta travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Arta is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Arta usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Arta offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Arta and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Arta planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Arta, you'll find 4 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Greece can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Arta. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Arta.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Arta in the following sections.

To navigate Arta effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Arta, Greece below.

The city of Arta is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Greece. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Greece has it all.

Each destination in Greece offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Greece that are as magical as the city of Arta. The most popular travel destinations in Greece are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Arta, Greece, offers a variety of transportation options to help you explore this charming city. The local bus system is a reliable and cost-effective way to navigate Arta and its surrounding areas, with routes that connect key points of interest. For those seeking more flexibility, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through local cab services.

Rental cars are a popular choice for visitors who wish to venture further afield at their own pace. Several car rental agencies operate within the city, providing a range of vehicles to suit different needs. Additionally, cycling is a pleasant way to get around, with the city's compact layout and relatively flat terrain making it an ideal option for those who enjoy a bit of exercise while sightseeing.

For a unique local experience, consider taking a leisurely stroll or renting a bike to explore the city's scenic paths and historic landmarks. Regardless of your preferred mode of transport, getting around Arta is straightforward and convenient, ensuring you can make the most of your visit.