Top 3 Itineraries in Ioannina

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Introduction

Discover the ultimate Ioannina itineraries with our top 3 picks. From attractions that capture the essence of Ioannina to in-depth experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, there’s an itinerary here for everyone. Keep reading to start planning your trip to Ioannina.

Ioannina is an excellent choice for a vacation in Greece. It's a place where time flies and it's easy to fill days on end with memorable experiences. To save you time and effort, we have reviewed the largest selection of travel packages in Ioannina and listed the top 3 itineraries for you.

Whether you want to relax at one of Ioannina's best places to stay or jump head-first into exploring, an unforgettable vacation awaits. In fact, Ioannina is famous for its outstanding hospitality, exciting experiences, and welcoming atmosphere.

Simply scroll down to discover the perfect Ioannina itinerary!

Popular Types of Trips to Ioannina

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Ioannina.

If you only have a few days, Ioannina weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Ioannina offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Ioannina are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Ioannina’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Ioannina offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Greece's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Ioannina truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Ioannina

If you’re as convinced as we are that Ioannina belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Ioannina are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Ioannina and start planning your next trip!

The Top 3 Best Ioannina Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Ioannina itinerary with our handpicked list. Each of these 3 itineraries is crafted to match different travel styles. So whether you're in Ioannina just for a weekend, or you plan to see more on a longer city break or road trip, there's an itinerary for you!

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these itineraries will help you experience the best of Ioannina without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Ioannina!

3. The Ultimate 11-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Ioannina and Beyond

Photo of Ioannina lake Pamvotida in Epirus Region, Greece.

A scenic 11-day road trip through Αθήνα, Θεσσαλονίκη, Ιωάννινα, Αντίρριο, and Ναύπλιο is one of the best ways to experience Greece. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 11-day itinerary means that Ioannina can easily be combined with other top destinations in Greece without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Αθήνα, Θεσσαλονίκη, Ιωάννινα, Αντίρριο, and Ναύπλιο by public transport, renting a car in Greece opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 11 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kalamata

  • Arrival city: Kalamata
  • Accommodation: hotel in Kalamata, e.g., The Residences Kalamata
  • Sightseeing: Central Square of Kalamata
Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Kalamata. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Kalamata and Μαυρομμάτι

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Kalamata's Castle, Municipal Railway Park of Kalamata, Kalamata Municipal Railway Park, and Archaeological Site of Ancient Messini. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Kalamata and Μαυρομμάτι, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Athens.

Day 3: Discover Αθήνα and Dimos Kallitheas

Spend the day exploring Athens National Garden, National Archaeological Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, and Stavros Niarchos Park. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace.

Day 4: Experience Αθήνα

Continue your journey through Αθήνα, where you can explore Acropolis Museum, Acropolis of Athens, Monastiraki Square, Roman Forum of Athens (Roman Agora), and Parthenon. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Αθήνα

  • Destinations: Αθήνα
  • Driving distance: 13.44 km, approx. 57 minutes
  • Accommodation: 2-star hotel in Athens, e.g., Phidias Piraeus Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Temple of Hephaestus, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Philopappos Hill, Ancient Agora of Athens, and Technopolis City of Athens
  • Recommended tour: Full -Day Private Tour of Athens
Drive through Αθήνα, stopping to visit Temple of Hephaestus, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Philopappos Hill, Ancient Agora of Athens, and Technopolis City of Athens. Embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems off the beaten path.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Αθήνα, Θερμοπύλες, Γοργοπόταμος, and Πουρίθι

  • Destinations: Αθήνα, Θερμοπύλες, Γοργοπόταμος, and Πουρίθι
  • Driving distance: 384.07 km, approx. 4 hours and 32 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Larissa, e.g., Doupiani House
  • Sightseeing: Gorgopotamos Bridge, Memorial to Leonidas and 300 Spartans, and Rematia Varnava
Spend time discovering Gorgopotamos Bridge, Memorial to Leonidas and 300 Spartans, and Rematia Varnava, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Larissa.

Day 7: Spend Time in Καστράκι and Λάρισα

  • Destinations: Καστράκι and Λάρισα
  • Driving distance: 317.28 km, approx. 4 hours and 13 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Thessaloniki, e.g., Vanoro Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Monastery of Varlaam, and Meteora
  • Recommended tour: Full-Day Trip to Meteora from Thessaloniki
Explore Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Monastery of Varlaam, and Meteora at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant. Finish the day by checking into another comfortable hotel in the center of Thessaloniki.

Day 8: Explore Θεσσαλονίκη

  • Destinations: Θεσσαλονίκη
  • Driving distance: 268.46 km, approx. 3 hours and 21 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ioannina, e.g., Boutique Hotel Archontiko Metsovou
  • Sightseeing: White Tower of Thessaloniki, Arch of Galerius, Agia Sofia Square, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, and Aristotelous Square
  • Recommended tour: Sightseeing Zagori daily tour
Continue your road trip through Θεσσαλονίκη, enjoying the flexibility to explore White Tower of Thessaloniki, Arch of Galerius, Agia Sofia Square, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, and Aristotelous Square and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Ioannina.

Day 9: Wander Through Ιωάννινα, Αντίρριο, Πέραμα, and Νέο Μπιζάνι

  • Destinations: Ιωάννινα, Αντίρριο, Πέραμα, and Νέο Μπιζάνι
  • Driving distance: 239.56 km, approx. 3 hours and 9 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Patras, e.g., Moxy Patra Marina
  • Sightseeing: Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Moyseio Ellinikis Istorias Payloy Vrelli, Perama Cave, Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge, and Castle of Ioannina
Visit Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Moyseio Ellinikis Istorias Payloy Vrelli, Perama Cave, Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge, and Castle of Ioannina as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye. At the end of the day, check-in at a comfortable hotel in central Patras.

Day 10: Uncover Ναύπλιο, Μυκήνες, and Patra

  • Destinations: Ναύπλιο, Μυκήνες, and Patra
  • Driving distance: 342.13 km, approx. 4 hours and 16 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Kalamata, e.g., The Residences Kalamata
  • Sightseeing: "Treasury of Atreus" or "Tomb of Agamemnon", Nafplio Port, Fortress of Palamidi, and Archaeological site of Mycenae
  • Recommended tour: Sea Kayak in Kardamili
Continue your exploration of "Treasury of Atreus" or "Tomb of Agamemnon", Nafplio Port, Fortress of Palamidi, and Archaeological site of Mycenae, taking your time to enjoy scenic drives or leisurely strolls that add to the adventure. End the day by checking into a lovely hotel in Kalamata.

Day 11: Journey Through Kalamata

Take in the highlights of Monument of Light, with plenty of opportunities to pause for a break in charming villages or serene natural settings. Conclude your day with a stay at a different hotel in the heart of Athens.

Day 11: Bid Farewell to Kalamata

  • Departure city: Kalamata
  • Driving distance: 1.07 km, approx. 4 minutes
  • Sightseeing: Monument of Light
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Kalamata. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along the route is around 990 EUR for two people, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Ioannina. So, if you’re ready to explore iconic landmarks, scenic routes, and charming towns at your own pace, this 11-day road trip itinerary through Αθήνα, Θεσσαλονίκη, Ιωάννινα, Αντίρριο, and Ναύπλιο is an excellent choice.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Ioannina for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

2. The Top Recommended 5-Day Ioannina City Itinerary

Photo of Ioannina city and the lake Pamvotis located in Epirus, Greece.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Ioannina with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Ioannina without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Ioannina

Arrive in Ioannina and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Castle of Ioannina.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at To Dodeka Cafe Bar, a top local restaurant—the ideal way to kick off your getaway!

Day 2: Discover Nearby Attractions and Iconic Landmarks

Enjoy your first full day in Ioannina by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Silversmithing Museum, Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina, Fethiye Mosque, Ali Pasha's Tomb, and Byzantine Museum of Ioannina.

Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Ioannina in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

1. The Perfect 5-Day Ioannina Weekend Itinerary

Photo of Loannina lake in autumn season with platanus trees reflecter in the water, in greece

A 5-day weekend getaway in Ioannina offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Ioannina itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 5 days to spend, this is the perfect Ioannina weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Ioannina

Arrive in Ioannina around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Castle of Ioannina, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.

Day 2 - Discover Ioannina’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Ioannina with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit Silversmithing Museum early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Fethiye Mosque, stopping by Ic Kale Acropolis of Ioannina for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Ioannina

No itinerary in Ioannina is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.
  • Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Archaeological Museum of Ioannina.
  • Afternoon: Explore The Clock Tower of Ioannina and Litharitsia park, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
  • Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.

Day 5 - Depart from Ioannina

Make the most of your last few hours in Ioannina before your departure.
  • Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
  • Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Ioannina. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Ioannina itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Ioannina

As you explore Ioannina, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Ioannina for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Ioannina in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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