Solo Cultural Journey to Ioannina

Beneath the Surface and Back in Time

Today was a day of delving into the depths of Ioannina, both literally and figuratively. I ventured into the famous Perama Cave and immersed myself in Byzantine history. It was a fulfilling day of exploration, and I'm excited to share my experiences.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Spitaki με θέα. The name itself, meaning Little House with a View, promised a treat, and it certainly delivered. The cozy atmosphere and terrific decor made it the perfect spot to start my day. I savored a delicious coffee while enjoying a tasty club sandwich, watching the city slowly awaken. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for a day of adventure.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of the world, waiting to be discovered.

After breakfast, I made my way to the Perama Cave. The cave is located in Perama, a small town just a few kilometers from Ioannina, easily accessible by bus. As the largest network of caverns in Greece, I knew I was in for a treat. The weather was pleasant, with temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius, perfect for exploring.

The Perama Cave was formed 1.4 million years ago and stretches 5 km in length. It served as a refuge for the inhabitants during the Italian bombardments of 1940. The cave is situated in Goritsa Hill, on the northwestern shore of Lake Pamvotida, only 4 kilometers from Ioannina. The tour took us through 1 km of the cave's interior, showcasing the superb limestone concretions, stalagmites, and stalactites. The guided tour lasted about 45 minutes, and I learned so much about the cave's history and geology. The temperature inside the cave was a cool 18°C, a welcome respite from the summer heat. I was glad I had a light jacket with me. It's amazing how nature can create such intricate and awe-inspiring formations over millions of years.


Explore the enchanting Perama Cave, a stunning tourist attraction featuring breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations that showcase nature's artistry.
One of the most impressive stalagmites was the one known as 'The Cross'. It’s truly a sight to behold! I was also surprised that photographs without flash were permitted, allowing me to capture some of the cave's beauty, although I doubt my phone camera did it justice. The steps inside the cave were indeed wet and slippery, so I was thankful for my comfortable walking shoes, one of my trip essentials. I remember thinking to myself that I’m glad I didn’t forget those! The exit was via a 163-step staircase, which was a bit of a climb, but the views afterward were worth it.

After exiting the cave, I was rewarded with magnificent views over the lake and the island. It was a perfect moment to reflect on the wonders I had just witnessed. Before heading back to Ioannina, I stopped by To pétrino Artozacharoplasteío, a fabulous patisserie near the information center. I treated myself to two Trigona Panoramatos, custard-filled filo cones. Mmmm, they were absolutely divine!

Next on my list was the Byzantine Museum of Ioannina. Located within the walls of the Ioannina Castle, nestled in one of the ancient structures on the Acropolis, the museum offered a glimpse into the region's rich Byzantine history. The museum is housed in a building that dates back to the 1960s, with the central part once serving as a royal pavilion before it opened to the public in 1995. It was fascinating to see the collection of Early Christian and Byzantine sculptures, artifacts from Arta excavations, pottery, manuscripts, and post-Byzantine icons. The exhibits were spread across several buildings, each with its own unique charm.


Explore the Byzantine Museum of Ioannina for an unforgettable journey through Byzantine art, history, and culture in a stunning setting.
While some reviewers mentioned that the exhibition was a bit outdated, I found the historical significance and the unique experience of visiting the museum within the castle walls to be quite special. The Byzantine Museum provided a comprehensive overview of the Byzantine era in Epirus, showcasing the artistic and cultural achievements of the time. The intricate details of the icons and the craftsmanship of the sculptures were truly remarkable. I spent a couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, soaking in the atmosphere and learning about the history of the region.

For lunch, I chose To Magazaki Pou Legame, a restaurant highly praised for its modern twist on traditional Greek cuisine. The cozy place with a beautiful interior was exactly what I needed after a morning of exploration. The restaurant is known for its delicate preparation and beautiful presentation of dishes. I decided to try the wild mushroom risotto, which was absolutely divine. The attentive service and the personal touch from the chef added to the overall dining experience. It was a perfect blend of price, quality, service, and location.


Discover innovative Greek cuisine at To Magazaki Pou Legame in Ioannina – where tradition meets modern flavor!
In the late afternoon, I took some time to wander through the Ioannina Castle. The castle is one of the oldest in Greece, dominating the city center and hosting museums, old mosques, and the atmospheric district of Its Kale. The views of Lake Pamvotida from the castle walls were simply breathtaking. I could see the island of Pamvotida in the distance, and I made a mental note to visit it later in my trip.

As the sun began to set, I decided to have dinner at Thamon, a restaurant recommended for its contemporary Greek cuisine. The restaurant uses local produce and has a farm-to-table concept, which appealed to my love for fresh, high-quality ingredients. The interior design was a blend of traditional and modern, with wooden elements and earthy tones creating a calming atmosphere. It’s located in the Old Town, adding to its charm. The philosophy of #θamõn is based on highlighting the region of Epirus, creating flavors from the pure ingredients of the area. The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable.


Discover the flavors of Greece at Thamon in Ioannina – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
To end the day, I decided to experience Ioannina's nightlife at Blue Gin. This bar is known for its cozy atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and lovely music. While some clients don’t prefer gin, I decided to try one of their signature gin-based cocktails. The music was a mix of rock and alternative, creating a vibrant and energetic vibe. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I found myself chatting with some locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter. It's moments like these that make solo travel so rewarding.


Discover Blue Gin, Ioannina's top cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
As I walked back to King Pyrros Hotel, I felt grateful for the experiences of the day. From the depths of Perama Cave to the heights of Byzantine art, Ioannina had revealed its treasures to me. Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Ioannina's cultural side, visiting the Folklore Museum Frontzos and the Ali Pasha and Revolutionary Period Museum. I'm also looking forward to trying breakfast at Stoa Louli and perhaps finding a unique souvenir at Vintage Boutique. Good night from Ioannina!


Discover Ioannina from the centrally located King Pyrros Hotel, offering comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome for your perfect getaway.
I’m eager to see what tomorrow brings!