About Epirus
Why Epirus?
Epirus is Greece's northwestern region on the Ionian coast - a combination of dramatic coastal cliffs (Sivota, Parga), the historic city of Ioannina with its lake island, and an interior with the Vikos gorges (the deepest in Europe by some measures) and traditional Zagori villages. An Epirus holiday in 2026 combines coastal and mountain experiences in a single region.
The character is varied. Epirus is not a monolithic destination - the south (Parga, Vrahos, Sivota, Mitikas) is primarily coastal with sandy beaches and turquoise sea; the centre (Ioannina, Preveza) is urban with history; the north (Zagori, Konitsa) is mountainous with hiking tourism. It differs from other Greek regions in its strong combination of coast and mountains.
Position: 400 km northwest of Athens, 250 km west of Thessaloniki. Main airport Preveza (PVK) for southern Epirus.
Beaches and the sea (southern Epirus)
Main coastal destinations:
Parga - picturesque fortified town with three beaches (Krioneri, Valtos, Lihnos) and boat access to Paxos/Antipaxos.
Sivota - "Greek Caribbean", the Mourtos archipelago with turquoise beaches (Bella Vraka, Mega Ammos, Pisina).
Vrahos - the long Loutsa beach (4 km of sand), family-oriented.
Kanali and Monolithi - Monolithi beach 20+ km, reputedly the longest in Greece.
Mitikas - a smaller village with access to the Inouses islands.
The Ionian water is warmer than the Aegean with excellent visibility. Blue Flag on most organised beaches.
Where to stay
Parga - the most popular tourist destination in Epirus, with apartments in the old core or by the beach.
Sivota - boutique stays with access to the prettiest beaches (premium prices).
Vrahos - family apartments, the cheapest.
Ioannina - urban hotels for those who want a combination of Epirus (including Zagori villages as a day trip).
Zagori villages (mountains, northern Epirus) - traditional stone houses, hiking tourism.
Browse all current Epirus listings.
Getting there
Preveza airport (PVK) - southern Epirus:
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Seasonal direct flight from Belgrade (1 hour 30 minutes). Return fare 200 to 350 €.
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By car from Belgrade - 1,000 km, 11 to 13 hours. After Ioannina, descend toward the coast.
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Bus from Belgrade to Parga - direct seasonal lines, 12 to 14 hours.
Best time to visit
May–June - cool, sea 19–22 °C, Epirus at its prettiest (Zagori flowers, Acheron gorge).
July–August - peak, sea 23–25 °C.
September - excellent, fewer crowds.
Things to see and do
Parga old town - Venetian fort, harbour promenade.
Boat to Paxos and Antipaxos - a full-day trip with the prettiest Ionian beaches.
Sivota archipelago - boat tours around Mourtos and neighbouring islands.
Acheron gorge and river - the mythological river of Greek antiquity, swimming in cold river water.
Ioannina and the lake - historic city with Nesi-Ioannina island (Filanthropinon monastery).
Zagori villages and Vikos gorge - 90 km inland from Parga, the deepest gorge in Europe. Hiking tours from one to several days.
Ancient Nicopolis - UNESCO near Preveza, the remains of the city founded by Octavian after the Battle of Actium.
Pricing - what to expect
Accommodation: a four-person apartment is 45 to 115 € per night in shoulder, 65 to 170 € at peak. Villas in Sivota 130 to 280 €.
Weekly cost per person: 320 to 540 € shoulder, 480 to 760 € peak. Sivota is premium, Vrahos cheapest.
Restaurant: main course 8 to 14 €, fresh fish 14 to 24 €, glass of wine 3 to 5 €.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between southern and northern Epirus? The south (Parga, Sivota) is coastal with dramatic beaches. The north (Ioannina, Zagori) is mountainous with hiking tourism. A combination is ideal for stays of 10+ days.
Is going to Ioannina from the coast worthwhile? Yes, 90 minutes by car from Parga. Lake, old town, island with monastery.
What are Zagori villages? 46 traditional stone villages in northern Epirus with unique architecture and hiking trails through the Vikos gorge. UNESCO geopark.
Is renting a car worth it? Absolutely. Epirus is a large region with scattered attractions - without a car you stay tied to one beach.