Once you consider Greece, what’s the primary picture that involves thoughts? Maybe it’s the sun-kissed Greek isles, the traditional ruins of Athens, or a scene straight out of Greek mythology. Whereas these iconic locations are undoubtedly breathtaking, there’s one gem that always will get neglected, but it’s one it’s best to undoubtedly add to your journey checklist — Kastoria.
Nestled in the midst of a picturesque lake, this charming metropolis doesn’t all the time make it to the highest of the checklist for many vacationers. However it ought to. With its serene magnificence, fascinating historical past, and beautiful pure environment, Kastoria is a spot that guarantees to captivate those that search to discover past the everyday vacationer spots. And on this article, we’ll share with you a number of the issues you should learn about this metropolis, together with some ideas. Hopefully, you may fall in love with it the way in which we did!
The place is Kastoria?
Kastoria can refer to 2 issues: one is the regional unit in Greece, one thing like a prefecture, and one other is its capital metropolis. On this article, we’ll primarily be referring to town.
Positioned within the area of Western Macedonia in northern Greece, close to the border with Albania, Kastoria sits gracefully in the midst of the beautiful Lake Orestiada. In images, it would look like an island, but it surely’s really perched on a promontory that juts out into the water.
Kastoria is probably greatest recognized for its wealthy assortment of Byzantine church buildings and its once-thriving fur business, which performed a serious position in its economic system for a few years. Nonetheless, in current instances, town’s different points of interest have began to attract extra consideration, opening it as much as tourism. Whereas a few of its wonders might not be historically related to Greek tradition, they’re undoubtedly price experiencing. With its distinctive appeal and historic significance, Kastoria is a vacation spot that ought to be on each traveler’s radar.
- Language: Greek. Greece has its personal alphabet, which could be a bit intimidating at first, particularly when you’re not accustomed to it. Whereas there could also be a slight language barrier, the excellent news is that many locals converse English nicely. Moreover, most avenue indicators are written in each Greek and English, so getting round is pretty straightforward and easy.
- Timezone: UTC+02:00 (EET – Jap European Time). Daylight saving time is noticed from the final Sunday in March to final Sunday in October, pushing it an hour forward (+03:00). So relying on the time of the yr, it’s six or 5 hours forward of the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia.
- Foreign money: Euro (EUR, €). €1 = 1.17 USD, SGD 1.50, PHP 67
- Modes of Cost: Money remains to be the commonest, however bank card funds are accepted in some institutions.
- Electrical energy Information: 230 V, 50 Hz. Energy sockets are Kind F, which additionally settle for Kind C plugs.
By the way in which, Greece is a part of the Schengen Settlement, which implies that vacationers from most nations, together with the Philippines, might want to safe and current a Schengen Visa to enter. Be sure to plan forward and get your visa sorted earlier than your journey to keep away from any hiccups alongside the way in which! We’ll be updating our Schengen Visa article, so be sure to test our web site usually.
The place to Keep in Kastoria
Let’s begin by getting accustomed to the geography of Kastoria. As talked about, town is nestled on a peninsula that extends into Lake Orestiada, virtually fully surrounded by water aside from its western half. The easternmost tip is marked by limestone peaks, making a putting panorama. Whereas town additionally spans elements of the mainland, its coronary heart and soul lie on the slender strip of land close to the peninsula’s neck.
Regardless of its hilly terrain, Kastoria is a small metropolis, and you may simply stroll from one finish to the opposite — whether or not that’s from coast to coast or north to south. Irrespective of the place you keep, you’ll discover that the majority locations are inside straightforward strolling distance.
Prime Lodges in Kastoria
Throughout our time there, we had the prospect to go to three outstanding motels that provide a mixture of consolation and distinctive experiences.
- Lodge Orologopoulou Mansion. Constructed within the nineteenth century, this 250-year-old mansion has been reworked right into a 9-room lodge that mixes modernity and historical past. It’s situated within the Doltso space, close to Doltso Sq., within the southeastern aspect of town correct, which could be very handy. Across the space are eating places and cafes, and even the lakeside is only a fast stroll away. A room prices round EUR 89 per night time, inclusive of breakfast. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Vergoula’s Mansion. One of many oldest motels within the metropolis, it was constructed round 200 years in the past. It’s perched on a cliff, overlooking the lake, providing among the best views within the metropolis. A keep right here prices EUR 81 an evening, inclusive of breakfast. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Esperos Place Luxurious and Spa Lodge. Positioned within the Chloe space, outdoors the peninsula however nonetheless near key points of interest. It’s trendy, elegant, and grand, housing 54 spotless and spacious rooms, 14 of that are suites, every stuffed with many conveniences you’d count on from five-star properties — from anatomical beds to aromatic toiletries to bathrobes. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
These three are the properties that our hosts and different locals we talked to sang highest praises for, however there are extra choices.
- Afkos Grammos Boutique Lodge Resort. Should you’re heading to Nestório for the enduring River Social gathering music competition or just need to discover the realm in consolation, this lodge is a good choice This four-star gem presents an expensive retreat with sweeping views of each the Aliakmonas River and the Grammos Mountain. The rooms are tastefully appointed, and the on-site restaurant serves up hearty, conventional Greek dishes. Don’t miss the terrace — it’s the proper spot to soak within the surroundings. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Krystal Resort. Kastoria additionally makes an incredible cease when you’re on a Balkan journey! Should you’re planning to cross the Greece–Albania border, contemplate spending an evening within the peaceable village of Krystallopigi. Krystal Resort is a good choice. The rooms listed here are spacious and the in-house restaurant is ideal for grabbing a satisfying meal earlier than persevering with your journey throughout the area. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
Prime Price range Lodges & Guesthouses in Kastoria
For funds vacationers, you’ll discover pocket-friendly properties for as little as EUR 40 per night time for a double or twin room. Listed here are some choices on Reserving.com and Lodges.com.
Seek for extra Kastoria Lodges!
Find out how to Get to Kastoria
The closest airport to Kastoria is the Kastoria Airport Aristotle (KSO), situated within the close by city of Argos Orestiko. Nonetheless, it solely serves a restricted variety of home flights, principally from Athens, and flights aren’t out there on daily basis. Should you occur to discover a flight that matches your schedule, that is the quickest strategy to get there.
If not, your subsequent most suitable choice is Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), situated about 145 km away. It’s the closest worldwide airport, providing extra flight choices and higher connectivity.
Thessaloniki Airport to Kastoria
Since we flew in from Manila, we needed to make a connection in Athens. From there, we caught a home Sky Specific flight to Thessaloniki. Our host household kindly organized a pick-up on the airport, so we didn’t have to fret about transfers. Nonetheless, when you’re planning to make use of public transportation, right here’s what we discovered from every company’s official web sites.
- Take Bus 01X or Bus 01XN to the Makedonia Intercity Bus Station (operated by KTEL).
Journey Frequency:
– Bus 01X: Each 20-25 minutes from 6:10 AM to 10:40 PM
– Bus 01N: Each half-hour from 11:10 PM to five:55 AM
Journey Time: 50-55 minutes
Fare: €1.80Double test the schedule on the Thessaloniki Airport web site.
- Catch a KTEL bus sure for Kastoria.
Journey Frequency: There are solely 5-6 journeys per day. The earliest bus is scheduled at 9:00 AM, and the final bus leaves the station at 8:30 PM on most days, or 9:30 PM on Friday and Sunday.
Journey Time: 3 hours
Fare: €17.60This schedule may change, so double test by visiting KTEL web site and click on “Itineraries Exterior the Prefecture”.
Athens to Kastoria
Should you’re coming from Athens, the quickest choice is, as talked about, by taking a flight to Kastoria Airport. Nonetheless, if flying isn’t an choice for you, you can too take the bus in its place strategy to attain Kastoria. You have got the choice between a direct bus and a bus through Kosani.
DIRECT BUS
- Frequency: As soon as a day
- Schedule: 9:30 AM
- Journey Time: 12 hours, half-hour
- By way of/Stops: Lamia, Larissa, Kozani
- Fare: €48.50
BUS VIA KOZANI
It is a way more sophisticated route because you’ll need to take one other bus to Kastoria. You’ll additionally need to consider the layover ready time if you take this selection as a result of buses are few and much between.
- Athens to Kozani: 7 hours
- Kozani to Kastoria: 75 minutes
Be aware: Complete journey time may nonetheless equal the direct bus, relying in your timing.
What are the Prime Issues to Do in Kastoria
Kastoria is brimming with points of interest which can be completely price your time and power! Whether or not you’re into nature, historical past, or tradition, this enchanting lakeside metropolis has one thing for you. From mystical limestone caves to panoramic hilltop viewpoints, and from neolithic websites to centuries-old Byzantine church buildings, Kastoria is a treasure trove ready to be explored. Each nook appears to whisper a narrative, and also you’ll end up continuously discovering one thing new and engaging. It’s a small metropolis, sure — but it surely’s filled with massive experiences.
Lake Orestiada
Nestled within the coronary heart of Kastoria, Lake Orestiada, often known as Kastoria Lake, is a pure marvel over 10 million years within the making, fed by springs and rivulets. Rooted in historical fantasy, its title comes from the mountain nymphs of Greek legend, and its magnificence shifts with the season: fiery foliage in autumn, a frozen wonderland in winter, and tranquil waters in hotter months.
House to over 200 hen species and edged by scenic strolling paths, it’s a haven for birdwatchers and peace-seekers alike. Whether or not you’re snapping pictures, feeding geese, or sipping espresso by the shore, the magic of Orestiada is inconceivable to overlook.
Dragon’s Cave
One of the charming points of interest by Lake Orestiada is Dragon’s Cave, a pure marvel steeped in legend and formed by nature over tens of millions of years. Named after a neighborhood fantasy a couple of dragon that when lived inside, the cave stretches about 300 meters into the limestone hill by the lake. It options putting rock formations, underground lakes, and chambers lined with stalactites and stalagmites.
Found solely within the Forties, it has revealed historical secrets and techniques, together with cave bear bones over 10,000 years outdated. Simply accessible with a well-maintained path, it’s a magical, walkable journey proper on the fringe of Kastoria.
Location: Sougaridi, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Official Web site: www.spilaiodrakoukast.gr/en/index
Byzantine Church buildings
After we first drove round Kastoria, it wasn’t the lake or grand mansions that caught our eye. It was the abundance of tiny, timeworn chapels scattered throughout town. “Byzantine church buildings,” our information mentioned, and as we explored additional, they stored showing — practically 80 in complete, each telling a narrative of religion, historical past, and heritage.
Some are grand and frescoed, others modest and privately cared for, however all are deeply woven into town’s identification. Highlights embody Panagia Koubelidiki, Agios Stefanos, and Agioi Anargyroi, amongst others. And simply outdoors the middle, the newly constructed Saint Nicanor church provides a contemporary flourish to this historical religious panorama.
The Hill of Prophet Elias
Probably the greatest spots for panoramic views in Kastoria is the Hill of Prophet Elias, residence to a peaceable church and the Profitis Ilias Lounge Café. Perched above town, this cozy café with glass partitions and comfortable couches presents beautiful views of the lake — rain or shine.
We dropped by on a dismal day, however the misty environment solely made it extra magical. We warmed up with three sorts of sizzling chocolate (sure, three!), served with a smile by Kristos, the pleasant proprietor. It’s a must-visit for a quiet escape and a scenic espresso break.
Meals Journey
Out of all of the Balkan cities we visited, Kastoria stood out for its unbelievable meals. It’s recent, flavorful, and rooted in custom. Native staples like sarmades or stuffed pickled cabbage rolls, big Kastorian beans that are baked in herbs and tomato, and batzo or cheese fried saganaki-style are simply the beginning.
Carnivores will love the grilled meat platters loaded with lamb, pork, beef, and even wild boar. And for dessert? Don’t miss the candied fruits or fruit confit, particularly the lime-infused cake we tried in Krystallopigi close to the Albanian border — easy, candy, and unforgettable. We’ll cowl the eating places and meals spots we tried within the subsequent part.
These are simply a number of the highlights. If you need a extra detailed publish with extra options, you may learn our Prime 12 Issues to Do in Kastoria article.
The place to Eat in Kastoria
Kastoria may not be the primary place that involves thoughts if you consider foodie locations in Greece, but it surely ought to be! Amongst all of the stops on our Balkan journey, this idyllic lakeside metropolis served up a number of the most unforgettable meals we had. Each single ingredient — from the famed Florina peppers to the melt-in-your-mouth lamb chops — was bursting with taste and freshness. The standard? Prime-notch.
Listed here are a number of the locations you shouldn’t miss if you go to Kastoria. We additionally included the opening hours as of writing, however be sure to test the up to date schedules earlier than you go.
Palia Poli
This pretty mansion-turned-restaurant is a hidden gem that blends historical past, taste, and a contact of romance. Its cozy courtyard presents the proper setting for al fresco eating. The menu highlights conventional Kastorian delicacies, beginning with comforting classics like sarmades (€5.50), that are pickled cabbage leaves full of minced meat and rice, and Kastorian butter beans (€4.50), baked with herbs, carrots, and tomatoes. Don’t miss the batzo (or bajo) (€5.00), a brined cheese seared saganaki-style and topped with a fried egg.
For one thing lighter, the Kraneia salad is a refreshing shock. It’s a vibrant mixture of arugula, spinach, and lettuce, with sun-dried tomatoes, pomegranate seeds, and slices of crab apple — all drizzled with a tangy cranberry sauce that ties every thing collectively superbly.
And as a bonus? The restaurant sits simply steps away from the lake, so after your meal, you may stroll alongside the waterfront and soak within the postcard-worthy views.
Location: 51 Orestiados Road, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Day by day, 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Instagram: palia_poli_kastoria
Profítis Ilías Lounge Cafe
Talking of beautiful views, few spots in Kastoria can compete with the panorama from Prophet Elias Lounge Café. Perched atop a hill, this cozy café boasts plush couches lined up beside expansive glass partitions, providing an unobstructed, postcard-perfect view of all the peninsula. Whether or not you’re right here for a fast caffeine repair or an extended, gradual afternoon, the setting is nothing wanting magical.
This café ticks all the correct packing containers: nice espresso, delectable desserts, and a serene environment. We sampled their strawberry, cookies-and-cream, and traditional sizzling chocolate, each wealthy and satisfying. It’s the form of place that invitations you to decelerate. Truthfully, if we had extra time, I’d’ve fortunately spent hours right here, with a very good ebook on one hand and a heat drink on the opposite.
Location: Aristeidi Aggelidi, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Day by day, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Diacheirós kai sti Ladókolla – Souvlákia
Should you’re on the lookout for a scrumptious but budget-friendly meal in Kastoria, Diacheiros kai sti Ladokovolla Souvlakia is a must-visit. Consider it or not, lots of their mouthwatering skewers, together with pork kebab, hen kebab, and sausage, are simply €1 every! Even sides like crispy fries and creamy tzatziki sauce go for simply €1 per order.
However don’t let the worth idiot you. The flavour is something however low-cost. Every chew is filled with savory goodness, making this spot a real hidden gem for foodies on a funds. It’s the proper place for a fast snack or a satisfying meal that gained’t break the financial institution.
Location: Arti 11, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Taverna Ammoudara
Throughout our keep in Kastoria, one of the vital memorable meals we had was at Taverna Ammoudara, a humble but distinctive eatery situated within the village of Ammoudara, about 20 minutes from town heart. Whereas it’s a bit off the crushed path, it ended up being our favourite meal of all the journey, principally due to the genuine, homecooked appeal.
The taverna serves conventional northern Greek or Macedonian dishes, however every plate had somewhat one thing additional — a heartwarming high quality that made the meal really feel extremely particular. We began with a cheese-filled pita that was so scrumptious we might have simply known as it a meal by itself. Then got here the sarmades (cabbage rolls), which had been one of the best we’d ever tried, a bit extra bitter than standard.
We had been additionally handled to quite a lot of salads: eggplant salad, Russian salad and beetroot salad with yogurt and walnuts. All three had been unbelievable. The cabbage salad, which was soaked in salt for months and blended with bell peppers, celery, and dill, was additionally refreshing. And for a little bit of distinction, we additionally had batzo, which was a bit oily however splendidly flaky and crispy.
As if that wasn’t sufficient, the primary course introduced a smorgasbord of grilled meats, however the standout was undoubtedly the pancetta — smoky and cooked to perfection. The meatballs had been extremely tender, bursting with recent taste and no processed style. We had been additionally served a novel wild boar sausage, harking back to Filipino longganisa with its wealthy, fatty chew.
All in all, our lunch at Taverna Ammoudara was a standout not solely in Kastoria however all through all the Balkan area. It was a feast filled with coronary heart, taste, and heat. Certainly, one we’ll always remember!
Location: Ταβέρνα Αμμουδάρα, Epar.Od. Pentalofou – Argous Orestikou, Ammoudara 522 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Saturday, 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday, 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Nautical Corridor
Kastoria may not be recognized for its wild nightlife, however there are nonetheless just a few locations the place you may unwind and luxuriate in a drink. Probably the greatest spots for that is Nautical Corridor, a contemporary bar-club-restaurant nestled by the lake. This cozy venue blends nostalgic decor with muted lighting, making a relaxed and intimate environment.
At Nautical Corridor, you’ll discover an spectacular number of drinks — from wines and beers to their signature cocktails. The bar meals can be tasty, although it’s a bit on the pricier aspect in comparison with different locations within the metropolis. If you wish to take within the view, step out onto the terrace and also you’ll be handled to a shocking sight of town lights shimmering on the serene lake under. It’s the proper place to take pleasure in a drink and soak within the quiet fantastic thing about Kastoria at night time.
Location: Sougaridi 1, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday, CLOSED; Wednesday to Thursday, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Fb: www.fb.com/NauticalHallKastoria (Nautikos Omilos – Kastoria)
Instagram: nautikos_omilos_kastoria
When is the Finest Time to Go to Kastoria
We visited Kastoria in Could, and it turned out to be the proper time for our journey. The climate was pretty, with a snug temperature. And because it was earlier than peak season, we loved reasonably priced costs.
We had been additionally fortunate sufficient to witness the glorification ceremony for Saint Sophia, a newly proclaimed saint within the Greek Orthodox Church, held each Could 6 on the Moni Panagias Kleisouras Monastery, which has stood for over 700 years.
Nonetheless, locals assured us that Kastoria is a unbelievable vacation spot all yr spherical. Could is taken into account a shoulder month main into the summer time season, which, whereas bringing barely increased costs and extra vacationers, nonetheless presents an incredible expertise in comparison with different widespread Greek spots.
Should you go to in the course of the summer time, you’ll additionally get to expertise the River Social gathering in Nestorio, Kastoria’s music competition, the place 50,000 individuals collect for a large celebration by the river in August.
However Kastoria’s appeal doesn’t cease there. Whereas we had been strolling round, we couldn’t assist however think about how beautiful town should look in autumn, with maple timber lining the lakeshore and the encompassing hills lined in deciduous forests.
And through winter, town transforms right into a winter wonderland — the lake freezes over, making a magical scene. For these on the lookout for winter adventures, the Vitsi Ski Resort attracts rookies. There’s additionally Ragoutzaria, a wild winter competition in early January that celebrates Dionysus, the traditional Greek god of wine, festivity, pleasure, and ecstacy!
It’s clear that Kastoria presents one thing distinctive for each season!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey might be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You may GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced charge.
Updates Log
2025 8 11 – First uploaded
Written by: Yosh Dimen and Mariah Cruz
Photographs by: Yosh Dimen
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
