If 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 usually will get ignored, but it’s one you must positively add to your journey listing — Kastoria.
Nestled in the course of a picturesque lake, this charming metropolis doesn’t all the time make it to the highest of the listing for many vacationers. Nevertheless 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 among the issues it’s essential to learn about this metropolis, together with some ideas. Hopefully, you’ll be able to fall in love with it the best way 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 course of the beautiful Lake Orestiada. In images, it’d seem to be an island, but it surely’s really perched on a promontory that juts out into the water.
Kastoria is maybe finest identified for its wealthy assortment of Byzantine church buildings and its once-thriving fur trade, which performed a significant function in its economic system for a few years. Nevertheless, in latest occasions, 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 positively price experiencing. With its distinctive attraction 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 is usually 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 properly. Moreover, most road indicators are written in each Greek and English, so getting round is pretty simple 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 12 months, 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 Fee: Money continues to be the most typical, however bank card funds are accepted in some institutions.
- Electrical energy Information: 230 V, 50 Hz. Energy sockets are Sort F, which additionally settle for Sort C plugs.
By the best way, Greece is a part of the Schengen Settlement, which implies that vacationers from most international locations, together with the Philippines, might want to safe and current a Schengen Visa to enter. Ensure to plan forward and get your visa sorted earlier than your journey to keep away from any hiccups alongside the best way! We’ll be updating our Schengen Visa article, so make sure that to examine our web site repeatedly.
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 solely 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 slim strip of land close to the peninsula’s neck.
Regardless of its hilly terrain, Kastoria is a small metropolis, and you’ll simply stroll from one finish to the opposite — whether or not that’s from coast to coast or north to south. Regardless of the place you keep, you’ll discover that almost all locations are inside simple strolling distance.
High Motels in Kastoria
Throughout our time there, we had the possibility to go to three exceptional inns that supply a mixture of consolation and distinctive experiences.
- Resort Orologopoulou Mansion. Constructed within the nineteenth century, this 250-year-old mansion has been reworked right into a 9-room resort 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. Verify Charges & Availability! ✅
- Vergoula’s Mansion. One of many oldest inns within the metropolis, it was constructed round 200 years in the past. It’s perched on a cliff, overlooking the lake, providing top-of-the-line views within the metropolis. A keep right here prices EUR 81 an evening, inclusive of breakfast. Verify Charges & Availability! ✅
- Esperos Place Luxurious and Spa Resort. 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 crammed with many conveniences you’d count on from five-star properties — from anatomical beds to aromatic toiletries to bathrobes. Verify 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 Resort Resort. When you’re heading to Nestório for the long-lasting River Celebration music competition or just wish to discover the world in consolation, this resort is a good possibility This four-star gem provides an opulent 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. Verify Charges & Availability! ✅
- Krystal Resort. Kastoria additionally makes an ideal cease when you’re on a Balkan journey! When you’re planning to cross the Greece–Albania border, take into account spending an evening within the peaceable village of Krystallopigi. Krystal Resort is a good possibility. 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. Verify Charges & Availability! ✅
High Finances Motels & Guesthouses in Kastoria
For finances vacationers, you’ll discover pocket-friendly properties for as little as EUR 40 per night time for a double or twin room. Listed below are some choices on Reserving.com and Motels.com.
Seek for extra Kastoria Motels!
Get to Kastoria
The closest airport to Kastoria is the Kastoria Airport Aristotle (KSO), situated within the close by city of Argos Orestiko. Nevertheless, it solely serves a restricted variety of home flights, principally from Athens, and flights aren’t out there daily. When you occur to discover a flight that matches your schedule, that is the quickest method to get there.
If not, your subsequent best 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. Nevertheless, 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 examine 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 examine by visiting KTEL web site and click on “Itineraries Outdoors the Prefecture”.
Athens to Kastoria
When you’re coming from Athens, the quickest possibility is, as talked about, by taking a flight to Kastoria Airport. Nevertheless, if flying isn’t an possibility for you, you too can take the bus instead method to attain Kastoria. You’ve 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
This can be a far more difficult route because you’ll should take one other bus to Kastoria. You’ll additionally should consider the layover ready time whenever 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: Whole journey time may nonetheless equal the direct bus, relying in your timing.
What are the High Issues to Do in Kastoria
Kastoria is brimming with points of interest which might be completely price your time and vitality! 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 continually discovering one thing new and engaging. It’s a small metropolis, sure — but it surely’s full of huge experiences.
Lake Orestiada
Nestled within the coronary heart of Kastoria, Lake Orestiada, also referred to as Kastoria Lake, is a pure surprise over 10 million years within the making, fed by springs and rivulets. Rooted in historical fantasy, its identify 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.
Residence 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 photographs, feeding geese, or sipping espresso by the shore, the magic of Orestiada is inconceivable to overlook.
Dragon’s Cave
One of the vital fascinating points of interest by Lake Orestiada is Dragon’s Cave, a pure surprise steeped in legend and formed by nature over thousands and thousands of years. Named after an area 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 whole, 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 embrace 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 cozy couches provides 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 scorching 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 contemporary, flavorful, and rooted in custom. Native staples like sarmades or stuffed pickled cabbage rolls, large 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 among the highlights. If you need a extra detailed put up with extra solutions, you’ll be able to learn our High 12 Issues to Do in Kastoria article.
The place to Eat in Kastoria
Kastoria won’t be the primary place that involves thoughts whenever 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 among 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? High-notch.
Listed below are among the locations you shouldn’t miss whenever you go to Kastoria. We additionally included the opening hours as of writing, however make sure that to examine 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 provides 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 filled with 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 all the pieces collectively superbly.
And as a bonus? The restaurant sits simply steps away from the lake, so after your meal, you’ll be able to stroll alongside the waterfront and soak within the postcard-worthy views.
Location: 51 Orestiados Road, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Every 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 your entire peninsula. Whether or not you’re right here for a fast caffeine repair or a protracted, sluggish afternoon, the setting is nothing in need of magical.
This café ticks all the fitting packing containers: nice espresso, delectable desserts, and a serene environment. We sampled their strawberry, cookies-and-cream, and traditional scorching chocolate, each wealthy and satisfying. It’s the form of place that invitations you to decelerate. Truthfully, if we had extra time, I might’ve fortunately spent hours right here, with a superb guide on one hand and a heat drink on the opposite.
Location: Aristeidi Aggelidi, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Every day, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Diacheirós kai sti Ladókolla – Souvlákia
When you’re in search of 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, rooster 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 full of savory goodness, making this spot a real hidden gem for foodies on a finances. 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 crucial 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 overwhelmed path, it ended up being our favourite meal of your entire journey, principally due to the genuine, homecooked attraction.
The taverna serves conventional northern Greek or Macedonian dishes, however every plate had a bit one thing further — a heartwarming high quality that made the meal really feel extremely particular. We began with a cheese-filled pita that was so scrumptious we may have simply known as it a meal by itself. Then got here the sarmades (cabbage rolls), which have been the perfect we’d ever tried, a bit extra bitter than typical.
We have been additionally handled to a wide range of salads: eggplant salad, Russian salad and beetroot salad with yogurt and walnuts. All three have been implausible. The cabbage salad, which was soaked in salt for months and combined 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 positively the pancetta — smoky and cooked to perfection. The meatballs have been extremely tender, bursting with contemporary taste and no processed style. We have been additionally served a novel wild boar sausage, paying homage 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 your entire Balkan area. It was a feast stuffed with coronary heart, taste, and heat. Absolutely, 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 won’t be identified for its wild nightlife, however there are nonetheless just a few locations the place you’ll be able to 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 collection 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 great 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 cushty temperature. And because it was earlier than peak season, we loved reasonably priced costs.
We have 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.
Nevertheless, locals assured us that Kastoria is a implausible vacation spot all 12 months spherical. Could is taken into account a shoulder month main into the summer season season, which, whereas bringing barely increased costs and extra vacationers, nonetheless provides an ideal expertise in comparison with different well-liked Greek spots.
When you go to throughout the summer season, you’ll additionally get to expertise the River Celebration in Nestorio, Kastoria’s music competition, the place 50,000 folks collect for a large celebration by the river in August.
However Kastoria’s attraction doesn’t cease there. Whereas we have been strolling round, we couldn’t assist however think about how beautiful town should look in autumn, with maple bushes lining the lakeshore and the encircling 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 in search of winter adventures, the Vitsi Ski Resort attracts newbies. 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 provides one thing distinctive for each season!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey might be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, take into account PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to 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
Pictures by: Yosh Dimen
Edited by: Asta Alvarez