Kastoria

🇬🇷 Greece

A hidden gem in northern Greece

Kastoria - Vacation Briefing

Kastoria is a picturesque city located in northern Greece, nestled on the shores of Lake Orestiada. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, this hidden gem offers a unique experience for travelers seeking tranquility and cultural immersion. Immerse yourself in the Byzantine and Ottoman influences that can be seen throughout the city's architecture and visit the ancient Byzantine churches and monasteries. Wander through the charming neighborhoods with their traditional Macedonian houses and enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine, especially the famous Kastorian fur-ravani dessert.

Popular Sights in Kastoria

Byzantine Museum of Kastoria Lake Orestiada Cave of the Dragon Panagia Mavriotissa Monastery Kastoria Castle The Museum of the Macedonian Struggle Dragon's Lair The House of Macedonian Folk Art Folklore Museum of Kastoria Byzantine Museum of Kastoria

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Things to do during your Kastoria vacation

Kastoria is a picturesque city located in northern Greece, known for its stunning lakeside setting and rich history. This charming destination offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring historical landmarks to indulging in delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the top things to do in Kastoria.

Visit the Byzantine Museum: Discover the city's Byzantine heritage through a fascinating collection of religious artifacts and artworks.
Explore the Castle of Kastoria: Climb up to the hilltop castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the beautiful Lake Orestiada.
Take a walk along the Lakeside Promenade: Stroll along the scenic promenade, lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and traditional mansions.
Visit the Dragon's Cave: Explore this natural cave believed to be the ancient dwelling place of dragons, according to local legends.
Discover the Neolithic Settlement of Dispilio: Uncover the secrets of an ancient lakeside village through archaeological remains and interactive exhibits.
Try traditional Kastorian pie: Indulge in the famous local pie made with layers of crispy filo pastry and filled with various delicious fillings.
Go shopping at the local market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kastoria's market, where you can find fresh produce, textiles, and local crafts.
Take a boat tour on Lake Orestiada: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the serene lake, taking in the scenic views and discovering hidden coves.
Visit the Folklore Museum: Learn about the local traditions and culture of Kastoria through a diverse collection of traditional costumes, crafts, and artifacts.
Hike to the Cave of the Dragon: Embark on a rewarding hike through scenic trails to reach the mysterious cave, hidden amidst lush greenery.

Why you should visit Kastoria

Overall

Kastoria, Greece is a destination worth considering for its cultural and historical significance, although it may not appeal to everyone.

Safety

Kastoria has a moderate safety rating due to occasional petty crimes and tourists should remain cautious in crowded areas.

Culture

Kastoria offers a rich cultural experience with its beautifully preserved Byzantine architecture, museums, and historical sites.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Kastoria is limited and may not be suitable for those seeking vibrant and lively entertainment options.

Adventure

Kastoria has limited adventure activities available and may not be the ideal destination for adrenaline seekers.

Relaxation

Kastoria offers some opportunities for relaxation with its scenic lake, but it may not have extensive options for beach or outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Kastoria

Kastoria, Greece offers a variety of experiences throughout the year. For those seeking warm, sunny weather and vibrant festivals, the best time to visit is from May to September. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, October and November are ideal. Enjoy exploring the stunning lakeside town and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Jan

Mild weather, but occasional rain

-1°C - 8°C

Feb

Mild weather, but occasional rain

0°C - 10°C

Mar

Pleasant weather and fewer crowds

2°C - 14°C

Apr

Mild weather and blooming nature

6°C - 18°C

May

Warm weather and lively festivals

11°C - 23°C

Jun

Sunshine and outdoor activities

15°C - 27°C

Jul

Warm weather, perfect for lakeside enjoyment

18°C - 31°C

Aug

Warm weather for outdoor exploration

17°C - 31°C

Sep

Pleasant weather and cultural events

13°C - 26°C

Oct

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists

8°C - 20°C

Nov

Cool weather and peaceful ambiance

3°C - 13°C

Dec

Chilly weather but festive spirit

0°C - 8°C

A guide To your first day of Kastoria vacation

morning

Start your morning with a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Lake Orestiada, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views.
Visit the Kastoria Folklore Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region and admire the impressive collection of traditional costumes, crafts, and artifacts.

afternoon

Explore the Byzantine churches of Kastoria, such as the Panagia Mavriotissa and the Agios Stefanos, known for their stunning frescoes and architectural beauty.
Take a boat trip to the island of Cave, located in the middle of Lake Orestiada, and discover the hidden gems of this unique natural paradise.

evening

Relax and unwind in one of the charming lakeside cafes or taverns, while enjoying the picturesque sunset over the lake.
Take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town, lined with traditional houses and atmospheric cafes, and immerse yourself in the charming ambiance of Kastoria.

night

Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants, serving traditional Greek cuisine and fresh seafood delicacies.
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kastoria by visiting one of the lively bars or clubs, where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere.

How to get to Kastoria

By Plane

Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) is the most convenient airport to reach Kastoria. It offers frequent international flights and is well-connected to the city center by bus or car. Travellers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains during the approximately 2-hour drive to Kastoria.

Check direct connections to SKG Airport

By other means

Kastoria can be reached by bus or car from Thessaloniki. Buses depart regularly from Thessaloniki Bus Station, offering a comfortable and affordable option for travellers. The scenic journey takes approximately 3 hours and allows passengers to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of northern Greece.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!