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There are an array of things to do in Greece, with Konitsa sharing quite a few of those!
Tucked away in the heart of Epirus, lies a hidden gem – Konitsa.
Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and glistening rivers, this charming town offers a plethora of activities that will leave you spellbound.
From hiking through the untamed wilderness to indulging in local gastronomy, Konitsa is a destination that promises to awaken your senses and soothe your soul.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Konitsa:
1. Aoos River
A river that runs through the town of Konitsa in northern Greece.
What to see or do: Relax by the river and take in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. There are also opportunities for hiking and rafting along the river.
Don’t miss: The historic stone bridge that spans the river, known as the Konitsa Bridge. It was built in the 18th century and is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal by the river. For a more adventurous experience, book a whitewater rafting tour with a local guide.
2. Konitsa Bridge
Konitsa Bridge, also known as Konitsa Old Bridge or Ottoman Bridge, is a historic stone bridge located in the town of Konitsa, in northwestern Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk across the bridge, which spans the Aoos River, and admire the beautiful scenery that surrounds it. The bridge is made of stone and has a total of four arches, with the middle arch being the largest.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos of the bridge and the river from various angles. The views of the surrounding mountains and forests are also not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: It is best to visit the Konitsa Bridge early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the light is soft and the crowds are smaller.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven surface of the bridge. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby where visitors can sample traditional Greek cuisine and beverages.
3. Papingo
A picturesque traditional village located in the Zagori region of Greece.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the stone-built houses and visit the folklore museum.
Hike to the nearby Papingo rock pools or explore the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world, located just a short drive away.
Don’t miss: Taste the local cuisine, especially the famous Papingo pie, a traditional dish made with phyllo pastry and a variety of savory fillings.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and get better deals on accommodation.
If you’re planning on hiking, make sure to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, as the paths can be slippery and rocky.
Also, try to visit the rock pools in the early morning or late afternoon, as they can get crowded during peak hours.
4. Mount Tymfi
A majestic mountain range in northwestern Greece, located near the town of Konitsa.
What to see or do: Hike through the breathtaking Vikos Gorge, the world’s deepest canyon in proportion to its width, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Explore unspoiled nature and alpine lakes, including Drakolimni, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by towering cliffs. Discover the traditional stone-built villages with their unique architecture, such as Mikro and Megalo Papingo.
Don’t miss: The Astraka refuge, located at an altitude of 2,050 meters, offering shelter to mountaineers and hikers with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
Also, the Moutnaineering Museum of Konitsa that showcases the history and development of mountaineering in Greece and the wider Balkan region.
Insider travel tips: Pack warm clothes, even in summer, as the temperature drops significantly at high altitudes. Consider hiring a guide to lead you through the complex network of trails.
Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies, such as kontosouvli, a spit-roasted pork dish, and tsipouro, a strong spirit made from grape must.
5. Molivdoskepasti Monastery
Molivdoskepasti Monastery is a serene and historic monastery located in Konitsa, a picturesque town in northwestern Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the monastery and admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also visit the small museum which houses a collection of religious artifacts from the Byzantine period.
For those who would like to experience the prayer service, the monks offer a warm welcome.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the monastery is the 16th-century frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings of the church. The intricate artwork depicts scenes from the life of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and other religious figures.
Insider travel tips: – Dress modestly when visiting the monastery.
6. Aoos Gorge
Aoos Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located near the town of Konitsa in northwestern Greece.
It is a narrow gorge with tall limestone cliffs that tower up to 1300 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
What to see or do: The gorge is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, climb, and explore the natural beauty of the area.
Visitors can take a guided tour or hike the trail on their own, admiring the crystal-clear waters of the Aoos River below.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a chance to visit the old stone arched bridge of Konitsa located at the entrance of Aoos Gorge. It is a historic landmark and one of the most photographed spots in the area.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the hike can be challenging.
7. Dragon Lake
Dragon Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the Pindus Mountains of Greece, near the town of Konitsa.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains, fishing or swimming in the clear waters of the lake. The lake is also a popular destination for bird watchers, with many species of birds making their home here.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a hike up to the nearby Dragon’s Cave, an impressive natural cave formation located high above the lake.
It offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and is a great place for a picnic.
Insider travel tips: – Dragon Lake is best seen in the summer months when the weather is warmest and the lake is at its clearest.
8. Lazaridis Folklore Museum
The Lazaridis Folklore Museum in Konitsa, Greece, is a charming museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and traditions of the region.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can explore a variety of traditional clothing, instruments, household items, and tools from the local area. The exhibits provide an excellent introduction to the traditional way of life in the Pindos Mountains.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the display of traditional costumes from the villages of Konitsa and Zagoria. Also, make sure to visit the museum’s outdoor courtyard, which is home to a collection of antique farm machinery.
Insider travel tips: If possible, plan your visit to coincide with one of the museum’s frequent evening concerts of traditional Greek music. Additionally, the museum is located next to a lovely park, which offers picturesque views of the Pindos Mountains.
9. Konitsa Castle
Konitsa Castle is a medieval fortress located in the town of Konitsa, Greece.
What to see or do: Tourists can take a pleasant walk through the stone-paved streets of the town to reach the castle. Once there, they can explore the castle’s remains, including the walls, towers, and gates.
The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the remains of the Byzantine church of St. Nikolaos, which is located inside the castle walls.
Visitors can also climb to the top of the main tower to enjoy the panoramic view.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the hilly terrain. Additionally, be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen during the summer months, as there is not much shade available.
Finally, tourists should check the opening hours of the castle beforehand, as they may vary depending on the season.
10. Vrisohori Village
Vrisohori is a picturesque village located in the mountainous region of Konitsa in northern Greece.
It is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and offers a quiet and peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
What to see or do: Take a walk around the village and admire the traditional stone houses and narrow cobblestone streets. Visit the local church of Agios Nikolaos and explore the beautiful frescoes inside.
Take a hike along the scenic Vikos Gorge or go rafting on the Aoos River for an unforgettable adventure.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try the mouthwatering local cuisine, including the famous trahanas soup and delicious pies filled with cheese and greens.
Take a scenic drive to the nearby village of Aristi to see the impressive stone arched bridge of Kokkorou.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to attend the Vrisohori Festival, where you can enjoy live music and traditional dances while sampling local cuisine.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try paragliding from the top of Mount Trapezitsa for a thrilling experience and unparalleled views of the surrounding area.
11. Syrrako Village
Syrrako is a traditional mountain village in northern Greece, located in the Tzoumerka Mountains. It is a beautiful destination known for its stunning views and well-preserved architecture.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the village and admire the stone houses and cobblestone paths.
Don’t miss: – The Church of St. Nicholas, a 17th-century church with beautiful frescoes.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Syrrako during the winter months to experience the magic of the village covered in snow.
12. Mikro Papigo Village
A picturesque and charming village located in the heart of the Zagori region of Greece.
What to see or do: Explore the traditional stone houses and cobblestone streets, take a hike through the nearby Vikos Gorge, visit the 15th century Monastery of St.
Paraskevi, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Don’t miss: A visit to the acclaimed restaurant “Saranta,” which serves delicious local dishes made with organic ingredients.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring sturdy shoes if you plan to do any hiking, and consider visiting during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices.
Also, be prepared for cooler temperatures at night, as Mikro Papigo sits at a high elevation.
13. Konitsa Mosque
The Konitsa Mosque is a historic Ottoman mosque located in the town of Konitsa, Greece.
It was built during the 17th century and served as a place of worship for the local Muslim community for several centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the impressive exterior of the mosque and its elegant, traditional Ottoman-style architecture. The mosque features a large central dome and two smaller domes, as well as intricate decoration and design elements.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding area of Konitsa, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation activities.
Hiking, mountain biking, and rafting are popular pastimes here.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to research the mosque’s hours of operation before visiting, as it may be closed on certain days. Additionally, visitors should dress modestly out of respect for the mosque’s significance as a place of worship.
14. Ancient City of Molossos
The Ancient City of Molossos is an archaeological site located on a hilltop near the town of Konitsa in Greece. Founded in the 4th century BC, it was an important city of the Molossian kingdom.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including the ancient walls, buildings, and tombs. The site offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive theater, which could seat up to 3,000 spectators, and the ancient agora where political and commercial activities took place.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the site, it’s recommended to hire a local guide who can provide historical and cultural context. The site is only accessible by foot and can be steep and rocky, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
15. Monastery of Stomio
The Monastery of Stomio is a historic Greek Orthodox monastery located on the slopes of Mount Trapezitsa, near the town of Konitsa in northern Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Monastery of Stomio can explore the beautiful architecture of the complex, which features several churches, chapels, and other buildings that date back to the 16th century.
Inside the monastery, you can admire the ornate frescoes and intricate wood carvings adorning the walls and ceilings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the main church of St. Nicholas, which is adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints.
Also worth seeing is the small chapel dedicated to St. Panteleimon, which features an impressive collection of ancient relics and icons.
Insider travel tips: – Wear appropriate clothing when visiting the monastery, as it is a holy site and visitors are expected to dress modestly.