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 missed, but it’s one you must undoubtedly add to your journey record — Kastoria.
Nestled in the course of a picturesque lake, this charming metropolis doesn’t at all times make it to the highest of the record for many vacationers. But it surely 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 standard vacationer spots. And on this article, we’ll share with you a few of the issues it’s essential to learn about this metropolis, together with some suggestions. 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 the town.
Situated 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 pictures, it’d seem to be an island, however it’s truly perched on a promontory that juts out into the water.
Kastoria is probably finest identified for its wealthy assortment of Byzantine church buildings and its once-thriving fur business, which performed a significant function in its economic system for a few years. Nonetheless, in latest occasions, the town’s different sights 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 attraction and historic significance, Kastoria is a vacation spot that must be on each traveler’s radar.
- Language: Greek. Greece has its personal alphabet, which generally is a bit intimidating at first, particularly should you’re not aware of it. Whereas there could also be a slight language barrier, the excellent news is that many locals converse English properly. Moreover, most avenue indicators are written in each Greek and English, so getting round is pretty straightforward and simple.
- Timezone: UTC+02:00 (EET – Japanese 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.
- Forex: Euro (EUR, €). €1 = 1.17 USD, SGD 1.50, PHP 67
- Modes of Cost: 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 Kind F, which additionally settle for Kind C plugs.
By the best way, Greece is a part of the Schengen Settlement, which signifies that vacationers from most nations, together with the Philippines, might want to safe and current a Schengen Visa to enter. Make sure that 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 be sure that to test our web site often.
The place to Keep in Kastoria
Let’s begin by getting aware of the geography of Kastoria. As talked about, the town is nestled on a peninsula that extends into Lake Orestiada, nearly totally surrounded by water aside from its western half. The easternmost tip is marked by limestone peaks, making a putting panorama. Whereas the 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. Irrespective of the place you keep, you’ll discover that almost all locations are inside straightforward strolling distance.
Prime Motels in Kastoria
Throughout our time there, we had the possibility to go to three exceptional accommodations that provide a mixture of consolation and distinctive experiences.
- Resort Orologopoulou Mansion. Constructed within the nineteenth century, this 250-year-old mansion has been remodeled right into a 9-room lodge that mixes modernity and historical past. It’s positioned within the Doltso space, close to Doltso Sq., within the southeastern aspect of the town correct, which may 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 accommodations 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. Verify Charges & Availability! ✅
- Esperos Place Luxurious and Spa Resort. Situated within the Chloe space, outdoors the peninsula however nonetheless near key sights. 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. 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. If you happen to’re heading to Nestório for the long-lasting River Social gathering music competition or just wish to discover the realm in consolation, this lodge is a good possibility This four-star gem presents 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 right spot to soak within the surroundings. Verify Charges & Availability! ✅
- Krystal Resort. Kastoria additionally makes an excellent cease should you’re on a Balkan journey! If you happen to’re planning to cross the Greece–Albania border, contemplate 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! ✅
Prime Funds Motels & Guesthouses in Kastoria
For price range 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!
The way to Get to Kastoria
The closest airport to Kastoria is the Kastoria Airport Aristotle (KSO), positioned 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 daily. If you happen to occur to discover a flight that matches your schedule, that is the quickest technique to get there.
If not, your subsequent best choice is Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), positioned 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 Categorical flight to Thessaloniki. Our host household kindly organized a pick-up on the airport, so we didn’t have to fret about transfers. Nonetheless, should 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 Outdoors the Prefecture”.
Athens to Kastoria
If you happen to’re coming from Athens, the quickest possibility is, as talked about, by taking a flight to Kastoria Airport. Nonetheless, if flying isn’t an possibility for you, you can even take the bus instead technique to attain Kastoria. You’ve 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
- Through/Stops: Lamia, Larissa, Kozani
- Fare: €48.50
BUS VIA KOZANI
This can be a far more difficult route because you’ll need to take one other bus to Kastoria. You’ll additionally need to take into accounts the layover ready time once you take this selection as a result of buses are few and much between.
- Athens to Kozani: 7 hours
- Kozani to Kastoria: 75 minutes
Notice: Whole 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 sights 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 consistently discovering one thing new and interesting. It’s a small metropolis, sure — however it’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 delusion, 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 not possible to overlook.
Dragon’s Cave
One of the crucial fascinating sights 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 a neighborhood delusion a few dragon that after 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
Once 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 the town. “Byzantine church buildings,” our information mentioned, and as we explored additional, they saved showing — almost 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 the 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
Among the finest spots for panoramic views in Kastoria is the Hill of Prophet Elias, dwelling to a peaceable church and the Profitis Ilias Lounge Café. Perched above the 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, 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 a few of the highlights. If you would like a extra detailed put up with extra solutions, you’ll be able to 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 once you consider foodie locations in Greece, however it must be! Amongst all of the stops on our Balkan journey, this idyllic lakeside metropolis served up a few 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 below are a few of the locations you shouldn’t miss once you go to Kastoria. We additionally included the opening hours as of writing, however be sure that to test the up to date schedules earlier than you go.
Palia Poli
This beautiful mansion-turned-restaurant is a hidden gem that blends historical past, taste, and a contact of romance. Its cozy courtyard presents the right 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 the whole lot collectively fantastically.
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: 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 the complete peninsula. Whether or not you’re right here for a fast caffeine repair or a protracted, gradual afternoon, the setting is nothing wanting magical.
This café ticks all the appropriate 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 great e book 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
If you happen to’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 price range. It’s the right place for a fast snack or a satisfying meal that received’t break the financial institution.
Location: Arti 11, Kastoria 521 00, Greece
Taverna Ammoudara
Throughout our keep in Kastoria, some of the memorable meals we had was at Taverna Ammoudara, a humble but distinctive eatery positioned within the village of Ammoudara, about 20 minutes from the town heart. Whereas it’s a bit off the overwhelmed path, it ended up being our favourite meal of the complete journey, principally due to the genuine, homecooked attraction.
The taverna serves conventional northern Greek or Macedonian dishes, however every plate had just a little 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 may have simply referred to 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 common.
We had been additionally handled to a wide range of salads: eggplant salad, Russian salad and beetroot salad with yogurt and walnuts. All three had been implausible. 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 principle 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 singular 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 the complete Balkan area. It was a feast stuffed 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 identified for its wild nightlife, however there are nonetheless a number of locations the place you’ll be able to unwind and revel in a drink. Among the finest 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 choice of drinks — from wines and beers to their signature cocktails. The bar meals can also 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 surprising sight of the town lights shimmering on the serene lake under. It’s the right 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 Greatest Time to Go to Kastoria
We visited Kastoria in Might, and it turned out to be the right time for our journey. The climate was beautiful, with a cushty 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 Might 6 on the Moni Panagias Kleisouras Monastery, which has stood for over 700 years.
Nonetheless, locals assured us that Kastoria is a implausible vacation spot all yr spherical. Might is taken into account a shoulder month main into the summer season season, which, whereas bringing barely increased costs and extra vacationers, nonetheless presents an excellent expertise in comparison with different well-liked Greek spots.
If you happen to go to through the summer season, 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 attraction doesn’t cease there. Whereas we had been strolling round, we couldn’t assist however think about how beautiful the town should look in autumn, with maple timber lining the lakeshore and the encompassing hills lined in deciduous forests.
And through winter, the 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 inexperienced persons. 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 elective, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey may be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate 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 price.
Updates Log
2025 8 11 – First uploaded
Written by: Yosh Dimen and Mariah Cruz
Photographs by: Yosh Dimen
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
