Road trip to the ancient theatres of Epirus

Athens

Day 1: Arrive into Athens

Welcome to Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world with a recorded history of more than 3,000 years. After your arrival at the airport, you'll be collected and taken by private transfer to your city-centre hotel. From there, enjoy some free time at leisure as you find your bearings.

Athens - Arta - Ioannina

Day 2: Take the wheel for a Grecian road trip

You’ll begin today by picking up your car rental in central Athens before embarking on your Grecian road trip. Drive northwest into the fascinating region of Epirus where you will find your first stop, the beautiful city of Arta, known as Ambracia in ancient times.

Many of Arta’s historic highlights await your visit, including its medieval bridge over the Arachthos River, the church of Panagia Parigoritissa (one of the most important Byzantine churches in Greece), the ancient theatre of Ambracia, and the impressive 13th-century Byzantine castle. Then, continue on to your next stop: Ioannina, the capital of Epirus, which will be your base for the next couple of evenings.

Ioannina

Day 3: Explore multicultural Ioannina

Built on the shores of the beautiful Lake Pamvotida, Ioannina was established in the 6th century AD by the Byzantine emperor Justinian. You could visit the imposing castle of Ioannina, the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece, before taking a boat ride to the island on the lake where you’ll find a delightful little village with picturesque paved alleys and folk art shops.

After working up an appetite, head to the village of Zitsa where you can visit a traditional vineyard and taste local food and wines. On your way back to Ioannina, you can make a stop at Theofegyro, an impressive natural rock arched bridge over the river.  

In the afternoon, explore traditional coffee shops, taste local sweets and admire silver ornaments sold in the town's jewellers' shops.

Ioannina - Zagori - Ioannina

Day 4: The hidden gems of Zagori

Embark on a day trip to the stunning region of Zagori today, visiting the picturesque villages of Zagorochoria, nestled on the slopes of the Mitsikeli mountain. One of these villages is the charming and unmissable Monodendri, from where you can soak up breathtaking views of the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Spend some time at your own pace, strolling through narrow alleys and perhaps visiting the old church of Agia Paraskevi, which boasts magnificent frescoes. Another wonderful option is the village of Kipi, where you can discover the famous three-arched Kokkori stone bridge, before tasting local flavours such as pies with wild greens, goat stew, and local cheeses.

Ioannina - Dodoni - Parga

Day 5: Journey to Dodona's ancient oracle

Begin with a dose of Ancient Greek history at Dodona, the oldest of the Greek oracles, named by Herodotus as the country's 'most ancient city’. Gaze upon its awe-inspiring archaeological ruins, explore the Hellenistic Theatre and foundations of the Hiera Oikia (Sacred Home), and imagine yourself amidst what was once a spiritual site bustling with people in search of prophecies and advice from priests.

Next, you'll drive through the scenic Paramythia mountains, to the picturesque town of Parga. Relax on the beach, swim in the inviting Ionian Sea, and enjoy local cuisine at one of the charming seaside restaurants.

Parga - Necromanteion - Parga

Day 6: Visit Necromanteion, the door to the Underworld

Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Cassope. Marvel at its streets, considered one of the best remaining examples of a city built along the lines of a Hippodamian plan in Greece, and other stunning monuments including the Temple of Aphrodite. From there, venture to the Necromanteion, to follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims to the doors of Hades.

Afterwards, explore the banks of the Acheron River, one of the five rivers of the Greek underworld; you could take a short hike or boat ride filled with stories of Hades, Persephone, Pluto, and Ulysses from the boatmen themselves.

Spend the late afternoon cooling off with a swim at the beach, or taste fresh seafood recipes in a traditional seaside taverna. Finally, you'll make tracks for Parga, to relax some more before finding a cosy spot for dinner.

Parga - Nicopolis - Athens

Day 7: Explore Nicopolis, the City of Victory

Today, journey on to the magnificent archaeological site of Nicopolis, the City of Victory. Founded by Emperor Augustus Octavian in 31 BC after his victory in the famous naval battle of Actium, Nicopolis now represents the largest Roman city in Greece. Marvel at the fortification walls, Roman Odeon, Monument of Augustus, Roman Stadium, and renowned Nymphaeum complex. Don't forget to visit the newly-built Archaeological Museum to see the impressive statues and learn about the history of this triumphant city.

For lunch, you could savour traditional Greek cuisine at a cosy taverna in nearby Preveza. Afterwards, you'll embark on your return trip to Athens where you'll spend the evening strolling around this magnificent city.

Athens

Day 8: Your journey draws to a close

An amazing journey has come to an end. Spend your last day in Athens wandering and discovering the city on your own, before your transfer back to the airport.