Things To Do
in Kastoriá
Kastoriá is a picturesque town located in northern Greece, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning scenery. The town is situated on a promontory on the western shore of Lake Orestiada, surrounded by mountains and forests. Kastoriá is famous for its traditional mansions, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets.
Visitors can also explore the town's Byzantine churches and museums showcasing the region's rich history.
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakaló" - Please/You're welcome
- "S'agapo" - I love you
- "Mia mera" - One day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a serene walk along the shores of Lake Kastoriá. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in the stunning views of the mountains reflected in the water.
Visit the Byzantine Museum of Kastoriá to learn about the city's rich history and art. Grab lunch at a lakeside taverna, sampling local delicacies such as fish and feta.
Stroll through the charming old town, admiring the well-preserved architecture. End your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant while savoring the local flavors.
Start your day by visiting the Monastery of Saint John the Baptist, a peaceful site steeped in history. Take time to explore its beautiful frescoes and learn about its significance.
Head to the nearby Monastery of Virgin Mary, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the monastery grounds to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant known for its warm hospitality. Wind down your evening with a stroll by the waterfront, watching the sunset over the lake.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with stunning lakes and mountains.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
- Famous for fur production, offering unique shopping opportunities.
- Delicious local cuisine with traditional Greek dishes.
- Warm and friendly local community.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel more challenging.
- Fewer tourist amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Cold winters may limit outdoor activities during that season.
- Internet connectivity can be unreliable in some areas.
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism can affect local businesses.
Best Activities in Kastoriá
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic hiking trails that wind around Lake Orestiada, enjoying breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Visit the nearby Prespa National Park, a haven for bird watchers, where you can observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Rent a bicycle and ride through the picturesque countryside of Kastoriá, taking in the natural beauty and charming villages.
Try your hand at fishing in the pristine waters of Lake Kastoriá, known for its rich aquatic life.
Enjoy kayaking on the calm waters of Lake Orestiada, offering a unique perspective of the stunning landscape.
Hike or drive to the top of Vitsi Mountain for panoramic views and opportunities to explore its natural trails.
Take a day to visit various Byzantine monasteries in the area, set amidst beautiful natural backgrounds.
In the warmer months, enjoy a picnic in the scenic areas of Kaimaktsalan, known for its stunning mountain vistas.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kastoriá with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kastoriá
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of Kastoriá and the surrounding area, perfect for photography
Scenic spot with a natural balcony that provides excellent views of the city and Lake Orestiada
Food in Kastoriá
Kastoriá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Papoutsakia, or 'little shoes,' are baked eggplants stuffed with a mixture of spiced ground meat, onions, and tomatoes, topped with creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is a beloved specialty in Kastoriá and can be enjoyed at traditional tavernas like To Petrino.
Must-Try!
Tsirona is a local freshwater fish found in the area's rivers. It is often prepared grilled or fried and served with a squeeze of lemon. For an authentic experience, visit the family-owned Psaropoulos restaurant for their delicious tsirona.
Galaktoboureko is a popular dessert made of layers of crispy filo pastry filled with creamy semolina custard, baked to golden perfection, and drenched in sweet citrus-infused syrup. Indulge in this sweet treat at Kastoriá's pastry shops, such as Omonia.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kastoriá better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Kastoriá Municipal Market is a vibrant hub of local food culture. Here, you can find an array of fresh produce, aromatic spices, homemade cheeses, and olives. Don't miss the opportunity to sample authentic street food like souvlaki and bougatsa from the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kastoriá, it is customary to greet people with a warm handshake or a friendly nod. When meeting someone for the first time, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are important. Friends and family may greet each other with a hug or a cheek kiss.
When dining in Kastoriá, it's polite to wait for the host to invite you to start eating. It is also respectful to try a little bit of every dish offered, as it shows appreciation for the hospitality. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is usually sufficient.
Kastoriá has a more traditional dress code, especially when visiting churches or formal events. Modest clothing is advised, covering shoulders and knees. Locals appreciate when visitors dress appropriately, showing respect for their cultural values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kastoriá with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kastoriá
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kastoriá, Greece, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change in restaurants and cafes. For exceptional service, it is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the total bill, though this can vary based on the establishment's level of service and the diner's satisfaction.
Payment methods in Kastoriá often include cash, which is widely accepted, as well as credit and debit cards. Many establishments, especially in tourist areas, accommodate card payments, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops or rural areas. Visitors should check with their banks regarding any foreign transaction fees for card use.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kastoriá.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Peak tourist season with hot weather and crowded attractions.
Spectacular fall foliage and fewer crowds.
Cold temperatures and occasional snow, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
Kastoriá at Night
Hiking in Kastoriá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Kastoriá, Vitsi offers various trails with stunning views of the surrounding forests and the lake. It's ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
A higher elevation mountain range that provides challenging hikes, scenic vistas, and a chance to explore unique flora and fauna.
This scenic trail runs alongside Lake Orestiada, offering easy walking paths and beautiful views of the water and surrounding countryside, suitable for all levels.
Located southeast of Kastoriá, Mount Lygkos has trails that are less traveled, offering a peaceful hiking experience in nature.
A bit further afield, the trails in Prespa Lakes National Park offer stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for bird watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kastoriá through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kastoriá by plane.
The main international airport serving Thessaloniki, located approximately 150 km from Kastoriá.
An international airport located about 150 km from Kastoriá, serving the region of Epirus.
Located about 190 km from Kastoriá, it serves the island of Corfu and international flights.
Located approximately 70 km from Kastoriá, it's a smaller regional airport with limited international connections.
An airport located in the city of Kavala, around 200 km from Kastoriá, serving flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Kastoriá, encompassing the majority of the population.
A significant number of Albanian immigrants who have settled in the region over the past few decades.
Includes smaller ethnic and religious communities, such as the Romani people and other groups.
A historical presence in the area, reflecting the complex ethnic history of the region.
The Soul of Kastoriá
Discover the essence of Kastoriá through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kastoriá, with several local clubs competing in regional leagues.
Basketball has a significant following in Kastoriá, with youth and adult leagues fostering talent and community involvement.
Volleyball enjoys popularity as a recreational and competitive sport, with local teams participating in various tournaments.
Swimming is a favored summer activity, especially by Lake Kastoria, with facilities and clubs promoting the sport.
Athletics, including running and field events, is practiced by many in Kastoriá, supported by local sports organizations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kastoriá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kastoriá's traditional cuisine heavily features meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan interpretations of local dishes. Look for establishments that specialize in mezedes (small dishes) as they often provide a variety of vegetable-based options and mezes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy Kastoriá's culinary delights by seeking out gluten-free options. Many restaurants are accommodating and can modify dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements. Communicating dietary needs with the staff is recommended for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kastoriá with these cultural adventures.
