Greece
A picturesque coastal town in Epirus with colorful houses, narrow alleys, and a strong island atmosphere.
The medieval castle of Parga is strategically positioned on a rocky peninsula, offering sea views from three sides and town views from the other. It was built by the Venetians in the 16th century and later reinforced by Ali Pasha, serving as an important landmark with a rich history and impressive fortifications.
The verdant Islet of the Virgin Mary is located right opposite the port of Parga and is one of the most photographed attractions. It hosts a picturesque church with a characteristic bell tower and a small French castle built in 1808 to control the bay.
Venetian Castle of Parga
Parga Castle · 2 hours
The castle offers panoramic views of the sea and the town, serving as one of the most important historical spots in the region. You will walk along the cobbled paths and see the impressive fortifications built in the 16th century by the Venetians.
Why it's worth it: It is ideal to visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the peace of the area.
Islet of the Virgin Mary
Opposite the port · 1 hour
You can rent a pedal boat or take a boat to reach the verdant islet located right opposite the port. There you will see the picturesque church with the bell tower and the ruins of the 1808 French castle.
Why it's worth it: The short distance from the port allows for a quick and pleasant visit before noon.
Valtos Beach
Restaurant · Seafood and fish · €€
Fresh catch of the day
Café · Coffee and snacks · €
Panoramic sunset views
Taverna · Mediterranean · €€
Homemade cooked dishes
Taverna · Epirote · €€
Grilled meats
The nearest airport is Aktion National Airport (PVK) in Preveza, about 65 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can fly to Corfu (CFU) and take a ferry and taxi to Parga.
The center of Parga is ideal for walking, with narrow, cobbled alleys and steps leading to the castle and the waterfront. However, for more remote beaches and sights, transportation is required.
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Sign inBest time to visit
The best time to visit Parga is the shoulder season, namely the months of May, June, and September. Then the weather is ideal for swimming, temperatures are milder (24-28°C), and there are fewer crowds, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the beaches and sights. September stands out in particular, as the sea is still warm and visibility is excellent. In July and August, Parga buzzes with life, but it is more crowded and has higher prices.
There are pharmacies and medical clinics in Parga for first aid provision. For more serious incidents, the nearest hospital is in Preveza. Taking basic medications for common ailments is recommended.
Valtos Beach is the largest beach in Parga, stretching for about 3 kilometers, and is located right below the impressive castle rock. With fine sand and pebbles, clean and calm waters, it is fully organized and offers a variety of water sports.
At a distance of 3 kilometers east of Parga, Lichnos Beach is known for its lush green landscape, the olive groves surrounding it, and its deep blue, crystal-clear waters. It features sandy and pebbly spots, and also hosts two small sea caves, with one of them said to be where the goddess Aphrodite swam.
The Acheron Springs, near the village of Glyki, constitute a landscape of unparalleled natural beauty and mythological significance, as ancient Greeks considered them the gates of the Underworld. Here you can walk through the icy waters of the river, go rafting, or visit the nearby Necromanteion.
Ali Pasha Castle is located on a hill between the villages of Anthousa and Agia, about 5 kilometers north of Parga. It is a bulky and imposing building that has been preserved in very good condition, offering stunning views of the Ionian islands.
Valtos Beach · 3 hours
Valtos Beach is the largest in the region and offers fine sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming. It is fully organized, so you can rent sun loungers and enjoy its amenities.
Why it's worth it: After the morning exploration, the beach is the best place to relax and cool off.
Water sports in Valtos
Valtos Beach · 2 hours
The beach features water sports centers where you can try activities like jet skiing or canoeing. It is a fun experience that makes the most of the bay's calm waters.
Why it's worth it: In the afternoon the sun's intensity decreases, making activities more pleasant.
Walk in the alleys of Parga
Center of Parga · 1-2 hours
Walk through the narrow, cobbled alleys of the town and admire the colorful houses with the strong island atmosphere. You will find many small shops with local products and souvenirs.
Why it's worth it: In the evening the town is illuminated and the atmosphere is particularly lively and romantic.
Parga waterfront
Parga waterfront · Greek breakfast
Enjoy a coffee and fresh pastries overlooking the port and fishing boats. It is the ideal way to start your day peacefully.
Caption: Handmade pies
Valtos Beach
Valtos Beach · Mediterranean cuisine
Choose one of the tavernas right on the sand for fresh fish and seafood. The atmosphere is relaxed and ideal for a break from swimming.
Caption: Grilled octopus
Center of Parga
Center of Parga · Traditional Epirote cuisine
Try local recipes in one of the restaurants located in the narrow alleys of the town. The experience combines great taste with the unique architecture of the settlement.
Caption: A la minute meats
Acheron Springs
Glyki, Thesprotia · 4 hours
Visit the springs of the Acheron River, where the landscape is lush green and the waters are icy. You can walk inside the river or go rafting, enjoying the mythological atmosphere of the place.
Why it's worth it: A morning visit ensures fewer crowds and a cooler temperature for hiking in the river.
Necromanteion of Acheron
Mesopotamos · 1 hour
Explore the archaeological site of the Necromanteion, which was considered the gateway to the Underworld in antiquity. It is a monument of great historical importance offering a unique glimpse into the past.
Why it's worth it: It is located a short distance from the springs and completes the Acheron area experience.
Lichnos Beach
Lichnos Beach · 3 hours
Lichnos Beach is surrounded by olive groves and offers deep blue, crystal-clear waters. It is the ideal place to relax after your morning nature excursion.
Why it's worth it: It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area and offers tranquility.
Sea cave exploration
Lichnos Beach · 1 hour
Swim or rent a small boat to visit the sea caves near Lichnos Beach. It is said that the goddess Aphrodite swam in one of them, adding a myth to your visit.
Why it's worth it: It is a unique activity that combines swimming and exploration.
Dinner at the port
Port of Parga · 2 hours
End your day with dinner at one of the port tavernas, enjoying the view of the illuminated fishing boats. It is the perfect spot to relax and discuss the day's experiences.
Why it's worth it: The location offers the best view of the town and castle at night.
Center of Parga
Center of Parga · Traditional
Start with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery to have energy for the hike in Acheron.
Caption: Cheese pie
Glyki
Glyki · Local cuisine
Dine at a taverna next to the Acheron River, enjoying coolness and traditional Epirote dishes.
Caption: Trout
Port of Parga
Port of Parga · Seafood
Enjoy fresh fish and seafood at one of the port tavernas, overlooking the Islet of the Virgin Mary.
Caption: Parga shrimp
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Photo byon
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