Kastoria is a city of unique beauty that floods with unprecedented emotions of every visitor

Built amphitheatrically between the mountains of Vitsi and Grammos, Kastoria with its 75 Byzantine churches and monasteries, lazily spreads in a narrow strip of land and is self-reflected in the waters of Lake Orestiada that turn it into an idyllic destination.

Through its inexhaustible natural beauties, its rich history, its picturesque neighborhoods and its imposing mansions, Kastoria charms even the most demanding visitor. Discover the city by first offering yourself the unique experience that the small tour of the lake offers. Following the route from the south to the north beach of the city through paths bordered by beaches and large plane trees, indulge in the "zen" character of the lake, and experience the absolute calm and relaxation through the amazing alternation of colors and landscape and amphitheater background arrangement of houses above its waters.

You could furthermore wander to Dolcho, the old town with its mansion character and see up close the imposing mansions of Macedonian architecture standing proudly in the urban landscape to remind everyone of the great prosperity and wealth that the city experienced in times of its history. Most of them have been restored, with their fortress exterior and their impressive interior decoration, these buildings still exude the air of the nobility of their owners, past and present..

Enjoy local cuisine

Kastoria is known throughout Greece for the rich flavors that characterize its cuisine. Meat-based dishes, as well as fish offered by the lake can be tried in all restaurants of the city and the surrounding settlements. Do not forget to try the sarmades with sauerkraut (armia) or the meatballs with makalo (mixture of flour, tomato juice, garlic and spices, passed through a pan.) If you are a fan of fish and especially of the lake, it is worth trying , the priki and the pike in multiple cooking variants. Kastoria is also famous for its exceptional sweets. Sweet pies with pumpkin, lalangites (fasting chocolate chip cookies made at Christmas time) and the bridal rice pie with homemade leaf, are among the sweet delicacies that you should not miss to try.

Best time to visit Kastoria

The winter months are especially recommended, due to the emotions offered by the mountainous landscape in combination with the natural beauties of the lake. Immediately after the period of Christmas and Epiphany, Ragoutsaria takes place, a celebration reminiscent of a Dionysian feast that lasts 3 days. Orchestras with traditional bronze instruments, masquerades parading through the streets of the city dancing to the frantic rhythms of music, wearing masks and costumes as Halloween preludes and the abundant wine offered to all, create a unique warm atmosphere in the heart.

How to use transportation in Kastoria

Transfer from/to Kastoria

In Kastoria you can travel either by car or by the daily bus routes from Athens and Thessaloniki via the national road Athens Thessaloniki and Egnatia Odos (from Thessaloniki).

The city is 593 km from Athens and 226 from Thessaloniki. There is also an air connection with Athens. Aristotelis Airport is located 12 km from the town of Kastoria.