Why Ioannina is a fantastic destination for tours
Ioannina offers a wealth of options that go beyond just wandering around a beautiful city. Its proximity to stunning landscapes like the Vikos Gorge, the traditional villages of Zagori, and scenic monasteries makes it a prime spot for guided experiences. Whether you’re after a cultural deep dive or an adventure in nature, the tours here deliver. For example, the Zagori Sightseeing Tour showcases traditional stone bridges and pristine rivers, while the Meteora Day Trip takes you to one of Greece’s most iconic UNESCO sites. Ioannina’s compact size and friendly guides make discovering its surroundings straightforward and enriching.
Some of our favorite tours include the Tzoumerka villages tour for its natural beauty and cultural richness, and the Zagori Off-Road & Cooking Experience that combines scenic drives with hands-on local cooking. These tours highlight just how diverse and accessible the region truly is. No matter your pace or interest, there’s a tour in Ioannina that will fit your style.
Types of tours that made our list
This guide includes a variety of experiences: scenic outdoor adventures, cultural city walks, historic monastery visits, and even culinary classes. For a full day immersed in nature, the Vikos Gorge and Papingo Tour offers breathtaking views and a chance to swim in crystal-clear rivers. For those wanting a cultural taste of Ioannina itself, the Food & Culture Tour with Cooking Lesson provides a lively exploration of local flavors. For a mix of adventure and local life, check out the Zagori Off-Road & Cooking Experience. A few tours focus on historical landmarks like Meteora or the city’s ancient sites, ensuring no interest is left out.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of the 15 best tours in Ioannina, helping you pick the right experience for your trip.
1. Tzoumerka villages tour (1 day)
At number 1, the Tzoumerka villages tour is a standout for its focus on natural beauty, cultural sites, and authentic mountain life. For roughly $144 per person, you’ll explore villages like Pramanta, with its 500-year-old plane tree and historic fountain, and visit iconic monuments like Kipinas Monastery—built in 1212 on a massive rock in a wild gorge. The tour includes stops at Kouiasa’s springs, where legendary tales of Achilles’ grandson “Chrousios” add historical flavor. With a 5-star rating and personalized guides, this 6-8 hour experience is perfect for those wanting a deep look into the Athamanian Mountains. It’s good value considering the intimate visits, local stories, and stunning scenery, especially if you prefer a balanced mix of nature, history, and tradition.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for anyone keen on authentic mountain villages, scenic hikes, and cultural history, with flexible timing and rich storytelling.
2. Zagori Sightseeing tour
Number 2, the Zagori Sightseeing tour is a full-day adventure in a region famed for its stone bridges, deep gorges, and traditional villages. Using a 4×4 SUV, you’ll explore villages like Papingo and Kipi, visit the stunning Vikos Gorge—claimed to be the deepest in the world—and swim in the crystal waters of Voidomatis River. The 5-star rated tour, priced at about $219, offers a comprehensive look at the geological and architectural marvels of Zagori. Guests especially love the opportunity to walk across ancient stone bridges and see the unmatched landscape that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. The tour is well-suited for active travelers comfortable with a day of driving and walking, with plenty of photo stops and cultural insights.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts who want to experience the rugged beauty of Zagori in one day.
3. Half Day Tour to Central Zagori from Ioannina
At number 3, this Half Day Zagori tour offers a compact but immersive look at the region’s stone forests, bridges, and villages. For $137, you get around 6 hours of guided exploration, including stops at the Stone Forest of Monodentri, the impressive Kokkori stone bridge, and a panoramic view of Vikos Gorge. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want to see Zagori’s highlights with a private guide. Guests rave about the personalized attention and how the stops are paced just right, with time for photos and brief walks. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed half-day trip that still hits all the major sights.
Bottom line: A great intro to Zagori’s top attractions for those with limited time, offering quality over quantity.
4. Ioannina: Zagori Sightseeing Tour
Number 4, the Ioannina: Zagori Sightseeing Tour is a private Jeep adventure that covers highlights like Vikos Gorge, traditional villages, and ancient bridges. For about $215, you’ll enjoy a 7-hour tour with visits to Kipoi, Aristi, and Papingo, plus stops at Voidomatis River for a swim. The guide shares local stories and geological facts, making it an informative and scenic experience. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the flexible itinerary, which takes you off the main roads into lesser-visited spots. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, comfortable journey with stunning viewpoints and culture.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a custom, scenic tour with a relaxed pace and insider knowledge.
5. Vikos Gorge and Papingo One Day Tour from Ioannina
The Vikos Gorge and Papingo Tour ranks high for its all-in-one experience of spectacular natural scenery and charming villages. For about $186, you’ll visit Vikos village, swim in Voidomatis River, and enjoy a hearty local lunch. The tour is in a private vehicle, letting you stop for photos at Oxia Viewpoint, explore the Stone Forest, and walk along the gorge’s edge. Reviews mention how the guide captures photos of visitors with the incredible landscape, making it a memorable day. It suits active travelers who want to see a lot in one day but prefer comfort and personalized attention.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a full-day immersion into Zagori’s landscapes with excellent photo opportunities.
6. Zagori Adventure Off-Road & Cooking Experience
Number 6, the Zagori Off-Road & Cooking is a fun, active way to combine scenic off-road drives with hands-on local cuisine. For $231, you’ll visit stone bridges, waterfalls, and villages like Tsepelovo, ending with a traditional outdoor lunch cooked in the woods. The off-road route includes swimming and hiking, making it perfect for lovers of adventure and authentic culinary experiences. Guests praise the guide’s friendliness and the opportunity to cook and eat together in a beautiful natural setting. It’s ideal if you want a mix of outdoor activity and cultural cuisine, especially for active travelers or foodies.
Bottom line: A lively, full-day experience perfect for those who enjoy physical activity and traditional cooking.
7. Ioannina Food & Culture Tour with Cooking Lesson
Number 7, the Ioannina Food & Culture Tour focuses on local gastronomy and city sights in just 4 hours. For $214, you’ll walk through the city’s alleys, taste local dishes, and learn to cook some traditional flavors. It’s perfect for food lovers wanting an authentic culinary experience without a full-day commitment. Reviewers mention how the guide shares fascinating stories and tips, making it both fun and informative. It’s a good fit for those who want a quick but rich cultural encounter, especially if your schedule is tight but your appetite for local flavors is big.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a culinary taste of Ioannina with a personal touch.
8. Meteora One Day Trip from Ioannina
Number 8 offers an unforgettable visit to Meteora’s stunning monasteries. For $201, you’ll depart Ioannina early and spend about 9 hours exploring the six iconic monasteries, with inside visits to three. The tour includes stops at viewpoints to see the rock formations that define this UNESCO site. Guests love the well-organized itinerary and the stories told by the local guide. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive visit but don’t want to spend multiple days. Note that entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.
Bottom line: The best choice for a full-day immersive experience at one of Greece’s most photographed sites.
9. Guided all day tour in Zagori area
Matching in excellence, the Zagori all-day tour covers 46 villages, stone bridges, and the Vikos Gorge in 6-8 hours. At $144.70, it offers private transport and visits to Monodendri, Papigko, and the famous Stone Forest. Reviewers highlight the relaxed pace, beautiful scenery, and the guide’s extensive knowledge. It’s suitable for travelers who want to see a broad swath of Zagori’s highlights with comfort.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, private day tour with photo opportunities and cultural insights.
10. Guided all day tour to Meteora rocks & Monasteries
Number 10, the Meteora full-day tour is a flexible, 6-8 hour experience costing about $145. It includes visits to three monasteries and scenic viewpoints. Upgrading to a certified guide allows inside visits with explanations of religious and cultural significance. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the ease of transportation, making it suitable for those who want a stress-free day at Meteora.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a hassle-free, full-day exploration of Meteora’s monasteries and scenery.
11. Ioannina: Tzoumerka Sightseeing Tour
Number 11, this Tzoumerka sightseeing is an 8-hour day trip that explores Kipina Monastery, villages of Pramanta and Kalarrites, and the Kouiassa waterfall. For $226, it offers a thorough look at North Tzoumerka’s mountain villages and scenic landscapes. Guides are praised for their local knowledge and flexibility. It’s great for travelers who want a deep cultural and natural experience in a single day.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an extensive, guided mountain village exploration with expert insights.
12. 4 Hour Ioannina Private Culinary City Experience
Number 12, this Culinary City Experience is perfect for foodies. For just over $92, you’ll explore Ioannina’s culinary scene, sampling street foods, local specialties, and learning about regional ingredients. It’s a short but enriching experience, ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want an introduction to the city’s flavors.
Bottom line: A tasty way to understand Ioannina’s gastronomy in a few hours, especially suited for food lovers.
13. Guided all day tour in Central Zagori villages
This central Zagori villages tour takes you through Stone Forest, Vikos Gorge, Monodendri, and the Kokkori Bridge in 6-10 hours. At $144.83, it offers a detailed look at the region’s geology, architecture, and local customs. Reviewers love the guide’s flexibility and the scenic stops, including villages, waterfalls, and historic bridges. It suits travelers who enjoy a full, immersive day with photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Great for those interested in a comprehensive exploration of central Zagori’s natural and cultural highlights.
14. Zagori Sightseeing Daily Tour
Number 14 is a straightforward 8-hour tour emphasizing Vikos Canyon, Voidomatis River, and local villages, with a focus on scenic views and relaxed exploration. The tour includes local snacks and visits to key viewpoints. Designed for visitors who want to see Zagori’s highlights efficiently, it’s perfect for a day trip with a guide who knows the best spots.
Bottom line: Ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic day without too many stops.
15. Explore the capital of Epirus, Ioannina
Finally, the Ioannina city tour lets you discover the ancient town, lake, and local markets in about 6 hours. For $145, it includes private transport and visits to museums, churches, and the island monasteries. Reviewers highlight the personalized service and the rich cultural sights. This tour is suitable for those wanting a relaxed, city-focused experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to soak in the city’s history, culture, and lakeside beauty in a single day.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When picking a tour in Ioannina, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you love nature and hiking, the Vikos Gorge and Papingo Tour offers breathtaking scenery and swimming opportunities. For a cultural deep dive, the Ioannina Food & Culture Tour is a fun, hands-on way to taste local flavors. Budget travelers might prefer the half-day Zagori adventure, while those seeking a full experience should consider the full-day Meteora tour.
Timing also matters: summer months are perfect for river swims and outdoor hikes, while spring and fall provide cooler weather and fewer crowds. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like Meteora or Zagori.
Final thoughts
Ioannina’s diverse range of tours means there’s something for all. For scenic, active adventures, the Vikos Gorge and Zagori Off-Road tours stand out, while history and culture lovers will enjoy the Meteora monasteries and city walks. If you want a deep dive into local flavors, the Food & Culture Tour offers a delicious and insightful experience.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Each tour offers a unique way to discover the best of Ioannina and its surrounding treasures, so pick what excites you most and get ready for a fantastic trip.
