This coastal city in northwestern Greece serves as a major ferry port to Italy and the Ionian Islands. Its waterfront promenade and nearby beaches attract visitors.
Igoumenitsa is a coastal city in northwestern Greece known for its busy port, which serves as a gateway to the Ionian Islands and Italy. Visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum with artifacts from the Middle Paleolithic era, relax on the 7-kilometer Drepanos Beach, or visit nearby coastal villages like Sivota and Parga. Whether you’re taking a ferry or exploring the region, Igoumenitsa is an excellent starting point for discovering the landscapes and culture of Epirus.
Port and Ferry Connections
Igoumenitsa's port is the second busiest passenger port in Greece, after Piraeus. The port has two sections: the Old Port and the New Port. From here, you can catch ferries to Italian cities like Ancona, Venice, Bari, and Brindisi, as well as to the Greek islands of Corfu and Paxi. The central pier houses a large passenger terminal with waiting areas, ticket offices, and shops. If you're traveling by car, you can easily start your journey through southern Europe from Igoumenitsa.
Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa
Located at 2 28th of October Street, the Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa opened in 2009. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Middle Paleolithic period (100,000 BC) to the Post-Byzantine era (17th century AD). You'll find displays of metalwork, stonework, architecture, sculpture, pottery, coins, jewelry, and miniature art. The museum is divided into five main sections, each focusing on a different historical period of the Thesprotia region.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Igoumenitsa has several long sandy beaches with clear waters. Drepanos Beach, located about 5 kilometers from the town center, stretches for over 7 kilometers. It's equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports facilities. Another popular beach is Makrygiali, also about 5 kilometers from town, offering similar amenities. For those willing to venture further, the seaside town of Plataria, south of Igoumenitsa, has a long town beach with tavernas, cafes, and shops along the shoreline.
Day Trips to Sivota and Parga
A short drive south of Igoumenitsa takes you to Sivota, an area with numerous beaches and small islands. You can take boat trips to explore the Blue Lagoon and nearby caves. Further south, you'll find Parga, one of the most photographed towns in Greece. Parga's colorful houses cascade down to a picturesque bay, and the town offers beaches, historical sites, and traditional Greek restaurants.
Local Cuisine and Dining
As a coastal town, Igoumenitsa's cuisine heavily features fresh seafood. Many restaurants line the waterfront, offering views of the harbor. While there are fast food options catering to travelers, you can also find traditional tavernas serving local specialties. Try dishes like fresh grilled fish, shrimp saganaki, or octopus in wine sauce. Don't forget to pair your meal with local white wine, which complements seafood dishes well.
Getting Around
Igoumenitsa is well-connected by road and public transportation. The Egnatia Odos highway connects the city to other major Greek cities like Thessaloniki and Ioannina. You can reach Igoumenitsa by bus from Athens, Thessaloniki, or Ioannina. Within the city and to nearby attractions, taxis and local buses are available. If you plan to explore the surrounding region, renting a car can be a convenient option, as it allows you to visit nearby beaches and towns at your own pace.
