Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
07/08/2025
GEORGE DESIPRIS, Pexels
Kastoria, Greece, is a picturesque lakeside city in northern Greece, often overlooked by mass tourism, offering a tranquil escape. It is rich in Byzantine history, evident in its numerous churches and traditional mansions, complemented by stunning natural landscapes. Visitors are drawn to its unique setting on a peninsula, ideal for leisurely strolls along Lake Orestiada, boat trips, and exploring historical sites like the Dragon's Lair cave and various museums.
For socializing, the southern promenade of Kastoria's lakefront offers a selection of lively bars and restaurants. The main square provides a relaxed setting for coffee and people-watching, fostering interactions with both locals and other travelers. While the nightlife is generally low-key, featuring cozy tavernas with traditional food and occasional live music, there are also modern bars, lakeside establishments, and clubs for those seeking a more energetic evening.
Top 8 Things to do in Kastoria
Activities in Kastoria revolve around immersing oneself in the city's rich Byzantine history, exploring its unique lakeside setting, and discovering ancient cultural insights.
1. Stroll or Cycle the Lake Orestiada Promenade
Walk or cycle along the wide pedestrian paths that hug the shores of Lake Orestiada. This approximately 9-kilometer loop offers breathtaking views of the city's unique peninsular layout, traditional mansions, and diverse birdlife, including pelicans and swans. It is ideal for enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and observing nature. Sunset is a particularly scenic time for this activity.
Cost: Free for walking. Bicycle rental is approximately €10 per day.
Transport: The promenade is easily accessible on foot from the city center.
2. Take a Boat Trip on Lake Orestiada
Experience Lake Orestiada from the water on a boat tour. The 'Olympia' tourist boat offers cruises, providing unique perspectives of the city and its lakeside monasteries. Alternatively, for a more active experience, pedalo or canoe rentals are available to explore the calm waters at your own pace.
Cost: Tourist boat 'Olympia' costs €7 for general admission, €5 for students/reduced, and is free for children under 7. Pedalo or canoe rentals are approximately €70 per hour.
Transport: Boats depart from the lakefront, within walking distance of the city center.
3. Explore the Old Town (Doltso and Apozari Quarters)
Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Kastoria's historic Ntoltso and Apozari quarters. These areas are characterized by well-preserved traditional stone houses and elegant Ottoman-era mansions, reflecting the city's past prosperity. Discover hidden Byzantine churches tucked between buildings, each with its own story.
Cost: Free to explore. Some mansions or churches may have small entry fees if open to the public.
Transport: The Old Town is centrally located and best explored on foot.
4. Visit the Byzantine Museum of Kastoria
Delve into Kastoria's rich Byzantine heritage at this museum, which houses an impressive collection of portable religious icons and ecclesiastical artifacts dating from the 12th to the 18th century. The exhibits provide insight into the region's significant role in Byzantine art and history.
Cost: General admission is €8. Reduced tickets for EU citizens over 65 are €4 (October 1 - May 31). Free for EU citizens under 25.
Transport: The museum is located at Platia Dexamenis, within walking distance of the city center.
5. Discover the Dragon's Cave
Embark on a guided tour through the mystical Dragon's Cave, a natural wonder featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and seven underground freshwater lakes. The 300-meter accessible route unveils a fascinating geological landscape and is home to paleontological remains of ancient cave bears.
Cost: Regular admission is €6, reduced is €4, and groups over 20 people pay €5 per person. Disabled visitors enter free.
Transport: The cave is located on the northern side of the city, about 2 km from the city center, just before the Monastery of Panagia Mavriotissa. A local taxi would cost approximately €1-€5.
6. Explore the Neolithic Lakeside Settlement of Dispilio
Journey back in time at this archaeological site, believed to be one of the oldest lakeside settlements in Europe, dating back to 5,500 BC. Visitors can see reconstructed huts built on stilts over the lake, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the region's earliest inhabitants and their sophisticated society.
Cost: Admission is €5.
Transport: Located on the south shore of Lake Orestiada, outside the city center. A local taxi would be the most convenient option, costing approximately €1-€5.
7. Visit the Aquarium of Kastoria
Explore the largest freshwater aquarium in Greece, dedicated to the aquatic biodiversity of Lake Kastoria and other Greek water ecosystems. It offers an educational experience suitable for all ages, highlighting the importance of freshwater conservation.
Cost: Admission is €5.
Transport: The aquarium is located by the lake. A local taxi would be the most convenient option, costing approximately €1-€5.
8. Experience the Folklore Museum
Housed in the restored Aivazi Mansion in the Doltso district, the Folklore Museum provides a captivating look into Kastoria's local culture and traditions. Exhibits showcase elements of traditional life, including costumes, tools, and household items, offering a deeper understanding of the region's heritage.
Cost: Information on current admission fees is not readily available, but typically small museums in the area cost around €2-€5. It is open Tuesday to Saturday and public holidays from 10:00 to 17:00, and Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00.
Transport: Located in the Doltso district, it is easily reachable on foot from the Old Town.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
