Parga travel guide
Parga Tourism | Parga Guide
You're Going to Love Parga
Overlooked by a picturesque ruined castle, nestled against the waters of the Adriatic Sea and within a short boat trip of Corfu, Parga is a delightful old Venetian port, which is one of northwestern Greece's finest destinations.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Parga
1. The Beautiful Setting
Seen from the peak of the castle hill, Parga is simply stunning. Gathered around the arc of a bay, its multicolored houses and elegant promenade are a heart stopping sight.
2. Fantastic Greek Food
Some of Parga's biggest attractions come on plates in the town's tavernas. Highlights like Christos, Castello and Romantica compete with eateries anywhere in Greece.
3. Wonderful Beaches
A Greek vacation needs a good beach, and Parga has plenty. From Valtos to Lichnos, the coast is studded with exquisite bays.
4. Ferries to Corfu and Other Ionian Islands
Parga is also a great base from which to catch boats to the Ionia Islands or to rent a sailing vessel and drift on the peaceful Adriatic Sea.
5. Spectacular Local Festivals
The "Pargina" in August is a delight, featuring folk music on Panagia Island, historical re-enactments, boat shows and fireworks. Don't miss it if you are there for a summer vacation.
What to do in Parga
1. Fantastic Photo Ops And Fascinating History
Dominating the city from its rocky outcrop, Parga's castle was constructed by locals to protect against coastal invasions in the 11th century, but the impressive ruins we see today were created by the ruling Venetians in the 13th and 17th centuries (following a devastating Turkish assault). Climbing to the summit of the fort is a must, as the view are incredible, and there are numerous historical curios, like the Venetian lion at the entrance. There's a friendly cafe at the top as well, so you can mix up some view-hunting with snacks.
2. An Out-Sanding Place To Relax
The town's main beach is just a short walk from the center of town, and it's a pearl. The beach stretches for miles and is as sandy as they come. Thanks to the climate around Parga, it's also a magnificent place to perfect your tan, while it's just as good for swimmers, wind surfers, and snorkelers. While there's plenty of room to unfurl your own towel when you visit, the tavernas by the shore will happily lend you a lounger or two, providing you buy a drink. And with bars and restaurants along the shore, why not?
3. A Gorgeous Mythic Waterway
One of Greek mythology's fabled rivers of the Underworld, Acheron is nowhere near as gloomy and doom-laden as the stories would suggest. In fact, this river 15 miles north of Parga is visually stunning, winding its way through the rocky countryside of Preveza. The waters are famously pure and transparent, and the ecology is relatively untouched, partly thanks to its inclusion in the EU's Natura 2000 network. Walking, picnicking, even swimming are all possible when you pay Acheron a visit.
4. Winding Streets And Oily Treats
At the heart of Parga's Old Town, Tourkopazaro is a deeply atmospheric neighborhood that's drenched in history - and extra virgin olive oil. Well, the bread is, at any rate. It's home to great attractions like the Paragaea Olive Oil Museum (where yes, tasting is mandatory), as well as endless tavernas, and even the odd rock bar or two for late night entertainment. But most of all, it's a seductive jumble of Ottoman, modern Greek, and Venetian architecture, and a magical place to wander around.
5. A Dramatic Drama Venue
Located on a rocky platform high above the nearby village of Anthousa, the Ali Pasha Castle couldn't be more dramatic. The fortress was constructed by a Turkish governor of Parga's hinterland, who needed an impregnable redoubt to dominate the restless Greeks. These days, the fortress is in remarkable condition, and is free to enter. If you're around during the summer months, make sure you check the local culture listings, as the castle is used as a music and drama venue. With it's location and atmosphere, those events are something truly special.
1. Fantastic Photo Ops And Fascinating History
Dominating the city from its rocky outcrop, Parga's castle was constructed by locals to protect against coastal invasions in the 11th century, but the impressive ruins we see today were created by the ruling Venetians in the 13th and 17th centuries (following a devastating Turkish assault). Climbing to the summit of the fort is a must, as the view are incredible, and there are numerous historical curios, like the Venetian lion at the entrance. There's a friendly cafe at the top as well, so you can mix up some view-hunting with snacks.
2. An Out-Sanding Place To Relax
The town's main beach is just a short walk from the center of town, and it's a pearl. The beach stretches for miles and is as sandy as they come. Thanks to the climate around Parga, it's also a magnificent place to perfect your tan, while it's just as good for swimmers, wind surfers, and snorkelers. While there's plenty of room to unfurl your own towel when you visit, the tavernas by the shore will happily lend you a lounger or two, providing you buy a drink. And with bars and restaurants along the shore, why not?
3. A Gorgeous Mythic Waterway
One of Greek mythology's fabled rivers of the Underworld, Acheron is nowhere near as gloomy and doom-laden as the stories would suggest. In fact, this river 15 miles north of Parga is visually stunning, winding its way through the rocky countryside of Preveza. The waters are famously pure and transparent, and the ecology is relatively untouched, partly thanks to its inclusion in the EU's Natura 2000 network. Walking, picnicking, even swimming are all possible when you pay Acheron a visit.
4. Winding Streets And Oily Treats
At the heart of Parga's Old Town, Tourkopazaro is a deeply atmospheric neighborhood that's drenched in history - and extra virgin olive oil. Well, the bread is, at any rate. It's home to great attractions like the Paragaea Olive Oil Museum (where yes, tasting is mandatory), as well as endless tavernas, and even the odd rock bar or two for late night entertainment. But most of all, it's a seductive jumble of Ottoman, modern Greek, and Venetian architecture, and a magical place to wander around.
5. A Dramatic Drama Venue
Located on a rocky platform high above the nearby village of Anthousa, the Ali Pasha Castle couldn't be more dramatic. The fortress was constructed by a Turkish governor of Parga's hinterland, who needed an impregnable redoubt to dominate the restless Greeks. These days, the fortress is in remarkable condition, and is free to enter. If you're around during the summer months, make sure you check the local culture listings, as the castle is used as a music and drama venue. With it's location and atmosphere, those events are something truly special.
Where to Eat in Parga
Parga has plenty of fabulous tavernas. Some standouts to explore include Bacchos, Stefanos, Castello and Hellenikon, all of which serve up traditional Greek specialties. Try some local honey during your stay as well - it's a famous local product. Wherever you dine, expect meals to be affordable, at around EUR15-20 per head.
When to visit Parga
Parga's high season stretches from late June through September, which is the most popular time to go. However, spring is almost as appealing, with warm weather from March onwards.
How to Get to Parga
Plane
Preveza Airport is the closest mainland airport (although Corfu is an alternative option). Taxis from Preveza will cost around EUR100-120. Buses also run up the coast from Preveza.
Car
From Athens, take the E75 to Lamia, then the E952 across country to Agrinio, before taking the E951 northbound. Look for turn-offs to Parga (Πάργα in Greek).
Bus
You can take indirect buses from Athens to Parga via Preveza (expect the journey to take around 6 hours in total), and there are also services from Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa.
Airlines serving Parga
Where to stay in Parga
Parga Town - Dominated by the Venetian castle, Parga fronts onto a compact bay, with Panagia Island at the center. It's a charming town, packed with alleyways, tavernas and bars - it's surprisingly lively in the evening.
Popular Neighborhoods in Parga
Lichnos - A mile or two to the east, Lichnos is a vibrant (and beautiful) beach resort.
Chrisogiali - The western half of Parga, Chrisogiali has its own sandy beach (Valtos), and great nightspots like Tango Bar to enjoy.
Where to stay in popular areas of Parga
Most booked hotels in Parga
How to Get Around Parga
Public Transportation
Parga is so small that buses aren't practical, but there are a number of ferry routes. The most popular is to Corfu, which takes 2 hours and costs around EUR10.
Taxi
Expect taxis in Parga to charge around EUR2 per mile and a little more in the evenings.
Car
Car rental options in the city include Enterprise and Avis. Daily rates can be as low as EUR10.
The Cost of Living in Parga
Shopping Streets
If you want to find souvenir curios and craft items, check out the road leading from the seafront to Parga Castle.
Groceries and Other
Local supermarkets include Super Market Kordas and Ginis Bros. A gallon of milk should come to around EUR4.50.