Parga, a small picturesque town located on the northwestern coast of Greece, is one of the country’s most beautiful and charming destinations. With its crystal clear turquoise waters, verdant hills, and narrow streets lined with colorful houses, Parga is an inviting place to visit for those looking for a peaceful getaway from the bustling cities of Greece. In this article, we will explore the wonders of Parga and highlight the top 10 tourist attractions you should explore while you are there.
Getting to Parga
Before we delve into discovering the best places to visit in Parga, let’s take a quick look at how to get to this idyllic town. The nearest airport is the Ioannina International Airport located about 65 km away from Parga. You can also fly into the Corfu International Airport located around 65 km by ferry or 130 km by road. There is also a direct bus service from Athens to Parga that runs daily.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit Parga?
A: The best time to visit Parga is from April to October when the weather is warm and sunny.
Q: What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Parga?
A: The top 10 must-visit tourist attractions in Parga are:
1. Parga Castle
2. Valtos Beach
3. Acheron River
4. Krioneri Beach
5. Agia Paraskevi Beach
6. Lichnos Beach
7. Ali Pasha Castle
8. Anthousa Castle
9. Necromanteion of Acheron
10. Venetian Castle of Anthousa
Q: Is Parga family-friendly?
A: Yes, Parga is an ideal vacation spot for families with children. The town has plenty of beaches and outdoor activities to keep everyone entertained.
Q: What is the currency used in Parga?
A: The currency used in Parga and throughout Greece is the Euro.
Q: Is it safe to drink tap water in Parga?
A: Yes, tap water in Parga is safe for drinking.
Now that we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions, let’s continue discovering the wonders of Parga.
1. Parga Castle
Parga Castle, also known as the Venetian Castle, is a must-visit attraction in Parga. It is an ancient castle that towers over the town, offering panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. Built around 1400 AD, Parga Castle was initially built by the Venetians to protect the town from invaders. The castle’s walls and towers still stand, and visitors can walk to the top to admire the stunning views.
2. Valtos Beach
Valtos Beach is a long sandy beach located on the other side of Parga Castle. It is a beautiful spot to spend a day soaking up the sun while also admiring the views of the castle looming in the distance. The beach has restaurants and beach bars, making it a perfect spot to relax.
3. Acheron River
The Acheron River is a natural wonder located approximately 20 km away from Parga. It is a river that is surrounded by beautiful greenery and is home to engaging activities such as rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining. The Acheron River is also considered as one of the entrance points to Hades, as believed by the ancient Greeks.
4. Krioneri Beach
Krioneri Beach is located in the heart of Parga, and it is a small pebble beach with crystal-clear waters. It is perfect for a quick swim in-between exploring the town. The beach has a few cafes and restaurants that serve delicious food and drinks, making it the ideal place to watch the sunset.
5. Agia Paraskevi Beach
This beautiful beach is located approximately four kilometers south of Parga town. It is a long sandy beach that is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach games. Agia Paraskevi Beach is surrounded by greenery, and it is a popular spot during the high season.
6. Lichnos Beach
Lichnos Beach is a large and wide sandy beach located approximately three kilometers west of Parga town. It is an idyllic spot for those who want to swim or partake in adventurous water activities such as windsurfing or jet skiing. Lichnos Beach has several restaurants and beach bars, making it convenient for visitors to refresh and re-energize.
7. Ali Pasha Castle
Ali Pasha Castle, also known as the Kastro Ton Anthouson, is another must-visit site in Parga. It is a beautiful castle built by the infamous Ali Pasha in the 19th century. The castle has walls and towers that are still standing today, and visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the bay.
8. Anthousa Castle
Anthousa Castle is another ancient castle located on the hilltops overlooking Parga. The castle was built in the 17th century by the Venetians to protect the town from invaders. Visitors can explore the ruins and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
9. Necromanteion of Acheron
The Necromanteion of Acheron, also known as the Oracle of the Dead, is an ancient site located on the banks of the Acheron River. It is believed to be the entrance to the underworld as believed by the ancient Greeks. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history and mythology.
10. Venetian Castle of Anthousa
The Venetian Castle of Anthousa is a beautiful castle built in the 17th century on the hilltops overlooking Anthousa village. The castle is most famous for its stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for taking photos.
In conclusion, Parga is a destination worth exploring due to its natural beauty, ancient ruins, and idyllic beaches. The town is perfect for peaceful getaways with family or friends. From castles to beaches, Parga has a little bit of everything for everyone.