Zagorohoria Greece is one of my favorite places I’ve visited. It’s nature at its finest, a unique cultural landscape, and – my favorite part – none of the crowds you find in other top places to visit in Greece!
Northern Greece is less touristed than Athens, the islands, or even the central part of the country. Most people who trudge out this way stop at Meteora. Meteora is absolutely gorgeous, don’t get me wrong. The Zagori region, or Zagorohoria, combines jaw-dropping views with tranquil stone villages that seem unchanged for centuries and a near-absence of tourists.
I visited Greece for a month in September 2021. We spent several days in Ioannina, which is considered one of the gateway villages to the Zagori area.
The Zagori region consists of 46 remote mountain villages, linked together by old footpaths and stunning stone bridges. Tucked in these tiny towns are monasteries, churches, residential homes, guesthouses and inns, and so much more. For the more adventurous readers, there is also the Greek Grand Canyon, Vikos Gorge!
We spent a full day exploring the Zagori in a rental car. On my day trip to the Zagorohoria, I fell in love with the stone bridges, the peaceful villages, and the epic views of Vikos Gorge.
Read on to learn about the top things to do in Zagori, Greece, where to stay, where to eat, and my exact day trip itinerary for an unforgettable road trip through this unique cultural landscape.
Where is Zagorohoria?
Zagorohoria is a region in the Pindus Mountains of Epirus in the northwestern part of Greece.
UNESCO added the Zagori region to its World Heritage List in 2023, bringing new attention to a region that had felt like a bit under-the-radar.
With a car, you can visit several of the Zagori villages, take a short hike to an incredible viewpoint of Vikos Gorge, enjoy a relaxing lunch, explore an ancient monastery perched on the cliffs above Vikos Gorge, and be back in Ioannina by nightfall.
Zagorohoria is around 40 kilometers northeast of Ioannina, which is also in Epirus. The mountain town of Metsovo (known for some smoky cheese; it wasn’t my thing) is the eastern gateway to exploring the Zagori villages.
Zagori Villages: What to See
With its remote location among steep mountains and cliffs, Zagori villages offer visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the unique architecture, history, and natural beauty of the remote mountain region.
Traditionally, Zagori villages are laid out around a central square with a plane tree for shade. The surrounding area is rugged and mountainous. While there are paved roads now, the villages used to be connected by stone paths, staircases and bridges.
These villages are the main attraction on a Zagorohoria trip. They feel unchanged in many ways, although of course they aren’t. Larger villages have shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Whether it’s the jagged mountain peaks, S curves of roads, or the brilliant blue water running through Vikos Gorge, there is so much natural beauty to appreciate.
I was almost sorry I was driving since I couldn’t take it in and watch the road.
Now that you know what to see and do in Zagori, here is my exact route. Newsletter subscribers can get this route mapped in Google Maps.
Zagorohoria Day Trip Itinerary
Stop by stop, here is the route I planned through Zagorohoria. It takes you to the highlights while including some of the smaller villages and stone bridges along the way.
Take the main road (E853) north out of Ioannina. Just past Metamorfosi, take the turnout on the right.
The Aspraggeli Information Center offers maps of Pindus National Park and other helpful information. It’s also a good place to use the bathroom and full up your water bottles since you’ll have few options in the smaller Zagori villages. You’ll find the information center on the right in the town of Aspraggelii.
When the road forks, stay to the right. This will take you to a couple of nice stone bridges and a smaller Zagori.
In a few minutes, you’ll come upon the Kapetan Arkouda Bridge, one of the stone bridges the Zagorochoria is known for. Just up the road is the Kokkoroi stone bridge, which was built in 1750.
To give you a sense of scale, there I am at the far end of the bridge.
Plakidas Bridge is just beyond. Built in 1814, this is the three-arched bridge that offers some of the most Instagram-famous views of the Zagori region.
Walk across the bridge and into the trail that leads to the next Zagori to get a feel for what things must have been like before the roads were built.
When I visited, in September, the river bed was dry. So I was able to wander to the river bed and get a new perspective on the famous arched bridge!
From the stone bridges, I continued up the road to Vradeto to hike the Beloi Trail. The trail cut across farm fields before leading to a small stone viewpoint looking down into Vikos Gorge.
See this Zagori hiking post for detailed information on hikes in the area.
The Beloi hike was well worth it, but it took around an hour and then another hour driving back and forth. If you aren’t interested in hiking or if you are short on time, skip this. You’ll have more time to spend in Megalo Papalo, which some consider to be the quintessential Zagori village.
Whether you did the hike or just saw the villages, by now you should be reversing course toward the main road.
Stop in Dilofo on your way back if you want to see an example of a smaller, residential village. We poked around the town for a few minutes and got a sense for the ambience of the landscape.
In my mind, these smaller villages retain the unique characteristic that made the Zagori region a UNESCO pick. The larger ones attract more vacationers. While there are still beautiful views, you won’t necessarily have them all to yourselves.
Head back to the main road and stay right, continuing toward Monodendri.
First things first – you will need a place to park. This is admittedly tricky since there aren’t many lots. We had to loop through the roads a couple of times before lucking into a spot.
The center of Monodendri has several restaurants and cafes. If you want to grab a bite, here are my recommendations:
- Pita tis Kikitsas, a pita shop with green and cheese pie in Monodendri square
- Kanella & Garyfallo in nearby Vitsa, which is an homage to all things mushroom. Look for the mushroom in a heart sign as you wind down the hill from Monodendri.
The 15th century Monastery of Ayia Paraskevi is the real draw in town. Set on the edge of the gorge, the old monastery offers a lookout onto Vikos Gorge. There is a small trail to another viewpoint, but I wouldn’t recommend attempting it without hiking poles. Ayia Paraskevi is a venerated saint in the Greek Orthodox religion. The chapel offers a small shrine where you can light candles. Look at the walls and ceilings for traces of frescoes and religious paintings.
I visited many chapels and churches during my month in Greece. The Monastery of Ayia Paraskevi was one of my favorites for its intimate setting and incredible views.
Once you finish with the monastery and town square, navigate back to your car. It’s time to go to Papigo.
As you head toward Papigo, you’ll cross the Voidomatis River. The water level was quite low when we were there, but a brilliant green-blue hue! There are trails along the banks. We also children playing and families fishing in the river. If you’re not in a rush, feel free to explore here.
Papigo is actually two villages, Megalo Papigo and Mikro Papigo. Most people visit just the first one (that’s what I did because we were running out of time).
Megalo Papigo has restaurants, shops and hotels. But in many ways, it’s the quintessential Zagori village, with all the qualities that helped this area get its UNESCO listing.
Park outside the village and walk in–there is no parking inside Papigo.
Unlike Metsovo, the eastern gateway to Zagori, which is mobbed with tour buses, Megalo Papigo feels sleepy and tranquil. Most of the people passing through are here to hike Vikos Gorge or spend a holiday camping at the river. That may be because big tour buses can’t navigate the hairpin curves required to reach the village, but hey, I’ll take it.
Wander the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the tiny stone houses with flower boxes at the windows. Step into the local church and light a candle, appreciating the quiet that often seeps into remote holy spaces like this.
If you only visit one shop, make it Rogovo on the main street. You’ll know it by the jars of macerating fruits piled outside the store.
Rogovo sells homemade jams, traditional foods like wild mushrooms and herbs, and handicrafts. I still have the jar of Greek oregano I brought home, doled out when I feel like treating myself.
Rogovo also has a snack bar-cafe if you need a quick pick-me-up.
To grab a bite to eat before your return trip to Ioannina, consider:
- Aris Journeys of Flavors – A vegetarian and vegan-friendly pick with a working fireplace during chilly days
- Astra – Fresh and flavorful food from local farms and gardens, with incredible views
- Cafe Papigo – For a sweet treat and a cup of coffee with some amazing views of the Pindus Mountains, grab an outdoor seat at this cafe
- Restaurant Konaki – Another solid taverna that offers homemade tsipouro, a Greek spirit
As its name suggests, Mikro Papigo is smaller with fewer amenities.
The two villages are 1.6 kilometers apart, connected by a walking path. If you choose to walk—a smart idea considering the lack of parking options—keep an eye out for the Papigo rock pools, natural swimming holes along the trail.
We decided to skip Mikro Papigo and head back to Ioannina. It was getting late in the day, a storm was rolling over the mountains, and we didn’t want to get caught if the skies opened up.
I mean, check out these dramatic clouds!
From Megalo Papigo, it’s 59 kilometers back to Ioannina. Plan on around 75 minutes of driving time due to the steep roads and hairpin turns.
Zagorohoria hotels
While smaller villages may have rooms for rent, most accommodations are concentrated in the larger towns like Monodendri and Megalo Papigo.
Monodendri Hotels:
- Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas: This luxury hotel offers stunning mountain views and well-designed rooms. It’s a favorite of couple travelers.
- Zagori Philoxenia Hotel: This 3-star hotel offers a buffer breakfast, free parking, pet-friendly rooms and reasonable prices.
Megalo Papigo:
- Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel & Spa: This plush hotel offers spa services and upscale dining.
- Astra Inn: Free parking, free WiFi and a modest price point make this one a popular pick.
Zagorohoria hiking
On my day trip to the Zagori Cultural Landscape, I added in a hike with views of the famous Vikos Gorge. We didn’t have time to hike the gorge itself on a day trip, so if that is something you’re interested in, definitely plan to stay overnight.
There are so many amazing hikes in the Pindus Mountain region. This post covers short hikes suitable for day trips and longer hikes, including the Vikos Gorge, Greece’s version of the Grand Canyon.
FAQ About Visiting Zagori Greece
Reading about the Zagori, I knew I wanted to see them for myself. But planning the perfect day trip was challenging. I spent a long time cross checking sources and building out a day trip that took me to the highlights – and got me out of the car and into the landscape.
I hope the itinerary above will help you plan your perfect trip to the Zagori. But in case you have questions I still haven’t answered, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about visiting Zagori in Epirus.
What are the must-visit attractions for a day trip to Zagori?
The picturesque villages of Monodendri and Megalo Papigo deserve top spot on a day trip. They’ll give you a flavor for the stone-built architecture, traditional squares.
As you drive, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Vikos Gorge.
A few stops to admire the scenic bridge and trail network and your day trip is complete.
Although, like me, you may find yourself leaving with the desire to return to the stunning region!
Is it possible to explore multiple villages in Zagori in a single day?
Yes, you can see multiple villages in Zagori in one day. My itinerary above gives you one route to two major villages, with stops at smaller villages, stone bridges and a hike to view the Vikos Gorge.
The key to maximizing a day trip to the Zagori is to focus on the major villages, like Monodendri and Megalo Papigo. Plan your itinerary in advance, allowing time for meals, and scenic stops. Remember to be back on the road before night falls, so you won’t drive the winding roads in the dark.
Is it necessary to rent a car for a day trip, or are there alternative transportation options?
Renting a car is the best way to see the Zagori. It’s flexible and convenient. You can stay as long as you like and visit all these stops.
It is possible to see the Zagori by public bus. However, schedules are limited.
Private tours are another option. You can explore tours from Ioannina, the closest major city.
Save This Zagorohoria Greece Itinerary For Later!
Thank you for showing your support by commenting below or sharing this post on social media! If you really appreciated this post and would like to support my work, you can buy me a coffee or sign up for my newsletter.
I’ve never heard of Zagorohoria before reading this article! It sounds like such a picturesque destination. Thanks for sharing your tips for visiting Zagorohoria!
Zagorohoria looks incredible..those veiws! I have not heard of this part of Greece but I love that it sounds less touristy than other areas..and so many hiking trails- I’d stay outside all day!
Wow, never heard of Zagorohoria before, what a nice place to visit! Love all the views with the mountains!
I’d never heard of Zagorohoria, and we’re planning a visit to Greece this summer, so I’m happy I found your post! I can see why it’s one of your favorite places; that view of Vikos Gorge reminds me a lot of Zion National Park in the U.S., which is one of my favorites too! I will have to add Zagorohoria to my list :). Xx Sara
Love this guide to Zagorohoria, Greece. A beautiful hidden gem with stunning views and pretty bridges. Would love to hike this region.
Wow, Greece can be so surprising and diverse. I’ve only been to Rhodes but after reading your lovely guide I’m super intrigued to go here too!
I’m planning on travelling to Greece later this year, will definitely keep these spots in mind!
Very cool to learn about this less visited area of Greece! I had not heard about Zagorohoria before, but getting to off the beaten path places is always so much more relaxing and rewarding I think.
This is such a good selection of spots… I think I’d really enjoy the two villages of Papigo best!