Where to Stay in Zagori

Zagori is a group of 46 stone villages in the mountains north of Ioannina, inside the Vikos–Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark, with arched stone bridges, cobbled mule paths and the deep Vikos Gorge. The villages are spread out and the roads are slow, so where you stay matters. Here is how to choose, and the partner hotels we book for our guests.

West, central or east? Choosing your base

• Western Zagori (Papigo, Aristi) – below the Towers of Astraka, closest to the Dragon Lake of Tymfi, the Voidomatis river and the end of the Vikos Gorge.
• Central Zagori (Vitsa, Monodendri, Kipi) – the classic stone bridges, the Oxya viewpoint over the gorge and the start of the Vikos walk.
• Eastern Zagori (Ano Pedina and around) – quieter villages with wide views, a good base for slow days and walks.

Our partner hotels in Zagori

We work directly with these properties. All prices on request – we send you a personal offer.

How to get to Zagori

There is no train and buses to the villages are rare. The easiest way is a private transfer – our Thessaloniki – Ioannina & Zagori route takes about 3 hours, and from Ioannina it is under an hour. See all our transfer routes.

What to do

• Walk the Vikos Gorge from Monodendri to Vikos or Papigo.
• Climb from Papigo to the Dragon Lake of Tymfi.
• Follow the stone bridges of central Zagori.
• See our ready-made Zagori in 3 days or Delphi, Meteora & Zagori in 5 days.
• Combine it with Ioannina and Metsovo – see where to stay in Ioannina and Metsovo.

Frequently asked questions

Which is the best village to stay in Zagori?

Papigo and Aristi in the west are best for the Vikos Gorge, the Dragon Lake and the Voidomatis river. Central villages such as Vitsa and Monodendri are best for the stone bridges, and eastern Zagori is quieter.

How many days do I need in Zagori?

Plan at least three nights: one day for the Vikos Gorge, one for the stone bridges and villages, and one for Papigo and the Voidomatis springs.

How do I get to Zagori?

From Thessaloniki it is about 3 hours by car and from Ioannina 45 minutes to an hour. We arrange private transfers from both, and from Ioannina airport.