Key Facts about Kastoria, Greece

📍 Location

Western Macedonia region, northern Greece, nestled on a peninsula in Lake Orestiada.

🏛️ Known For

• Scenic lakeside beauty and surrounding mountains.

• Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches with stunning frescoes.

• Traditional fur-making heritage and stone-built mansions.

⏳ Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Ideal for mild weather and blooming landscapes.

• Autumn (September–October): Crisp air, vibrant colors, and cultural festivals.

• Winter: Popular for cozy lake views and nearby ski centers.

💬 Local Language: Greek (English widely spoken in tourist areas).

💰 Currency: Euro (€)

🚆 Getting There

• By Car: About 2 hours from Thessaloniki.

• By Bus: Regular connections from Thessaloniki and Athens.

• Nearest Airport: Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG).

🌟 Top Attractions

1. Lake Orestiada – A serene setting for walking, cycling, and boat tours.

2. Byzantine Churches – Over 70 historic churches with remarkable frescoes.

3. Dispilio Archaeological Site – Prehistoric lakeside settlement dating back 7,000 years.

4. Folklore Museum – Showcasing traditional life and fur-making heritage.

5. Dragon’s Cave – A fascinating cave system with stalactites and stalagmites.

🍽️ Local Specialties

• Giouvetsi – Baked lamb or beef with orzo.

• Kastorian Trout – Fresh from Lake Orestiada.

• Bouyourdi – Baked feta with peppers and tomatoes.

• Local Wines – Especially red varieties from nearby vineyards.

🎉 Notable Events

• Ragoutsaria (January): Colorful carnival with music, costumes, and dancing.

• Wine Festivals (Autumn): Celebrating the region’s vineyards.

• Religious Festivals: Held throughout the year in Byzantine churches.