A destination for lovers of nature, exploration, and authentic tradition – Karditsa offers a mosaic of experiences for all tastes.
This small city in the heart of Thessaly boasts endless natural beauty, excellent local cuisine, countless activities, and direct access to historical attractions that create unforgettable memories for its visitors.
Travel Notes
Perfect place for…
Couples, families, or those seeking a well-being retreat weekend and an eco holiday.
Where to stay
In the centre of the city is the best place to stay, as you can get around on foot, grab your morning coffee, and visit nearby attractions.
Where to sleep
We suggest you choose for your accommodation Hotel Kierion or Arni Hotel Domotel. Both beautiful rococo-style hotels in the center of the city promise a stay that is utterly imbued with the calm vibes of the city.
Also, 30km from Karditsa near Lake Plastira there is Kazarma Lake Resort and Spa, a great choice for a well-being retreat.
Must See + Do
Walk to Pausilipo, an urban leisure park in the city’s heart. Its main attraction is the pretty peacocks that roam within it.
You will see that almost everyone uses a bicycle to get around. It is no coincidence, after all, that for decades, it has had the title of the “cycling capital” of Greece! Bicycles in Karditsa made their first appearance in 1960, while in 2003 the construction of a network of bicycle paths began, which extends throughout the city. So it is a perfect opportunity to rent a bike and explore the city!
An absolute must-visit is Lake Plastira, one of the most beautiful lakes you will find in Greece. Rich in nature and vegetation, the region is one that visitors will instantly fall in love with. Along with the charming area of Tavropos, both are ideal for those seeking alternative holidays and ecotourism. Only 30 minutes by car from the city of Karditsa.
You must not leave this city without discovering local dishes and enjoying the local nightlife too.
Cultural hotspots
Karditsa Archaeological Museum: Here you will see exhibits dating from the Prehistoric and Paleolithic eras to Late Antiquity.
Folklore Museum “L. & N. Sakellariou: is located opposite the metropolitan temple, the museum has three floors with rooms that feature permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Also make your the Municipal Library of Karditsa, since 2002, it has been hosting permanent and periodic exhibitions, events and educational programs.
Εat + Drink
Coffee + Breakfast
Hangout Coffee and More (Mplatsouka,1 Karditsa) is a great choice for morning coffee and breakfast.
Fontaine Brunch – Patisserie (Adelfon Valtadorou,1 Karditsa ) offers a nice atmosphere and the best brunch dishes.
Destro (Nick. Plastiras 2-10, Karditsa) – this all-day restaurant serves delicious dishes from breakfast through to brunch, lunch and dinner.
Lunch + Dinner
Pausilipo, for the most gourmet choices in Karditsa (A: Pausilipo Park)
Type of cuisine: Greek, International
Signature dishes: Rib Eye, risotto
Price range: €25- €30
Grape Bar Bistro, Italian cuisine with the greatest wine list (A: Episkopou 47)
Type of cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Signature dishes: Gnocci alla milanese, tiramisu
Price range: €20- €35
Apomero is the best dinner choice! (A: Episkopou 47)
Type of cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Signature dishes: Batzina, Pork fillets with Vinsanto sauce
Price range: €20- €30
18 Grada where you can taste local cuisine and traditional mezedes (A: Skoufa 4)
Type of cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Signature dishes: Meatballs with Feta
Price range: €15- €20
Sweets + Drinks
Rook’s Pastry Lab (A: Gamveta, Dim. Lappa 12 – 16) is the talk of the town and the newest pastry store in Karditsa. Μodern sweets made with unique combinations to satisfy every taste.
Avli (A: Irakleitou 12) is the most popular meze restaurant in Karditsa, which hosts most of the live concerts in this cozy spot in the heart of the city. Fridays and Saturdays are no doubt the busiest – attracting a young, cool crowd.
Margarita Bar (A: Valvi 59) great atmosphere and a place that serves great cocktails and specialty drinks.
Cadillac Records Cocktail Bar (A: D. Tertipi) and Charlot Bar (A: Tertipi 40), are also excellent choices for cocktail lovers. For those who want to discover the nightlife of the city just head down Vlavi Street, where you will find new bars constantly popping up.
Discover
Local gem
The dam of Lake Plastira is an impressive concrete structure, an elegant arch that embraces the vast volume of water of the lake. It is a beautiful spot to admire the lake, as well as the back side of the dam which sinks to a depth of about 80 meters, vertically between the rocks. In addition, from the position of Mucha, you can admire the fjords of the lake as well as the Niaga islet. There you will find many local producers, who will offer you souvenirs and traditional local products.
Best view
The most impressive image of the lake, which looks just like a painting, is undoubtedly from the observatory, where you will gaze at the surface of the lake and its sheltered island. The charming landscape is perfectly complemented by the forested slopes and the imposing peaks of the Agrafa mountains!
Ultimate day trip
A fabulous excursion is to the village of Fanari, which is about 20 minutes from Karditsa, following Fanariou Street. There you can see the Fanario Castle, which has been built since the 13th century and stands there at the top of the village – a breathtaking view. Under the shadow of the castle is the cafe of the same name which is a wonderful choice to drink your afternoon coffee with the best view.
Essentials
Getting there: About a 3.5-hour drive from Athens
Best time to gο: Autumn/Winter
Ideal time to stay: 2-3 days (weekend preferable)
Getting around: οn foot, rent a bicycle. You can go to the lake easily by bus or by car.
Make sure you take home: local wine and tsipouro
What to pack: comfortable shoes to walk around, and your camera to capture moments. We also suggest you have cash with you, as many shops, restaurants, and cafes do not have card facilities.
Main image courtesy of @naei2015
