The Metsovo still maintains its traditional character despite the rapid growth of tourism in recent years. The unique architecture of the settlements, the stone-built mansions, the paved cobbled streets, the twenty traditional fountains, the picturesque monasteries, the Vlach dialect, the local traditional cuisine and the respect of customs contribute to preserving the tradition and the rich history of the area.
On arrival in the central square of Metsovo, the eye turns sharply to see them all, while the smells of roasted and sizzling meat break the nose. Images alternate. A small market with many colors. Folk art , wood carvings, bronze, bronze and alpaca. Dairy products and noodles. The famous smoked Metsovone cheese since 1958 steals the show and figurines hung in and out of the shops.
The Metsoviki woven fabrics with purple colors and magnificent patterns make the look look good. The smell of freshly baked Metsovite pie emerges from the ovens. Cars and buses with tourists go and come. A folklore scenery. The same every day, all year round.
A special picture is the eagerness of the elderly in the square. Smiling, willing to give all the information and then continue their conversation in their own language in the Vlachs . World goes and comes. The cafes full of it and the taverns that bake and serve food from the morning. If it is Sunday, you will definitely have the chance to meet and old metovites with their traditional costumes.
Within the city of Metsovo, but also in the surrounding areas there are many interesting sights to see and admire. The museums, the gallery and the two libraries of Metsovo preserve and promote the rich history and tradition of the region.
One reason why Metsovo is such a popular destination, especially in winter, is that it has three ski resorts, Karakoli, Politses and the youngest of Libra. There, winter sports enthusiasts can have fun, lift adrenaline and experience unique moments.
Metsovo is the ideal destination for nature lovers, as here, as in the surrounding areas, they can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities. In addition to skiing in the ski resorts of the area, you can ride a horse or mountain bike around the Aoos artificial lake, in a landscape of unique natural beauty, as well as hiking along the footpaths of the Valia Calda National Park and the Montenegrin Mountain Rescue. You can also take mountain trips with a 4 × 4 car or motorbike.
Metsovo has an excellent tourist infrastructure. Here you will find hotels, traditional guesthouses and rooms with fireplace that will offer you a pleasant and comfortable stay, satisfying even the most demanding visitor. In the restaurants and taverns of the area you will have the opportunity to taste, among other things, delicious dishes of local traditional cuisine. You can also enjoy your coffee or drink in the little cafes and bars of the area.
A magical place … The incomparable natural beauty, the picturesque landscape, the traditional color and the unique sights do not leave unimaginable any visitor. All you have to do is visit and experience unique experiences.
In Metsovo and throughout the prefecture of Ioannina you will find a rich traditional cuisine and many pure local products. Some of the specialties of the local cuisine are the konotsouvli, the pies and the cheeses. Pieces are special, such as the dairy pie, the lemon pie, the trachanopita and the cassia. Try lamb with cauliflower, sausages.
Metsovo is famous for its cheese products. Here are special cheeses, such as metzovon, smoked, metovelva, gabieri, and metasubis , which you will not find anywhere else in Greece. You can try and even get great local products such as fresh dairy, local fine wines and high quality poultry.
In Metsovo you can also buy unique items of folk art , such as unique wood carvings and handmade textiles.
Do I have to wear a mask in transports – inside taxi or private hired vehicles – in Greece?
(2022 guidance on the use of face masks in Greece – Covid19 update)
TAXIS / PRIVATE TRANSFERS / MINIVANS / MINIBUSES / CITY BUSES
Our staff will wear a face covering inside the taxis and all private-hired cars for the duration of your journey. Our driver will use hand satinizer before and after any transaction or contact with your luggage etc. In Greece, it is the law that you must wear either a face covering or face mask even if you are vaccinated inside the taxis or private hired cars. Exemptions include people who have medical issues (trouble breathing, unability to wear a mask properly etc), children under the age of three (3) or you have any other legitamate reason not to – however please note that proof maybe requested by local authorities. Our drivers treat everyone with respect and compassion and understand if it is not immediately obvious that some people are not able to wear face covering for medical reasons.
AIRPORTS / AIRPLANES / TRAINS / INTERCITY BUSES:
From Wednesday 1st of June 2022 and after, Greek state decided and it is the law now that masks are not mandatory.
SHIPS / FERRYBOATS
From Thursday 2nd of June 2022 and after Greek state decided and it is the law now that masks are not mandatory, but it is strongly reccomended.
Where do I have to wear mask in Greece?
(in use after 1st of June 2022 for summer/autumn period – Covid19 update)
From Wednesday 1st of June 2022 and after, Greek state decided and it is the law now that:
– Masks are NOT mandatory anymore INDOORS. This means that you DON’T have to wear a facemask anymore, if you want to visit a coffee shop, a restaurant, a beach bar, a shop, hotel or supermarket.
– You MUST wear a mask, if you visit the following places: public hospital, pharmacy, private clinic, doctor’s office, medical centre, retirement and nursing home. You must also wear a mask, when using public transportation (public bus, taxi, chauffeurred-driven vehicles etc)