Epirus is a rugged, mountainous region in northwestern Greece bordering Albania, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and rich culinary traditions. Dominated by the Pindus mountain range and the Vikos–Aoös National Park — home to one of the world's deepest gorges — Epirus offers pristine rivers, stone-built villages, Byzantine monasteries, and the atmospheric lakeside city of Ioannina.
Epirus is one of Greece's safest regions. Violent crime is extremely rare. The main hazards are mountain-related: sudden weather changes, trail conditions, and driving on narrow mountain roads. Ioannina city is safe at all hours. Standard urban precautions (watch for pickpockets in crowded markets) are sufficient.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Rare but possible at Ioannina airport. Use metered taxis or the fixed-rate tariff (€10–€15 to centre). Agree price before getting in if no meter visible.
Restaurant tourist pricing
Some restaurants near Ioannina island waterfront charge higher prices for obvious tourists. Check the menu price list before ordering — it's required by law to be displayed.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Medical Facilities
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- University Hospital of Ioannina (Leoforos Stavros Niarchos, Ioannina; tel: +30 26510 99111) is the main regional hospital with 24-hour emergency department. Smaller health centres (Kentro Ygeias) operate in larger towns like Metsovo and Konitsa.
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- Pharmacies
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- Pharmacies (Farmakeia, marked with green cross) are available throughout Ioannina; one pharmacy is always on duty 24 hours — check the duty schedule posted on pharmacy windows or call 1434.
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- Water Safety
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- Tap water is safe to drink in Ioannina and most towns. Mountain spring water (marked by stone fountains in Zagori villages) is clean and traditionally consumed by hikers. Bottled water widely available.
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- Vaccinations
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- No mandatory vaccinations for Greece. Routine vaccinations (tetanus, hepatitis A/B) recommended. EHIC/GHIC card gives EU citizens access to state healthcare at reduced cost.
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- Sun and Heat
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- Summer temperatures can reach 35°C in Ioannina. Use sunscreen, hats, and carry water. Mountain temperatures can drop significantly at altitude even in summer — bring layers for Vikos Gorge and Drakolimni hikes.
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- Tick Awareness
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- Ticks are present in forested and grassy mountain areas (May–October). Wear long trousers, check skin after hikes, and use insect repellent. Tick-borne encephalitis is rare but present in parts of Greece.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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