Ioannina: Discovering a Vibrant Greek Student City
Ioannina is truly a lively student city in Greece, full of charm and a relaxed ambiance. We were lucky to find a perfect spot to park our camper, located right next to a small park and within walking distance of the city center. It’s a cozy area, ideal for families traveling with children.
A Stroll Through the City and the Historic Fortress
We started our visit with a refreshing walk around the neighborhood, stopping by a local playground for the kids. The next morning, we explored the perimeter of the famous Ioannina Fortress before entering the historic complex. The experience of walking through the old fortress city felt surprisingly comforting—like coming home. The ancient atmosphere and preserved architecture added a magical touch to our morning.
Visiting a Mosque: A Moment of Reflection
During our exploration, we visited a centuries-old mosque. We were both astonished by how few mosques we had visited before and how little we actually knew about Islam. It turned out to be a powerful educational moment for all of us. Thanks to the informational signs around the site, and some assistance from ChatGPT, we were able to answer all of our daughter Jinte’s curious questions. It became a truly educational and meaningful day for the entire family.
Unexpected Adventures: A Shoe Hunt and Happy Kids
Back at the camper, Johan realized his shoes had finally given up. Remembering a frustrating shoe-shopping experience in Athens, we opted for a straightforward solution this time: go to Intersport and buy a new pair. Quick and hassle-free! Mission accomplished with a fresh pair of trendy sneakers.
Near our camper, we discovered a unique feature seen in various parts of Greece: a children’s traffic park. Our youngest, Jinte, had the time of her life zooming around the mini roads with a local Greek boy. Mirre suspected the boy might be autistic, which made the shared joy between the kids even more special. Meanwhile, Diede was a bit upset about not having a scooter or a proper bike with pedals—a tough life at four!
Bike Issues and Final Preparations
Unfortunately, the new pedal for our family bike, brought all the way from the Netherlands by Grandpa and Grandma, didn’t fit quite right. A minor setback. Thankfully, Jinte’s doll seat fit just fine, so we made the most of it. We squeezed in a quick family workout and lunch before setting out for our next destination.
Next Stop: The Majestic Vikos Gorge
Our journey continues as we head toward Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. This natural wonder promises breathtaking views and unforgettable hikes. Stay tuned as we explore one of Greece’s hidden gems.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or with your family, Ioannina offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and playful discoveries that make it a must-visit destination in northern Greece!
