Weekend in Parga

Seafront walkway lined with tavernas, cafes and small shops. Fishing boats and excursion boats dock here. Lively in the evenings with local families and tourists.

Tip: Grab a takeaway coffee from a bakery and sit on the sea wall near the clock tower – cheapest seat in town. Watch the sunset over the island of Paxos on a clear day.

Venetian castle on a rocky peninsula overlooking the town and bay. Accessed by a steep climb from the harbour. Good views and a small chapel.

Tip: Go late afternoon for cooler light and fewer crowds. The entrance is free; there's no ticket booth or staff.

Small 18th-century church built into the rock face of the castle hill. Known for its icon of the Virgin and the annual feast day in August.

Tip: The bell tower has a narrow spiral staircase – ask the caretaker if you can go up for a panoramic view. Donations welcome but not required.

Small pebble and sand beach just west of the harbour. Less crowded than the main town beach. Shallow, clear water and some shade from tamarisk trees.

Tip: Bring water shoes – the pebbles get hot in midday sun. The beach is free, but sunbeds cost €5-7 if you want them.

Steep but short hike (about 45 minutes one way) to the hilltop behind the town, named for its dark rocky summit. Views over Parga, the harbour and the Ionian Sea.

Tip: Start early, before 9am, to avoid the heat. No marked path – look for the dirt track starting behind the cemetery. Bring water and a hat. No facilities at the top.