Arta Car Hire

Guide of Arta

Geography

Arta is located in northwestern Greece, in the Epirus region. It sits on the left bank of the Arachthos River, north of the Gulf of Arta. The wider Arta municipality encompasses spruce-covered mountains, fertile plains and lagoons. Its location makes it easy for visitors to explore the Tzoumerka mountains, the Pournari mountains and the Ambracian Gulf’s picturesque fishing villages and wetlands.

Climate in Arta

Arta enjoys a warm and temperate climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The hottest month in Arta is August when daily temperatures average 26°C. July and August both experience very low levels of rainfall too, with just 7mm of rain.

The coldest time to visit Arta is February, with temperatures averaging 11°C. November has the most precipitation with around 72mm of rainfall, so it is best avoided if you’re looking to escape the rain.

Culture

Arta boasts a rich history that dates back to the 9th century, when it was known as ‘Ambracia’. It was later given to Pyrrhus, King of the Molossians, who made it his capital and adorned it with temples, palaces and theatres. While little remains of this ancient city beyond sections of the walls, many impressive Byzantine buildings are still here, including its 12th-century churches. Today, the city is a commercial and administrative hub, though visitors often comment on its laid-back charm and friendly locals.

Things To Do in Arta

Take a stroll along the famous bridge

The legendary Bridge of Arta crosses the Arachthos River in the west of the city. First built during the Roman Empire, the current bridge dates back to around 1602. According to local legend, the master builder was forced to sacrifice his beautiful wife to keep the foundations solid. This legend has inspired countless local songs, poems and writings.

Meander around the city centre

You can still see parts of the ancient Amvrakia wall fortifications, which were built in 625 BC. The rest of the city is buried beneath the modern one. Beyond the crumbling walls, there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied, including the 13th-century Byzantine Castle. It was here that General Makriyiannis and his men were imprisoned in the revolution of 1821.

Visit the city’s churches

Arta is home to an impressive collection of Byzantine churches. The Church of Panagia Parigoritisa was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important Byzantine churches in Greece. It also houses a small archaeological collection The Church of Aghia Theodora and Church of Aghios Vasillios date back to the 13th and 14th centuries respectively.

Brush up on local history

For a thorough introduction to the fascinating history of Arta, head to the Skoufa Museum of History. Each room is dedicated to a specific period and is filled with artefacts, photos and other intriguing items. At the Folklore Museum, you’ll find fascinating reconstructions of local daily life enriched with tools, utensils and clothing. The collection of traditional costumes, which includes elaborate carnival wear, is fantastic.

Head to the hot spring baths at Hanopoulou

Hanapoulo (or Chanopoulo), located 6 km north of Arta, has long been popular for its thermal baths. Locals claim that the bubbling hot waters here can cure skin, gynaecological and skin illnesses. They’re guaranteed to restore weary limbs to good health too.

Explore the village of Theodoriana

There are dozens of fairytale greek villages dotted around Epirus, but Theodoriana is one of the prettiest – and closest – to Arta. Nestled into the Tzoumerka mountain range and surrounded by emerald green forests and waterfalls, the village features winding cobblestone streets, stone-built traditional houses and an elegant main square.

Eating Out in Arta

Arta enjoys easy access to plentiful fresh, local ingredients. The region of Epirus is renowned for its delicious local meats and dairy products, and the city’s location just 40 minutes from the sea means there are dozens of excellent fish restaurants to choose from too. The city’s foodie scene has historically gone under the radar, but recently, Arta became part of the “Gastronomic Communities” programme, which aims to connect tourism to gastronomic culture by showcasing the area’s unique food and wine.

There are dozens of excellent tavernas, restaurants and bars to choose from, many offering local specialities like wild boar with quinces and chestnuts, zarkopita pies (stuffed with feta) and Arta caviar. For an introduction to the region’s best dishes, try Vangelio Tavern, where you’ll find kapama lamb, plenty of pies and freshly baked rolls. Tloupas Tavern has been serving superb skewers since 1952, while Papadiotis Pies serves a staggering variety of Arti pies. If you have time, take a trip to a local winery like Lambrakis Winery.

Transport

Airport

There is no airport in Arta. The closest airport is Ioannina (IOA), the gateway to northwestern Greece. It is located four km from Ioannina city centre and is mostly served by domestic airlines, though there are seasonal charter flights from a small selection of cities in Europe. Ioannina Airport is around a 50-minute flight from Athens. From here, you can either hop on the bus (which takes around one hour) or drive. There is no railway station in Arta.

Getting Around Arta

Arta is a relatively compact city and most of its sights can be reached on foot. The public transport system consists of a reliable network of buses, with no trains. However, if you’re looking for a little more flexibility and would like to explore the surrounding areas, we recommend hiring a car. Many of the most beautiful sights located outside the city’s walls can be difficult to reach by bus, particularly if you are travelling off-season.