The archaeological site of Palaiokklisi in Kostakii includes a mosaic floor. In the nearby village of Plisioi, next to Kostakii, stands the Church of Agios Dimitrios Katsouris. It was built in a rare variant of the cross-in-square domed type. At the intersection of the arms of the cross rises a broad, cylindrical dome with a conical roof.

The dome paintings are also described: Christ Pantocrator is depicted there, with his figure partly preserved. Around him are successive zones of angels and full-length prophets carrying scrolls. The architectural form and the iconographic program offer different points of reference for exploring the church: on the one hand, the arms of the cross and the dome define the described architectural type; on the other, the depictions are arranged around the figure of Christ.

For planning purposes, it is helpful to keep the different geographical levels distinct. Palaiokklisi is in Kostakii; Agios Dimitrios Katsouris is in nearby Plisioi. The following museums, historic buildings, and natural attractions are part of the broader destination of Arta. This lets you separate the choice of hotel search location from the question of which cultural or nature-related themes you want your trip to focus on.

Culture and History in the Broader Destination of Arta

The Archaeological Museum of Arta opened in 2009 near the Arachthos River and the Historic Bridge. Its permanent exhibition is organized around the themes of public life, burial customs, and private life. On July 16, 2024, the museum received certification as a certified museum, making it one of the first fully modernized state museums in Greece.

The ancient city of Amvrakia is also part of Arta’s history: it lies beneath the present-day city and occupies half of its area. The Small Theatre of Amvrakia was built between the late 4th and early 3rd centuries BC during the reign of Pyrrhos. The Byzantine Castle of Arta offers another historical point of reference: it stands on a hill in the northeastern part of the city, dates to the Middle Byzantine period, and incorporates parts of Amvrakia’s ancient fortifications. It is considered a typical example of Byzantine fortification and a testament to medieval Arta.

Another structure with a specific date is the Historic Bridge of Arta. It acquired its present form between 1602 and 1606; it is 142 meters long and 3.75 meters wide. The Church of Panagia Parigoritissa is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary and is one of Arta’s most important monuments. It also holds a prominent place in the history of Byzantine art.

Landscape, Water, and Outdoor Activities

For walks and relaxation, Riverside Park in Arta offers a different focus from the historic buildings. The park covers approximately 165,000 square meters and lies on the Arachthos River at the eastern edge of the city, behind Krystalli Square and the central bus station. It includes a small lake ecosystem and a thriving wetland; visitors can walk and relax there. Fishing is prohibited. Peranthi Hill is Arta’s urban forest and is suitable for walking, running, cycling, and exploring.

Near Koronisia, Tsoukalio Lagoon is home to the rare and endangered Dalmatian pelican. Approximately 35 pairs are reported for the lagoon; this number may vary seasonally. The Salaora Information Center focuses on the human and natural environment of the Amvrakikos Gulf. Its exhibits include a relief map of the region, live images from the pelican colony, and audiovisual information for visitors.

The Vidra Trail is 17.560 kilometers long and runs mostly along the west bank of the Arachthos. It begins at Plaka Bridge, passes over Tzari Bridge, and ends at the hydroelectric complex in the Skoupa plain. The trail partly lies within the municipalities of North Tzoumerka and Arta. Its length and the named stops give you specific points of reference if you are considering adding the route to your plans.

Festivals and Seasonal Planning in Arta

At the Sardine Festival, sardines are offered to the public free of charge; traditional songs and dances, as well as local dishes, are also part of the event. The Cultural Summer in Arta runs from June to September and includes more than a hundred events. The festival is supported by the Municipality of Arta, local cultural associations, and private organizers. If you want to plan your trip around one of the festivals, check the current program and dates for your travel period.

Discover more destinations: Anatoli, Mytikas, Kypseli, Rodavgi, Theodoriana, Melissourgoi, Koronisia, Mesopyrgos

For the broader travel overview: Arta.