Get away from the crowds and discover a lesser-known paradise in the Greek region of Epirus! On this weeklong itinerary, you'll base yourself in the port city of Preveza, the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the area's fantastic beaches, lakes, forests, and rivers. You'll cruise to the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, go horseback riding along the banks of the bright blue Acheron River, and look for dolphins in the wild on a boat tour. Then spend a day hiking around the mirror-like Ziros Lake before wrapping up the trip with a barbecue on the beach on the island of Lekfada.

Highlights

  • Spot dolphins in the wild on a boat tour around Amvrakikos Gulf
  • Enjoy a gourmet barbecue on the beach on the island of Lefkada
  • Hike around a pristine lake bordered by dense forest
  • Snorkel, swim, and sunbathe at the region's top beaches
  • Go horseback riding or trekking around the beautiful Acheron River

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Greece & Relax in Preveza Preveza
Day 2 Cruise to Paxos & Antipaxos Islands  Preveza
Day 3 Boat & Hike Around the Acheron River  Preveza
Day 4 Spot Dolphins on a Guided Tour  Preveza
Day 5 Hike Through the Forest Around Ziros Lake Preveza
Day 6 Island-Hop & Enjoy a Beach BBQ  Preveza
Day 7 Depart Greece - End of Trip  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Greece & Relax in Preveza

Free afternoon in Preveza
Walking on the waterfront in Preveza
Welcome to Greece! Your visit to the region of Epirus starts in Preveza, located on the Amvrakikos Gulf in Western Greece. Present-day Preveza was built on the site of the ancient town of Vereniki, founded in 290 BCE. The area is renowned for its green landscapes, picturesque beaches, and ancient monuments. After checking in at your hotel, go for a stroll along the harbor and through the old town. Continue along the seaside promenade, open only to pedestrians. Take a break in one of the many bars and cafés that line the narrow side streets of the historic center. Then get some rest at your hotel before the adventure continues on day two.

Day 2: Cruise to Paxos & Antipaxos Islands 

Full Day Cruise to Paxos & Antipaxos Islands from Parga
Boating around Paxos 
After breakfast, transfer to Parga. Your driver will drop you off at the port to climb aboard a boat to the Paxi Islands. Get ready to enjoy the most amazing cruise! You'll see beautiful turquoise waters and shadowy caves as you travel along the coastline to the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, stopping for a swim at one of Greece's most beautiful beaches. Later, you'll head back to Parga and enjoy a guided tour of the city. Your driver will take you back to your hotel late in the afternoon.
Plan your trip to Greece
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Day 3: Boat & Hike Around the Acheron River 

The Acheron River 

Today you'll explore one of the region's top highlights — the gorgeous Acheron River! Your driver will come to pick you up early in the morning and drive you to the village of Glyki. It's a jumping-off point for all kinds of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, trekking, and boating. Afterward, enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal served riverside. Then your driver will take you to the archaeological site of Nekromanteio, which the ancient Greeks believed was a gateway to the world of the dead. Return to Preveza in the evening.

Day 4: Spot Dolphins on a Guided Tour 

Dolphin-spotting off the boat

Board a boat in the port of Preveza this morning and head to Amvrakikos Gulf. Today you'll discover one of Europe’s most unique ecosystems. On a boat tour through the national park, keep your eyes open for playful bottlenose dolphins, curious sea turtles, and various species of birds, including silver pelicans, cormorants, and herons. You'll also learn about traditional fishing methods on your way to a beautiful island, Kefalos. The captain will drop the anchor here, giving you a chance to swim, snorkel, and search for shells along the coast. Afterward, have lunch on the boat, enjoying regional dishes with a cold beer or a glass of wine.

Day 5: Hike Through the Forest Around Ziros Lake

Kayak, SUP, Hiking in Ziros Lake and Kokkinos Pilos
 Hiking near Ziros Lake
Today the itinerary takes you to the alpine-like landscape of Ziros Lake, a wonderful destination for hiking, cycling, and rowing. A hidden treasure in a dense forest rich with pines, oaks, eucalyptus, and holly, the lake looks like a huge natural mirror that reflects the trees and the sky. Hike around its perimeter on trails that alternate from flat to steep and rocky, then continue on a path that moves away from the lake and into a golden forest. Take a break for coffee or a meal at the restaurant and café overlooking the lake. You'll head back to your hotel late in the afternoon. 

Day 6: Island-Hop & Enjoy a Beach BBQ 

Island Hopping with Beach BBQ – a MUST DO in Lefkada!
Island Hopping with Beach BBQ – a MUST DO in Lefkada!
On the last full day of the trip, you'll travel by boat to the island of Lefkada, known for its lush scenery and great swimming spots. Take a look inside the famous cave of Papanikolis — you can go swimming here, too, if you like —then stop in the traditional village of Spartochori. The main highlight of the day is a barbecue on the beach. You can sunbathe and swim in crystal-clear water as the crew prepares your lunch! On the boat ride back, stop for one more dip on the famed Onassis Island.

Day 7: Depart Greece - End of Trip

A street leading to the port of Preveza

Today the trip comes to an end. Transfer to the airport to catch a flight out. Safe travels!

More Greece Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Greece? Check out these other Greece itineraries, with island-hopping adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights. 

Or, describe your ideal trip and we will connect you with a local specialist to make it happen.