Preveza
GreeceCsa
© OpenStreetMap, CARTO
Ελευθερία ή Θάνατος | Freedom or Death
Why visit
Preveza is a perfect mellow Greek base, quieter than Corfu, more authentic than the touristy Cyclades. Wander the pedestrianized old harbor for fresh sardines (a local specialty), explore the massive walls of the Venetian-Ottoman Castle of St. Andrea, and dive into the spectacular ruins of Nicopolis with its Roman odeon, Byzantine basilicas, and on-site museum. The Ambracian Gulf is one of the Mediterranean's last refuges for the rare Mediterranean monk seal and bottlenose dolphin. Easy day trips reach Lefkada's beaches, the Acheron River (the mythological gateway to the underworld), and the austere Zalongo monument.
When to avoid
Preveza shuts down between November and April, most tavernas, hotels, and even some museums close, leaving the city quiet and grey. July to August brings vacationing Greeks and Italians by car ferry. The harbor restaurants raise prices and book out. The mosquito presence in the Ambracian wetlands is intense in summer. Skip the local fish if it's been deep-frozen, ask 'fresko?' Don't expect English fluency outside the harbor restaurants.