It is surprising to find a name from Ottoman history on a Greek town sign. Parga is the hometown of Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha, and it sits on the Ionian Sea as a small coastal town. We stopped by, and the taste stayed with us.
Where is Parga and who was Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha?
Parga lies on Greece’s western coast in the Epirus region, facing the Ionian Sea. Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha was an Ottoman statesman who served as grand vizier in the era of Suleiman the Magnificent. The town was also under Venetian rule for a long time, and the castle on the hill carries that legacy.
What is there to do and see in Parga?
The most striking feature is the row of colourful houses. The narrow, historic lanes are fun to wander, the sea is very clean and the sand is fine. The castle is definitely worth seeing and could be the first stop for anyone arriving in town.
- Walk among the colourful houses and historic lanes
- See the castle
- Spend time in the clear sea and on the fine sand
Is Parga crowded?
Tourism is heavy here, so anyone who dislikes crowds should plan for it. The reason is clear: a small town where sea, history and colour come together. Walking the lanes at quieter times of day can change the impression you take away.
Riding to Greek coastal towns
If you travel to coastal towns like this by motorcycle, remember that seaside roads can be twisting and summer traffic can build up. In narrow old lanes, parking the bike and exploring on foot is the easiest way. Checking the weather along your route before leaving is always wise.
Our Greece pages also cover Nafplio, Meteora and Thessaloniki. For hot coastal days, Rider Healthcare makes a lightweight bamboo sock, and Educated Moto Riders organises motorcycle tours for those who prefer to ride in a group.
Read the full story in Turkish with photos and videos: Parga Gezi Rehberi.