Port information & tips for Igoumenitsa
Igoumenitsa is the picturesque gateway to the Greek region of Epirus, nestled against an impressive backdrop of azure sea and forested mountains. The port city charms visitors with its relaxed atmosphere, a spacious waterfront promenade, and the authentic charm of the Ionian coast. Cultural highlights include the modern Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa and the nearby, crescent-shaped Drepanos Beach, which invites visitors to linger thanks to its crystal-clear waters. Cruise ships dock at the modern Port of Igoumenitsa (New Port), from where the lively city center can be easily reached on foot in about 15 minutes due to the short distance of less than one kilometer. In addition, the direct connection to the palm-lined promenade ensures excellent access to local cafes and shops.
The Port of Igoumenitsa serves as an important gateway between Western Greece, Italy, and the Ionian Islands, thanks to its excellent connection to the road network and its clearly structured terminal layout. It is divided into a central pier for international ferry connections and a northern pier for domestic traffic.
Car & Parking
Arriving by car is very convenient thanks to the direct connection to the Greek Egnatia Odos motorway (A2/E90), which leads directly to the port. Travelers coming from the direction of Athens use the E94 and then the E55. Free outdoor parking spaces are available at the northern pier in the immediate vicinity of the departure points for domestic ferries. At the new port, there are also paid parking facilities that offer 30 minutes of free parking before longer stays are charged at €5 for up to 90 minutes or €10 per day. To ensure a relaxed start and secure a parking space, an early arrival of at least 45 to 60 minutes before check-in is recommended.
Airplane & Transfer
For international guests from the DACH region, several airports are relevant, each offering different transfer options. The closest airport is Corfu (CFU), about 30 to 32 km away, which can be reached via a short ferry ride (approx. 1 to 2.5 hours) from Corfu Town to Igoumenitsa. Another option is Ioannina Airport (IOA), located around 52 to 90 km away, allowing for a car journey of about one hour. Alternatively, Preveza Airport (PVK/Aktion) is available at a distance of approx. 77 km, from which you can easily reach the port in about 1 hour and 15 to 30 minutes by taxi or private shuttle.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the sometimes longer travel distances and possible ferry transfers, staying overnight in a pre-cruise hotel is recommended to start your cruise in a relaxed manner. In Igoumenitsa and the surrounding area, you will find various hotels that often also offer parking facilities. This allows you to make the time before embarkation stress-free and to explore the city or nearby beaches at leisure, as many areas of the port are within walking distance of the city center.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always check the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Igoumenitsa serves as an important gateway between Western Greece, Italy, and the Ionian Islands, thanks to its excellent connection to the road network and its clearly structured terminal layout. It is divided into a central pier for international ferry connections and a northern pier for domestic traffic.
Car & Parking
Arriving by car is very convenient thanks to the direct connection to the Greek Egnatia Odos motorway (A2/E90), which leads directly to the port. Travelers coming from the direction of Athens use the E94 and then the E55. Free outdoor parking spaces are available at the northern pier in the immediate vicinity of the departure points for domestic ferries. At the new port, there are also paid parking facilities that offer 30 minutes of free parking before longer stays are charged at €5 for up to 90 minutes or €10 per day. To ensure a relaxed start and secure a parking space, an early arrival of at least 45 to 60 minutes before check-in is recommended.
Airplane & Transfer
For international guests from the DACH region, several airports are relevant, each offering different transfer options. The closest airport is Corfu (CFU), about 30 to 32 km away, which can be reached via a short ferry ride (approx. 1 to 2.5 hours) from Corfu Town to Igoumenitsa. Another option is Ioannina Airport (IOA), located around 52 to 90 km away, allowing for a car journey of about one hour. Alternatively, Preveza Airport (PVK/Aktion) is available at a distance of approx. 77 km, from which you can easily reach the port in about 1 hour and 15 to 30 minutes by taxi or private shuttle.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the sometimes longer travel distances and possible ferry transfers, staying overnight in a pre-cruise hotel is recommended to start your cruise in a relaxed manner. In Igoumenitsa and the surrounding area, you will find various hotels that often also offer parking facilities. This allows you to make the time before embarkation stress-free and to explore the city or nearby beaches at leisure, as many areas of the port are within walking distance of the city center.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always check the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Thanks to its location right on the edge of town, the Port of Igoumenitsa offers convenient connections to the center and the charming surroundings. From the terminal, you can reach all major means of transport in just a few steps.
On Foot
The lively city center with its cafes and stores is located in the immediate vicinity and can be reached in about 10 to 15 minutes. A stroll along the waterfront promenade leads you directly to the main square and the charming shopping streets.
KTEL Buses
The regional KTEL buses stop very close to the port and reliably connect Igoumenitsa with popular excursion destinations such as Parga or Ioannina. These buses are a practical option for trips into the Greek hinterland and to the surrounding coastal towns.
Taxi
Official taxis wait for passengers directly outside the exits of the port terminal. The drivers will take you quickly to the nearby beaches or the surrounding countryside and are also available for private sightseeing tours in the Epirus region.
To make the most of your stay in Igoumenitsa, we recommend a journey of discovery to the city's historical sites and the paradisiacal coastal sections of the surrounding area.
City Center & Archaeological Museum
The modern center of Igoumenitsa delights with a spacious harbor promenade and is also home to the renowned Archaeological Museum, which, thanks to its proximity to the pier, provides a deep insight into the ancient splendor of Epirus.
Parga
The picturesque coastal town of Parga is an absolute highlight of the region thanks to its terraced alleys and the majestic Venetian castle; additionally, its lively flair is perfect for strolling and enjoying Greek specialties.
Sivota & Drepano Beach
The idyllic region around Sivota impresses with its emerald-green bays and the extensive Drepano Beach, which, thanks to its direct proximity to the port, is the ideal place for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water and relaxing hours by the sea.
Drepano Beach
The extensive Drepano Beach is located on a prominent peninsula just about five kilometers from the port and can be easily reached by taxi in just under ten minutes. This stretch of beach impresses with its fine sand and crystal-clear, shallow water, making it perfectly suited for a safe and relaxing swimming experience. On site, you will find an excellent infrastructure with inviting beach bars that serve comfortable sun loungers as well as refreshing cocktails and local specialties directly to your spot. The combination of natural beauty and modern comfort makes this location ideal for guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the port. It is best to start your excursion in the morning to secure a prime spot, and return to the ship relaxed at least ninety minutes before departure.
The way back to the port of Igoumenitsa is very straightforward thanks to the compact city structure and ensures a relaxed return to the ship.
Taxi
Central taxi ranks are located directly at Plateia Dimarchiou as well as at the KTEL bus station in the immediate vicinity of the waterfront promenade. In addition, at popular destinations such as Drepanos Beach, you can easily have a taxi requested via the local beach bars and thus arrive safely at the terminal.
On Foot
From the central shopping street and the Ethnikis Antistasis promenade, you can easily walk back to the port entrance in about 10 to 15 minutes. Thanks to the wide sidewalks and the direct view of the funnels of the ships in the New Port, the path is excellent to find and safe to walk.
Shuttle Buses and Local Transport
Regional buses of the KTEL line stop directly at the central terminal building and connect the city as well as surrounding towns directly with the port. In addition, guests like to use the provided shuttle buses of the cruise lines, which commute between the city center and the respective berth, guaranteeing a punctual arrival.
