Ioannina to Arta's Bridge and Nikopolis Museum: Day trip

Visit this 17th-century stone bridge crossing the Arachthos River, immortalized in Greek folklore's tragic legend of the master builder's wife sacrificed in the foundations. Visit the nearby town of Arta with its Byzantine churches featuring remarkable hanging architecture and medieval frescoes.

Explore the extensive ruins of Nikopolis, the 'Victory City' founded by Octavian after defeating Mark Antony and Cleopatra at Actium in 31 BC. Tour the massive ancient theatre with a capacity for 10,000 spectators, then visit the excellent modern museum displaying marble sculptures, intricate mosaics, bronze statues, and everyday objects revealing life in this important Roman provincial capital. Marvel at Augustus's victory monument on the hilltop where he camped before the decisive naval battle, featuring bronze ship rams from Antony's defeated fleet. Explore early Christian basilicas with remarkable mosaic floors. Walk through the site, imagining the grand Roman city with forums, baths, and aqueducts.