Kassiopi is the largest town near Villa Aurora and has been welcoming visitors since Roman times — Nero himself is said to have performed here. Today it's a charming harbour town with enough character and variety to fill a very pleasant half-day.
9:30 AM
Kassiopi Harbour
Start your morning with a stroll along the harbour front. Watch the fishing boats unload their catch, browse the daily specials chalked up outside the waterfront tavernas, and grab a coffee at one of the harbour-side cafés.
10:15 AM
Kassiopi Castle
Walk up to the Byzantine fortress that overlooks the harbour. Built in the 13th century on the site of an earlier Roman fort, the castle ruins are free to explore and offer wonderful panoramic views across the Ionian Sea to Albania. The path up is signposted from the harbour's eastern end.
Tip
The views from the far end of the castle are the best. Follow the path past the main ruins to the headland.
11:00 AM
Old Town Backstreets
Head back down into the old town and wander the narrow backstreets behind the harbour. You'll find small independent shops selling olive oil, local honey, handmade ceramics, and leather sandals. The Kassiopi weekly market (Thursday mornings) is worth catching if your timing is right.
12:00 PM
Waterfront Lunch
Finish with a leisurely lunch at one of the harbour-front restaurants. Taverna Tavenaki is our top recommendation — excellent traditional Greek cooking in a warm, unpretentious setting. But you can't go wrong with any of the waterfront spots. Order a carafe of house rosé and watch the boats come and go.
Tip
Taverna Tavenaki can get busy in peak season — arrive by noon or book ahead for the best tables.
Kassiopi is just a ten-minute drive from the villa, making it an easy and rewarding outing for a morning or afternoon. Combine it with an afternoon at Kalamiones beach (on the western side of the headland) for a full day out.
