Venetian Castle of Parga

Parga's castle crowns the wooded headland above the town, its walls looking down on the colourful waterfront houses on one side and Valtos beach on the other. Most of what stands dates from Venetian rule, which lasted until the end of the 18th century, with later additions from the time of Ali Pasha of Ioannina, who took over the town in 1819 after the British handed it to him; many Pargians chose exile in Corfu rather than live under him.

Inside are ruined barracks, gunpowder stores and a café with some of the best views on this coast. The walk up through the old town's stepped lanes takes 10 to 15 minutes and is steep, so go early or towards sunset, and check the day's hours.