Ithaca is one of the most enchanting islands in the Ionian Sea, known for its emerald hills, peaceful bays, traditional villages and clear turquoise waters. Famous in Greek mythology as the legendary home of Odysseus, Ithaca offers a relaxed island experience filled with natural beauty, history and authentic Greek hospitality.
Unlike some of Greece’s busier holiday destinations, Ithaca is ideal for travellers who enjoy quiet coastal escapes, scenic walks and unhurried afternoons by the sea. Whether you are planning a relaxing holiday or a sailing adventure through the Ionian Islands, this guide will help you discover the best of Ithaca in 2027.
Why Visit Ithaca?
Ithaca combines dramatic landscapes with a peaceful atmosphere. Its coastline features sheltered coves, rocky headlands and small beaches, while green hills surround traditional settlements and winding roads. The island’s connection to Homer’s Odyssey also gives it a special place in Greek culture and mythology.
Vathy, the island’s main town, sits around a naturally sheltered harbour lined with colourful buildings, cafés and waterfront tavernas. Elsewhere, villages such as Kioni and Frikes offer picturesque harbours and a glimpse of traditional island life.
Ithaca is particularly appealing to visitors who love the sea. Sailing around the island provides access to secluded swimming spots and scenic coastal views that can be difficult to appreciate from land alone.
Best Beaches in Ithaca
Gidaki Beach
Gidaki is one of Ithaca’s best-known beaches, celebrated for its clear blue water and beautiful natural surroundings. Its relatively secluded setting makes it an appealing place to swim and relax. Access is commonly by boat or on foot along a walking route, so check current conditions before visiting.
Filiatro Beach
Located near Vathy, Filiatro is a convenient choice for swimming and spending time beside the sea. The beach has clear water and a sheltered setting, making it popular with both visitors and locals during the warmer months.
Sarakiniko Beach
Sarakiniko offers attractive water and a peaceful coastal atmosphere. It is a good option for travellers seeking a relaxed beach visit away from the main harbour. Check access and facilities before setting out.
Agios Ioannis Beach
Agios Ioannis is known for its scenic surroundings and inviting water. It offers a quieter alternative to more accessible beaches, although conditions and access may vary. Bring suitable footwear and supplies if you plan to spend several hours there.
Things to Do in Ithaca
Explore Vathy Harbour
Start your visit in Vathy, the island’s main settlement. Stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops and enjoy Greek coffee at a harbour-side café. Traditional tavernas offer opportunities to sample fresh seafood and regional dishes while watching boats move across the sheltered bay.
Vathy is also a useful base for exploring other parts of the island and arranging boat excursions.
Visit Kioni Village
Kioni is a picturesque village on Ithaca’s northeastern coast, with traditional houses arranged around a small harbour. Sailing boats often anchor in the bay, creating a beautiful scene against the green hills. Walk through the village, enjoy a meal beside the water or spend time exploring its quiet lanes.
Discover Frikes Harbour
Frikes is a small coastal settlement known for its waterfront tavernas, traditional atmosphere and views of the surrounding hills. It is a lovely stop for a leisurely lunch or an evening stroll, especially for visitors exploring the northern part of the island.
Follow the Island’s Historical Connections
Ithaca’s association with Odysseus and Homer’s Odyssey is an important part of its identity. Visitors can explore local archaeological and cultural sites, including areas traditionally associated with the island’s ancient past. Interpretations of the locations connected to the epic vary, so enjoy the mythology alongside the island’s documented history.
Where to Stay in Ithaca
Choosing the right base depends on your travel plans and preferred atmosphere.
Vathy: Ideal for first-time visitors who want restaurants, shops, harbour views and convenient access to local services.
Kioni: A good choice for travellers who prefer a picturesque harbour, traditional architecture and a peaceful setting.
Frikes: Suitable for visitors seeking a smaller coastal village with waterfront dining and access to northern Ithaca.
Stavros: A traditional village in the north, offering a quieter base for exploring nearby countryside and coastal areas.
Accommodation options are more limited than on some larger Greek islands, so booking ahead is sensible for a summer visit in 2027.
How to Get to Ithaca
Ithaca does not have its own airport. Most visitors travel through Kefalonia or mainland Greece and continue by ferry. Services connect Ithaca with ports including Sami on Kefalonia and Astakos on the mainland, depending on the route and season.
Ferry schedules can change, particularly outside the main summer period, so check current timetables and allow enough time for connections. Once on the island, a rental car or scooter can help you reach remote beaches and villages, while local taxis and other transport options may suit shorter journeys.
Explore Ithaca by Gulet
A gulet cruise offers a relaxing way to experience Ithaca and the surrounding Ionian Islands. Travelling by sea allows you to admire green coastlines, swim in clear water and visit picturesque harbours without having to plan every journey by road.
Sail in Greece offers gulet sailing experiences around the Greek islands. If you want to discover Ithaca as part of your 2027 holiday, check the current Ionian cruise itinerary to confirm whether Ithaca is included and which ports are scheduled.
Planning a 2027 sailing holiday? Explore the Ionian cruise for itinerary details, departure dates and booking information before making your reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Ithaca?
Late spring to early autumn is popular for swimming, sailing and exploring villages. May, June and September may offer a quieter atmosphere than peak summer, although weather and sea conditions vary.
How many days do you need in Ithaca?
Two to four days is a useful starting point for visiting Vathy, exploring traditional villages and enjoying several beaches. A longer stay allows more time for hiking, boat trips and quieter coastal areas.
Is Ithaca suitable for a sailing holiday?
Yes. Ithaca’s sheltered bays, scenic harbours and clear waters make it appealing to sailing enthusiasts. Confirm that your chosen itinerary includes the island before booking.
Do you need a car in Ithaca?
A car can make it easier to reach beaches and villages across the island. However, your needs depend on where you stay and whether you plan to join boat excursions or organised activities.
Is Ithaca worth visiting in 2027?
Absolutely. Ithaca offers natural beauty, traditional Greek villages, clear swimming waters and a fascinating connection to Greek mythology. It is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a quieter Ionian island experience.
Discover Ithaca in 2027
Ithaca brings together peaceful beaches, picturesque harbours and the timeless stories of ancient Greece. Whether you spend your days exploring traditional villages, swimming in secluded bays or discovering the coastline by boat, the island offers a memorable escape in the Ionian Sea.
Start planning your 2027 visit by checking ferry connections, choosing your accommodation and confirming your sailing itinerary if you want to explore Ithaca as part of a wider Greek island adventure.
