Ithaca, Kefalonia’s small, quiet sister island, is considered the home of Odysseus, the famous seafarer of antiquity. People don’t come to Ithaca to party, and the island isn’t really suited for a beach vacation either. People travel here to enjoy, all within a compact area, everything that makes Greece special to us: the landscape, the people, and the good food.
Ithaca has something to offer everyone without being overwhelming: beautiful places to stroll, such as the main town of Vathy; picturesque coves for a refreshing dip in the turquoise-blue sea; and lush, green, hilly landscapes perfect for hiking. We’ve explored Ithaca extensively and compiled all the essential information for you on how to get there, getting around, and day trips. With our Ithaca travel tips, you’ll be fully prepared:
#1 Getting to the Island of Ithaca
You can only reach Ithaca by ferry, because unlike the neighboring island of Kefalonia, Ithaca does not have its own airport. The most convenient option is to fly to Kefalonia. The EFL airport near Argostoli is served by direct flights from many European cities between May and early October, including Munich, Amsterdam, and Vienna.
Depending on your flight’s arrival time, it’s a good idea to plan to stay overnight on Kefalonia. From Kefalonia’s main ferry port in Sami, the ferry departs for Pisaetos on Ithaca. The crossing from Kefalonia to Ithaca takes 20 minutes. So, it all sounds a bit complicated, but if you’re organized, it goes off without a hitch. 🙂
Most flights to Kefalonia are operated by international airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, or Transavia. From Germany, you can fly to Kefalonia with Condor or Discover Airlines. On Skyscanner*, you can find suitable flights departing from the airport of your choice.
➲ Find affordable flights to Kefalonia*
✈️ Find flights to Kefalonia
Budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind layovers can also fly to Kefalonia with a stopover in Athens. This is a great way to reach the islands of Ithaca and Kefalonia, especially during the off-season. By the way, the cheapest flights are available with EasyJet and Jet2Holidays via London—you can even head to the Ionian Islands as early as April.
Book a taxi for your transfer in Kefalonia—for example, to your hotel or the port—preferably in advance. You can book a Taxi here.*.
#2 Ferry Connections to Ithaca
Ithaca is surprisingly well-connected to the Greek ferry network. In addition to the neighboring islands of Kefalonia and Lefkada, there are also ferries from the Greek mainland to Ithaca, including the Ionion Pelagos operated by Ionion P. Lines. Ithaca’s main port is Pisaetos, located on the island’s west coast and consisting solely of an uninhabited concrete pier.
The main town of Vathy, about seven kilometers away, does not have a ferry port of its own. During the tourist season, excursion boats and small ferries from Kefalonia and Lefkada also call daily at the port of Frikes in northern Ithaca. You can even travel to Ithaca from the port city of Patras, and there are also ferries from the mainland town of Astakos. This is a good option for anyone traveling around Greece for an extended period in their own car.
If you’re just taking a day trip from Kefalonia to Ithaca, you don’t need to arrange ferry tickets yourself. You can book the tour here*.
Overview of ferry connections from Ithaca:
Ithaca Port of Pisaetos:
- Pisaetos – Sami (Kefalonia), approx. 25 min. (Levante Ferries and Ionion Pelagos)
- Pisaetos – Patras (mainland), approx. 4 hours (Levante Ferries)
- Pisaetos – Astakos (mainland), approx. 3 hrs. (daily, year-round, Ionion Pelagos)
- Pisaetos – Poros (Kefalonia), approx. 1 hr. (June through September only, pedestrians only, Levante Ferries)
Ithaca, Frikes Port:
- Frikes – Vasiliki (Lefkada), approx. 1 hour (limited service, mostly in June and September, Ionion Pelagos)
- Frikes – Fiskardo (Kefalonia), approx. 45 min. (seasonal only, Vasos K ferry and sightseeing boats)
- Frikes – Astakos (mainland), approx. 2 hours (June through September, several times a week, sometimes daily during peak season, Ionion Pelagos and tour boats)
🚢 Island Hopping: Ithaca, Kefalonia, Lefkada: You can reach Ithaca not only from Kefalonia but also directly by ferry from Lefkada. The three islands are close to one another and are therefore ideal for an extended island-hopping trip in the Ionian Sea. You can find all the details in our article on island hopping in Greece.
The large, yellow car ferries operated by Levante Ferries run regularly from Ithaca to Kefalonia. With Levante Ferries, you can also continue on to Patras, the major port city on the mainland. In addition, there’s Ionion Pelagos, which connects Ithaca with Kefalonia, Lefkada, and the mainland. The port of Frikes is served regularly only during the summer months, including by Westferry from Lefkada.
Ferry schedules in Greece change frequently and sometimes even on short notice, especially for off-season routes. Therefore, always check the current ferry times before departure. The easiest way to book your ferry tickets to Ithaca is through our partner Ferryhopper*:
➲ Book your ferry with Ferryhopper*
⛴️ Find a ferry to Ithaca
#3 Best Time to Visit Ithaca
Like the other Ionian Islands, Ithaca has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and fairly mild but rainy winters. You’ll notice this right away, as the landscape on Ithaca is truly very green—even though the neighboring island of Kefalonia has significantly more trees.
Ithaca is at its most beautiful in April and May, when everything is in bloom. With temperatures between 18 and 22 degrees, this time of year is ideal for hikes, such as to the Rizes Cave or around the village of Anogi. However, the sea is still cool, so swimming in Ithaca in the spring is only for the hardy. You should also expect frequent showers.
→ For more on the climate of the Ionian Islands and the weather on Ithaca, see our article: Best Time to Visit Greece
Starting in June, temperatures on Ithaca rise noticeably, and the sea also gets warmer. While Kefalonia and Zakynthos are already quite busy, things are still relatively quiet on Ithaca. For us, June is one of the best times to travel because almost everything is open, yet it’s not too crowded yet. However, you should still expect occasional rain showers. By the way, June is the most popular month among sailors.
As everywhere in Greece, Ithaca also experiences its highest temperatures in July and August, often exceeding 30 degrees. When there’s no wind, it gets quite humid, and you’ll want to spend the midday hours on the island’s pebble beaches. During this time, you should plan hikes for early morning or late afternoon, as it gets sweltering on the unshaded trails around noon.
Starting in mid-September, things quiet down again on Ithaca; the sea is still pleasantly warm, and temperatures remain summery at 25 to 27 degrees. With temperatures around 22 degrees, October is also still a good time for hikes. However, by then the first taverns and many accommodations have already closed. But in Vathy, anyone who doesn’t mind that will always find a place to stay.
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
#4 Hotel Tips for Ithaca
The selection of hotels on Ithaca is much more limited than on Kefalonia. Instead of large hotel complexes, you’ll mainly find smaller resorts as well as many apartments and villas, which are often family-run. We were surprised ourselves by how few accommodations were still available in June, but at least this limits the rush of tourists to the island. So booking well in advance is a must on Ithaca!
Accommodation prices on Ithaca are also quite high. It’s very difficult to find something truly good for under 90 €. Even simple apartments in Vathy cost around 120 € per night as early as May and June, and prices go up even more in July and August. Unfortunately, many accommodations on Ithaca are a bit too old-fashioned for our taste, but that’s, of course, a matter of personal preference.
The most popular resort on Ithaca is Vathy in the south of the island. This is where the island’s life really comes alive; it has the most accommodations, and all the shops are open from May through September. Most vacationers set up camp in Vathy, though many of them stay for only two to three days. Due to the short rental periods and limited availability, prices on Ithaca are higher than the average for Greek islands.
If Vathy is too bustling for you, look for accommodations in the north of Ithaca, for example near the coast in Frikes or Kioni. Alternatively, the village of Stavros in the interior is also worth a visit; it offers an authentic atmosphere and everything you need: taverns, cafés, and quaint vacation rentals. If you’re dreaming of a villa with a pool on Ithaca, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the area around Exogi and Platrithias, a little north of Stavros.
Here’s where we stayed on Ithaca
Oralia Apartments* in Vathy
This family-run apartment complex is located above Vathy and offers a stunning view of the harbor. The town center is about a 7- to 10-minute walk away. The functionally furnished apartments all feature a large balcony or terrace with a direct view of the harbor. It was pleasantly quiet at night, so we felt very comfortable during our stay.
Host Christina warmly looks after her guests’ well-being, and the rooms are even cleaned daily. Parking is available right in front of the apartment complex. We recommend this accommodation to anyone who can do without the hustle and bustle of the town center but still wants to stay in Vathy.
Through our partner Booking.com*, you can find more information about Oralia Apartments in Vathy and check availability and prices right away:
More Hotel Recommendations for Ithaca
Here’s a personal selection of other beautiful accommodations on Ithaca (links to Booking.com*):
- Perantzada Hotel 1811* in Vathy
- Theta Project* in Stavros
- Phileo Villas* in Exogi
You can find many more accommodations on Ithaca via Booking.com* and check prices directly here:
🛏️ Find hotels in Ithaca
All hotels at a glance, check prices & availability directly:
#5 Car Rentals for Ithaca
You won’t get very far on Ithaca without a car, unless you’re content to just stroll through the alleys of Vathy. By the way, most hosts will arrange for pickup at the ferry terminal if you ask in advance. Alternatively, you can order a taxi to the port of Ithaca, but you should book it a few days before arrival. You can do this online at: www.taxiithaca.gr
You can reserve your rental car for Ithaca right away through our partner Discover Cars*:
➲ Book a rental car for the island*
There are no major car rental companies like Sixt or Avis on Ithaca, but there are plenty of local rental agencies that can be more flexible in meeting customer needs. Most car rental companies are located in Vathy. It’s best to book your rental car early, as the small island can quickly run out of available cars in July and August due to the influx of visitors. Our recommendations for car rental companies on Ithaca are:
- Alpha Car Rental
- Levantes Car Rental
If you’re planning to travel via Kefalonia, you can also book a rental car there. By arrangement, you can also take it with you on the ferry to the neighboring island. Be sure to clarify this in advance with the car rental company in Kefalonia, however, as insurance coverage may lapse in an emergency if you take the vehicle on the ferry.
→ For more tips on Kefalonia—such as travel arrangements and car rentals—check out this post: Kefalonia Travel Tips
Quads, Scooters, and eBikes on Ithaca
If you’re traveling alone or with light luggage, renting a scooter on Ithaca might be worth it. But don’t underestimate the extremely steep slopes of the roads. The northern part of Ithaca is accessible only via mountain roads. The climb up from the Isthmus of Ithaca alone can be a challenge for underpowered scooters. We think you’ll get around better on Ithaca with a quad bike.
Bicycles are now available in a few places. However, the selection of e-bikes on Ithaca is very limited. If you’d still like to cycle, you should factor in the sometimes significant elevation differences between the south and north of the island. Alternatively, it’s worth it for cycling enthusiasts to rent a bike on Kefalonia and, by prior arrangement, take it across to Ithaca. Our recommendations for scooters and quads on Ithaca:
- Zambelis – Rent a Scooter
- Alpha Bike
Taking the Bus on Ithaca
Traveling by bus on Ithaca is only recommended for travelers with plenty of time and patience, as the bus on Ithaca typically runs only once a day. It connects Vathy with the northern part of the island, with the final stop being the coastal town of Kioni. The route also passes through Stavros, though the bus only stops there when requested. You can view the current bus schedules for Kefalonia and Ithaca here: ktelkefalonias
If you want to explore as much as possible, we highly recommend renting a car on Ithaca. Many highlights, such as the Kathara Monastery, Exogi, or Anogi, are difficult or impossible to reach by bus. You should therefore book your rental car in advance, as there is no rental office at the port of Ithaca. However, a vehicle booked in advance will be delivered to you upon arrival at the port, so you can get started right away.
✓ Comprehensive coverage & unlimited mileage, at no extra cost
✓ Stay flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
✓ Secure booking & price comparison via Discover Cars
#6 Things to See on Ithaca
Although Ithaca is nearly seven times smaller than Kefalonia, there’s still plenty to discover, and we didn’t get bored even after a week on the island. The main town of Vathy, with its charming architecture, is definitely the number one attraction on Ithaca. You’ll also encounter the mythological figure of Odysseus from Homer’s epic poem everywhere on the island.
In the north, the coastal villages of Frikes and Kioni are well worth a visit. Among our favorites were also the Kathara Monastery with its panoramic views and the mountain village of Anogi, whose surroundings are dotted with several massive monoliths. Then there’s Exogi, which sits picturesquely on a hillside and seems as if it’s been frozen in time. Below it lies the Palace of Odysseus, one of the most famous archaeological sites on Ithaca.
→ You can find the most beautiful highlights on Ithaca and places you shouldn’t miss here: Ithaca Attractions
Below is a summary of the most important sights on Ithaca:
- Vathy with its harbor promenade
- Rizes Cave and Arethusa Spring (Odysseus sites)
- Kathara Monastery (Iera Moni Katharon)
- Anogi and the Araklis Monolith
- Frikes and Kioni, the picture-perfect villages in the north
- Stavros with its archaeological museum
- The mountain village of Exogi
- Palace of Odysseus
- Dream beaches like Gidaki, Sarakiniko, Kaminia, and Aspros Gialos
🏺 Ithaca and Odysseus: Ithaca is inextricably linked to the Homeric hero Odysseus—and has been long before Christopher Nolan’s film *The Odyssey* (2026). Homer’s epic, over 2,700 years old, recounts Odysseus’s ten-year odyssey following the Trojan War, during which the god Poseidon punishes him and terrifying monsters like the cyclops Polyphemus hold him back. It is only after twenty years that he returns to Ithaca and must reclaim his throne. Whether Ithaca was truly his homeland has not been conclusively proven to this day. However, archaeological finds from the year 2025—including ancient roof tiles bearing the inscription ΟΔΥCCEOC—make it more likely.
#7 Ithaca Excursions and Tours
Homer’s island is a destination for independent explorers who want to follow in the footsteps of Odysseus. Most of the mythological sites are accessible only on foot, but there is also the option of joining a guided tour on Ithaca. In Vathy, for example, boat tours along the coast of Ithaca are offered, showcasing the picturesque landscape from a different perspective.
Through our partner GetYourGuide*, you can view suitable Ithaca excursions and check availability and prices:
If you’d like to visit the island just as part of a day trip, an organized boat trip to Ithaca from Kefalonia is well worth it. These tours are offered from either Sami, Agia Efimia, or Fiskardo. Alternatively, you can take the early morning ferry from Sami to Pisaetos and then explore the island on your own by rental car or scooter. In the afternoon, you’ll head back to Kefalonia.
🗺️ Find tours in Ithaca
If you’re looking for a bit more adventure on vacation, explore the coast of Ithaca as your own captain. In Greece, you don’t need a license to operate motorboats up to 25 PS. After a brief orientation, you’re ready to go. In Vathy, there are several good motorboat rental companies, with prices that vary very little. Most offer a flat rate for two to four hours; fuel costs are extra. Our recommendations for motorboat rentals on Ithaca are:
- IthacaBoats
- Poseidon Boats
- Odyssey Boats
#8 Ithaca Restaurant Recommendations
Ithaca’s dining scene offers a good mix of international dishes and traditional island cuisine. Many restaurants don’t open until May or June and close as early as the end of September—Vathy is an exception. The food on Ithaca is good, but it doesn’t quite measure up to the cuisine of Amorgos or Tinos. Prices are also quite high: tzatziki usually costs €7, Greek salad €12, moussaka €14, and you’ll rarely find a freddo espresso for less than €4.00.
Here are our recommendations for cafés and restaurants on Ithaca:
Kafé-Bar Apagio in Vathy: A unique café-bar a bit off the beaten path, but with a chic interior, a friendly staff, and delicious dishes like pancakes, salads, and burgers. Highly recommended for breakfast, too!
Soddis in Vathy: A small bistro-café right on the waterfront promenade. The Freddo Espresso tastes excellent, and they also serve fresh juices, pancakes, and club sandwiches. Waiter Savvas is very friendly and can give you great tips on the island if you need them. It’s also a great spot for a cocktail in the evening!
Fournello in Vathy: A cozy bistro right on the waterfront promenade, with tables almost at the water’s edge. The menu offers a nice change from the taverns: pizza, crêpes, burgers, and a great breakfast. Chef Markos and waiter Damian create a relaxed, warm atmosphere. Highly recommended for anyone looking for something different from Greek salad, bifteki, and the like.
Dona Lefki in Lefki: This restaurant, which looks rather unassuming from the outside, is located on the main road to Stavros and impresses with exceptionally good food and a phenomenal view. In addition to hearty meat dishes, there are also vegetarian and vegan options, all freshly prepared. A real hidden gem for anyone who values quality and flavor!
To Kentro in Stavros: This family-run café on the village square is warm, laid-back, and equally popular with locals and vacationers alike. The selection ranges from good coffee to fresh smoothies and light snacks, all at fair prices. For us, it’s the most authentic spot on Ithaca!
Kanenas Taverna in Stavros: An unassuming taverna that stands out for its authentic Greek cuisine and a gorgeous garden behind the main building. The service is super friendly, and the house wine tastes great, too. Feel free to ask the owner about the daily specials—you can even take a peek into the kitchen.
Extraterrestrial in Exogi: Located in Ithaca’s highest village, this taverna really stands out for its setting: shady spots under the pergola, panoramic views, and absolute tranquility. Owner Giannis serves Greek and Mediterranean cuisine at slightly higher prices. Between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m., only coffee and cake are served; in the evening, you should make a reservation.
Revithaki in Frikes: Located right by the sea under shady trees, this is still a real hidden gem on Ithaca. The small menu features original seafood dishes with chickpeas and legumes, along with changing daily specials. We really liked the waiter, Athanasios, who gave us recommendations on what to order. For us, it’s one of the best restaurants on Ithaca!
Our tip for really good food on Ithaca: Avoid the restaurants right on the waterfront in touristy towns like Kioni and Vathy, and instead look for a quaint taverna in the countryside. Especially in Vathy, they’ll do anything to attract customers—sometimes very pushy—and the quality often suffers as a result. We’ve marked all our favorite taverns and cafés on our Ithaca map.
Who Should Visit Ithaca
Ithaca is a great choice for almost any type of traveler. If you’re looking for nature, diverse landscapes, and a good mix of tourist amenities and authenticity, you’ll find everything you’re looking for here. On the other hand, those looking for sandy beaches, nightlife, or bargains are likely to be disappointed, as Ithaca isn’t a cheap island. To make sure you don’t have any false expectations, we’ve listed the most important points below:
✓ Sailors: Numerous beautiful coves and a great main town make Ithaca a popular anchorage.
✓ Island hoppers: Ithaca pairs perfectly with Kefalonia and Lefkada.
✓ Anyone who enjoys strolling: Vathy is the perfect place for that.
✓ If you’re interested in mythology and love The Odyssey, you must visit Ithaca.
✗ If you’re into sandy beaches, you won’t find any on Ithaca—it’s all pebbles.
✗ If you think you’ll discover a real hidden gem here: think again—Ithaca is quite crowded from June through September.
✗ People who love beach bars: There aren’t even five of them on the entire island.
✗ Vacationers who prefer exclusive accommodations: Most of the accommodations feel rather old-fashioned.
→ You can find more posts about Ithaca and plenty of tips for the Ionian Islands at:
- Ionian Islands Blog – An Overview of the Archipelago
FAQ on Ithaca Travel Tips
Who is a vacation on Ithaca best suited for?
Ithaca is particularly well-suited for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking peace and quiet. The island is significantly smaller and more unspoiled than Kefalonia or Zakynthos and doesn’t get overcrowded, even in high season. If you’re expecting a lively party scene or a wide selection of restaurants and hotels, this isn’t the place for you.
How many days should you plan for Ithaca?
Three to four days are enough to see the main sights in the north and south of Ithaca. Of course, you can also stay longer. There are plenty of highlights to enjoy over a week, and there are plenty of places to swim as well.
What are the must-see sights on Ithaca?
Highlights include Vathy with its Archaeological Museum, the Rizes Cave and Arethusa Spring near Perachori, the Kathara Monastery, the picture-perfect harbors of Frikes and Kioni, and the mountain village of Anogi. You can find all the details in our article on Ithaca’s sights.
Which beaches on Ithaca are the most beautiful?
Our favorites include Dexia, Gidaki, Sarakiniko, Kaminia (with its beach bar), and Aspros Gialos. Some of them, like Gidaki, are only accessible by boat or on foot.
When is the best time to visit Ithaca?
You’ll get the most sunshine and the warmest water temperatures between June and September. Spring and fall are better for hiking, since it’s not as hot then.
Do I need a rental car on Ithaca?
Yes, we definitely recommend renting a car on Ithaca. Many highlights in the north and south of the island are difficult or impossible to reach by bus, and the bus schedule is very sparse.
How much does a vacation on Ithaca cost?
During the off-season, expect to pay at least €90 per night. In July and August, prices start at €140 and up. There are no large hotels on Ithaca, and the ones that exist are a bit old-fashioned for our taste.
Which town on Ithaca is best for staying overnight?
Vathy offers the widest selection of accommodations and is a good base for exploring both parts of the island. Frikes and Kioni in the north are ideal for those who prefer a more romantic and peaceful atmosphere.
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