Best things to do in Ithaca
It may or may not be the island of Homer’s Odyssey, but it is unquestionably beautiful, from its cypress-clad hills to crystal-clear waters, with just as much appeal to nature lovers as history hunters.
Viewpoints and panoramas
Anogi: This small village, one of the oldest and the highest-built settlements on the island, offers breathtaking views over southern Ithaca, Kefalonia, the Echinades and (in the far distance) Zante and the Peloponnese.
Exoghi: Anogi’s northern counterpart, the views from this vantage point are just as satisfactory, sweeping over Afales Bay, Lefkada, Platrithias, the Teleboides and mainland Greece.
The best districts
Vathy: The island’s capital and main port, Vathy, is picture-perfect, from its crystalline bay to its pastel-coloured streetscape speckled with buzzy cafés, restaurants and bars.
Stavros: The main town in northern Ithaca and the gateway to many of Ithaca’s archeological sites and hiking trails, Stavros offers a more rural, laid-back atmosphere.
Parks and gardens
Arethusa Spring: Sunk in a sea of green, this deep, natural well lies at the base of the precipitous Korakos Petra, a couple of kilometres outside Vathy. Bonus: it’s only metres from secluded, pebbly Pera Pigadi Beach.
Afentikos Logos: Southwest of Perahori, this dense evergreen forest supports a variety of native plants and several bird species.
Museums
Archaeological Museum of Ithaca: This tiny museum houses finds from excavations in southern Ithaca dating from the Proto-Geometric to the Roman period, including Alakomomenes on Aetos Hill and the Nymph’s Cave in Marmarospilia.
Archaeological Collection at Stavros: The perfect companion to the archeological museum in Vathy, this museum showcases ancient artefacts from sites in northern Ithaca – Pilikata Hill, the village of Stavros and Polis Cave.
Historical monuments
Archaeological Site of Agios Athanasios: Long known as the School of Homer, the site has been identified with Odysseus’ fabled palace since the discovery of the ruins of a Mycenaean three-level palace with a rock-hewn staircase in the noughties.
Acropolis of Ancient Alakomomenes: Perched above Piso Aetos, it's a bit of an adventure getting up (the painted red dots are your friend here). There’s not a tremendous amount to see in terms of archeological remains, but the views are pretty spectacular.
Day trips in the area
Kefalonia: Home to the famous Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach and the bustling town of Argostoli, Ithaca’s big sister, Kefalonia, is just a ferry hop away.
Atokos Island: This uninhabited island is a favourite stop for boat trips around the Ionian Sea. Its crystal-clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling.
Activities for families in Ithaca
Holidays to Ithaca are all about nature and culture. If that sounds like your family, you’ll find plenty to do.
Parks: Hector Sykiotis Park in Stavros offers a bite-size introduction to Odysseus. It features a model of the palace at the Agios Athanasios site, a bronze bust of the man himself and a map detailing his wanderings.
Family-friendly beaches: To put it out there, almost all of Ithaca’s beaches have smooth pebbles and fine shingle rather than sand. Near Vathy, Filiatro and Mnimata beaches offer calm, shallow waters and groves of trees for shade.
Interactive museums: The Folklore and Nautical Museum of Ithaca in Vathy offers period rooms and a broad collection of exhibitions, everything from nautical instruments and everyday tools to traditional costumes and embroidery.
Free things to do in Ithaca
There's loads to do, from cultural events to natural wonders, even if you're on a tight budget.
Museums and archeological sites: Admission to all state-owned museums and archeological sites is waived on 6th March, 18th April, 18th May, the last weekend of September, 28th October, and every first Sunday from November to March.
Annual festivals and free events: Ithaca celebrates numerous local cultural and religious festivals, particularly during the summer, for example, the two-day Feast of Sotiris in Stavros in August. These often feature traditional music, dancing and food, giving you an authentic taste of island life.
Beaches: Most of Ithaca’s beaches are unorganised, so you won’t be able to splash out on a sunbed and brolly even if you want to. Swim, snorkel or relax in the sun at beaches like Kourvoulia or Kaminia.
Nature and outdoor activities
Hiking: The island is known for its network of walking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes that wind through olive groves and offer breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
Sailing: Ithaca is a favourite among sailors. Whether you rent a boat for a day or join a guided sailing trip, this is one of the best ways to explore hidden gems, such as Platia Ammos, which are only accessible by boat.
Diving and snorkelling: The island’s clear waters and rocky coastlines provide fantastic opportunities to discover marine life. Several local companies, including Odyssey Diving Club in Vathy, offer diving lessons and equipment rental for those wanting to explore underwater.
SUP and sea kayaking: Calm waters, sheltered bays and secluded coves make Ithaca an ideal destination for paddlers.