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The Ionian Islands are a timeless tapestry woven from white-sand bays nestled beneath sheer-cut cliffs, precipitous coastlines shimmering above turquoise seas, and hills cloaked in slender cypresses and olive groves. This is the westernmost corner of Greece, where the translucent Adriatic Sea seamlessly merges with the equally crystalline Ionian Sea. Renowned for their breath taking natural beauty, hopping between the islands offers a captivating alternative to a one centre holiday, catering to all ages and tastes, from the stunning Blue Caves of Zakynthos to the serene beach havens of Ithaca. This guide is your passport to exploring the enchanting Ionian Islands, providing invaluable insights to curate an unforgettable Greek island-hopping adventure. Whether you're looking to visit two islands or venture further afield and visit all seven, all our trips are tailored to suit you.
This northernmost Ionian island is not only the greenest but also, perhaps unexpectedly, one of the most traditional. Corfu’s allure and beauty have enchanted visitors for generations, remaining as captivating as ever.
The island’s diversity contributes to its lasting appeal. With over 200 kilometres of coastline, Corfu truly has "something for everyone." Described as “beautiful, flower-filled, bathed in gentle Ionian light,” it’s difficult to capture Corfu’s essence in just a few words.
The slopes of the central hills are adorned with tall, silvery-green olive and cypress trees that cascade down to the steep western coastline, renowned for its expansive sandy beaches and breathtaking sunsets. The quaint resort of Aghios Gordis attracts visitors of all ages and from various nationalities, and families particularly enjoy the absence of a coastal road behind its stunning beach.
Head north, and you'll encounter a contrasting landscape: a rugged, winding coastline of cliffs and ravines that encircle the towering Pantokrator mountain, known as the ‘Lord of Creation.’ The northeastern part of the island, with its white pebble coves, spectacular views, and numerous walking trails, is truly enchanting. The locals, especially those from the countryside, are incredibly friendly and generous, dedicated to their land and many still embrace traditional lifestyles.
For walkers and birdwatchers, Corfu offers an endless array of interests. The Corfu Trail, which extends from north to south through some of the island's most stunning and lasting landscapes, can be explored in manageable sections and passes near all our selected resort areas, including Liapades. As described in ‘Landscapes of Corfu,’ “Walking on Corfu is pure bliss. You'll be treated to a kaleidoscope of landscapes, and you don’t have to be an adventurous hiker to discover these beautiful spots. The trails lead to some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see.”
Corfu town presents yet another unique experience, distinct from other Greek towns due to its history of Venetian, French, and British rule. Its two formidable forts ensured it never succumbed to the Turks. The winding streets of the old town contrast with the elegance of Venetian and French architecture found in the centre, where you can even find the quintessentially English game of cricket played on the Esplanade green!
To the south of Corfu lies Paxos, the smallest of the Ionian islands, measuring just seven miles in length and three miles in width. Visitors are often drawn back year after year by its enchanting island charm, picturesque villages, lush wooded landscapes, and serene white-pebble beaches kissed by the clearest waters.
Paxos is abundantly adorned with olive trees, producing some of the finest olive oil available. Pine and cypress trees thrive here, leading gracefully down to the shoreline.
Due to its small size and gentle, wooded terrain, Paxos is a haven for walkers—especially in spring or early summer when an array of wildflowers bloom. The island is compact enough to traverse in a single day, crisscrossed by hundreds of paths and trails. You can find Bleasdale’s excellent 'Walking Map and Guide' available locally.
Despite its modest size, Paxos boasts over 30 beaches. While sandy Mogonisi is the exception, most are small, white-pebble beaches that gently slope into crystal-clear waters. Some beaches are accessible only by small motorboats, which can be easily rented for the best exploration of the coastline. For sandy shores, a trip to tiny Antipaxos, just a mile south, reveals Caribbean-colored waters, reachable by a small water taxi from Gaios.
The island is home to around 3,000 residents, primarily living in three main seaside villages: Lakka, Loggos, and Gaios, the capital. Each village possesses its own unique character and charm.
The quaint port of Lakka in the north gazes toward Corfu, featuring a large, almost circular bay with sheltered waters and an aquamarine sea. Olive trees cascade down to the water’s edge, concealing charming white-pebble beaches.
Lakka exudes an authentic, welcoming village vibe, with its whitewashed narrow streets leading away from the scenic harbour, where a variety of cheerful tavernas, cafes, and small shops can be found.
Loggos, the smallest and most picturesque of the three, features around 30 old houses clustered around the waterfront. Staying near the waterfront places you at the heart of village life, which can become lively during peak season. Loggos offers excellent tavernas, a bakery, and a few quaint shops, with the nearest good beach (Levrechio) just a five-minute walk along the headland.
Gaios, the capital, though not large, is the most cosmopolitan and favoured by yacht enthusiasts. It boasts an appealing flag stoned square filled with cafés, small bars, and a delightful selection of restaurants. The view of Gaios’ charming waterfront structures from the island of Aghios Nikolaos across the narrow channel remains largely unchanged since Lear painted it in the 19th century.
Kefalonia, the largest island in the Ionian group, lies between Corfu and Zakynthos. This stunning island invites exploration, offering dramatic landscapes, unique traditions, beautiful beaches, and an untouched way of life. The incredible variety available is a key reason many visitors return time and again.
The landscape of Kefalonia is breathtaking. Towering mountains reach heights of over 1600 meters, while beaches vary from expansive stretches of soft golden sand to quaint white-pebble coves. Lush pine forests blanket the hillsides, and fertile valleys are home to olive and citrus groves. The island is surrounded by the clearest blue seas. Like all Ionian islands, Kefalonia truly shines in spring and early summer when the wildflowers bloom brilliantly.
With so much to see, renting a car becomes nearly essential, as local bus services are limited. The charming village of Agia Efimia, located on the north-east coast, maintains its authentic Greek character. It boasts several delightful tavernas and a selection of picturesque, sheltered pebble beaches nearby. Close to Agia Efimia is the small town of Sami, which serves as a ferry point to Ithaca.
Traveling along the north-western coastal road offers breathtaking views of cliffs and the sea, with the iconic Myrtos Beach glimmering below. (Be cautious of goats on the road in this area!)
Assos, also in the north-west, invites visitors to capture beautiful photos with its traditional village, small beach, and the ruins of a Venetian Fortress perched on the pine-covered hillside overlooking the bay. At the northern tip lies the charming fishing village of Fiscardo, facing Ithaca.
The southern part of the island is dominated by Mount Aenos, the highest peak, offering gentler coastal views. A multitude of small villages dot the lower slopes, leading to the growing resort of Scala, known for its expansive sandy beach. The capital, Argostoli, is a lively, contemporary town featuring broad palm-lined streets, a lovely main square, and excellent dining options. The local museum is definitely worth a visit.
Kefalonia's second town, Lixouri, is situated across the strait and can be easily reached by frequent ferries. Additionally, there are intriguing underground caves to explore, hidden monasteries to discover, and numerous quaint village tavernas to enjoy, along with the region's outstanding local wine!
While beaches are always within reach, it’s essential to explore Kefalonia to fully appreciate all that your holiday has to offer.
Fortunately, Ithaca's lack of an airport has helped it avoid over-commercialisation. This absence of mass tourism, along with its rich mythological history, makes it an island well worth exploring. While many are familiar with Ithaca, only a few choose to stay. Those who do are rewarded with a tranquil, traditionally Greek island that features stunning mountainous landscapes, charming villages, and quiet, pristine beaches.
Ithaca is divided into two parts. Mount Aetos connects the north and south and is only about half a mile wide at its narrowest point. The island's tallest peak is Neritos, rising just over 800 metres. The west coast is rugged, with steep mountainsides that rise dramatically from the sea. In contrast, the eastern side is gentler, with a coastline full of natural harbors, home to Ithaca’s three main coastal villages: Frikes, Kioni, and Vathy.
Frikes is the smallest of the trio, exuding a delightful, laid-back Greek vibe. It features four tavernas and a couple of cafés along the waterfront, which also serves as the mooring area for a line of colourful fishing boats. With mountains in the background and lush hills on either side, Frikes offers an unspoiled, natural setting and excellent walking opportunities.
Kioni is exceptionally picturesque and tends to be bustling during the high season. The horseshoe-shaped bay, surrounded by wooded hills, is lined with elegant neoclassical homes, and several lovely white-pebble beaches can be reached within a 15-minute walk.
The harbour often hosts a flotilla of boats, along with a selection of family-run restaurants and small shops. Several beaches can be found around the bay, and renting a boat makes it easy – and enjoyable – to explore additional hidden ones.
Vathy, the charming capital of the island, is nestled along the sides of a long fjord-like bay. Its expansive waterfront is adorned with beautiful old buildings. Good beaches are scattered around the peninsula to the east, and during peak season, small water taxis can ferry you back and forth.
Scuba diving, snorkelling, and sea kayak excursions can be arranged from Vathy through our island representative.
A bus service connects the three seaside villages, but it is limited, making car rental a practical option for further island exploration.
Could Ithaca really be the homeland of Odysseus? There are numerous clues—certain descriptions and locations mentioned by Homer seem to align, making it enjoyable to do a little detective work and see if you concur.
Lefkas, also referred to as Lefkada, is more than just an island. Once connected to the mainland, it was separated when the Corinthians dug a canal in the 6th century BC. Today, a swing bridge reconnects the two, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm of an island while having access to some of western Greece's most stunning locations.
The east coast is tranquil and picturesque, featuring shingle beaches lined with pine and olive trees right up to the water's edge. The views are remarkable, offering sights of the mainland and the four Prince's Islets scattered in the strait.
In contrast, the west coast boasts a rugged and expansive landscape, characterised by towering white cliffs that rise dramatically above the azure sea and stunning beaches, some of which can only be accessed by boat. The lush mountainous interior is dotted with charming working villages, many of which, like Karia, are famous for their traditional crafts, such as embroidery. All these locations are conveniently reachable by car.
Lefkas is renowned for its wine and hosts an annual folk dancing festival every August. There’s an abundance of activities to enjoy on the island. A well-organised excursion program includes boat trips to Meganissi, tours around the picturesque Prince's Islands just offshore (including the famous Skorpios), visits to the renowned Porto Katsiki beach, and coach tours around the island. Additionally, you can rent mountain bikes, small motorboats, or even take sailing lessons.
Legend has it that Aphrodite was born here, and Sappho leapt to her death on Lefkas. One German archaeologist, after discovering remnants of a city dating back to 2000 BC, dedicated his life to proving that Lefkas was actually the Ithaca from the Odyssey, suggesting that Homer had it all wrong! For more archaeological sites, consider driving to the mainland, perhaps to Nikopolis, a vast Roman city only partially excavated just north of Preveza, or even Delphi, where an overnight stay is recommended.
Like all Ionian islands, Lefkas sees a surge of visitors in August. However, few Greek islands have the advantage of direct flights while still preserving their traditions and character to the extent that Lefkas has.
Meganissi stands out as the largest of Lefkas’ six satellite islands and is the only one that is inhabited. Just a half-hour ferry ride from Nidri, which passes by Onassis’ Skorpios, it offers a tranquil atmosphere and a leisurely pace that feels worlds apart.
This island is a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life, allowing you to unwind completely while soaking in breathtaking views, enjoying walks, swimming, and other simple pleasures. Meganissi features two ports, each accompanied by a charming village above. The first, Spilia, named after a nearby sea cave, is a picturesque harbour where fishing boats mingle with visiting yachts. It boasts a popular taverna and a shingle beach called Rocca, which also has its own taverna. A delightful 10-15 minute stroll leads you up to the whitewashed village of Spartochori, filled with flowers and offering a couple of restaurants.
To the east, 3½ kilometers away, lies the small port of Vathy. Here, you’ll find several well-regarded waterfront restaurants that attract Lefkadians for leisurely Sunday fish lunches. Just a kilometre inland is the charming village of Katomeri. Within a 10-15 minute walk, you'll discover lovely pebble beaches, with additional ones accessible by locally hired motorboats.
All ports and villages are connected by a circular road that hugs the coastline and meanders through stunning rural landscapes. Walking through this gently rolling countryside is a favourite pastime, making it easy to explore the various ports and villages.
True to Meganissi’s untouched essence, the beaches remain largely uncommercialised, pristine, and uncrowded. Most are adorned with white pebbles and bordered by pine and cypress trees. Ai Yiannis, accessible by country road from Spartochori, is well-known for its stunning views of Lefkas and features a taverna. Meanwhile, a 1.7-kilometer journey from Vathy leads you to the beautiful Fanari.
The island's deeply indented coastline conceals numerous secluded coves, bays, and beaches, some of which can only be reached on foot or by boat.
For those who prefer not to walk, car rentals are advisable, and bicycles and motorboats are available for hire. Small excursion boats can take you to explore the sea caves and nearby Prince’s Islands. For those seeking more vibrant activities, a day trip to Lefkas is easily manageable, although many may find it hard to leave this serene and beautiful haven.
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is situated south of Kefalonia and boasts a wonderful, temperate climate. Spanning approximately 19 by 38 kilometres, it is a lush and fertile island primarily dedicated to agriculture, embodying a relaxed rural lifestyle.
The northern and western regions are wild and mountainous, while the contrasting central and southern plains feature a charming blend of shady olive groves, fertile valleys, and vineyards. In spring, the hillsides burst into colour with wildflowers, and vibrant butterflies flutter throughout the landscape. The Venetians affectionately referred to the island as Il Fiore de Levante (‘the flower of the east’), a name that still holds true today.
The southern part of the island is home to some of the finest sandy beaches, many of which are located within the Marine Park established to safeguard the nesting areas of the endangered loggerhead turtle.
Limni Keri is a quaint seaside village nestled on the western side of Laganas Bay, offering stunning views of Marathonissi Island. This area is particularly appealing to families and couples seeking a serene, authentic Greek getaway in picturesque, rural surroundings, just a stone's throw from the beach. The beach itself is long (if somewhat narrow), primarily sandy, and gently slopes into a safe, sheltered sea.
The village features several charming local restaurants, a café, a couple of mini-markets, and a bakery. Surrounded by a lush valley (once a lake, now a nature reserve) and wooded hills, there are ample walking opportunities, including a trek to the traditional village of Keri located a few kilometres inland. Boats are available to take you to explore the nearby Keri Caves and Marathonissi (Turtle Island), or you can rent motorboats by the hour.
The northern part of Zakynthos remains tranquil and untouched, devoid of established resort areas as you move beyond Alikes. This region showcases rolling green hills (which become more mountainous to the west), traditional inland villages, and a dramatic coastline that conceals shingle beaches, limestone cliffs, arches, and sea caves. The sea here is remarkably blue.
Daily boat trips depart from the small port of Agios Nikolaos to the Blue Caves, a must-see attraction. Many tours continue to the iconic Shipwreck Cove, where you can swim from the breathtaking Navagio beach, with the shipwreck in sight. Ferries also operate to Kefalonia, making day trips convenient, although a car is necessary. Agios Nikolaos features three tavernas, cafes, and a mini-market situated behind its charming little beach, along with motorboats available for hire.
Just a few kilometres south lies Mikro Nisi, a serene cove with a couple of tavernas perched above, followed by Makris Gialos, the area's most popular beach. Inland, the hilltop villages reveal the traditional side of Zakynthos, inviting visitors to explore, with Volimes being the largest among them.
Lying in a linked chain off the west coast of the mainland of Greece with a cooler climate, forested mountains and delicious food, each one is a different flavour, making the Ionian Islands the perfect island-hopping destination. From the the sandy coves and Venetain alleyways of Corfu, to the the pretty villages and Italianate harbours of Paxos. Explore the vineyards of Kefalonia, the mythical shores of Ithaca and the sea caves of Zakynthos and the glittering sea that surrounds them all. There is something for the adventurer, food-lover, culture-creature and beach-seeker.
Let Sunvil take care of all the details, ensuring your holiday is tailored to your interests and designed to forge unforgettable experiences. Start planning your ideal Ionian Island Hopping escape by visiting our Ionian Destination Specialists Direct Chat or call us today. With Sunvil, you’re not just visiting these beautiful islands — you’re experiencing them as they're meant to be seen.
28th October 2024
Those of our clients who have, over the last 20 or so years, visited Tolon in the Peloponnese will know Jackie; our very knowledgeable and passionate representative. Having decided to return to the UK, she has joined our reservations team and, needless to say, knows Tolon, a resort we have featured since 1973, inside out. It will come as no surprise to know that the Peloponnese is her favourite region in Greece.
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