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You will have heard of the Greek Island, Ithaca, a few times. It’s typically considered to be Homer’s Ithaca. Sure, that might be the house of Odysseus, the place the classical Greek story The Odyssey, takes place.
So far as Greek Islands go, it’s removed from the most well-liked. Heading right here to discover all the perfect issues to do in Ithaca, will definitely be a distinct expertise you probably have been to some bigger and busier Greek Islands.
In Ithaca, you may have all the attractive bays and seashores, scenic drives, and wonderful feta with out the crowds. Getting right here takes a bit of labor, however I promise you’ll be blissful if you’re having a glass of wine amongst locals.
Ithaca, can be known as Ithaki by locals. We are going to reference each Ithaca and Ithaki on this greatest issues to do in Ithaca article!
The place is Ithaca?
Ithaca is a small Greek island within the Ionian Sea, situated simply off the coast of close by Kefalonia. It’s the second smallest of the seven fundamental Ionian Islands, the primary can be Paxi. At simply 96 sq. kilometers and a inhabitants underneath 4000 folks it’s simple to journey right here and be transported to a distinct Greece. One which you’ll have been hoping for, however have been unable to seek out on extra well-liked islands like Corfu, Santorini, and Mykonos.
You might be again to conventional Greek life on Ithaca, which makes it a wonderful Greek island to journey to.
How To Get To Ithaca Island
All guests to Ithaca must arrive by way of water. There are a couple of fundamental ferry ports in Pisaetos and Frikes, in addition to some cruise corporations that can take you into Vathi port. In case you are crusing across the Greek islands Vathi, Kioni and Frikes have marinas that yachts and sailboats can dock at.
Ithaca is greatest related by way of ferry from Kefalonia, Lefkada, or Astakos on the mainland.
The Greatest Issues to do in Ithaca
Go to the Ruins of Odysseus Palace
The Ruins of Odysseus Palace, often known as Homer’s Faculty, is likely one of the high historic landmarks and probably the greatest issues to do in Ithaca. Till not too long ago, it was the stuff of legends till an archaeological group found what’s believed to be the legendary palace.
You possibly can stroll to the location and discover it by yourself and see the workings of archaeological digs and Melanithros Supply. These ruins are roughly 3,000 years outdated and are surrounded by gorgeous vistas of Afales Bay. It’s situated off a mud street close to Exogi which is about one mile from Stavros and is free to go to by yourself.
An organization known as Island Walks provides a guided tour of the ruins. The three-hour strolling tour features a cease in Stavros to go to a scale mannequin of the palace. In the event you select to rent a information by way of Island Walks, the price is €20 per individual.
Go Seaside Hopping
It’s a well-known Greek undeniable fact that there are infinite stunning seashores on the islanes, and Ithaca is house to a lot of them. Most of those seashores are pebbly, however a couple of are sandy. All are appropriate for swimming and sunbathing, are surrounded by gorgeous surroundings and have crystal clear, heat waters.
The very best seashores embody Filiatro, Gidaki and Agios Ioannis that are all inside six miles of the capital of Vathy. Frikes Seaside is on the northern coast about 12 miles from Vathy. Loutsa Seaside, three miles from Vathy, and Platia Ammos, which is within the Bay of Afales on the Northern Coast, are two well-liked sandy seashores.
Many of the seashores are pebbled so it’s sensible to put money into a pair of water footwear to guard your toes. Each time we ventured out to the seashore I want I had water footwear in my seashore necessities bag!
Discover the City of Vathy
Vathy is the capital of Ithaca and the principle heart for buying, cultural points of interest and eating places. Whether or not you make your base within the city or not, it’s price it to spend not less than a day exploring this quintessential Greek group with pedestrian streets, sidewalk cafes and little retailers.
It’s an outdated city that has been round since 1,500 AD. It’s additionally very fairly with alleys of colourful homes perched on the hillsides. The city sq. is a pleasant spot to take a break, sip on a espresso or have lunch whereas admiring the statues of Odysseus and Homer.
Within the night, you’ll discover stay leisure and plenty of locations serving drinks however the environment is relaxed not like some cities within the larger touristy areas round Greece.
Vathy is within the heart of the island on the head of Vathy Harbor and identified for its spectacular sunsets. The very best place to get pleasure from one is close to the harbor the place you may watch the solar go down behind the hills.
Attend the Annual Wine Pageant
The small village of Perachori comes alive over the last weekend in July when residents and guests alike come collectively to have fun the high-quality wine that’s made within the area. It’s probably the greatest issues to do in Ithaca and one of many greatest festivals on the island.
Attendees get pleasure from a continuing circulate of scrumptious locally-produced wine, meals, dancing and stay music into the wee hours of the night time.
The Annual Wine Pageant takes place within the yard of an old style within the village of Perachori within the south of Ithaki. Pay a small admission charge and this covers your meals and wine for the night time.
When attending it’s greatest to reach early within the day to discover the gorgeous village of Perachori which is house to a number of stunning buildings and among the island’s greatest seashores.
Go to the Monastery of Panagia Kathariotissa
The precise date that the Monastery of Panagia Kathariotissa was constructed is unknown however a refurbishment was accomplished in 1696 so we all know it’s a lot older than that. Panagia Katharon is claimed to be the protector saint of the island so the location is sacred to the native folks.
At 600 meters above sea stage, you may guess that the views from this location are unbelievable. You’ll get a birds-eye view of the island and the city of Vathy.
The Monastery is situated on the aspect of Niritos mountain about 4 miles from Anogi within the heart of Ithaki and is free to go to. Be certain to take a look at the outdated church relationship again to the 1500s and stroll to the bell tower the place you’ll discover the perfect views. If the church is locked ask the Anogi heart for the important thing to get in.
Have the Greatest Greek Salad within the World
After you might be achieved on the Kathara Monastery enterprise into the Anogi Middle. It’s right here you may get pleasure from a frappe, or a tremendous Greek salad. We didn’t know what we have been in for once we ordered a conventional Greek salad right here, however have been amazed at what got here to our desk (picture above).
Embark on a Kayaking Journey in Afales Bay
Crystal clear, calm waters make the waters round Ithaca a kayakers paradise and probably the greatest locations to kayak is Afales Bay in northern Ithaca. Odyssey Sea Kayak Membership provides a tremendous day tour for all ranges for €45 per individual. The tour provides a mixture of paddling and exploring on land at Platinammos Seaside, probably the greatest seashores on the island.
As you paddle the mild waters of the bay, you’ll see steep cliffs and little seashores. On the seashore, you’ll have the chance to do some snorkeling, cliff diving and beachcombing.
Feast on Scrumptious Greek Delicacies at Kohili Backyard Restaurant
Kohili Backyard Restaurant is likely one of the greatest eateries on Ithaca. The meals is contemporary and scrumptious, the service is wonderful and the ocean views are a welcome addition to your meal. On the menu, you’ll discover all kinds of Greek specialties together with seafood, pasta and vegetarian dishes.
You possibly can select from two outside eating areas. One space is within the backyard whereas the opposite seems out over Vathy Bay. This Greek restaurant is situated in Vathy simply two doorways up from the Council Constructing with meals from €6 to €12 per dish.
Tip: The onion pie and seafood pasta are two of the most well-liked dishes on the menu.
Take a Stroll By means of an Outdated Oak Forest
Whereas the coastal areas are what draw folks to the Greek Isles, on Ithaki, there’s a magical place the place you may escape the crowds and the summer time warmth that isn’t a seashore or harbor. The Forest of Perachori is a big, dense forest within the heart of the island that gives shade from the solar and a soothing place to get away together with your ideas.
As you stroll by way of the forest, you’ll see many elderly bushes together with pernars, felikia and oaks that may develop as much as 25 toes excessive.
The very best path to take begins on the best avenue above the village and passes the chapel of Agios Gerasimos.
Some locations are steep and there are fallen leaves in locations so watch out to not slip. Sneakers with a great grip are really helpful on any Greece packing record.
9. Try the Pyramids of Exogi
Though seemingly misplaced, the Pyramids of Exogi are price testing if you end up on this beautiful village. These two pyramids have been constructed with millstones by Ioannis Papadopoulos round 1930 and are about three meters excessive.
Through the day, you may as well get pleasure from gorgeous views of the world and at night time, the pyramids are lit up so you may see them from a distance.
You possibly can attain the pyramids by way of the principle street by way of the village. The pyramids are close to the cemetery on the finish of the village.
Take your time making your strategy to the pyramids and benefit from the sights of the historic village of Exogi together with stunning Seventeenth-century houses.
Trek to the Aetos Acropolis of Alalkomenes
In southwestern Ithaca discover the Church of Saint Georgios in Piso Aetos and take the trail to the highest of the hill. The Aetos Acropolis of Alalkomenes is an historical metropolis that has been excavated quite a few occasions and so far, unbelievable partitions made with big boulders, tombs, temples and dwellings have been unearthed and might be seen at this website.
This was as soon as a fundamental settlement and dates again tons of of years. It’s really helpful to place apart not less than two hours to get probably the most out of your go to. The stroll isn’t very lengthy but it surely’s steep.
Perantzada Resort
If you wish to keep in a centrally-located space of the island with easy accessibility to many providers and points of interest, Vathy is your most suitable option and the Perantzada Resort is a good place to make your base.
This small guesthouse will not be solely stunning with its stylish design, but it surely additionally has an infinity pool with a bar and sunbeds. The breakfast served every morning options scrumptious, selfmade pastries and pies. This superior resort is situated on Odyssea Androutsou Avenue in Vathy and rooms vary from €90 to €200.
Bicycles can be found to lease so you may simply discover the city of Vathy.
Go to the Legendary Cave of the Nymphs
The Cave of the Nymphs is a spot of myths that was as soon as a spot of worship. At 190 meters above sea stage, it’s solely accessible by way of one entrance now and though you may’t go far previous the doorway, you’ll nonetheless be capable to see inside.
Tip: Be certain to put on footwear with a great grip for mountain climbing and climbing on probably slippery surfaces. It’s a good suggestion to have some water footwear in your pack.
Be taught About native Historical past and Tradition on the Maritime – Folklore Museum
On the Maritime – Folklore Museum of Ithaca, even the constructing the museum is housed in is historic! Inside, you’ll discover over 1,500 displays showcasing many artifacts, uncommon images, work and replicas of rooms from Colonial occasions. The fee is €4 per grownup.
Put apart not less than two hours to get probably the most out of your go to. The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays throughout the off-season and has night hours throughout the summer time.
Spend a Day within the Pretty Village of Kioni
In Ormos Kioni Bay on the northeast coast of Ithaki about 15 miles from Vathy is that this charming village.
Kioni was based within the 1500s and has since been a favourite retreat for Ithaki islanders and guests alike. The little fishing village with its picturesque harbor lined with boats and fairly homes is made all that extra distinctive by the truth that it’s constructed on the slope of a mountain.
Whereas there are some cafes, eating places and retailers, you gained’t discover giant crowds which suggests you’ll get pleasure from a peaceable escape. It’s actually one of the romantic locations in all of Greece.
Enterprise inland additional the place you’ll discover a extra authentically Greek environment with grassy areas and orange bushes.
Go to The Archaeological Museum of Ithaca
Whereas exploring the ruins of Ithaki, chances are you’ll surprise the place uncovered artifacts find yourself. Many of those fascinating artifacts are on show at The Archaeological Museum of Ithaca. Many of the objects are from the south of the island and embody well-preserved pottery, vases, statues, valuable stones, cash and jewellery. A few of these objects date again to 1000 BC. I wouldn’t miss visiting as right here because it’s probably the greatest free issues to do in Ithaca.
Try the ruins and archaeological digs across the space and match the websites with their objects.
Go on a Scuba Diving Journey
Whether or not you’re new to scuba diving otherwise you’re a seasoned professional, there’s a dive for you. The waters round Ithaki are generally known as a high scuba diving spot because of the clear, heat waters. Colourful fish, reefs, rock formations and wrecks are among the attention-grabbing issues that you simply’ll see if you take a dive into these waters.
Manawa, in collaboration with Odyssey Outside Actions, provides journey dives and a few of their dives embody Poseidon Ship Reef, Gidaki Cape Reef, Remanda Rocks and Kritami Wreck.
The assembly place for the dives is at Epar.Od. Kioniou – Pera Pigadiou, Vathy and dives begin at €52 per individual.
Take the Ferry to Close by Kefalonia or Lefkada
Many islands round Ithaca are simple to achieve and enjoyable to discover. Kefalonia and Lefkada are two well-liked Greek Islands and you’ll go there by way of ferry. It takes 30-60 minutes to sail to those stunning islands.
There are lots of stunning seashores on Kefalonia together with Trapexaki, Foki and Platis Gialos. A number of the island’s points of interest embody Melissani Cave, a sacred monastery and the mountain climbing trails of Mount Ainos.
In the event you enterprise to Lefkada don’t miss out on going to Porto Katsiki! Ferry rides vary in value, so it’s greatest to verify Ferry Hopper.
Spend a Day on one of many Greatest Ithaca Seashores
Paralia Afales is a distant seashore in Northen Ithaki is an unspoiled seashore the place you may spend the day swimming, snorkeling and watching the sailboats. The waters are exceptionally clear and heat and are greatest for swimming within the morning.
To succeed in the seashore, you’ll stroll downhill for about 20 minutes so convey ingesting water and good strolling footwear.
Head to the Village of Frikes
About 12 miles away from Vathy is that this charming village. Courting again to the 1500s, the gorgeous coastal village of Frikes is a good place to spend a day exploring. The village is sort of small, so it’s an ideal place to go to flee from the crowds. As you stroll round, you’ll see olive bushes and fairly homes lining a valley overlooking the harbor.
There are a number of retailers, eating places, cafes and taverns. In the event you keep after darkish, there’s an out of doors nightclub with stay music, meals and dancing.
There are two windmills overlooking the harbor and village. At night time, they’re lit up and are fairly the sight!
Go on a Snorkeling Safari
The waters off Vathy are teeming with life and different fascinating sights. One of the best ways to discover this underwater world is with a snorkeling tour and Odyssey Outside Actions provides such an tour for about €40 per individual. You’ll see Nisopoulo Reef, a wreck at Kritami Seaside, a sea cave and an underwater wall.
A minimal of three visitors is required for the tour to go forward.
How one can Get Round Ithaca
Renting a automobile in Greece and driving is one of the best ways to get round Ithaca. This can make sure you get to do all the perfect issues to do in Ithaca at your individual tempo. In the event you haven’t arrived to Ithaca with a rental automobile from one other Greek island, you’ll should lease one in Vathy. The winding seaside roads are extraordinarily enjoyable to drive.
It’s additionally attainable to lease a 4×4, however we sometimes choose out of those in Greece. I favor my AC and shade whereas driving, and sometimes a rental automobile is cheaper than a quad. You may as well discover mopeds on Ithaca to lease, that is one other nice strategy to get round though it’ll take you longer to get from level to level.
Superior Issues to Do in Ithaca, Greece Map
When is the Greatest Time to Go to Ithaca?
The very best time to go to Ithaca is between June and September. I significantly love visiting Greece in June and September and the temperatures are decrease and the crowds aren’t at their peak. Many of the images on this article have been taken in July. With Ithaca being much less a vacationer island than different close by islands chances are you’ll discover much less to do right here for those who go to within the off season.
When is the Greatest Time to Go to the Greek Islands?
The Excellent Ionian Itinerary?
Yearly we strive to take a look at a brand new chain of Greek Islands. Why? Nicely as a result of Greece is our favourite nation to journey to! Throughout this journey, we visited the Ionian Islands. We began in Corfu, the place we rented a automobile, after we took the ferry to the mainland, drove to Lefkada, after which after talking with some locals who really helpful Ithaca over Kefalonia to us, we took the ferry to Ithaca.
We solely wished we had extra time in order that we may have added on Kefalonia and Zakynthos.
The place to Keep on Ithaca
READ MORE GREECE TRAVEL TIPS
I hope you loved this information on what to do on Ithaca! Hopefully you discovered it helpful. Listed here are a couple of related articles for extra journey round Greece!
Greek Journey Planning Assets
- ‘Hey’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Yasou” and “Efharisto”
- Forex: Euro – (EUR) – €
- Visa: Schengen visa. Which is 90 days within the European Union out of 180. Many nationalities are granted this on arrival without cost. Test together with your embassy to see if that’s you.
- Climate: The climate in Greece is a Mediterranean local weather. This implies winters are delicate and wet, whereas summers are heat and dry with loads of sunshine all year long.
- What to Pack: Heat climate garments and a swimsuit, don’t overlook a great pair of garments to go and a jacket for cool nights. Examine what to put on in Greece.
- Funds: In the event you’re within the preliminary phases of planning try our superior put up that breaks down how a lot a visit to Greece prices.
- Lease a Automotive: We recommend most guests think about renting a automobile for the perfect journey attainable. Attempt Uncover Vehicles to check quotes from totally different rental companies. Test Value Right here!
- Defend Your Journey: Don’t overlook to buy journey insurance coverage! We all the time carry journey insurance coverage to guard us from damage, theft, or a canceled journey. We use HeyMondo for our insurance coverage wants.
- Excursions in Greece: Try our record of the perfect excursions you may get pleasure from in Greece!
- Journey Adapter: Be sure you discover a good adapter to maintain your private electronics charged. In any other case, chances are you’ll be paying for an inexpensive one when you land. Buy one right here.
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