Things to do in Ionian Islands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ionian Islands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the Ionian Islands' strong Venetian and imperial legacies, from fortress complexes to royal residences.
Old Fortress of Corfu
A centuries-old fortress guarding Corfu Town with panoramic sea views and atmospheric tunnels.
New Fortress of Corfu
A 16th-century fortress offering imposing walls and sweeping views over the town and harbor.
Achilleion Palace
Imperial palace built for Empress Elisabeth, set on a hill with lush gardens and statues.
Museums
Art and archaeology reveal the Ionian Islands' layered history and culture.
Archaeological Museum of Corfu
Collections tracing ancient Kerkyra’s civilizations, from Greek to Roman times.
Museum of Asian Art of Corfu
A distinctive collection housed in a grand neoclassical building.
Solomos Museum (Zakynthos)
Dedicated to Greece’s national poet, housed in the island’s historic center.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites across the islands offer serene settings and architectural beauty.
Saint Spyridon Church (Corfu)
Corfu Town’s grand church, home to the island’s patron saint and festive processions.
Vlacherna Monastery (Corfu)
A picturesque white monastery on a small isthmus overlooking the sea.
Monastery of Saint Gerasimos (Kefalonia)
A major pilgrimage site dedicated to Kefalonian’s patron saint.
National & Theme Parks
Protected landscapes and mountains provide dramatic backdrops for nature lovers.
Mount Ainos National Park (Kefalonia & Ithaca)
Forest-covered peak offering scenic trails and panoramic island views.
Korission Lake Nature Reserve (Corfu)
Wetlands and dunes ideal for birdwatching and long seaside walks.
Ionian nature reserves (general)
Protected natural areas across the islands for hiking and wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through the island towns’ historic quarters and lively harbor districts.
Corfu Town Old Quarter
A UNESCO-listed maze of streets, tavernas, and neoclassical buildings.
Zakynthos Town (Chora)
Vibrant harborfront and medieval alleys perfect for sunset walks.
Lefkada Town (Lefkada City)
Colorful houses and charming waterfront beside the marina.
Free Things to Do
Many Ionian highlights are free to enjoy, from beaches to scenic viewpoints.
Navagio Beach viewpoint (Zakynthos)
Picture-perfect cliff views and the famous shipwreck cove.
Cape Drastis sunset views (Corfu)
Clifftop contrasts and sea vistas ideal for photos.
Kathisma Beach (Lefkada)
Long sandy shore perfect for a stroll or sunbathing.
Stroll Corfu Town Old Quarter
Free to roam its narrow streets and admire the architecture.
Gastronomy
Savor the Ionian flavors: seafood, wines, and olive oils from the islands.
Robola wine tasting (Kefalonia)
Try the island’s crisp white wine paired with seafood.
Kumquat liqueur (Corfu)
Sweet-and-tresh liqueur made from Corfiot kumquats.
Fresh seafood and octopus dishes
Grilled seafood, locally caught and prepared with simple flavors.
Olive oil tasting (Corfu)
Sample high-quality olive oils from island groves.
Nightlife
Ionian nightlife ranges from beach bars to lively harbor towns.
Kavos nightlife (Corfu)
Bustling clubs and bars famous for late-night partying.
Ipsos bar scene (Corfu)
Long strip of bars and lively crowds along the coast.
Gouvia Marina nightlife (Corfu)
Relaxed evenings by the water with drinks and music.
Entertainment
Cultural evenings, boat trips, and coastal amusements await.
Sunset boat cruises around the Ionian
Relaxing sails with views of cliff coastlines and islands.
Traditional music and folk evenings (villages)
Local performances showcasing Ionian culture.
Sports
Water sports and mountain trails for active travelers.
Scuba diving in Zakynthos
Explore underwater caves and reef life along the coast.
Windsurfing in Lefkada
Ideal conditions for windsurfing along the west coast.
Hiking Mount Ainos (Kefalonia/Ithaca)
Forest trails and sweeping island views from the summit.
Sailing around the Ionian Islands
Calm seas and picturesque anchorages on a sailing trip.
Off the Track
Venture to hidden caves and lesser-known natural wonders.
Melissani Cave (Kefalonia)
Boat ride through a turquoise subterranean lake.
Drogarati Cave (Kefalonia)
Solid rock caverns with impressive stalactites and acoustics.
Blue Caves (Zakynthos)
Spectacular sea caves famed for their glowing blue water.