Things to do in Ithaca
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ithaca has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Ithaki's ancient echoes, from Bronze Age settlements to legendary coastal wonders.
Skarkos Archaeological Site
A Bronze Age settlement on the island offering insights into early Ionian life with panoramic views.
Odysseus' Cave
A legendary coastal cave linked to Homeric tales and dramatic sea cliffs.
Museums
Discover Ithaki's past and cultural traditions through small, engaging collections.
Ithaca Archaeological Museum
Exhibits artifacts from the island’s ancient sites and settlements.
Ithaki Folklore Museum
Registers local crafts, costumes, and everyday island life.
Religious Monuments
Explore sacred sites that dot the island’s shoreline and villages.
Church of Panagia, Vathy
Historic church with sea views and modest, traditional interiors.
Monastery of Panagia Katholikon, Exo Gialos
Quiet waterfront monastery offering a glimpse of monastic life.
National & Theme Parks
Ithaki isn't home to a formal national park, but nearby protected nature areas are great for hiking.
Ithaca Nature Reserve (Natura 2000)
Coastal and hillside habitats with scenic hiking routes.
Marine Protected Area around Ithaki
Protected coastal waters ideal for responsible snorkeling and wildlife watching.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant villages and waterfront towns showcase Ithaki's character.
Vathy (Vathi) – the capital harbor
Bustling waterfront with cafes, ferries and sunset views.
Kioni
Picturesque cliffside village famous for its colorful houses and tavernas.
Frikes
Relaxed harbor town with alleys, seafood spots and boat activity.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Ithaki without spending a euro on entry fees with these simple pleasures.
Swim at Gidaki Beach
A dramatic, sparsely populated beach reachable by a scenic path.
Walk along Vathy waterfront at sunset
Stroll the harbor promenade with views over the Ionian Sea.
Hike coastal trails
Follow well-marked paths to overlook the coastline and coves.
Gastronomy
Taste Ithaki’s local flavors, from olive oil to fresh seafood.
Ithaki Olive Oil Tasting
Sample the island’s fragrant extra-virgin olive oil.
Local honey & cheeses
Try island-made honey and traditional cheeses.
Seafood tavernas along the coast
Fresh octopus, grilled fish and seasonal dishes by the water.
Nightlife
Low-key, seaside evenings with good food and drinks.
Vathy waterfront bars
Casual spots for an after-dark drink with sea views.
Frikes evening cafes
Relaxed venues offering music and conversations by the harbor.
Entertainment
Live music and cultural happenings infuse island nights in summer.
Traditional Greek music nights
Live local tunes in tavernas and village squares.
Cultural events in Vathy
Summer performances and small festivals celebrating island culture.
Sports
Adventure and activity options to keep you energized.
Sea kayaking around Ithaki coastline
Paddle along cliffs, sea caves and hidden coves.
Scuba diving and snorkeling
Explore clear waters with interesting underwater scenery.
Hiking to coastal viewpoints
Follow trails that reveal dramatic Ionian panoramas.
Off the Track
Go beyond the busy routes to discover Ithaki's quieter sides.
Boat trips to nearby islets
Short excursions to secluded coves and offshore spots.
Footpath to a lesser-known beach
A scenic hike leads to a peaceful, lesser-visited shore.
Stargazing on a clear hilltop
A tranquil night under Ionian skies away from town lights.