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Ithaca is a small, beautiful Greek island in the Ionian Sea, with history, myth, and tranquil beauty. Whether you want to see the area associated with Homer’s Odysseus or you’re simply searching for coastal charm, you will certainly be able to find plenty of things to do in Ithaca Greece, for every kind of traveller. With hidden beaches, remnants of ancient civilisations, mountain villages, and stunning viewpoints, Ithaca can offer the best of both relaxation and exploration. This laid-back island makes up for it in the soul and heart of travellers looking for authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Top 9 Things To Do In Ithaca, Greece
Whether you are exploring hidden caves, hiking for some great scenic viewpoints, or simply strolling through an ancient village seeped in myth and history, you are sure to find the things to do in Ithaca Greece, you have been searching for.
1. Visit Vathi – The Charming Capital
Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons
The beautiful harbour town of Vathi is the capital of Ithaca, situated at the end of a deep bay framed by lush green hills. It is painted in neoclassical houses, featuring red tile roofs that beautifully reflect in the unruffled waters; it looks like a postcard. Coming down the waterfront boardwalk, you will find welcoming cafes, family-owned tavernas, and little shops where you can find handcrafted art and local delights. Ancient finds, which relate Ithaca to its Homeric heritage, are contained in the Archaeological Museum of Vathi, and life on the island down the centuries in the Folklore and Maritime Museum.
Highlights: Museums, harbour views, local shops
Nearest Airport: Samos International Airport
2. Swim At Gidaki Beach – A Secluded Paradise
Photo: Daciana Cristina Visan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Gidaki Beach is often regarded as Ithaca’s prettiest beach, and it’s easy to see why. You’ll only be able to visit it via a boat ride from Vathi or a beautiful 20-minute trek from the local area of Skinos. The secluded beach is lined with soft white pebbles and surrounded by gorgeous turquoise water, great for swimming and snorkelling, or just lying in the sun on this beautiful beach. The isolation and the pristine beauty that Gidaki Beach offers visitors make visiting this beach one of the best things to do in Ithaca Greece, for a beach lover or a nature enthusiast.
Highlights: Crystal-clear waters, peaceful setting
Nearest Airport: Kefalonia Airport
3. Hike To Anogi And Kathara Monastery – For Panoramic Island Views
Photo: Cosal / Wikimedia Commons
Anogi is one of Ithaca’s oldest villages, substantially in the mountains, and provides insight into the medieval past of the island. The narrow lanes, ancient stone houses, and the 12th-century Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary with beautiful Byzantine frescoes provide a cultural experience. From Anogi, adventurous travellers have the option of hiking or driving to Kathara Monastery, located 600 meters above sea level. Kathara Monastery honours the Virgin Mary and has wonderful views of the island of Ithaca, the Ionian Sea, and across to the other islands of Kefalonia. The journey to Kathara Monastery is peaceful, with rugged rock formations and sporadic wildflowers.
Highlights: Byzantine church, panoramic views
Nearest Airport: Kefalonia Airport
4. Discover Stavros Village And The Legacy Of Odysseus
Photo: SkarmoutsosV / Wikimedia Commons
Stavros, a peaceful village in northern Ithaca, is closely linked to Homer’s legendary Odyssey and Odysseus. The village square features a bust of Odysseus and a plaque with a map of his journey, reflecting the local fascination with the epic tale. Nearby lie the ruins of the “School of Homer,” believed by some to be connected to Odysseus’s palace, though this remains debated. While there’s no formal Odysseus Museum, Stavros offers a relaxing atmosphere, stunning views of Polis Bay, and rich cultural significance. It’s a must-visit for things to see in Ithaca Greece.
Highlights: Homeric artefacts, peaceful village square
Nearest Airport: Chania International Airport
5. Take In The Views From Piso Aetos – Ithaca’s Scenic Gateway
Photo: Jean Housen / Wikimedia Commons
Piso Aetos is the main ferry port on Ithaca, serving primarily as a transportation hub. Nestled between steep, tree-covered hills and overlooking the deep blue Ionian Sea, it offers some of the island’s most breathtaking views. The winding road from Piso Aetos to Vathi and northern Ithaca features several lookout points perfect for pausing to enjoy the sea air and panoramic sights of nearby Kefalonia and the coastline. Popular with photographers and nature lovers, visiting Piso Aetos is one of the unforgettable what to do in Ithaca Greece, especially during golden hour or early morning.
Highlights: Ionian Sea views, photo stops
Nearest Airport: Aktion National Airport
6. Kayak Or Boat Around The Coast – Discover Ithaca From The Sea
Photo: Ka23 13 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Experiencing Ithaca by sea offers a completely different perspective of the island, featuring hidden beaches, pristine coves, sea caves, and untouched natural beauty. Kayaks and small motorboats can be rented from Vathi, Frikes, and Kioni so that you can find your adventure. Paddle through turquoise waters to discover secret spots like Afales Bay, Skinos Bay, or the secluded Gidaki Beach. Along the way, you may spot sea turtles, cormorants, and even colourful fish darting through the shallows, offering a more peaceful experience and a true immersion in nature.
Highlights: Hidden coves, clear waters, sea caves
Nearest Airport: Kefalonia International Airport
7. Sunset At Exogi And Roussano – A View Worth The Climb
Photo: Dafni K / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nestled in historic Ithaca to the north is Exogi, a small mountain settlement boasting breathtaking views and a sense of peacefulness that seems frozen in time. The stone houses, narrow lanes, and charm of Exogi are a reminder of life before technology. From here, it’s an easy hike to the ruins of Roussano, an abandoned village perched upon a ridge. This quiet place affords visitors 360-degree views out over the island and out to sea, particularly stunning at sunset when the sky is ablaze with golden and lavender shades. The tranquillity, combined with the scenery, is almost surreal.
Highlights: Ruins, epic sunsets, 360° views
Nearest Airport: Ioannina National Airport
8. Indulge In Local Flavours – Taste The Soul Of Ithaca
Photo: Andy Li / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Ithaca’s food is based on simplicity, tradition, and fresh local ingredients. You will want to try tserepa, a slow-cooked meat stew cooked in a sealed clay pot, which is usually reserved for celebrations. Fresh seafood is another exceptional option; you’ll find grilled octopus, sardines and calamari at most of the tavernas alongside the water. Every meal will include local cheese, olives, wild herbs, and sun-ripened vegetables, all of which are a taste of Ithaca. A traditional dessert you can try is spoon sweets, made from preserved fruits, or rovaní, a sweet Ithacan rice pudding.
Top Dishes: Tserepa, seafood, rovaní, spoon sweets
Where To Eat: Vathi, Stavros, Kioni tavernas
9. Relax At Filiatro Beach – A Convenient Slice Of Paradise
Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Filiatro Beach is one of Ithaca’s most accessible and popular beaches, only a short 10-minute drive away from Vathi. The beach lies in a great sheltered bay with clear turquoise waters, smooth white pebbles and calm waters, making it a fabulous option for swimmers and sunbathers alike, or even to cool off and snorkel around the rocky edges. Unlike many of Ithaca’s furthest beaches, which only offer a natural environment, Filiatro beach is one of the easiest bays to swim in, with basic infrastructure in the way of sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as a seasonal beach bar, making it a great family beach if you enjoy comfort.
Highlights: Crystal-clear waters, soft white pebbles, natural shade from olive trees, calm swimming, beach bar
Nearest Airport: Athens International Airport
From sun-kissed beaches and mythological landmarks to peaceful walks and charming villages, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ithaca, Greece. This authentic Ionian island welcomes couples, solo travelers, and families alike with timeless beauty and heartfelt hospitality. Follow in the footsteps of Odysseus, discover hidden gems, and embrace the island’s relaxing spirit. Ready to explore Ithaca? Plan your unforgettable adventure today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Marija Zivanovic / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
