The Ionian Islands, also called the Heptanese (meaning “Seven Islands”), are made up of seven main islands of Greece: Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Kythira. Each island has its unique charm and attractions, yet they share a history of Venetian, French, and British influences, giving the islands a distinctive architectural and cultural character.
The Ionian Islands are a stunning cluster of islands in the Ionian Sea, situated off the western coast of Greece. All of the island is well known in Greece for their incredible geographical conditions, offering lush landscapes and azure waters for travellers. These islands are unique in the country due to the local Venetian architecture, which formed the local charming villages.

The islands have become a favorite destination for travellers of a lot of Europan countries in recent years, especially due to a blend of natural beauty. They are known for their lush, green landscapes, varied beaches with vibrant blue seas, in high contrast to the mostly rocky and arid landscapes of Greece’s Aegean islands.
Corfu (Kerkyra)
Corfu, known as Kerkyra in Greek, is one of Greece’s most enchanting islands, located in the Ionian Sea off the country’s northwest coast. This island is the northernmost and one of the largest Ionian Islands. The island’s capital, Corfu Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its elegant Venetian-style buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming squares. The best local sights of the capital include the Old Fortress, an impressive Venetian structure overlooking the sea, the Liston Promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants under arched colonnades, and Spianada Square, one of the largest and most impressive squares in Greece. The town’s vibrant atmosphere and historic charm make it a favorite for visitors of Corfu.

Corfu is home to some of Greece’s most beautiful sandy beaches, with waters that range from deep blue to turquoise. Paleokastritsa, a popular area on the west coast, is famous for its clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Other popular beaches include Glyfada, known for its golden sand, the charming coastline of Agios Georgios Pagon, and Sidari, which features the unique Canal d’Amour rock formations.

Corfu’s landscapes are quite diverse, with verdant hills, olive groves, and cypress trees covering much of the island. Mount Pantokrator, the highest point on the island with the height of 906 metres (2,972 ft) offers a small monastery and stunning panoramic views. The island is also dotted with beautiful villages like Kassiopi and Lakones, which provide a glimpse into traditional Corfiot life. Corfu’s history and culture are woven into its daily life. Visitors can explore Achilleion Palace, a grand villa built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria, which is set in beautiful gardens with views of the sea.

The island celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, especially during Easter, when Corfu Island hosts one of the most colorful and unique Easter celebrations in Greece, complete with brass bands and traditional “pot throwing.” Corfiot cuisine blends Greek and Italian influences, resulting in unique flavors. Local specialties include pastitsada (a pasta dish with spiced meat sauce), sofrito (veal in garlic and vinegar sauce), and bourdeto (spicy fish stew). Many restaurants in Corfu Town and across the island serve these traditional dishes alongside local wine and olive oil.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and warm hospitality, Corfu promises a memorable experience, combining the beauty of the Ionian Sea with the charm of Greek island life. The island has an international airport near the capital of Corfu, which is one of the most busiest airports in Greece.
Paxos and Antipaxos
Paxos, the larger of the two islands, is a green paradise covered in olive groves and dotted with traditional villages. Gaios, the island’s capital, is a charming harbor town with pastel-colored houses, lively cafes, and cozy tavernas along the waterfront. The town is protected by the tiny island of Agios Nikolaos, creating a sheltered bay ideal for mooring boats.

Other notable villages include Lakka and Loggos. Lakka, on the island’s northern tip, has a scenic harbor filled with yachts and fishing boats and is surrounded by lush hills and olive trees. Loggos is the smallest of the three main villages and exudes a relaxed atmosphere, with quiet lanes, traditional stone houses, and seaside cafes.
Paxos is known for its pebbled beaches and stunning, clear waters. The island’s western coast is also lined with dramatic cliffs and sea caves, including the Blue Caves, where the sunlight illuminates the water with a brilliant blue hue. These caves are accessible by boat and are a highlight of any visit to Paxos.

Just a short boat ride from Paxos lies Antipaxos, a tiny, unspoiled island famous for its beaches, particularly Voutoumi beach and Vrika beach, which are often considered some of the best beaches in Greece. Antipaxos has an even slower pace than Paxos, with no permanent residents, a few family-run tavernas, and vineyards that produce local wine.
The beaches of Antipaxos are known for their powdery white sand and shallow, turquoise waters, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Many travelers enjoy taking a boat from Gaios on Paxos to Antipaxos, where they can spend a leisurely day exploring the beaches and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

Paxos and Antipaxos provide a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of larger tourist destinations. Their natural beauty, clear waters, and authentic Greek charm make them ideal for travelers seeking a slower pace, where days are spent relaxing on stunning beaches and evenings are filled with seafood dinners by the sea. Accessible by ferry from Corfu or the Greek mainland (from the town of Igoumenitsa), these Ionian Islands are a hidden gem in the Ionian Sea, perfect for both day trips and extended stays.
Lefkada
Lefkada, also known as Lefkas, is one of the Ionian Islands located on Greece’s western coast. Unique among Greek islands, Lefkada is accessible by car via a floating bridge (F/B Agia Mavra) connecting it to the mainland, making it one of the easiest islands to reach for travellers. Known for its amazing beaches and turquoise waters, Lefkada is a Greek paradise for beach lovers, who are looking for incredible blue colours of the Ionian Sea.

The island’s capital is known as Lefkada Town, which is a charming place with traditional architecture, narrow streets and a bustling waterfront. Lefkada town has a vibrant atmosphere from June to September with numerous cafes, traditional restaurants and shops. The Archaeological Museum of Lefkada with ancient findings, the streets of the old town which are filled by colourful houses, and the promenade with a wooden bridge are highlights in the town, providing insight into the island’s history and traditions.

Lefkada is famous for some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece due for vivid turquoise waters, white cliffs and dramatic landscapes. Porto Katsiki is one of the island’s most iconic beaches, known for its steep white cliffs that drop into deep blue waters. Accessible via a series of steps down the cliff, it’s a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, and also one of the best spot for photos.

Egremni beach is another breathtaking beach on the west coast of Lefkada Island. This exceptional place requires a descent down many steps, but according to the beach fans its beauty of the beach makes it well worth the journey. It can be accessed also by daily boat trips from Nidri and Vasiliki villages. Kathisma beach is closer to the main town, offers a blend of convenience and beauty with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and plenty of amenities, including beach bars, umbrellas and sunbeds.

West coastline of Lefkada Island
Lefkada’s varied landscape of mountains, sea cliffs, and valleys makes it an excellent destination for outdoor activities. The island is famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Greece, particularly at Vasiliki Bay and Agios Ioannis beach, where reliable winds attract water sports enthusiasts from around the world.
Lefkada has scenic trails through lush forests, olive groves, and hills, offering incredible views of the island and the sea. Popular routes include the hike to Dimosari Waterfalls (Waterfalls of Nidri), where visitors can enjoy a swim in the natural pools. The island is a top sailing destination also, with numerous marinas and the perfect location for exploring nearby islands like Meganisi, Kalamos, and Kastos.

Lefkada’s interior is dotted with traditional villages that offer a glimpse into local life. Karya is a charming mountain village, is known for its handmade embroidery and cobblestone streets, while Vafkeri and Exanthia offer panoramic views of the island’s western coastline and stunning sunsets.

The most popular tourist resort of Lefkada Island is Nidri, which is famous for its picturesque seaside promenade and restaurants, but there are some other great villages such as Agios Nikitas near the best beaches and the charming fishing village of Vasiliki. Lefkada has no airport, but the nearest airport to Lefkada is located only 20 kilometers away from the island, known as the International Airport of Preveza – Aktio.
Ithaca
Ithaca, known as Ithaki in Greek, is a small and picturesque island in the Ionian Sea, located just east of Kefalonia. Famous as the legendary home of Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey, Ithaca has long been a symbol of adventure, discovery, and the longing for home. With its serene landscapes, charming villages, and unspoiled coastline, Ithaca Island offers an ideal escape for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a touch of mythology.

The capital of Ithaca Island is Vathy, is a traditional harbor town nestled in a large, sheltered bay. Vathy is known for its Venetian-style houses with red-tiled roofs, narrow lanes, and waterside cafes, creating a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere. Highlights in Vathy include the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca, which showcases artifacts from the Mycenaean period, and the Folklore Museum, where visitors can learn about Ithaca’s cultural heritage. The town also offers a variety of traditional tavernas and shops selling local goods.

Kioni is a picturesque fishing village on the northeastern coast of Ithaca, often regarded as one of the most charming places on the island. With colorful houses, quaint cafes, and sailboats gently bobbing in the harbor, Kioni has a relaxed ambiance that captivates visitors.
The village’s waterfront is perfect for a quiet stroll or a meal by the sea, with many restaurants serving fresh seafood. The surrounding hillsides and beaches make Kioni a popular destination for boaters and beach lovers.

Another lovely and tiny coastal village, Frikes has a traditional feel with a small marina and a few tavernas lining the waterfront. Known for its peaceful surroundings, Frikes is a great base for exploring nearby beaches or enjoying a leisurely lunch by the sea.
As the fabled homeland of Odysseus, Ithaca is steeped in mythology and history. Visitors can explore several sites associated with the ancient Greek hero, such as the Cave of the Nymphs, Odysseus’ Palace, or the nearby Archaeological Collections which display artifacts from excavations and provide context to Ithaca’s ancient history.
Ithaca’s coastline is dotted with pebbled coves, crystal-clear waters and hidden gems, so these places are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Filiatro Beach is located close to Vathy, this beach has pebbles and clear, shallow waters, ideal for families. Sarakiniko beach is a quiet, pebbly beach surrounded by green hills, offering a relaxing and scenic spot for swimming. Gidaki beach is accessible by boat or a scenic hike, Gidaki Beach is known for its untouched beauty and bright turquoise waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

The island of Ithaca has many hiking trails connecting the local villages, beaches and historical sites. One popular route is the hike from Vathy to the village of Anogi, where hikers can visit ancient ruins and a 12th-century Byzantine church. Ithaca’s calm bays and crystal-clear waters are perfect for boating and kayaking. Renting a small boat allows visitors to explore Ithaca’s hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by sea. Ithaca has no international airport, but ferries run often from Kefalonia.
Ithaca’s cuisine reflects traditional Greek flavors with unique island influences. Fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and olive oil are staples of Ithacan cooking. Local specialties include Rovani, dessert made from rice, honey, and cinnamon, traditionally prepared during festivals and special occasions. Sefoukloti os a savory pie made with wild greens and herbs, encased in thin phyllo dough. The island’s tavernas offer a range of fresh fish dishes, from grilled octopus to fried squid, often served with local herbs and olive oil.
Kefalonia
Kefalonia (Cephalonia) is the largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece and beloved by many for its dramatic landscapes, turquoise waters, charming villages and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its wide range of beaches, scenic mountains and rich culture, Kefalonia is a destination that appeals to both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing Mediterranean escape. The island gained international fame as the setting of the novel and film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, bringing global attention to its breathtaking beauty and historical charm.

The capital of Kefalonia is Argostoli, is a lively town that combines modern amenities with traditional Greek charm. The town’s harbor, lined with cafes and shops, is a favorite spot for strolling and watching the fishermen bring in their catch and the Koutavos Lagoon, where visitors can often spot the local loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta).
Mount Ainos is the highest peak in the Ionian Islands, stands at 1,628 meters and is home to Kefalonia’s only national park. The mountain is covered with dense forests of Kefalonian fir trees, a rare species native to the island. The park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea, and visitors may spot wild horses that roam the mountain.

Myrtos Beach is one of Greece’s most iconic beaches, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful. Set against steep, towering cliffs, Myrtos is known for its bright white pebbles and vibrant turquoise water that shifts hues throughout the day. The beach’s remote setting makes it a stunning spot for photography, sunbathing, and swimming, though the waves can sometimes be strong.

Melissani Cave, also called the “Cave of the Nymphs,” is a natural wonder of the Ionian Islands, located near Sami village. This cave contains an underground lake with crystal-clear water that glows bright blue when sunlight filters through the open ceiling. Visitors can take a boat tour through the cave, where the interplay of light and water creates an ethereal atmosphere. It’s one of Kefalonia’s most famous attractions and a must-see natural sight for nature lovers.
Nestled on a small peninsula, Assos is a picturesque village with traditional Venetian-style houses, narrow streets and a scenic harbor. The village is surrounded by lush hillsides and is overlooked by a 16th-century Venetian castle that offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Connecting the visit of the Myrtos beach and Assos is perfect on a holiday, and can be one of the best days of the vacation.

Sami is a charming coastal town that serves as one of the main ferry ports on the island. Known for its traditional architecture and lively waterfront, Sami is an ideal base for exploring some of Kefalonia’s most famous natural sites, including Melissani Cave and Antisamos beach. The surrounding hillsides and ruins of ancient Sami offer hiking opportunities and beautiful views over the bay.
Fiskardo is located on the northern tip of the island, is one of the few villages that remained intact after the devastating 1953 earthquake. Known for its preserved Venetian architecture, colorful houses, Romain ruins and vibrant harbor, Fiskardo village has a sophisticated atmosphere with upscale restaurants, boutiques, and yacht-filled marinas. It’s a favorite stop for sailors and tourists seeking a more refined experience, and also a port for ferries between Kefalonia and Lefkada.

Close to Sami, Antisamos Beach is another of Kefalonia’s beautiful beaches, featuring deep blue water and a lush green backdrop. Antisamos is a popular beach for swimming and snorkeling (one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Kefalonia), and beachside relaxation, with beach bars offering refreshments and sunbeds. The beach’s natural beauty was also featured in the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
Kefalonian cuisine reflects the island’s agricultural heritage and incorporates local ingredients, traditional recipes. A beloved local dish, the Kefalonian meat pie is made with lamb or pork, rice, herbs, and spices, wrapped in a flaky, handmade crust. Kefalonia is famous for its Robola wine, which is a crisp, dry white wine with citrus notes, produced from the indigenous Robola grape. Many wineries, such as the Robola Cooperative in Valsamata village, offer tastings and tours.

The island’s mountains, forests, and coastline offer many scenic hiking trails. Mount Ainos National Park has trails for all skill levels, with rewarding views from the summit. Kefalonia’s coastline is best explored by boat, with tours taking visitors to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and nearby islands like Ithaca and Zakynthos. Kefalonia’s clear waters and underwater caves make it a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving.
Kefalonia is a versatile destination that offers something great for every type of traveler. With its pleasant weather and combination of stunning beaches, unique natural sites, historic villages, and rich culinary traditions, the island captures the beauty and charm of the Greek islands without the overwhelming crowds found in other popular destinations. Whether you’re looking to relax on Myrtos Beach, explore Melissani Cave, hike Mount Ainos, or savor local delicacies, Kefalonia promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Ionian Sea!
Zakynthos (Zante)
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea, located off the western coast of Greece. Renowned for its spectacular beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse natural landscapes, Zakynthos is a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The island’s iconic Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), with its golden sands and turquoise waters framed by dramatic cliffs, has made Zakynthos famous worldwide and is one of Greece’s most photographed spots.

Navagio Beach (or Shipwreck Beach) is undoubtedly the island’s most iconic landmark. Accessible only by boat, this secluded beach is nestled between towering white cliffs and boasts bright turquoise water. The rusting wreck of the MV Panagiotis, a ship that ran aground in the 1980s, lies on its sands, adding a unique character to this natural wonder. Many visitors opt to take a boat tour to the beach, while others enjoy the panoramic view from the cliffs above.
Located on the island’s northern coast and also on the southern areas, the Caves of Zakynthos are a series of natural sea caves with mesmerizing blue water that reflects off the white stone. These caves are accessible by boat, with many tours offering the chance to swim or snorkel in the clear Ionian Sea. The largest cave formations are big enough for boats to enter, allowing visitors to explore the caves up close.

Zakynthos is home to the Zakynthos Marine Park, the first of its kind in Greece, dedicated to protecting the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). These endangered turtles nest on Zakynthos’s southern beaches, especially in Laganas Bay and Gerakas Beach. Visitors can take guided turtle-watching tours, which follow eco-friendly practices to minimize disturbance to these remarkable creatures. The marine park is also home to the rare Mediterranean monk seal, adding to the island’s biodiversity.
Located near the village of Keri, the Keri Caves in the south are another natural wonder, with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches and blue waters. Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island for its turtle-like shape, lies nearby in Laganas Bay. The island is uninhabited, and its beaches serve as important nesting grounds for the loggerhead sea turtle. Boat trips to Marathonisi and the Keri Caves offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and admiring the stunning landscapes.

Zakynthos town is largest town of the island and also it is the capital, has a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. Key attractions in the town include Solomos Square, named after the Greek poet Dionysios Solomos, who wrote Greece’s national anthem. The town also has a picturesque harbor, the Byzantine Museum, and the Church of St. Dionysios, dedicated to the island’s patron saint. The town’s lively cafes, shops, and tavernas offer plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine and experience Zakynthian culture.

Trails around the island offer panoramic views and access to scenic spots like the Bochali viewpoint above Zakynthos Town, which overlooks the town and harbor. The island’s clear waters and marine biodiversity make it a great location for snorkeling and scuba diving, especially in areas like Laganas Bay, where visitors may spot turtles. The beach resorts in Tsilivi and Laganas offer a range of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding, and also these are bustling tourist resorts.
Zakynthos’s cuisine combines traditional Greek flavors with Venetian influences from the island’s history. Zakynthian Feta with Honey is an appetizer combines savory feta cheese with the island’s sweet, fragrant honey. Sartsa is a Zakynthian dish featuring beef or pork cooked in a rich tomato sauce with garlic, vinegar, and spices, served with pasta or rice. Mandolato isa common nougat-like sweet made with honey, sugar, and almonds, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Zakynthos offers world-famous beaches and clear blue waters, rich marine life. Whether you want to relax on the beaches, explore underwater caves of Ionian Sea, or witness sea turtles in their natural habitat, Zakynthos is a great that promises unforgettable memories in the heart of the Ionian Sea. The airport of Zakynthos is located a few kilometers away from the capital.
Kythira
Though geographically separate from the main Ionian group, Kythira is one of the Ionian Islands. Kythira, also spelled Cythera, is a serene and captivating island located south of the Peloponnese in Greece and a hidden gem for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. The island is historically significant and closely tied to Greek mythology.
Kythira is home to numerous secluded and unspoiled beaches, each offering its unique charm. Kaladi beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, surrounded by cliffs with three small bays and crystal-clear waters. Accessible via a steep path, Kaladi is ideal for those seeking a quieter spot. Firi Ammos beach is known for its striking red and brown sands, located near the village of Kalamos and is a great beach for swimming and sunbathing.

One of the local sights is the cave of Agia Sofia. Located near the village of Mylopotamos, this cave houses a small church and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is said to be where Saint Sofia performed miracles, adding a mystical element to its natural beauty. Once the Byzantine capital of Kythira, Paleochora is now an abandoned fortress town situated on a hilltop. It was destroyed by pirates in the 16th century, and today visitors can explore its atmospheric ruins, Byzantine churches, and panoramic views.
Avlemonas is a picturesque fishing village with Venetian architecture, known for its crystal-clear natural swimming pools, stone pathways, and tranquil bay. The Fortress of Avlemonas and the charming small harbor add to its allure. Mylopotamos is one of Kythira’s most beautiful villages, famous for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and the Fonissa Waterfall. A series of small waterfalls cascade into natural pools, creating a refreshing oasis surrounded by trees and greenery. The area is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Kythira has a rich culinary heritage that includes local delicacies and traditional Greek dishes: Fatourada is a unique Kythiran liqueur made from sundried grapes infused with spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s a favorite among locals and often served as a digestif. Ladopaksimadia is a type of crunchy rusk made with olive oil, perfect as a snack or served with local cheese and olives. Kalitsounia is sweet pastries filled with fresh cheese and flavored with honey and cinnamon.
Kythira Island has many hiking trails, including paths that lead to the local secluded beaches, old churches and ancient ruins. Popular hikes include the route to Paleochora and the trails around Mylopotamos. Kythira’s beaches and bays offer crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The rocky underwater landscape around Kapsali and Avlemonas is particularly popular with snorkelers.
Caving enthusiasts can explore the Cave of Agia Sofia, while others enjoy the natural beauty of Kakia Lagada Gorge, which has scenic trails and lush vegetation.
Kythira offers a different experience from the more bustling Ionan Islands, with its slower pace, scenic landscapes, and historical charm. The island is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic and serene getaway, where they can connect with nature, explore ancient ruins, and unwind on secluded beaches. With its rich mythology, charming villages, and unique culinary offerings, Kythira captures the essence of Greece’s timeless beauty and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the sea.
Getting Around the Ionian Islands
Traveling between the Ionian Islands is relatively straightforward, thanks to regular ferry services and seasonal boat tours. Ferries connect most of the main islands, especially during summer, with frequent routes between Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. From the Greek mainland (the town of Igoumenitsa) ferries run very often to Corfu, literally in every hour.
- By Air
Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos each have an international airport with flights from Athens and major European cities, especially in the summer. The airports are near to the capital of these islands, and a lot of tourist resorts are near. Lefkada has no airport, but the nearest airport in Preveza town is just about a half hour driving. - By Car
Bringing a car via ferry is convenient for exploring larger islands like Kefalonia, Corfu, and Lefkada, which have more extensive road networks, and the distances are much bigger within the island. Lefkada very is special among Ionian Islands, because there is a pontoon bridge, which connects the island with the mainland, so you don’t have to use ferry. Kefalonia, Corfu, Zakynthos, Paxos, Kythira can be reached by car only by travelling with ferries.

Tips for Visiting the Ionian Islands
- Best time to visit: May to September, when the weather is warm and ferry connections are frequent. July and August are the busiest months with much more tourists, but sea temperatures are the best.
- Island hopping: plan for at least 2-3 days on each island to explore. It’s worth to known that the largest Ionian Islands, such as Corfu, Lefkada or Kefalonia are much bigger and these great places are filled with good beaches and a lot of interesting sights, so few days are usually not enough to discover these islands completely.
- Respect local nature: the Ionian Islands have protected areas, such as turtle nesting beaches especially in Kefalonia and in Zakynthos, so respect regulations and practice eco-friendly tourism.
- Learn some Greek: although many locals of the Ionian Islands speak English at some level, learning a few common Greek phrases (such as Kalimera – Kalispera, Efharisto, etc.) can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Final thoughts
The Ionian Islands offer a unique slice of Greek island life, with their lush landscapes, historic sites, and warm hospitality. From the cultural richness of Corfu to the scenic beauty of Kefalonia and the incredible blue beaches of Lefkada and Zakynthos, each island has its own treasures to discover.