The mythical Ithaca is one of the most relaxing and interesting Greek islands
Ithaca (Greek: Ιθάκη) is a small yet historically and mythologically significant island in the Ionian Sea, off the western coast of mainland Greece. Known as the legendary homeland of Odysseus, the hero of Homer’s Odyssey, Ithaca captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and deep-rooted cultural heritage.
Photo by Sofia Scott, Trip Trip Now
Geography and dimensions
Ithaca is part of the Ionian Islands, located just northeast of Kefalonia, from which it is separated by the Ithaca Channel. The island covers an area of approximately 117 square kilometers (45 square miles), making it one of the smaller inhabited Greek islands. It is roughly 29 kilometers (18 miles) in length and 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) wide at its broadest point.
The terrain of Ithaca is rugged and mountainous, dominated by two main peaks: Mount Nirito (806 meters / 2,644 feet) in the north and Mount Merovigli (669 meters / 2,195 feet) in the south. Deep bays and inlets cut into the island’s coastline, creating picturesque harbors and secluded beaches. The island has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Demographics
As of the latest population census, Ithaca has a population of about 3,000 residents. The capital and main port of the island is Vathy (or Ithaki), which is home to most of the island’s population. Other settlements include Stavros, Kioni, and Frikes, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. The local economy is primarily based on tourism, fishing, and olive oil production.
History
Ancient Period
Ithaca’s history dates back to prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the island was inhabited as early as the Neolithic period (4000–3000 BCE). During the Mycenaean period (1600–1100 BCE), Ithaca was a thriving maritime center, likely ruled by a powerful king—believed to be the legendary Odysseus. Excavations have uncovered ruins of palaces, fortifications, and artifacts that suggest Ithaca was an important center of Mycenaean culture.
The island remained inhabited through Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman times, though it was overshadowed by larger Greek city-states. It played a minor role in the wider conflicts of ancient Greece but retained a distinct cultural identity.
Medieval and Venetian Rule
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Ithaca passed through various rulers, including the Byzantines, Normans, and Venetians. In 1500, the Venetians took control of the island, establishing fortifications and encouraging settlement. Under Venetian rule, Ithaca became a refuge for Greek families fleeing Ottoman incursions. The Venetians left a lasting impact on the island’s architecture, economy, and governance.
Modern Era
Following the fall of Venice, Ithaca, like the rest of the Ionian Islands, came under French (1807–1809) and then British rule (1815–1864). In 1864, it was formally united with Greece. During World War II, the island was occupied by Italian and later German forces, suffering great hardship. Post-war emigration significantly reduced the population, though in recent decades, tourism has revitalized Ithaca’s economy.
Mythological significance
Ithaca is best known as the homeland of Odysseus, the hero of Homer’s Odyssey. According to the epic, Odysseus was the king of Ithaca and spent ten years journeying back home after the Trojan War. His long, arduous voyage symbolizes perseverance, wisdom, and the yearning for home.
Despite centuries of debate, scholars and archaeologists have sought to identify the real-life locations mentioned in The Odyssey. Some believe that the island described by Homer does not match modern Ithaca, while others argue that key archaeological findings, including ruins at Stavros and Pilikata, suggest a Mycenaean-era palace that could have belonged to Odysseus.
Beyond The Odyssey, Ithaca is often used metaphorically to represent the pursuit of goals, the passage of life, and the ultimate return home, as captured in the famous poem “Ithaca” by C.P. Cavafy.
Tourism and attractions
Today, Ithaca attracts visitors seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and historical exploration. Some of its top attractions include:
- Vathy – The picturesque capital with traditional Ionian architecture and a scenic harbor.
- Cave of the Nymphs – Believed to be the place where Odysseus hid the gifts from the Phaeacians upon his return.
- Stavros Archaeological Museum – Displays artifacts from Mycenaean and Classical periods.
- Kioni and Frikes – Charming fishing villages with traditional Greek tavernas and stunning sea views.
- Perachori and Anogi Villages – Offering panoramic views and remnants of medieval settlements.
The top beaches in Ithaca island
1. Dexa Beach
Photo by Sofia Scott, Trip Trip Now.
This was our favorite beach. It is very close to Vathy and it’s not even needed to get a car to get there. Dexa Beach is a popular family-friendly beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and playing. There is one beach bar and you can rent umbrellas and sun loungers. Dexa Beach is an excellent choice if you’re looking for calmness and crystal clear waters.
2. Filiatro Beach
Filiatro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ithaca Island. It’s a large, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills, providing a beautiful backdrop. You can rent umbrellas and sun loungers, and there are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal.
3. Gidaki Beach
Gidaki Beach is a secluded beach located on the northern coast of Ithaca Island. It’s a small, sandy beach surrounded by cliffs and greenery. The beach is accessible by a 15-minute hike from the nearest parking lot, which adds to its charm. Once you reach the beach, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the sea and the surrounding hills. Gidaki Beach is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful spot to relax.
4. Sarakiniko Beach
Sarakiniko Beach is a beautiful pebble beach located on the southern coast of Ithaca Island. It’s a relatively small beach, but it’s surrounded by towering cliffs, providing a dramatic backdrop. The water here is crystal-clear, and there are several rocks that you can climb on for a better view of the sea. Sarakiniko Beach is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a beach with a unique atmosphere.
5. Kioni Beach
Kioni Beach is a small, picturesque beach located in the charming fishing village of Kioni. It’s a pebble beach with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by colorful houses and tavernas. You can rent sun loungers, and there are several tavernas nearby where you can enjoy delicious Greek food. Kioni Beach is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a beach with a unique atmosphere.
How to Reach Ithaca
In contrast to other Greek islands that are easily reachable from Athens, Ithaca is not so easy to reach. Ithaca does not have an airport, so travelers must arrive via ferry from the nearby Ionian Islands or mainland Greece. Below are the main ways to reach Ithaca:
1. By Air (Via Kefalonia or Other Airports)
Since Ithaca has no airport, the nearest option is Kefalonia International Airport (EFL), located on the neighboring island of Kefalonia. From Kefalonia, travelers can take a ferry to Ithaca.
- Flights to Kefalonia: Direct flights operate from Athens and many European cities (especially in summer).
- From Kefalonia to Ithaca: Ferries depart from Sami Port or Pisaetos Port in Kefalonia, with routes to Vathy (Ithaca’s capital) and Frikes.
Alternatively, travelers can fly to Zakynthos, Preveza (Aktion Airport), or Athens and then continue their journey by ferry or road.
2. By Ferry
From Kefalonia to Ithaca
- Route: Sami (Kefalonia) → Pisaetos (Ithaca)
- Duration: 30–45 minutes
- Ferry Operators: Ionion Pelagos Lines, Levante Ferries
From Mainland Greece to Ithaca
- Via Astakos (Western Greece)
- Route: Astakos → Pisaetos (Ithaca)
- Duration: ~2.5 hours
- Ferry Operator: Ionion Pelagos Lines
- Best for: Travelers coming from Athens (Astakos is ~3.5 hours by car from Athens).
- Via Patras or Kyllini (Peloponnese)
- Indirect route: Take a ferry to Kefalonia (Sami), then transfer to Ithaca.
- Best for: Those coming from southern Greece.
From Other Ionian Islands
- From Lefkada: Ferries operate between Nydri (Lefkada) and Frikes (Ithaca) in summer.
- From Corfu and Zakynthos: There are no direct ferries, so travelers must transit through Kefalonia or the mainland.
3. By Car & Ferry (Driving from Athens or Other Cities)
- Drive to Astakos (~3.5 hours from Athens) and take the ferry to Ithaca.
- Alternatively, drive to Patras or Kyllini and take a ferry to Kefalonia, then transfer to Ithaca.
4. By Private Boat or Yacht
Ithaca is a popular sailing destination, and private yachts often anchor in Vathy, Kioni, and Frikes harbors. In any summer day, you will the port of Vathy crowded with yachts.
Why go to Ithaca?
Ithaca remains a destination of legend, history, and natural splendor. Whether one visits to explore its mythological connections, relax on its serene beaches, or wander through its traditional villages, the island retains its timeless charm. Just as Odysseus longed for his home, Ithaca continues to inspire travelers with its beauty and rich cultural legacy.