Ionian Islands, Greece Travel Guide

Discover the Ionian Islands in Greece: A mesmerizing blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, perfect for every traveler.

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Ionian Islands

Nestled in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, the Ionian Islands are a group of seven main islands, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. These islands are renowned for their lush greenery, stunning beaches, and charming villages. From the iconic shipwreck beach of Zakynthos to the Venetian architecture of Corfu, there's something to captivate every traveler. The Ionian Islands have a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times, evident in the ruins and historical sites scattered across the islands. The cultural influences from Venetians, French, and British rule are palpable in the local cuisine, architecture, and traditions. Visitors can explore medieval castles, monasteries, and museums that tell the story of the islands' storied past. Beyond the historical allure, the Ionian Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, while the scenic landscapes offer excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and bird-watching. Whether you're wandering through the olive groves of Kefalonia, sailing around the hidden coves of Lefkada, or tasting the local wines and delicacies, the Ionian Islands promise an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ionian Islands.

Visit outside peak season (July-August) for a more peaceful experience and lower prices.
Rent a car or scooter to explore the islands at your own pace and reach hidden gems.
Try local delicacies such as sofrito in Corfu and mandoles in Kefalonia.
Take a boat tour to explore secluded beaches and caves that are not accessible by land.
Attend local festivals to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the islands.

Destinations in Ionian Islands

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Kefalonia

Explore Ionian Islands: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Ionian Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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The Achilleion Palace

Experience the grandeur of the Achilleion Palace in Corfu, where history and breathtaking views blend seamlessly amidst royal elegance.

4.2

Port of Zakynthos

Discover the vibrant Port of Zakynthos, a lively hub offering stunning views, local culture, and access to Greece's breathtaking island adventures.

4.4

Solomos Square

Discover the charm of Solomos Square in Zakynthos, where history, culture, and vibrant local life blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.

4.6

Holy Monastery of Prousos - Panagia Prousiotissa

Discover the Holy Monastery of Prousos, a serene oasis of spirituality and stunning views nestled in the heart of Greece's mountains.

4.9

Best landmarks in Ionian Islands

Top-rated picks

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Lefkada

Discover Lefkada: Greece's accessible island paradise with stunning beaches, charming villages, and a vibrant Ionian culture.

4.7

Old Fortress of Corfu

Explore Corfu's iconic Old Fortress: a historic Venetian stronghold with stunning views and captivating stories.

4.6

Zakynthos

Discover Zakynthos: Iconic beaches, turquoise waters, Caretta turtles, and vibrant culture await on this Ionian paradise.

4.7

Ionian Parliament

Visit the Ionian Parliament in Corfu Town: a neoclassical landmark with a rich history of democracy and unification.

4.5

Best restaurants in Ionian Islands

Top-rated picks

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Avli Restaurant Corfu

Experience authentic Greek flavors at Avli Restaurant in Corfu – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning scenery.

4.3

Alexandros Restaurant Grill

Discover delectable Greek cuisine in Myrtos at Alexandros Restaurant Grill - where tradition meets flavor.

4.7

Yard of Taste

Experience authentic Greek cuisine in Zakinthos at Yard of Taste, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

4.6

Ladokolla stin Plagia

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Ladokolla stin Plagia in Lixouri – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

4.8

Best bars in Ionian Islands

Top-rated picks

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Upupa Epops

Discover Upupa Epops, an exceptional cocktail bar in Athens, where creativity meets comfort in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Abbey

Experience the essence of nightlife at Abbey Cocktail Bar in Patras, where exceptional drinks, delightful cuisine, and vibrant energy converge.

4.5

Blue Island Bar, Monolithi

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Blue Island Bar, Monolithi – the perfect spot to unwind in Preveza.

4.6

CherryBay Zante

Discover the exhilarating nightlife at CherryBay Zante, a premier bar and disco club in Laganas, offering stunning cocktails and electrifying events.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Ionian Islands

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CherryBay Zante

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at CherryBay Zante, Laganas' top disco club known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cocktails.

4.6

54 Dreamy Nights

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Corfu at 54 Dreamy Nights, where music, dancing, and fun combine for an unforgettable night out.

3.4

Centro club

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Nidri at Centro Club, where great music and unforgettable experiences await in the heart of Lefkada.

4.8

Cebu

Explore Cebu's electrifying nightlife with vibrant bars, nightclubs, and authentic Japanese dining options for an unforgettable evening.

4.6

Best shops in Ionian Islands

Top-rated picks

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Designer Outlet Athens

Shop at Designer Outlet Athens for exclusive discounts on top brands in a beautiful, family-friendly shopping environment.

4.5

Corfu Central Market

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Corfu Central Market, where local culture, fresh produce, and authentic flavors come together in a delightful experience.

4.4

myrtillo

Discover Myrtillo, the charming coffee shop in Divarata, Greece, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.

4.9

Corfu Sandals

Explore the essence of Greek craftsmanship at Corfu Sandals, where stylish comfort meets traditional artistry in the heart of Corfu.

4.5

Explore Ionian Islands on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Ionian Islands, mapped for you.

Ionian Islands Essentials

The Ionian Islands are accessible by both air and sea. The main airport is Corfu International Airport (CFU), which serves Corfu and offers flights from major European cities. Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Lefkada also have airports with seasonal flights. For sea travel, regular ferries connect the islands with mainland Greece and Italy. Patras and Igoumenitsa are the primary ports on the mainland with connections to the Ionian Islands.
Public transportation in the Ionian Islands includes buses, taxis, and ferries. KTEL buses operate on most islands and provide an affordable way to get around. Taxis are widely available but can be expensive for longer trips. Renting a car, scooter, or bicycle is a popular option for exploring at your own pace. Ferries and boat taxis are essential for island hopping and can be booked in advance or at local ports.
The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and rural areas. ATMs are available in towns and tourist areas, but fees may apply for international cards.
The Ionian Islands are generally safe for tourists. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. Some areas in Corfu and Zakynthos, particularly late-night party zones, may experience higher crime rates. Always stay vigilant, especially at night, and avoid isolated places.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available on the larger islands like Corfu, Zakynthos, and Kefalonia. Pharmacies are widespread, and pharmacists can provide basic medical advice and over-the-counter medications. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended.
Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing during the day but bring a light jacket for cooler evenings. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in villages and religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or eat on buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a 'Kalimera' (Good Morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good Evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks. Don't rush meals; dining is a leisurely affair. Always accept offers of hospitality graciously.
Experience the Ionian Islands like a local by visiting traditional villages and participating in local festivals. Try local foods such as 'pastitsada' in Corfu, 'soutzoukakia' in Kefalonia, and 'mandolato' in Zakynthos. Renting a boat for a day to explore hidden beaches and coves is a must-do. Engage with locals; they are friendly and often willing to share stories about their island's history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Ionian Islands?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Ionian Islands

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ionian Islands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloΓειά σου
  [Yia sou]
- GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
- YesΝαι
  [Ne]
- NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
- Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
- Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
- Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
- How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise?]
- Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esy?]
- Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;
  [Milas Anglika?]
- I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
- I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
- Cheers!Στην υγειά μας!
  [Stin ygeia mas!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na pliroso, parakalo]
- Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voitheia!]
- Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fyge!]
- Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
- Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
- I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Echo chathei]
- I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος/η
  [Eimai arrostos/i]
- I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
- I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
- How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizei?]
- That's too expensiveΕίναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Ine poli akrivo]
- Can you lower the price?Μπορείς να κατεβάσεις την τιμή;
  [Boreis na katevaseis tin timi?]
- What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti hora ine?]
- It's one o'clockΕίναι μία
  [Ine mia]
- Half past (10)Δέκα και μισή
  [Deka ke misi]
- MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
- AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apogeuma]
- EveningΒράδυ
  [Vrady]
- YesterdayΧθες
  [Chthes]
- TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
- TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Πού είναι το...;
  [Pou ine to...?]
- What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Poia ine i diefthinsi?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείς να μου δείξεις (στο χάρτη);
  [Boreis na mou deixeis (sto charti)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforio)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ...)
  [Ena isitirio (gia ...)]

History of Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. The ancient Greeks established several important settlements here, including the city of Corcyra (modern-day Corfu). The islands served as important maritime and trading hubs due to their strategic location in the Mediterranean Sea.
In 229 BC, the Romans began their conquest of the Ionian Islands, which continued to flourish under Roman rule. Following the decline of the Roman Empire, the islands fell under the control of the Byzantine Empire, which brought Christianity and fortified many of the islands against potential invaders.
From the 14th to the end of the 18th century, the Ionian Islands were under Venetian rule. This period is notable for the construction of impressive fortresses and the flourishing of arts and culture. The Venetian influence remains evident in the architecture and cultural traditions of the islands, particularly in Corfu, Zakynthos, and Kefalonia.
After the fall of Venice in 1797, the Ionian Islands briefly came under French control, only to be taken over by the British in 1809. The British established the United States of the Ionian Islands, which lasted until 1864. During this period, significant improvements in infrastructure were made, including the construction of roads and schools.
In 1864, the Ionian Islands were ceded to Greece as a gesture of goodwill by Britain. This union was a significant moment for the islands, marking the beginning of a new era under Greek administration. The islands played a crucial role in the modern history of Greece, particularly during the Balkan Wars and World War II.
During World War II, the Ionian Islands were occupied by Italian and later German forces. This period was marked by significant hardship and resistance efforts by the local population. The islands were liberated in 1944, and the post-war period saw substantial rebuilding and recovery.
In the contemporary era, the Ionian Islands are a popular tourist destination known for their stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The islands continue to celebrate their unique heritage through various festivals, traditional music, and local cuisine, attracting visitors from around the world.