Travel Guides about Ionian Islands

With a visit to the Ionian Islands, you to experience beautiful coastal towns, vibrant nightlife, and delicious Greek cuisine. These travel guides about the Ionian Islands can help you with must-see sights, find hidden gems, and practical tips for getting around.
 
When to visit
The best time to visit Ionian Islands is May to July and September to October
Currency
The Currency of Ionian Islands is Euro. 1 Euro is equivalent to 1,07 USD.

Weather in Ionian Islands

The warmest months in the Ionian Islands are July and August and it is the most popular time to visit for swimming, sailing, and beach relaxation. For a quieter experience, visit in May, June, or September when the weather is still warm, but the crowds are smaller.

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Jan

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Feb

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Mar

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Apr

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May

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Jun

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Jul

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Aug

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Sep

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Oct

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Nov

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Best Activities in Winter
  • Experience authentic island life by visiting traditional villages and participating in local winter festivals.
  • Explore wetlands like Korission Lagoon on Corfu, a haven for migratory birds during the winter months.
Best Activities in Spring
  • Go hiking and explore the landscapes, olive groves, and trails like Mount Ainos on Kefalonia or the Corfu Trail.
  • Visit historic sites such as Corfu’s Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or the Venetian castles in Zakynthos and Lefkada.
Best Activities in Summer
  • Relax on famous beaches like Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) in Zakynthos, Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, or Porto Katsiki in Lefkada.
  • Enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving, or sailing around the islands to explore hidden sea caves.
Best Activities in Autumn
  • Participate in wine tastings or olive harvesting tours to experience the islands’ agricultural traditions.
  • Enjoy cooler weather for cycling through scenic villages and coastal routes, particularly in Corfu and Kefalonia.

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Travel Tips

Ferries are the primary mode of transportation between the islands, with regular services available during the tourist season (May to October).

Yes, car rental agencies are available on each island, making it easy to explore at your own pace. We recommend you rent a car because some of the islands are large.

Be sure to try local specialties such as fresh seafood, moussaka, olive oil dishes, and traditional Greek salads.

Notable attractions include Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, and Corfu’s Old Town with its Venetian architecture.

One week or two weeks is generally sufficient to explore a few islands and enjoy their highlights. If you want to go deeper and explore all islands you should stay longer.

How to Get There

By Airplane

The Ionian Islands are well-connected by air, with Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Lefkada (via Aktion Airport) hosting international airports. Budget airlines and seasonal charters, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and TUI, offer direct flights from European cities. Athens also provides frequent domestic connections.

By Ferry

Ferries are a popular way to travel to the Ionian Islands. Regular ferry routes connect the islands to mainland Greece from ports like Igoumenitsa (to Corfu), Patras (to Kefalonia and Zakynthos), and Kyllini (to Zakynthos and Kefalonia). Inter-island ferries make hopping between islands easy and scenic.

 

How to Get Around

Car Rentals

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the islands’ hidden beaches, charming villages, and scenic landscapes. Rental agencies are available at airports, ports, and major towns.

Scooters and ATVs

For a more adventurous option, scooters and ATVs are widely available for rent, perfect for navigating narrow coastal roads and small towns.

Buses

Local buses connect major towns, beaches, and ports, with services provided by KTEL on islands like Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. While affordable, schedules may be limited in off-peak seasons.

Taxis

Taxis are available in larger towns and tourist hubs, though they can be expensive for longer distances.

Boats

Small boat rentals and water taxis are popular for exploring secluded beaches and nearby islands.

 

SIM Card Options

Local Greek SIM cards are affordable and available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile shops.

  • Cosmote: Excellent coverage and fast data speeds.
  • Vodafone Greece: Good nationwide coverage with flexible data plans.
  • Wind: Budget-friendly with decent coverage in tourist areas.

eSIM Card Options

  • Airalo: Provides regional eSIMs with competitive data packages.
  • Holafly: Offers unlimited data eSIMs, ideal for short trips.
  • Nomad: Flexible plans with options for Greece and beyond.

What to pack for Ionian Islands

  • Lightweight clothing
  • Swimsuit
  • Beach towel
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat or cap
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Light jacket
  • Toiletries
  • Power bank
  • Travel adapter
  • Camera
  • Waterproof bag
  • Small first aid kit

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Ionian Islands Suggested Daily Budget

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On Budget

โ‚ฌ30 - โ‚ฌ50 per day

On a backpacker budget, you can stay in hostel dorms or budget guesthouses, enjoy simple meals from local markets or street vendors, and use public transportation to get around. This budget allows you to explore beautiful beaches, hike scenic trails, and visit charming villages without spending much. To save even more, consider cooking some meals if your accommodation has kitchen facilities and taking advantage of free activities like swimming and walking tours.

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Mid-range

โ‚ฌ90 - โ‚ฌ150 per day

With a mid-range budget, you can enjoy private rooms in guesthouses or mid-range hotels and eat at local restaurants for most meals. With this budget, you can participate in activities like guided tours of historical sites, wine tastings, and water sports. You can also take occasional taxis or ferries to explore different islands. To make the most of your trip, look for lunch specials at restaurants and consider booking activities in advance for better rates.

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Luxury

โ‚ฌ300+ per day

On a luxury budget, you can enjoy high-end accommodations in boutique hotels or resorts with stunning views. You can eat at gourmet restaurants, try exclusive activities like private yacht charters or personalized tours, and enjoy spa treatments. You can also rent a car to explore the most remote parts of the islands and find hidden gems.