🌅 Day 1 | Arrival in Ithaca & Vathy Strolls
Your Ithaca Greece 5 Day Itinerary begins as you step off the ferry onto this mythical Ionian island, long celebrated as the home of Odysseus. The capital, Vathy, greets you with pastel-colored Venetian houses cascading down to the harbor, where fishing boats rock gently on sapphire waters.
Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, pausing at artisan shops offering handwoven linens, olive oil soaps, and jars of golden thyme honey. The scent of grilled seafood drifts from tavernas as elders sip Greek coffee under the shade of ancient plane trees, sharing tales of Ithaca’s seafaring heritage.
As twilight descends, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a harborside restaurant, a perfect way to begin your Ithaca Greece 5 Day Itinerary, savoring grilled octopus drizzled with lemon and olive oil, paired with a crisp glass of Assyrtiko wine. The warm glow of lanterns reflects on the water as cicadas serenade your first night on the island.
🚤 Transport Tip: Ferries connect Ithaca with Kefalonia and mainland Greece. From Kefalonia, take a scenic 30-minute ferry ride to Vathy.
🏖️ Day 2 | Gidaki Beach & Homer’s School
Day 2 of your Ithaca Greece 5 Day Itinerary begins with a boat trip to Gidaki Beach, renowned for its white pebbles and turquoise waters.. Accessible only by boat or a hiking trail through pine forests, it’s a sanctuary of calm. Bask in the sun, swim in crystal-clear shallows, and let the gentle sound of waves melt your cares away.
In the afternoon, explore Homer’s School, an ancient archaeological site tied to the Odyssey’s legacy. Wander among stone ruins where myths and history intertwine, imagining Odysseus’ return to his beloved homeland.
End the day in Perachori, a hilltop village offering panoramic views over Vathy. Dine on traditional moussaka, warm pita bread, and finish with a sweet slice of baklava as church bells echo softly in the valley below.
🚗 Transport Tip: Renting a scooter or car offers the freedom to explore hidden corners of the island.
🏛️ Day 3 | Kioni Village & Secluded Coves
Drive to Kioni, a postcard-perfect harbor village framed by olive groves and bougainvillea. Stroll along the waterfront, where fishermen mend their nets and sailboats drift lazily in the bay.
Spend the afternoon uncovering hidden gems like Skinos Bay and Sarakiniko Beach, where emerald waters lap against quiet shores perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Pack a picnic with fresh feta, tomatoes, and Kalamata olives to enjoy in the shade of cypress trees.
As evening falls, settle into a family-run taverna for dinner. This memorable night is yet another highlight of your Ithaca Greece 5 Day Itinerary, with freshly grilled sea bass and a vibrant Greek salad accompanied by the soft strumming of a bouzouki from a nearby café.
🗻 Day 4 | Anogi Hike & Exogi Panoramas
Rise early for a hike to Anogi, one of Ithaca’s oldest villages. Here, Byzantine-era churches stand in quiet dignity, and the Menir of Anogi, a mysterious standing stone, guards the hillside.
Continue to Exogi, perched on the island’s northern edge. Wander among terraced fields and abandoned stone houses, where wildflowers bloom in colorful profusion. The views across the Ionian Sea are breathtaking, with distant islands dotting the horizon like jewels.
🍇 Food Highlight: Savor souvlaki grilled to perfection, served with cool tzatziki and a glass of sweet local wine, in a courtyard shaded by grapevines.
🌸 Day 5 | Stavros Village & Farewell by the Sea
Conclude your Ithaca Greece 5 Day Itinerary in Stavros, a charming mountain village wrapped in pine forests. Visit the Odysseus Museum, where artifacts and local lore bring Ithaca’s Homeric legacy to life.
Spend your final afternoon at Filiatro Beach, a serene cove with translucent waters and smooth white stones. Swim, relax, and let the island’s timeless beauty sink in.
For your farewell dinner, indulge in lamb kleftiko slow-cooked in clay ovens, with warm pita and olives harvested from Ithaca’s hillsides. Toast your journey with a glass of Robola wine as the stars emerge over the Ionian Sea.
🚤 Transport Tip: Return to Kefalonia by ferry or connect to mainland Greece via Patras for onward travel.
💶 Budget Recommendations (Not Included in Word Count)
- Transport: Ferry Kefalonia–Ithaca €15-20; car/scooter rental €35-50/day
- Food: Average €30-50 per person per day; fine dining €60+/person
- Accommodation: Mid-range hotels €70-120/night
- Attractions: Homer’s School free entry; Odysseus Museum €5
For more inspiration and travel details, visit the Visit Greece: Ithaca Travel Guide for maps, attractions, and cultural highlights.
If you’re inspired by Ithaca’s hidden coves and cultural legacy, you might also enjoy exploring Poland’s serene lakes and vibrant traditions in this Ultimate Kashubia 5 Day Itinerary: Lakes, Folk Heritage & Polish Flavors.