The Ionian Islands Escape Corfu to Zakynthos

The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and Venetian fortresses. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Old Fortress, New Fortress, and the Liston promenade, lined with elegant cafes and restaurants. The Old Town is also home to numerous museums, churches, and shops selling local handicrafts.

Palaiokastritsa is a picturesque coastal village surrounded by lush green hills and crystal-clear waters. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Agios Spyridon and La Grotta, as well as the historic monastery perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips to explore the nearby caves and secluded coves.

Built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) in the late 19th century, Achilleion Palace is a grand neoclassical mansion located just south of Corfu Town. The palace is adorned with beautiful gardens, statues, and frescoes depicting scenes from Greek mythology. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, including the Empress's living quarters and the grand staircase, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the palace grounds.

Kanoni is a scenic area located just south of Corfu Town, known for its stunning views of Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) and the Vlacherna Monastery. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas from the hilltop, take boat trips to explore Mouse Island and its picturesque chapel, and relax in the tranquil surroundings.

Nestled in a picturesque courtyard in Corfu Town, Etrusco is a renowned Italian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and romantic ambiance. The menu features a variety of pasta dishes, risottos, and wood-fired pizzas, as well as seafood and meat entrees, all prepared with care and attention to detail.

Nestled in the heart of Corfu Town's enchanting alleyways, Venetian Well stands as a distinguished dining destination, offering an exquisite culinary journey. Indulge in a menu showcasing elite flavors, featuring fine dining dishes crafted around high-end pasta, seafood, fish, and premium meat cuts, alongside mouthwatering salad bowls. Vegetarian options and specially curated mignardise platters cater to diverse palates, ensuring a memorable experience.

Complement your chosen meal with a selection from the extensive array of local and international wines, ranging from timeless classics to exclusive 1996 Dom Perignon champagne bottles. Housed within a beautifully decorated building boasting vintage interiors and charming exterior spaces, Venetian Well provides an intimate ambiance, ideal for hosting upscale events.

Located in Corfu Town, Salto Wine Bar & Bistro offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine list featuring local and international selections. The elegant ambiance, attentive service, and delicious food make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Situated in the picturesque setting of Kassiopi, Trilogia Restaurant beckons diners to indulge in a refined culinary journey. Specializing in Greek and Mediterranean cuisines, this establishment promises a fine dining experience like no other. Led by a master chef boasting over two decades of expertise, Trilogia crafts exquisite dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can delight in a wide array of hot and cold appetizers, each meticulously prepared to tantalize the taste buds.

Nestled in the northern tip of Paxos, the charming harbor village of Lakka is a sailor’s dream. Surrounded by pine-clad hills and embraced by a turquoise bay, Lakka offers both shelter and serenity. As you sail in, the calm, clear waters invite you to drop anchor and dive right into nature’s bliss.

Spend your day exploring the island’s pristine beaches: Harami Beach, with its white pebbles and gentle waters, is perfect for families and swimmers, while Orkos Beach offers seclusion and untouched beauty for those seeking quietude. For a more shaded, peaceful retreat, head to Kanoni Beach, hidden among olive trees just steps from the village.

Wander through Lakka’s quaint streets, lined with pastel houses, local boutiques, and seaside tavernas serving fresh seafood and local wines. Don’t miss a visit to the small St. John’s Church, a humble gem of island heritage.

With its blend of natural beauty and authentic charm, Lakka captures the timeless rhythm of Greek island life—inviting you to slow down, soak it in, and simply stay a little longer.

The Blue Caves are a series of sea caves located along the island's rugged coastline, known for their mesmerizing blue hues created by the reflection of sunlight on the water. Visitors can explore the caves by boat, taking in the stunning rock formations and vibrant colors. Snorkeling and swimming in the clear waters around the caves are also popular activities.

Antipaxos is a small island located just south of Paxos, known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Voutoumi and Vrika beaches are among the most famous, offering soft white sand and shallow waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. 

Loggos is a picturesque fishing village nestled along the northeast coast of Paxos, known for its charming harbor, traditional tavernas, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, admire the colorful fishing boats, and dine at one of the waterfront tavernas serving fresh seafood and local delicacies. The village also offers stunning sunset views over the Ionian Sea.

Situated on the west coast of Paxos, Erimitis Bar & Restaurant offers breathtaking sunset views and creative Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features innovative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as a selection of cocktails and fine wines.

Nestled in a serene setting just a stone's throw from the sea, La Vista restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience. Specializing in seafood, the menu features fresh fish and mussels, perennial favorites among diners. With a regularly changing menu, guests are encouraged to inquire with the staff for new offerings and additions to the daily specials. La Vista also offers a selection of excellent draft beers and soft drinks, ideal for complementing your meal perfectly.

Located in Gaios, Taka Taka is a popular taverna known for its relaxed atmosphere and mouthwatering Greek dishes. Visitors can enjoy traditional favorites like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Carnayo offers a welcoming retreat, perfect for unwinding and hospitality. Set within a quaint traditional building adorned with stone and wooden accents, the restaurant is enveloped by a delightful garden brimming with flowers and olive trees. The menu showcases an array of local delicacies from Corfu and Paxos, meticulously crafted using top-quality ingredients. Explore a rich selection of Greek wines in Carnayo's cellar, where the knowledgeable staff is readily available to offer recommendations and guidance on wine pairings.

Tucked into the southern coast of Lefkada, Sivota is a picturesque fishing village that offers a peaceful anchorage wrapped in olive-covered hills. As your boat glides into the narrow fjord-like bay, the charming harbor reveals itself—lined with traditional tavernas, cozy cafés, and moored sailboats swaying gently in the Ionian breeze.

While Sivota is small, it’s rich in atmosphere. Spend the day strolling the promenade, enjoying fresh octopus under vine-covered terraces, or exploring nearby coves by dinghy. The calm waters make it an ideal overnight stop for sailors seeking relaxation, good food, and authentic island hospitality.

Whether you’re arriving for lunch or staying the night, Sivota welcomes you with the slow, sincere rhythm of Greek coastal life.

Located on the wind-swept southern coast of Lefkada, Vasiliki is a vibrant sailing hub that blends laid-back island charm with adrenaline-pumping watersports. Famed for its consistent afternoon winds, the bay is a paradise for windsurfers and active travelers.

Off the water, the village offers a welcoming blend of traditional and modern—narrow lanes lined with artisan shops, waterfront cafés, and beach bars that come alive at sunset. Whether you're here for the thrill of the wind or the warmth of the community, Vasiliki delivers energy, beauty, and a true taste of island life.

Egremni Beach is another stunning beach on Lefkada known for its turquoise waters and pristine sandy shoreline. Accessible via a long staircase carved into the cliffside, Egremni offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere compared to Porto Katsiki. Visitors can unwind on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the sun while enjoying panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.

Located near Lefkada Town, Agia Mavra Fortress is a historic Venetian castle dating back to the 14th century. The fortress played a crucial role in defending the island against various invaders throughout its history, including the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and battlements of the fortress, as well as the interior courtyard and underground chambers. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. Additionally, Agia Mavra Fortress hosts cultural events and festivals during the summer months, adding to its allure as a must-visit attraction in Lefkada.

Porto Katsiki is one of the most famous and breathtaking beaches in Greece, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sand, and dramatic cliffs. Accessible via a steep staircase or by boat, Porto Katsiki offers stunning views and excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities.

Located near the village of Nydri, the Nydri Waterfalls are a hidden gem tucked away in a lush green landscape. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike through the forest to reach the waterfalls, where they can swim in the refreshing pools beneath the cascading waters and relax in the natural surroundings.

Perched on a hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea, Rachi is a picturesque taverna known for its stunning panoramic views and mouthwatering cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional Greek dishes, including grilled meats, seafood specialties, and homemade mezes, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine al fresco on the terrace and enjoy the sunset while savoring the flavors of Lefkada.

Situated along the bustling waterfront of Nidri, The Barrel stands as a family-run restaurant dedicated to culinary diversity. Renowned for its delectable array of traditional and international dishes, The Barrel sets itself apart with its prompt service and authentic flavors. Boasting an extensive selection of wines sourced from the island and across Greece, The Barrel has earned acclaim from esteemed tourist guides, including the British Rough Guide and the Lonely Planet guide.

Perched atop a hill in the northwest of Lefkada, Amente beckons as an upscale restaurant and cocktail bar, promising a delightful evening experience. Step into the exquisite restaurant, where the chef skillfully blends local Lefkadian ingredients with various Greek products, crafting a menu replete with flavorful delights. From crisp salads to delectable appetizers, vegetarian options to freshly-caught seafood and prime cuts of meat, there's something to please every palate. Diners have the option to enjoy their meal by the restaurant's pool or on a semi-private open terrace, with a selection of high-end wines available to enhance the culinary experience, ranging from local favorites to international varieties. Moreover, the four-tiered bar area overlooking the azure Ionian Sea provides the perfect setting to unwind and savor your favorite libation in ultimate relaxation.

Filiatro is a stunning pebble beach located near the village of Frikes on the northern coast of Ithaca. Surrounded by lush greenery and olive groves, Filiatro offers crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can relax on the beach and soak up the sun, rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and enjoy refreshments at the beachside taverna. Filiatro Beach is also family-friendly, with shallow waters ideal for children.

Vathy is the main port and capital of Ithaca, renowned for its charming waterfront promenade, colorful buildings, and bustling atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the narrow streets lined with cafes, tavernas, and shops, explore the historic churches and museums, and admire the traditional architecture. Vathy also serves as a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island.

Gidaki is a secluded paradise accessible only by boat or via a scenic hiking trail from the village of Stavros. Nestled in a pristine cove on the western coast of Ithaca, Gidaki Beach offers powdery white sand and azure waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy peace and tranquility, swim in the clear waters, and explore the rocky shoreline. There are no facilities at Gidaki Beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies.

According to legend, Ithaca was the homeland of Odysseus, the legendary Greek hero of Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey. The ruins of Odysseus's Palace, also known as the School of Homer, are believed to be located near the village of Stavros. Visitors can explore the archaeological site, which features remains of ancient walls and structures, and learn about the island's rich history and mythology.

Dona Lefki is nestled in a stunning location, offering captivating views of the crystal blue waters of the Ionian Sea and the majestic sunset descending over the bay. Indulge in delectable dishes inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, expertly crafted to tantalize your taste buds.

Melissani Cave, located near the village of Karavomilos, is a stunning natural wonder renowned for its underground lake and ethereal blue waters. Visitors can take a boat tour through the cave's cavernous chambers, where sunlight filters through the ceiling, illuminating the turquoise waters below. The cave is steeped in mythology, with local legends associating it with the nymph Melissani, hence its name.

Myrtos Beach is one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Greece, known for its dramatic cliffs, white pebble shoreline, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Nestled between the mountains of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros, Myrtos offers breathtaking panoramic views and excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities. It has been consistently ranked among the world's best beaches for its natural beauty.

Assos is a picturesque village located on a narrow isthmus on the northwest coast of Kefalonia, surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise waters. The village is dominated by the ruins of a Venetian castle perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the quaint streets of Assos, admire the traditional architecture, and relax in waterfront tavernas serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Tassia Restaurant is a family-run taverna located in the charming fishing village of Fiskardo. Known for its warm hospitality and authentic Greek flavors, Tassia offers a menu of traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and homemade mezes. Diners can enjoy their meal in the cozy dining room or al fresco on the terrace overlooking the harbor.

Lorraine's Magic Hill is a charming family-owned restaurant specializing in traditional Greek and local cuisine. Situated atop the hill overlooking Lourdas Beach, the restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the sea and the island of Zakynthos.Lorraine frequently hosts Greek nights complete with traditional dancing and live music, adding to the restaurant's lively atmosphere.

Situated in the heart of Argostoli, Avli Restaurant is a popular dining destination known for its creative cuisine and elegant ambiance. The menu features a mix of Mediterranean and Greek dishes with a modern twist, showcasing fresh ingredients and innovative flavors. Guests can choose from a variety of seafood specialties, pasta dishes, and grilled meats, all served in a stylish and inviting setting.

The Blue Caves are a series of sea caves located along the northern coast of Zakynthos near Cape Skinari. Carved by the relentless force of the sea, these caves feature striking blue waters that reflect the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing play of colors. Visitors can explore the caves by boat, marveling at the dazzling azure hues and the intricate rock formations. The Blue Caves are a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Greece. Accessible only by boat, Navagio is famous for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and the rusting wreck of a smuggler's ship that ran aground on the shore in the 1980s. Visitors can admire the breathtaking scenery, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and take memorable photographs of this stunning beach.

 Zakynthos Town, the capital of the island, is a charming blend of Venetian and neoclassical architecture. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets of the old town, admire historic buildings such as the Church of St. Dionysios and the Solomos Square, and explore the Venetian Castle perched on a hill overlooking the town. The castle offers panoramic views of Zakynthos Town and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

Prosilio restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of Zakynthos town, adjacent to Solomos Square. Whether you choose to dine in its charming garden or elegant interior with an open kitchen, the restaurant's skilled team ensures an unforgettable experience for its patrons. Local, organic ingredients are harmoniously paired with the finest culinary elements to craft distinctive and delicious dishes. Complementing the gastronomic journey is a curated wine list and delightful cocktails, adding to the overall memorable dining pleasure.

Zakanthi presents itself as a picturesque garden restaurant, offering innovative Greek cuisine dishes. Inside, the ambiance is cozy, fostering a relaxing atmosphere. The enchanting setting, adorned with candles and elegant accents, exudes a unique warmth that captivates guests. Additionally, diners have the option to savor their meal in Zakanthi's verdant garden, where they can delight in their culinary experience while gazing at the starry sky above.