Ionian Islands, Greece

The Ionian islands are scattered along Greece’s west coast, in the Ionian Sea. The island cluster consists of 20 islands although most of them are not inhabited. The eight larger islands are all very popular holiday destinations and home to some of the most famous beaches worldwide, such as Porto Katsiki in Lefkada and the Shipwreck beach in Zakynthos.

The most popular Ionian islands are Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxos and Ithaki. You will find beautiful beaches, breathtaking nature and excellent cuisine on all islands, but each one is unique. Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, love a good night out or relaxing on an amazing beach, there definitely is an Ionian island out there for you.

There are multiple daily connections from Igoumenitsa-Corfu. In the summer there are also ferry connections to Corfu from Italy and Albania. You will also find at least one ferry per day from Igoumenitsa-Paxos, while the island of Kefalonia is accessible from the ports of Kilini and Astakos on the mainland. From Kilini there are also frequent ferry departures to Zakynthos and the island of Ithaki is accessible by ferry from Astakos. The island of Lefkada is connected to the mainland by bridge.

If you are island hopping in Greece, travelling by ferry between the Ionian islands can be limited. There are ferry connections between Corfu and Paxos. Also between Kefalonia (ports of Kefalonia and Poros) and Ithaki (port of Ithaki). Most visitors wanting to see as many of the Ionian islands as possible, usually rent a yacht or sailing boat once in the Ionian.

Due to their proximity to Italy, summer ferries connect some major ports like Ancona, Venice, Bari and Brindisi to Corfu, Kefalonia and Zakynthos. The number of connections is very limited and most ferry companies favour the port of Corfu.