Ithaca is a small Ionian island, located a few miles from the island of Cephalonia. You can easily reach it from the islands of Cephalonia or Lefkada. If you come from the Greek mainland, you will have to take the boat to Patras. The island is not large, you can walk, bike, drive or go around by boat. We tell you more about the different transport to Ithaca.
How to get to Ithaca?
By boat
Not easy to find the crossings to Ithaca. Not all companies use online booking. You should contact them directly. There are inter-island crossings as well as crossings to the mainland.
Crossings from the continent to Ithaca
- Patras – Ithaca (port of Aetos / Pisaetos), company Levante Ferries, possibility to take a car, schedules and reservations.
- Kyllini – Ithaca (port of Aetos / Pisaetos), company Levante Ferries, possibility to take a car, timetables and reservations.
- Astakos – Ithaca (port of Aetos / Pisaetos), company Ionion Pelagos, from July to September, possibility to take a vehicle. No online booking, contact the company directly.
Inter-island crossings from Ithaca to Cephalonia, Lefkada, Meganissi
- Ithaca (port of Aetos / Pisaetos) – Kefalonia (Sami), company Levante Ferries, possibility to take a car, schedules and reservations.
- Route Ithaca (port of Frikes) – Lefkada (port of Nidri), company Meganisi, no online booking, contact the company directly.
- Ithaca – Meganissi Island, Joycruise company, only during summer. It is a hydrospeed, fast that does not take vehicles on board.
Private transfers
If you are constrained by the schedule or if you wish to go to a particular port, you can also use private transfers (taxiboat) between Ithaca and Kefalonia. Here is one of the companies that provide this type of service: Kavallieratos.
The port of Aetos or Pisaetos
The port of Aetos also called Pisaetos is the main port of Ithaca. It is located on the west side of the island. It was built for practical reasons, to avoid ferries to go around the island. But it does not present any tourist interest. However, you will find cabs at the arrival of the ferries that will take you to your hotel, camping or rental. If you do not have a car, we recommend that you book a cab here.
By plane
The nearest airport is the one on the island of Kefalonia which offers international connections during the summer season or with a stopover in Athens. You can find and compare prices easily on Aegean, a comparator that we use personally, efficient and guaranteeing the best prices.
With a car
From Athens, it is a 3 to 3.5 hour drive to the port of Patras or Kyllini. You then take the ferry directly to Ithaca.
Transportation in Ithaca : How to get around on the island?
With a car
Even if the island is not large, if you want to travel from north to south, a car is essential, especially if you travel with your family. You can rent it on the mainland or on Kefalonia before taking your boat, or directly on the island but it will be more expensive. We recommend you to compare prices on Rentalcars, which we use personally. Or contact directly the Vathy rental companies on the island.
Ithaca by boat
Ithaca is also a wonderful island to discover from the sea. That’s why we advise you to rent a boat to discover the most beautiful beaches. There are boats without a license that will allow you to make small tours for half a day. It is also possible to join excursions or rent sailing or motor boats requiring a license. You should know that most of the rental companies offer the accompaniment of a skipper. Here is the list of rental companies, they are mainly located in Vathy, you can also book online at Click and Boat.
On foot
The island of Ithaca is green and wooded, so it is pleasant to walk around. Many hiking trails exist on the island and they are well signposted. They are an opportunity to discover fountains, ancient ruins and beautiful churches.
By traditional bike, electric bike or scooter
This can be a good option, because you will enjoy beautiful landscapes. However, you should know that there is a big difference in altitude ! The tourist office offers three tours in the North and South of the island. In Vathy, there are several rental companies, including AlphaCarsGreece.
Sophie B.
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