Ithaca Car Hire

Guide of Ithaca

Geography

Ithaca, Greece is located on the western side of the Greek mainland in the Ionian Islands. Ithaca is a small island off Kefalonia's northeastern shore, sandwiched between the island and the western Greek mainland. The island is rugged, with cypress trees, hiking trails, and isolated beaches. Ithaca's permanent population was little more than 3,200 in 2011.

Climate in Ithaca

Ithaca, a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, experiences a mild, rainy winter and a hot, sunny summer. In January, the average temperature is 11.5 °C, while in August, it is 26.5°C. June through September is the best time to visit Ithaca for a beach vacation. However, if you prefer to avoid the oppressive heat of the summer, it is best to visit the island in May or the first half of October.

Culture

As compared to the mainland and Aegean islands, which have been heavily influenced by the Turkish over the years, Ithaca is more Italian. Like most of Greece, the island's religious heritage is firmly rooted in Orthodox Christianity, as seen by the island's cuisine, language, and architecture. The priests of Ithaca cherish the attention and reverence they receive from the island's residents.

Almost no one on Ithaca has a birthday, but nearly everyone has a "name day." Every kid who is baptised in the Greek Orthodox Church has a name that is acceptable to the church because of this tradition. In other words, these are either saintly or sanctimonious names. There's a reason Dimitri and Yiorgos are the names of so many people in Greece. The western custom of celebrating birthdays has progressively made its way into Ithacan culture over the last 15 years, but the tradition of 'Name Days' remains paramount.

Things To Do in Ithaca

Visit the Remains of Ancient Civilisation

A rocky walk through the hills leads to the ruins of Ithaca's ancient acropolis Alalkomenes from the harbour of Piso Aetos, next to the Church of Agios Georgios. Excavations have indicated that throughout the sixth century, a town with temples, homes, and tombs was established on the site. The town's bouldered walls have mainly survived. Old Greek scholars will be ecstatic to see the discovery of ancient artefacts made here, such as depictions of Odysseus, the hero in Homer's epic Odyssey, and coins with the imprints of Odysseus and Athena, to mention a few.

Go for an Underwater Adventure

The crystal clear blue, turquoise, and emerald water surrounding Ithaca urge you to go diving. Sarakiniko Bay is ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving due to its high visibility. The underwater cliffs and rock formations transport you to another universe entirely. There are guided dives through tunnels, reefs, and shipwrecks available. Because they are curious, colourful fish will swim around you, and the amazing undersea life will undoubtedly astound. You can lie down and relax on the sunbeds under beach umbrellas as you climb out. Climbing up to the resto-bars and pubs at sunset will reward you with an amazing view.

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca

The Archaeological Museum of Ithaca houses many of the amazing artefacts discovered during archaeological expeditions in Ithaca. The majority of these magnificent ancient findings are from the southern section of the island, where archaeologists have discovered various villages spanning from prehistoric times to the Roman Empire. Some of the relics date back more than 3000 years. There are well-preserved miniature statues, coins, precious stones, jewellery, ceramics, ceramic vases, and a variety of other everyday things, including stone tools. A collection of vases made in a local studio in geometric periods is sure to catch your eye.

Eating Out in Ithaca

The Dona Lefki overlooks the Ionian Sea and offers a spectacular view of the sun setting over the harbour. It is well-known for its chefs' creations of classic Greek cuisine. Kioni is home to Lizzy's Restaurant Bar. There is a three-tiered outdoor dining area with a bar on the top level. The view of the water and the Ionian night sky is spectacular. The cuisine is both traditional Greek and cosmopolitan. The Kohili Garden Restaurant offers two outdoor eating options: one in the garden and another with a spectacular view of Vathy Bay. Among the delectable Greek specialities available, seafood spaghetti is a must-try.

Transport

Airport

The nearest international airport to Ithaca is Kefalonia Airport (EFL). From the international airport in Athens (ATH), you can fly or take a bus to Kefalonia. From Kefalonia, a ferry service to Ithaca is available. You can bring your car on board with you.

Getting Around Ithaca

The island's capital, Vathi, is connected to the north by a public bus service. Buses run twice daily, in the morning and in the afternoon. Since all the noteworthy attractions are well accessible by road, you can hire a car and visit them. Taxis are also available as are bicycles. Many people opt to hire a vehicle in Athens, drive down to Patras, and hop on a ferry (with their car!) to Ithaca.