What to see in the Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands off the west coast of Greece are so beautiful that it's sometimes hard to believe they exist in reality and that the idyllic picture wasn't painted by AI. They have everything for a peaceful vacation – tiny coastal towns with ancient buildings, picturesque beaches, and that unique Greek vibe, when you leisurely sip wine from a glass while sirtaki plays in your ears. We found even more reasons to buy tickets to Corfu on Kupi.com: ships on the sand, caves, turtles, and maximum authentic cuisine.

Corfu

As the largest and most popular island among tourists in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a place you can't forget. It has absorbed Venetian, French, and British influences, creating a captivating historical mosaic. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so be sure to stroll through its cobbled streets and narrow alleys, past bustling cafes and lively markets.

Corfu's countryside is no less charming. Picturesque gardens and majestic villas are nestled among endless olive groves, and the island's green hills give way to quiet beaches. Head to Paleokastritsa, famous for its impressive cliffs, sunbathe on Glyfada beach, and don't miss the opportunity to savor Corfu's culinary delights. The island's cuisine was shaped by its historical ties with Italy. Local specialties – sofrito (a tender veal dish in a white wine and garlic sauce) and bourdeto (a spicy fish stew, perfect for gourmets seeking bold, new flavors).

How to get to Corfu

By plane: Corfu International Airport (CFU), also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport, receives direct flights from Athens year-round, and from many European cities during the summer season. The airport is located just 3 km from Corfu Town, which can be reached in 10 minutes by taxi or bus.

By ferry: Ferries to Corfu regularly depart from the port of Igoumenitsa on the mainland (travel time about 1.5-2 hours), and during high season, also from other Ionian Islands. There are also separate routes from Italian ports such as Bari and Ancona. Ferries arrive at Corfu's New Port, located near the city center.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a true paradise for nature lovers. The island's coastline is framed by secluded coves, caves, and turquoise waters so clear that several meters of water depth seem insignificant, as if you could touch the bottom with your hand. The island is primarily known for Navagio Beach – that hidden strip of sand nestled between high cliffs, with a shipwrecked smuggler's vessel. It can only be reached by water, but viewing it from above is also a must. Try to arrive early in the morning or closer to evening to avoid crowds and catch the 'golden hour'.

But Zakynthos is more than just a beach lover's dream. The Blue Caves, which also require a boat trip to reach, are an astonishing natural wonder where sunlight fills the water with an ethereal glow, creating a surreal picture. Thanks to its abundant marine life, Zakynthos attracts snorkeling and diving enthusiasts eager to explore the depths of the Ionian Sea.

A third reason to visit Zakynthos is the Caretta Caretta sea turtles. The island has become a protected area for this endangered species. Head to Laganas Bay or Gerakas Beach, which are part of the National Marine Park. There you can observe the turtles in their natural habitat. Another way is a boat trip, during which you'll be taken to the turtles' main swimming routes. In summer, their nesting season begins, and to avoid disturbing the turtles, active sports are prohibited on the beach, and access may be restricted at night. There is also a Turtle Rescue Center where you can learn about them and see rescued individuals.

How to get to Zakynthos

The island has its own airport – 'Dionysios Solomos' (ZTH). From Russia, you'll have to fly with a couple of transfers, for example, in Istanbul, and then to Athens. From the Greek capital, there are daily domestic flights to Zakynthos by Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air. The travel time is about 45-60 minutes.

Ferry connections (from other Ionian Islands)

• from Pessada port to Agios Nikolaos port. A short, scenic route that takes about 1.5 hours;
• from Sami port.

Kefalonia

For those who prefer a more authentic vacation, without well-trodden tourist paths and crowds near major ancient monuments, Kefalonia is a more suitable choice. The island is famous for its majestic mountains that dramatically rise above the waters of the Ionian Sea. Kefalonia is ideal for hiking, cycling, and active recreation, offering routes through villages and along the coast.

The number one must-see on the island's tourist program is Melissani Cave-Lake, located near Sami. Its main 'feature' is the color of the water, painted in unreal shades of blue and turquoise by the sunlight penetrating through an opening in the cave's ceiling. Tourists smoothly cross its chambers in small boats, admiring this amazing creation of nature. We recommend planning your visit for midday. However, remember that there can be long queues during peak season. Nearby is Drogarati Cave with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and amazing acoustics.

Kefalonia's charming fishing villages are a story in themselves. Assos, with its Venetian fortress and picturesque, flower-filled harbor, looks like a postcard. Fiskardo – the only settlement that escaped destruction during the 1953 earthquake and preserved its elegant Venetian architecture – is now a haven for yachts and a magnet for bohemians.

Among the beaches, we highlight Myrtos – famous and often listed among the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Its main feature is dazzling white pebbles that sharply contrast with the deep azure and turquoise of the Ionian Sea.

How to get to Kefalonia

The fastest way is a direct ferry from Lefkada to Sami; the journey takes about 3.5 hours. Ferries run three times a week (on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays).

Lefkas

Lefkas (or Lefkada) is one of the most picturesque islands in the Ionian Sea, distinguished by its unique feature: it is connected to mainland Greece by a floating bridge. This small detail significantly impacts the flow of tourists, as they don't need to use ferries to get here.

Lefkas' main pride is its stunning beaches. Porto Katsiki, arguably the most famous among them, is instantly recognizable by its stunning rocky backdrop and bright azure water. The beach's name means 'goat port,' hinting at the steep paths goats once used to reach it. Today, visitors can descend via a staircase carved into the cliff. Number two is Egremni Beach. It's an incredibly picturesque stretch of white sand, bordered by high cliffs and bright blue water. Thanks to its more secluded location, there are fewer people here, and snorkeling is better.

Beyond its beach paradise, Lefkada is a renowned center for water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. Those who prefer not to lie by the water but to traverse its expanses and catch the wind on a board head to Vassiliki Bay. The overall picture is complemented by dense forests on mountain slopes, waterfalls, and coastal villages, such as Nydri with its lively marina or the island's capital, also named Lefkada. The island also attracts yachting enthusiasts, as excellent routes can be charted around it, and the infrastructure for such recreation is well-developed.

How to get to Lefkas

Lefkada itself does not have an airport, but nearby on the mainland is Aktion National Airport (PVK) in Preveza: it's only 20-30 km from the island (approximately 25-30 minutes by car). Daily domestic flights operate from Athens International Airport (ATH) by Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air. The travel time is about 45-60 minutes.