Dream trip to the Ionian Islands: adventure, nature and history!

Dream trip to the Ionian Islands: adventure, nature and history!

The Ionian Islands, off the west coast of Greece, are a true gem for travelers and adventure seekers. These scenic islands, which include well-known names such as Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia and Lefkada, offer a unique blend of history, nature and vibrant culture. Historically, the Ionian Islands represent a cultural bridge between East and West. Venetian, French and British influences are clearly visible in the region's architecture, cuisine and traditions. The islands are also known for their lush green landscape, which makes them a popular destination for nature lovers, especially in spring. WMN reports that the main islands are also known as “Eptanasia”: Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Kythira.

The variety of landscapes is impressive. Corfu offers a flair of history and modernity as well as fantastic beaches. Zakynthos, on the other hand, is famous for its dramatic cliffs and the turquoise waters of Navagio Bay, which can only be reached by boat. Kefalonia impresses with its untouched mountain landscapes and charming fishing villages, while Lefkada is very popular with windsurfers and sailors. Visitors looking for peace and authenticity are particularly attracted to the island of Ithaca, which is considered the home of Odysseus.

Activities and attractions

The Ionian Islands offer a variety of activities. Hiking, sailing, snorkeling and cycling are just a few ways to explore the region's natural beauty. Special attractions that travelers should not miss include:

• Korfu-Stadt (Kerkyra): UNESCO-Welterbe mit venezianischen Festungen.
• Navagio-Bucht (Zakynthos): Berühmte Bucht, nur per Boot erreichbar.
• Melissani-Höhle (Kefalonia): Tropfsteinhöhle mit unterirdischem See.
• Egremni Beach (Lefkada): Traumstrand mit weißen Klippen.
• Paxos und Antipaxos: Kleine Inseln mit ruhigen Buchten.

For travelers wanting to explore the Ionian Islands on a backpacking adventure, we recommend a route that starts in Corfu, then leads to Lefkada via Paxos and Antipaxos. From there we continue to Kefalonia and finally to Zakynthos. These routes are extremely popular because they allow you to experience the beauty and diversity of the islands up close. Ferry services provide reliable options for traveling between islands and are often the preferred choice for island hopping. Greece Moments summarizes that this type of travel is a popular way to explore the Greek islands.

Travel time and accessibility

The best time to travel to the Ionian Islands is between May and October. While spring is ideal for nature lovers, summer attracts many beach fans. Direct flights to Corfu, Zakynthos and Kefalonia are available, while Lefkada can be reached via Preveza. Smaller islands can be easily reached by ferry. Numerous travel agencies, such as Greece Travel, offer organized island hopping packages that make traveling through the region even easier.

The cost of an island hopping holiday is variable and depends on the duration, the number of islands and the standard of travel. Since ferry prices are generally stable, with an average of around 10 euros per hour of travel, travelers can plan on a budget-friendly basis. However, prices for accommodation and ferry tickets may increase during high season. It is recommended to use rental cars to explore the islands as public transport is not always reliable.