{"id":2884,"date":"2026-08-16T00:45:09","date_gmt":"2026-08-16T00:45:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alohapaz.com\/?p=2884"},"modified":"2026-08-17T10:28:00","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T10:28:00","slug":"ithaca","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alohapaz.com\/th\/ithaca\/","title":{"rendered":"\u0e2d\u0e34\u0e17\u0e32\u0e04\u0e32"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Ithaca, the Island of Odysseus<\/strong><\/h3>

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\u00abThe double statue of Odysseus in Vathy, Ithaca (by Korina Kassianou). Photo via Wikimedia Commons.\u00bb<\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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There are islands that captivate you with their cosmopolitan energy, and others that hold you spellbound with their quiet, almost mystical charm. Ithaca undeniably belongs to the latter. The legendary kingdom of Odysseus isn’t just a travel destination\u2014it is a sanctuary of nostalgic tranquility, framed by lush green landscapes, emerald waters, and an authenticity that is rare to find in today’s Ionian Sea.<\/strong><\/p>

Must-See Spots & Things to Do<\/b><\/p>

  • Vathy:<\/b> The island\u2019s picturesque capital, built around a secure natural harbor. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with traditional Venetian-style mansions, enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront, and take in the view of the verdant islet of Lazaretto.<\/p><\/li>

  • Stavros & Odysseus’ Palace:<\/b> In the northern part of the island, the village of Stavros houses a detailed model of the Homeric Palace. Nearby lies the archaeological site of Agios Athanasios, which many scholars identify as the actual home of Odysseus.<\/p><\/li>

  • Kioni:<\/b> Arguably the most photographed village on the island. A preserved traditional settlement with charming heritage houses, waterfront cafes, and sailboats gently swaying in its sheltered bay.<\/p><\/li>

  • Anogi & Katharon Monastery:<\/b> Drive up to the mountainous village of Anogi to marvel at its massive natural monoliths (menhirs), then visit the Katharon Monastery for breathtaking panoramic views over the island.<\/p><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Gastronomy & Local Flavors<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Ithacan cuisine combines Septinsular (Ionian) culinary traditions with fresh land and sea ingredients. Be sure to try:<\/p>\n

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      Tserepa:<\/b> Chicken or meat slow-cooked in a traditional clay covered pot with garlic, tomato, and spices.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Savoro:<\/b> Fresh fish marinated in a rich sauce of rosemary, raisins, vinegar, and grape molasses.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Rovani:<\/b> The island\u2019s signature dessert, a sweet pan cake made with rice, local honey, and olive oil.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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      Ithaca\u2019s beaches are famous for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, white pebbles, and lush green scenery<\/strong> that often reaches right down to the shoreline. Most offer a peaceful atmosphere, and some of the most stunning ones are best reached by boat.<\/h4>
      Here are the top beaches on the island you should know about:<\/div>
      • Gidaki<\/span><\/strong>: Widely considered the most beautiful beach on Ithaca. It features stunning electric-blue waters and smooth white pebbles. You can get there via a taxi boat from Vathy or by hiking a trail from Skinos bay.<\/span><\/li>
      • Filiatro<\/strong>: The most popular and cosmopolitan beach on the island. It is organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach bar, all surrounded by dense olive trees that provide plenty of natural shade.<\/span><\/li>
      • Afales<\/strong>: Located in the north, this wild and dramatic bay features imposing white cliffs, fine pebbles, and exotic water colors. It is perfect if you want to feel closer to nature.<\/span><\/li>
      • Aspros Gialos<\/strong>: A gorgeous beach on the west coast facing Cephalonia. It is known for its bright white pebbles and extremely clear, deep blue waters.<\/span><\/li>
      • Poli<\/strong>: Found in northern Ithaca below Stavros village. It is a sheltered bay with some sunbed rentals and a small harbor. The ruins of an ancient sunken city lie hidden beneath its waters.<\/span><\/li>
      • Kourvoulia<\/span><\/strong>: Three consecutive, small, and secluded pebble coves (Kourvoulia 1, 2, and 3) along the road from Frikes to Kioni. They feature calm emerald waters, making them perfect for a quick, refreshing swim.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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        Ithaca is steeped in mythological history, and exploring its ancient sites is a rewarding experience.<\/span><\/div>
        To visit these archaeological landmarks and the legendary “Palace of Odysseus,<\/strong>” tourists should rent a car or a scooter<\/strong>. The sites are scattered across the island\u2014mostly in the northern part\u2014and reaching them requires some light hiking.<\/div>
        Here is the comprehensive guide for tourists to explore Ithaca’s history:<\/div>
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        1. The “Palace of Odysseus”<\/b> (Agios Athanasios \/ School of Homer)<\/div>
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        This is the island’s most significant archaeological site. Excavations revealed a large, three-level Mycenaean palace complex that perfectly matches Homer’s descriptions of Odysseus’s royal residence.<\/div>
          • Location:<\/strong> Northern Ithaca, near <\/span>Stavros<\/strong> village.<\/span><\/li>
          • How to get there:<\/strong> Drive toward Stavros and follow the signs for “School of Homer” or “Agios Athanasios”. The paved road ends at a designated spot. From there, take the clear, uphill hiking path<\/strong> for about 15\u201320 minutes.<\/span><\/li>
          • Tips:<\/strong> Entrance is free, but the ruins are partly fenced. Wear sturdy sneakers and a hat, as there is absolutely no shade.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>

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            2. The Archaeological Collection of Stavros<\/div>
            Visiting this small museum is essential to fully understanding the palace site.<\/div>
              • What to see:<\/strong> It houses artifacts excavated from the Palace and the nearby Loizos Cave. The most famous exhibit is a fragment of a 1st-century BC clay mask engraved with “\u0395\u03a5\u03a7\u0397\u039d \u039f\u0394\u03a5\u03a3\u03a3\u0395\u0399”<\/strong> (A Wish to Odysseus), proving the hero was actively worshipped on the island.<\/span><\/li>
              • How to get there:<\/strong> Located right inside Stavros village, with easy street parking and walking access.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>

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                3. Loizos Cave (Poli Bay)<\/div>
                  • History:<\/strong> This coastal cave served as a religious center and temple dedicated to Odysseus and ancient gods.<\/span><\/li>
                  • How to get there:<\/strong> Located at Poli Beach<\/strong>, just below Stavros. Due to past earthquake damage, the cave roof has partially collapsed, and entry inside is strictly forbidden<\/strong> for safety reasons. However, tourists can visit the beautiful bay and even snorkel over the sunken ancient city ruins in the shallow waters.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>

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                    4. Archaeological Museum of Vathy<\/div>
                      • What to see:<\/strong> A great collection of geometric pottery, votive offerings, and ancient coins found across the southern parts of Ithaca.<\/span><\/li>
                      • How to get there:<\/strong> Located in the heart of the island’s capital, Vathy<\/strong>. It is easily accessible on foot from the main square.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>

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                        5. Alalkomenes (Piso Aetos)<\/div>
                          • History:<\/strong> The ruins of an ancient fortified acropolis. In the 19th century, early explorers mistakenly called this high fortress the “Castle of Odysseus.”<\/span><\/li>
                          • How to get there:<\/strong> Situated on a hill right above the port of Piso Aetos. Reaching the top requires a steep, strenuous hike<\/strong> of about 30\u201340 minutes on an unshaded rocky trail. It rewards visitors with panoramic views of the sea but is recommended only for fit hikers.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>

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                            The “Palace of Odysseus” (Agios Athanasios \/ School of Homer)<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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                            \n\t\t\t\t\tThe view from the Palace of Odysseus<\/span>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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                            If you are interested, just open Google Maps and it will guide you directly to the Palace of Odysseus. Please note that the paved road ends at a certain point. From there, you will need to follow a short, uphill hiking path for about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the ruins. Make sure to wear sturdy athletic shoes, bring plenty of water, and wear a hat,<\/strong> as there is very little shade along the way<\/div><\/blockquote>
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