Where to Stay in Ithaca , Vathy, Kioni, Frikes & Stavros

If you're wondering where to stay in Ithaca, the answer mainly depends on whether you're seeking lively surroundings and easy access (Vathy), a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a view (Kioni), tranquillity by the harbour (Frikes), or natural landscapes and easy access to northern beaches (Stavros). Odysseus' island doesn't experience mass tourism, so choosing the right area plays a significant role in your accommodation experience.

In this guide, we analyse the four main accommodation areas in Ithaca, featuring real accommodations, indicative prices, and practical tips for access and getting around, so you can choose the base that suits your trip.

Geography, Access, and General Characteristics of Ithaca

Ithaca is located in the Ionian Sea, between Kefalonia and Lefkada, covering an area of approximately 96 square kilometres with a population of around 3,000 inhabitants. The island is divided into two sections, the northern and southern municipalities, connected by a narrow isthmus in the Aetos area. It does not have an airport, so access is either via Kefalonia (Argostoli airport, about 45 minutes to Sami or Agia Effimia port, and from there a 30-45 minute ferry to Vathy or Pisaetos) or via Patras or Astakos with longer ferry routes. The main entry point is the port of Vathy, the island's capital, while a secondary station is the smaller port in Frikes, with an independent connection to Lefkada (Nydri, Vasiliki) during the summer.

Ithaca is closely linked to Homer's Odyssey, as it is considered the kingdom of Odysseus. Archaeological sites such as the Cave of the Nymphs, the School of Odysseus on Nisi, and the ruins at Alalcomenes fuel this connection, though no definitive palace confirmation has been found. The landscape is characterised by steep hills, dense vegetation of olive trees and cypresses, small coves with pebbles and turquoise waters, and a sense of authenticity missing from more touristy Ionian islands.

The distances between settlements are short, but the road is mountainous and narrow in many places: from Vathy to Kioni, allow about 45 minutes (17 km), to Frikes around 40 minutes (14 km), and to Stavros about 30 minutes (11 km). Car rental is considered almost essential, as public transport is limited to a few daily routes, mainly during the summer months. The best time to visit is from mid-May to mid-October, with July and August seeing the highest activity, mainly due to pleasure boats mooring in the island's bays.

Accommodation options in Ithaca are mainly small hotels, apartments, and traditional houses; there are no large resorts or chains, which preserves the island's character but also means that availability is limited during peak season. It is advisable to book several months in advance for July and August, especially if you are aiming for accommodation with a view of the harbour or bay.

Vathy: The Capital and Most Practical Base

Vathy is the natural centre of the island, built amphitheatrically around one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean. Here you'll find the highest concentration of shops, tavernas, banks, and services, as well as the main port where ferries from Kefalonia arrive. It's an ideal choice for those who want easy access without a car on the first or last days of their trip, and for those who prefer evening activity and dining options.

Accommodation in Vathy

1. Mentor Hotel
Located on Vathy's waterfront, with harbour views and direct access to shops and restaurants. Suits travellers who want a central location without a car.

• Average cost: 90-130€ per night

2. Perantzada Hotel 1811
A boutique hotel in a renovated 19th-century mansion, a few minutes from the port. Suitable for couples seeking a more premium experience with a pool and aesthetic appeal.

• Average cost: 180-260€ per night

3. Hotel Omirikon
A hotel on Vathy's promenade, with simple but comfortable rooms and bay views. A good option for families on a moderate budget.

• Average cost: 85-120€ per night

4. Antheon Apartments
Apartments in Vathy with a fully equipped kitchen, suitable for families or groups who want autonomy and to cook their own meals.

• Average cost: 95-140€ per night

5. Ntamari Apartments
Small apartments in a quiet part of Vathy, with a good location and affordable price. Suitable for couples or small families who want to be close to the centre without paying for a sea-front view.

• Average cost: 70-100€ per night

6. Ithaca's Poem Apartments
Modern apartments in Vathy, with contemporary decor and close proximity to the port. Suitable for couples who want comfort without being far from the town's activity.

• Average cost: 100-150€ per night

7. Veroni Apartment 3
An apartment in the Matzarata area of Vathy, near a beach, in a quiet environment. Suitable for those who want to combine swimming and easy access to town.

• Average cost: 80-115€ per night

Kioni: Cosmopolitan Atmosphere and Bay Views

Kioni is perhaps Ithaca's most photographed village, built amphitheatrically around a narrow bay with old windmills at its entrance. It attracts pleasure boats, mainly British and Italian tourists, and features several tavernas and bars right by the water. It's suitable for those seeking a romantic atmosphere and quiet evenings, with the sea being the central element of their stay.

Accommodation in Kioni

8. Kioni Apartments
Apartments in the Kioni area, with a good location near the bay and the village. Suitable for couples and small families who want to explore the picturesque harbour on foot.

• Average cost: 100-150€ per night

Frikes: The Island's Second Port

Frikes is a small, picturesque harbour on the northeast of Ithaca, with waterfront tavernas and gentle activity from pleasure boats. Its unique feature is the independent ferry connection to Lefkada (Nydri or Vasiliki) during the summer, making it a practical choice if you're planning an island-hopping trip. It's quieter than Kioni, with fewer accommodation options but equally beautiful views.

Accommodation in Frikes

9. Hotel Nostos
A hotel above Frikes harbour, with simple, clean rooms and bay views. Suitable for travellers who want a quiet stay near the ferry to Lefkada.

• Average cost: 90-125€ per night

Stavros: The "Capital" of the Northern Municipality

Stavros is the largest settlement in the northern part of Ithaca, built on a hillside overlooking Polis Bay and Afales Bay. It offers basic services, a small archaeological museum, and is close to beaches such as Afales and Platrithias. It makes a good base for those who want to explore the northern part of the island without staying right in the harbour.

Accommodation in Stavros

10. Tesoro of Ithaca
Suites with a traditional aesthetic in the Stavros area, featuring spacious outdoor areas. Suitable for couples seeking tranquillity and a natural landscape.

• Average cost: 100-140€ per night

11. Iriana Village Inn
A small family-run accommodation in Stavros, with simple rooms and friendly service. A good choice for travellers on a moderate budget who want to stay in the northern part of the island.

• Average cost: 75-110€ per night

Which Area to Choose Based on Your Trip Type

If you're travelling without a car or want easy access to shops and restaurants, Vathy is the safest bet. For romantic holidays with views of a picturesque bay, Kioni stands out. If you're planning to combine your trip with Lefkada via ferry, Frikes is a practical base. Finally, if you're interested in exploring northern beaches like Afales, Stavros is the best choice. Many visitors combine two areas, staying a few days in Vathy and then relocating to the northern part for the rest of their stay.

If you're looking for ideas for neighbouring Ionian islands, you can also check out our guide Where to Stay in Kefalonia with Children, as well as the article Where to Stay in Lefkada for those planning a combined trip via Frikes. For a different style of holiday in southern Greece, also see the guide Where to Stay in Mani, while for an island alternative with a tranquil character, we recommend the article Where to Stay in Kythira.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Ithaca?

It depends on your priorities: Vathy offers the most practicality and dining options, Kioni offers views and a romantic atmosphere, Frikes provides tranquillity with a connection to Lefkada, and Stavros offers easy access to the northern beaches.

How do I get to Ithaca?

There is no airport on the island. The most common route is via Kefalonia airport, then by ferry from Sami or Agia Effimia to Vathy or Pisaetos, taking approximately 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, there are routes from Patras and Astakos.

Do I need a car in Ithaca?

Yes, it's almost essential, especially if you want to visit beaches and villages outside Vathy. Public transport is limited to a few daily routes, mainly during the summer months.

What is the best time for a holiday in Ithaca?

From mid-May to mid-October, with June and September offering good weather and fewer crowds compared to July-August.

Are there luxury hotels in Ithaca?

The island does not have large resorts, but it does offer high-quality boutique options, such as Perantzada Hotel 1811 in Vathy, which combines traditional architecture with modern amenities.

How many days are enough to see Ithaca?

Three to four days are enough to cover the main sights and beaches, but if you want a more relaxed pace and visits to archaeological sites, you can comfortably stay for a week.