Holidays in Ikaria , Beaches, festivals, food and relaxation!

Ikaria – A magical place!

Ikaria is a magical place – an island you’ll adore! Whether you arrive in Ikaria from the port of Evdilos or Aghios Kirykos (the island’s main port), or even by air, you’ll immediately feel the island’s aura. A sense of calm, tranquillity and the unspoiled, wild landscape will captivate you instantly!

The island of Icarus is a sparsely populated island, with truly wild beauty and large, vast, and undeveloped areas. It has a large area (255 sq. km) while its permanent population is approximately 9,000 inhabitants. It is famous for its tranquillity and the longevity of its residents, and over time, dozens of features have been dedicated to the Ikarian way of life and how it affects their longevity.

Travelo.gr spent 12 days on the island of Ikaria and presents everything you need to know: from how to get to the island and accommodation, to the festivals, the villages of Ikaria, as well as the beaches, activities, and more.

Getting to Ikaria

You can get to Ikaria either by plane or by ferry. Ferries depart from Piraeus and dock either at the port of Aghios Kirykos (the capital) or Evdilos. You can find ferry tickets for Ikaria here, at the best market prices. Prices usually start from 60-80€ for a return journey. The route Piraeus-Evdilos (which we also chose) takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. It is operated by Hellenic Seaways with the vessel NISOS MYKONOS. It starts from Piraeus and successively passes Syros, Mykonos, Ikaria, and Samos. On certain days of the week, it also heads towards Chios, Mytilene, and Kavala.

The journey passes pleasantly, and once you reach the first island (Syros), the remaining time will pass even faster.

If you prefer to fly, flights to Ikaria are available from Athens and Heraklion, Crete. The airlines operating these flights are Olympic Air and SkyExpress.

We wouldn't describe flights to Ikaria as cheap. On the contrary, due to the limited routes and the fact that it's a remote line, tickets tend to be quite expensive – especially during the summer season.

If you find cheap flights to Ikaria, the best thing to do is book them immediately and then proceed to hire a car through our website, at the best market price and without needing a credit card!

This way you can easily, comfortably, and quickly travel to Ikaria by plane and from there rent a car without a credit card or deposit, through our website!

Where to stay in Ikaria – Accommodation

Accommodation in Ikaria is one of the most challenging aspects of your planning. Hotels are scarce, and many rooms are not available online anywhere; you'll only find them once you arrive. We have 3 options for your stay.

First of all, the best area to stay is between Evdilos and Armenistis – or even better, actually in Armenistis. If you have many days available, you can split them – stay a few days on the North side (Armenistis) and a few near Aghios Kirykos. This way you'll have the opportunity to explore the island better. Although the distances are short (Evdilos – Aghios Kirykos is 35km), due to the poor and narrow roads, this particular journey takes almost an hour. So, if you're staying in Armenistis and want to go to some popular beaches on the South side (e.g., Seychelles, Therma, etc.), it will take over 1.5 hours.

For your stay on the North side of Ikaria, specifically in Armenistis, we recommend checking all available hotels on the Booking website HERE  .

The standout hotels are Cavos Bay & Karras Hotel.

Rental rooms Ikaria prices

If you're looking for rental rooms, without breakfast, we recommend Kirki Rooms in Armenistis. We stayed in these particular rooms, in a magnificent room with a view of the entire Armenistis sea and the Aegean Sea.

The prices at Kirki Rooms are particularly affordable, and the hospitality is at a very high standard. The staff are always polite and helpful, and cleanliness is one of the positive advantages of Kirki rooms. You'll find Kirki Rooms in Armenistis, Ikaria, just as you enter Armenistis, on the road on your right-hand side (just before the uphill road to Christos village). These rooms are truly right on the sea!

The view from KIRKI ROOMS

Beaches of Ikaria

The beaches of Ikaria cover a wide range of options – whether you like large sandy beaches or small coves with pebbles, Ikaria will meet all your requirements! Depending on the weather and how the wind blows, you can see the beaches either rough or 'like oil' from one day to the next. It’s a good idea to check the weather before deciding where to swim – usually the southern beaches are less exposed to winds and are often calmer than the northern beaches (Armenistis, Messakti, etc.).

Armenistis Beach

In the wider Armenistis area, you’ll find 3 beautiful beaches. Two large ones and a “hidden” and calm cove. Messakti beach is probably the most popular beach on the island. It attracts a lot of young people, provides sunbed services, and there are also beach bars where you can enjoy coffee and drinks. Next to Messakti is Livadi beach. It’s slightly smaller than Messakti beach and generally quieter. When there are waves on one beach, there are on the other too, and they are separated by a small ‘headland’ of land.

Photos from Armenistis beach – with waves and calm!

On the other hand, within Armenistis, specifically at the village's small bridge, there is another beach. Quite small with a few umbrellas remaining from a former beach bar. The cove is very beautiful, with the beach having pebbles and natural shade from the rocks. Usually, when the beaches of Armenistis have waves, the waters in the cove are calmer. Stock up on coffees and water from the shops above and head down to enjoy the amazing sea! As you go down, you might even spot the little turtles in the waters before the beach!

The cove at Armenistis bridge and the turtles

Nas Beach Ikaria

Nas beach is particularly popular due to the beauty of the landscape, the amazing sunset, and the free camping favoured by many young people! It is 3.5km from Armenistis (about 10 minutes) and access to the beach is via steps that you need to go down. You leave your car, take the necessary supplies (water, coffees, snacks, drinks) and head down to the beach. If the winds and currents are calm, the beach is suitable for swimming. However, there are days when you can't swim as the currents are particularly strong – for this reason, there is even a rope, permanently tied in the sea, to help those who cannot get out of the sea due to the strong currents.

Try to stay until late at Nas beach and enjoy the sunset and the sun setting directly opposite you!

Photos from Nas – with waves, calm, and the sunset!

Therma Aghios Kirykos

Therma is an area – a beach in the region of Aghios Kirykos. It is known for its thermal springs and baths. You can enjoy either the enclosed hydrotherapy centres or the open spring that gushes warm therapeutic water. The warm water spring is located to the right of the beach in Therma – next to the small harbour.

Seychelles Ikaria

Seychelles beach in Ikaria is one of the island's most popular beaches! The beach was created during the construction of the tunnel located on the road up to Manganitis. It is a beach with deep and cold waters, accessible either via a path or by boat from Manganitis. The path to Seychelles beach requires a little caution, and you should make sure you are not wearing flip-flops or carrying many heavy items that will make it difficult. Leave your car in the car park on the road, take only the essentials, and follow the path! In 10 minutes, you will be on Ikaria's unique and amazing beach – Seychelles! There you will also find an improvised "canteen" offering water, snacks, beers, etc.

Photos from Seychelles Ikaria & the improvised canteen!

Ikarian Festivals – Entertainment in Ikaria – Nightlife

The festivals in Ikaria are the essence of entertainment! You can't come to Ikaria and not visit as many festivals as possible during your stay! At the festivals, the entire village and all visitors become one big group. You might not know anyone, but you'll sit at the same table, drink together, dance, and have fun!

To stay informed about the festivals, as there might be 2-3 in different locations each time, it’s a good idea to ask the locals every morning which festival is best and most worth visiting. Of course, if you’re up for it, you can attend all the day’s festivals – there are festivals that start at noon and end the next morning!

The festivals of Ikaria are a unique experience that you should not miss. Many visitors, from all over the world, come exclusively for this experience – to witness the renowned festivals firsthand!

At the festivals of Ikaria, you can either eat from the meals offered (for a fee) or bring your own wine and meal. In short, goat meat costs approximately 22€/kg, while salads, potatoes, and cheese range from 5€ per dish. The bulk red (strong) wine produced in Ikaria is sold for 6€/500ml.

Here you can find a complete list of all the island's festivals – note that depending on the year, new events may be created even daily!

Surfing in Ikaria

Ikaria, and Messakti beach in particular, offers ideal conditions for surf enthusiasts. A large beach with perfect waves for both experienced surfers and beginners who want to get into this water sport! Ikaria has a surf school, specifically the Ikaria Surf School. The instructors there are knowledgeable and experienced, and they will teach you everything you need to safely start catching waves. All you need is enthusiasm!

Surf lessons cost 30€ and last one and a half hours, including theory (2017 prices).

Also, you can rent surfboards if you are experienced for 10€ per hour. For the same price, you can also take a ride on a Sup!

Surfing in Ikaria is an activity you absolutely must try to step out of your comfort zone!

Doing SUP at IKARIA SURF SCHOOL on Messakti beach!

Christos Rachon – Raches

Christos Rachon, or often simply called Raches, is the village of entertainment in Ikaria. It’s the village where, according to legend, shops are closed in the morning and open in the evening. This might have been true in previous years, but it's no longer the case. If you visit in the morning, you certainly won't see many people, but most shops are open!

In Christos Rachon, you will find establishments for both food and drinks, cocktails, as well as supermarkets, bakeries, and gift shops.

The village and its square are particularly picturesque and ideal for your daily stroll! It's about 12-15 minutes from Armenistis.

We recommend “Dendrospito Cocktail Bar” for your cocktails and “CousinA” if you want to eat excellent pasta and more!

Food in Ikaria

As any visitor would expect, the food in Ikaria is simply excellent. Homemade flavours, far removed from the automated food industry of the city. In most restaurants, we tasted unique local delicacies and dishes that evoked a 'village' feel. The restaurants we visited and recommend, or not, are the following:

MaryMary Restaurant in Armenistis

The Mary Mary Restaurant in Armenistis, Ikaria, offers very good food and excellent flavours. You'll find it opposite the village bridge, on the upper floor. It boasts a magnificent balcony overlooking Armenistis bay. The dishes are meticulously prepared, and the flavours lean towards gourmet versions. Prices, compared to the rest of the island, are a little higher, but Mary Mary restaurant is worth every penny!

Restaurant “To Kampi” – Aghios Dimitrios – Raches

Just before the village of Christos Rachon, you will find Aghios Dimitrios with its square. In the square, there are 2-3 restaurants, where we tried to eat at “To Kampi”. This is also a very good restaurant with honest dishes and excellent prices. The Ikarian goat kid, well, that was something else!

CousinA Restaurant – Christos Rachon

CousinA restaurant in the village of Christos Rachon offers an alternative cuisine. With dishes mainly centered around pasta, it fills a gap that existed on the island in this genre. The restaurant's dishes were all amazing, and the food-to-price ratio was also excellent. We recommend you visit it during your trip to Ikaria!

Sotiris Tavern in Aghios Polykarpos Ikaria

In Aghios Polykarpos you will find the tavern “O Sotiris”. There you will eat very nice grilled meats as well as spit-roasted meats.

If spit-roasted meat is available, choose that (kokoretsi, kontosouvli, etc.).

While you are in Ikaria, frequently check if Sotiris tavern is hosting a celebration – if so, you absolutely must not miss it and attend!

You'll have a fantastic time!

We advise you to make a reservation before your arrival.

Grandma's Recipes

This is a "traditional" pastry shop that offers handmade sweets and their own production of ice cream – according to the owners. Of the 2 members of the Travelo.gr team, the shop unfortunately receives a negative rating. Prices were excessively high, the sweets were nothing special, and the ice cream was inedible – both because it lacked the required storage procedures (static freezers full of ice) and because it had no substantial flavour! No matter how much the owners boast that it's made with goat's milk (and even show a little goat in the ice cream fridge), unfortunately, it has no flavour and is completely uninspiring. On the other hand, the loukoumades were quite good.

The prices are also out of place and time. Coffee to go 2.5€ in a plastic cup..

* These opinions are personal to the experienced editors of travelo.gr after a personal visit to the island in the summers of 2017 & 2018.

What NOT to visit in Ikaria

Having visited Ikaria for 2 consecutive summers, we have the judgment to inform you which places to avoid and why.

What to avoid in food

DEILINOS Tavern in Gialiskari.

Both in 2017 and 2018, the tavern served us uncleaned fish, scales and all!

As strange as it may seem, the Deilinos tavern in Gialiskari, with an amazing view, served us mullets and common grey mullets (because they had no other fish) uncleaned and with their scales. This is inexcusable and should have prompted intervention from the EFET (Hellenic Food Safety Authority).

Popi's Cookhouse

Although many good things are said about it, in the summer of 2017 when we visited, we left disappointed with the quality of the food. It's certainly not worth going there just to eat.

Grandma's Recipes

As we mentioned above, the sweet shop in Armenistis, Ikaria, “Grandma's Recipes”, unfortunately completely disappointed us regarding its “handmade” ice cream.

Kritikos Tavern – Therma Ikaria

Kritikos tavern in Therma, Ikaria, is the exact opposite definition of value for money. The food was well below average (August 2018), everything was incredibly salty, and 5 people suffered from heartburn until the next morning.

The cost per person was approximately 25-30€ (without a receipt, of course).

What to generally avoid in Ikaria and what to look out for

Unfortunately, the island has become quite commercial in recent years, and thus business owners exploit it accordingly.

It would be advisable not to need a supermarket (at least if you are staying in Armenistis) and to buy whatever you need either from Athens or from the Sklavenitis located on the Armenistis – Evdilos road.

Firstly, as you can see in the photo, the milk, yoghurts, and cheeses were exposed to the sun and heat (34°C at that moment, midday). This is unthinkable even for a few minutes – who knows how many hours they might have been there!

Secondly, all items are approximately 50% more expensive than in supermarkets in Athens. We understand, seasonal crowds and business, but not like this.

Prefer to bring most of the items you will need with you and buy the rest from another supermarket nearby, such as Express Market or Sklavenitis Express.

On the island, the rare species of "receipt" also resides. It's a good idea to ask for it. Following the increase in VAT since 2018, shops have dramatically increased prices (coffee on the beach from 2.5€ to 3.5€) but despite this, they continue not to issue receipts.

In Akamatra, a wonderful village, you will find a nice traditional café.

Very beautiful environment, but not with corresponding service. Unfortunately, the sweets here are pre-made frozen (which are thawed from the beginning of the day – personal opinion of 5 people who visited it on 3 different days).

The shop offers an amazing setting (in the village square). Sit down for a delightful Greek coffee!

For handmade sweets, you can try the women's cooperative in Christos Rachon.

Visit to Fournoi

If you’re staying on the island for several days – which we highly recommend – then you absolutely must dedicate one day to visiting Fournoi. This is the small island opposite Ikaria, specifically in the southeastern part, opposite Aghios Kirykos.

There is a daily small ferry that operates the Aghios Kirykos – Fournoi route, and apart from passengers, it also accepts 1-2 cars.

If you want to take your car with you, you should make your reservation well in advance. Besides this, there is also a tourist boat that takes you in the morning and brings you back in the afternoon in 50 minutes.

Once you arrive in Fournoi, the restaurateurs will be waiting to offer you their fresh fish. This is where the lobster party happens, as prices are particularly low and the fish is incredibly fresh. Indicative prices from the restaurants:

Fresh fish at 25€ / kg

Lobster at 55€ / kg

Make your reservation in the morning and enjoy your meal after the beach!

The beaches in Fournoi are quiet, and the waters are calm and shallow. Psili Ammos is close to the port and accessible on foot. There you can enjoy your swim in a peaceful environment where only the cicadas can be heard!

Note: If you're lucky, you might even encounter dolphins on your journey to Fournoi!

See photos from Ikaria

In summary

You will have a fantastic time in Ikaria! You will experience the immense relaxation and tranquillity the island offers, while at the same time having fun at the endless festivals. You will enjoy the sea on the amazing beaches, and as for food, you will be more than satisfied with the local cuisine! And all this, at very affordable prices.

Our opinion is that the island is changing. Due to immense tourism development, the traditional way of life and the culture that Ikaria carries are being lost year by year. Everything is becoming more commercial – from the festivals to the shops.

Be sure to visit Ikaria while it remains "unspoiled" and far from the commercialism that has already arrived on the island, gradually changing everything.