Magical Ithaca Island Bus and Cruise Tour from Kefalonia

Discovering Ithaca: A Full-Day Bus & Cruise Tour from Kefalonia

When it comes to Greek islands, Kefalonia often steals the spotlight, but nearby Ithaca offers a quieter, more myth-laden escape. This Magical Ithaca Island Bus and Cruise Tour promises a full day of exploration, combining scenic boat rides, charming villages, secluded beaches, and a touch of ancient legend. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary give us plenty to recommend—and a few pointers to consider.

What makes this experience appealing? First, it’s the chance to visit Ithaca without the hassle of planning—everything from ferry tickets to transport is organized. Second, the tour’s stops include some of the most picturesque locations, like Kioni and Gidaki Beach, known for their crystal-clear waters and photogenic views. Third, the mix of relaxing beach swims, cultural strolls, and stunning scenery offers a balanced day that suits travelers craving both leisure and gentle adventure.

However, a potential drawback is the long day of about 10 hours, especially if you’re staying on the far side of Kefalonia for hotel pickup. The tour’s structure is well-paced but includes some travel time, which might feel a little relentless for those seeking a more leisurely pace. Still, for those who enjoy a full itinerary filled with variety and natural beauty, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and relaxed exploration—perfect if you’re curious about Ithaca’s legendary past but don’t want to spend days organizing logistics. It’s also great for those comfortable with moderate physical activity (think short walks and swimming), and who enjoy meeting a small, friendly group in a shared adventure.

Good To Know

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines boat rides, village visits, and beach stops for a well-rounded day.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to swim in secluded spots and explore charming villages.
• Expert Guidance: An experienced English-speaking guide helps you understand the sights.
• Good Value: At approximately $89.80, it includes ferry tickets, transport, and activities.
• Long Day: Expect a 10-hour trip, including travel time from Kefalonia.
• Limited Food Options: Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy locally.

The Full Breakdown of Your Ithaca Adventure

Starting in Vathi: A Picturesque Capital

Your day kicks off early at 7:00 am with hotel pickup or at a designated meeting point. The journey begins with a scenic drive to the port, where you board a ferry to Ithaca. Upon arrival, you’ll step into Vathi, the island’s capital—known for its Venetian-style harbor and lush surroundings. This is a perfect spot for wandering along narrow streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere, or snapping photos of the colorful boats bobbing in the bay.

Travelers have mentioned that the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, offering insights into the island’s history and stories. With about an hour and a half in Vathi, you’ll get a taste of Ithaca’s authentic charm before heading to your first major highlight.

Gidaki Beach: The Secluded Swim Stop

The highlight for many is the boat ride to Gidaki Beach, a stunning, hard-to-access spot famed for its transparent waters and gentle waves. Only reachable by boat, Gidaki offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of space for swimming and relaxing on the sand.

One reviewer described it as a “swimmer’s paradise”, noting the calm, crystal-clear waters. This stop typically lasts around an hour, giving enough time to cool off, take photos, or just soak in the tranquility. Since this beach is secluded, you can expect a genuine escape from crowds—perfect for those seeking a quiet swim.

Kioni Village: Picturesque and Relaxed

After Gidaki, you’ll cruise to Kioni, a postcard-perfect village with colorful houses spilling down the hillside to a peaceful harbor. You’ll have about two hours here, ample time to enjoy a coffee, browse local shops, or simply walk along the waterfront. Many reviews mention the delightful ambiance and stunning views, making it a favorite stop.

Some travelers have noted that the village has a relaxed vibe, ideal for those wanting a break from busy tourist spots. There’s enough time to savor local snacks or just enjoy the scenery.

Frikes Village: Lunch with a View

Next is Frikes, another charming fishing village where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch next to anchored boats. With about an hour here, you might find the local tavernas serving fresh fish and traditional Greek dishes—though food isn’t included in the tour price, many guests say the atmosphere and views make up for it.

The setting is peaceful, and some reviews highlight how lunch by the water’s edge enhances the day, offering a chance to relax and watch local life unfold.

Stavros Village: A Panoramic Outlook

Your last stop is Stavros, perched at the foot of Neritos Hill and offering sweeping views over Polis Bay. About an hour is scheduled here, enough for a short walk and photo session. The village’s elevation means you get a beautifully panoramic perspective—ideal for snapping memorable shots or soaking in the sunset if timing aligns.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all the essentials to ensure a smooth experience. Included are hotel pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, ferry tickets, a boat ride, and the services of an English-speaking guide. The boat ride from Vathi to Kioni and the swim stop at Gidaki Beach are particular highlights.

However, travelers should note that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy in towns is wise. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional activities are also on you.

The Practicalities: Timing, Group Size, and Price

Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour lasts around 10 hours, which means a full, immersive day. The group size is capped at 70 travelers, ensuring you’ll likely get a chance to ask questions and enjoy a more personal vibe, though some reviews suggest the experience can stretch to 12.5 hours with hotel pickup on the far side of Kefalonia.

At roughly $89.80 per person, the value is quite reasonable considering the ferry, transport, guided commentary, and boat rides are included. It’s an efficient way to see multiple spots without the hassle of organizing each leg independently.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer, Daniel_E, called the tour “an excellent way to relax in Ithaca,” emphasizing the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guides. They also pointed out that the total day can be quite long, especially if you are staying on the opposite side of the island, but the overall experience was positive.

Another note from guest feedback is how stunning the views are at each stop, particularly at Stavros and Kioni. Many appreciate the mix of natural beauty and authentic village ambiance, making the long day worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to explore Ithaca’s legendary landscapes and enjoy a day filled with scenic boat rides, quaint villages, and secluded beaches, this tour offers strong value. It’s especially suited to travelers who want a structured, guided experience that takes care of logistics while still allowing personal exploration.

Those who prefer a super relaxed pace or are on a tight schedule might find the lengthy day a bit demanding, but for most, it’s a well-rounded introduction to Ithaca’s highlights. Fans of swimming in peaceful waters and soaking in Greek island scenery will find this tour particularly appealing.

This experience provides a good balance of adventure and relaxation—delivered through scenic stops, cultural insights, and the charm of authentic villages. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to see the best of Ithaca without the stress of planning every detail.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and swimming stops.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or a designated meeting point is included, but confirm your pickup location when booking.

What is included in the price?
Ferry tickets, boat rides, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an experienced guide are included. Food and drinks are not.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 70 travelers, promoting a more personal experience.

Can I swim at Gidaki Beach?
Absolutely. Gidaki is famous for its clear, calm waters—perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Are there any strenuous activities?
The tour involves some walking and swimming, but it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. No strenuous hikes are involved.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towels, water, and snacks if desired. Cash for souvenirs or extra food is recommended.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but there’s enough time for you to buy local snacks or eat in the villages.

What are the main highlights?
The boat ride, Gidaki Beach, Kioni village, and Stavros viewpoint stand out as top moments.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, this tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Ithaca’s natural beauty and charming villages. It caters well to travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and storytelling, all while keeping logistics simple and manageable.