Ithaca Island Tour with Bus & Cruise with Swim Stops

Discover Ithaca Island with Bus & Cruise: An Engaging Full-Day Tour

The Ithaca Island Tour with Bus & Cruise with Swim Stops offers an engaging way to explore Greece’s legendary island at a reasonable $51 per person. This 9-hour experience combines comfortable transportation, a scenic cruise, and visits to iconic spots like Vathi, Kioni, and Frikes. With ferry tickets included, travelers can enjoy a seamless day from pick-up to drop-off, making it an excellent choice for those eager to uncover local legends and beautiful landscapes.

What sets this tour apart is its blend of mythical storytelling, scenic boat rides, and beach snorkeling. It’s tailored for travelers who appreciate a well-organized schedule that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural highlights. Note that the tour is not suitable for cruise passengers with limited time, but it offers great value, especially for those interested in experiencing Ithaca’s key sights without the hassle of planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting 9 hours, with pickup and drop-off at multiple locations across Greece.
• Includes ferry tickets for round-trip travel to Ithaca and a scenic boat ride with a swim stop.
• Visits to Vathi, Kioni, Frikes, and Stavros, with time allocated for sightseeing, relaxing, and exploring.
• Highlights include a secluded beach swim, quaint villages, and legendary tales of Odysseus.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned coaches and a friendly, expert guide accompany the journey.
• Affordable price of $51 per person offering good value for a comprehensive day trip.

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup from Multiple Locations

This tour begins with a pick-up from over 20 locations, including Svoronata, Skala, Argostolion, and Pesada, among others. The pickup service is included in the price, with drivers waiting no longer than 5 minutes after scheduled times. The collection process is designed to reduce stress and make your start as smooth as possible.

Once on board, travelers enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned bus transfer lasting about 40 minutes before heading to the ferry. The pickup points are well spread out, allowing easy access from various parts of Greece, especially for travelers staying in popular resorts.

Seamless Ferry Transfers to Ithaca

The journey to Ithaca is primarily by ferry, with round-trip tickets included. The ferry ride lasts approximately 40 minutes each way, offering great views and a relaxing start to island exploration. The ferry schedule has been arranged to ensure ample time on the island, with an early pickup to accommodate the ferry timing and maximize your day.

Travelers should be prepared for the ferry ride, which is straightforward and part of the overall experience. The ferry departure and return times are coordinated carefully, so there’s no need to worry about extra arrangements.

Exploring Vathi: The Heart of Ithaca

The tour’s first major stop is the capital, Vathi, where you get about an hour for sightseeing. Known for its horseshoe-shaped harbor, Vathi is a charming spot filled with cafes, shops, and historical sites. You can stroll along the waterfront, take photos of the colorful houses, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.

This stop provides an excellent opportunity to soak in Ithaca’s ambiance and learn more about its mythological links to Odysseus. The guide shares stories about the island’s legendary past, enhancing the experience of wandering through this inviting town.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Boat Ride from Vathi to Kioni with a Swim Stop

One of the tour’s highlights is the 40-minute boat cruise from Vathi to Kioni. The boat ride delivers spectacular views of Ithaca’s rugged coastline and lush landscapes. Midway, there’s a swim stop in a secluded beach, giving travelers a chance to cool off and relax in crystal-clear waters.

The boat ride offers a comfortable and picturesque way to see parts of the island that are inaccessible by land. The swim stop is especially appreciated, providing a refreshing break and a chance to enjoy Ithaca’s natural beauty up close.

Exploring Kioni: A Picturesque Port of Flower-Decorated Houses

Kioni is recognized as one of Ithaca’s most beautiful ports. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore this village, known for its flower-decorated houses and quaint harbor. The walk around reveals a picture-perfect setting with charming cafes, boutique shops, and scenic vistas.

The time here allows for photos, a leisurely stroll, or a quick refreshment. Its calming atmosphere and picturesque scenery make Kioni a favorite stop, especially for those who appreciate classic Greek coastal charm.

Visit to Frikes: Lunch, Sightseeing, and More

Next, the tour visits Frikes, where you spend about 1.5 hours. This small harbor village provides a chance to relax, enjoy local lunch options, and explore the area. The stop is ideal for those wanting to experience authentic local life and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a meal with sea views.

The time allotted balances sightseeing with the opportunity to try regional flavors or simply unwind in a peaceful setting.

Stavros: A Quaint Village with Scenic Views

The Stavros stop lasts around 1 hour, offering a chance for sightseeing and exploring this charming village. Known for its peaceful vibe, Stavros provides beautiful scenic views, perfect for photos or a quiet walk.

It’s an ideal spot to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the relaxed pace before heading back to the port. The guide provides insights into local culture and history, enriching your understanding of the island.

Return Journey: Ferry and Bus Transfer Back to Mainland Greece

After the day’s explorations, the tour returns by ferry, lasting about 40 minutes, followed by a bus transfer of approximately 40 minutes back to the starting points. The schedule is arranged to ensure travelers have ample time to enjoy the island and return comfortably.

The drop-off locations mirror the pickup points, making the trip convenient and straightforward. The tour concludes with a return to your hotel or designated drop-off spot, closing a well-organized and memorable day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience of Ithaca without the hassle of independent planning. It caters well to those interested in mythology, scenic boat rides, and charming villages. The swim stop adds a refreshing touch, making it popular among swimmers and beach lovers.

While not suitable for cruise passengers with limited time, it offers excellent value for a full-day exploration. It suits travelers who enjoy guided tours with informative commentary and comfortable transportation, ensuring a relaxed pace that still covers key sights.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day on Ithaca

The Ithaca Island Tour with Bus & Cruise provides an engaging, affordable way to experience the island’s legendary charm. The combination of sightseeing, cruising, and swimming makes it a well-rounded option for lovers of Greek culture and scenic landscapes.

Thanks to ferry tickets included and expert guides, participants enjoy a hassle-free day with plenty of photo opportunities, mythological stories, and relaxing moments. The price of $51 is competitive, especially considering the full itinerary and transportation logistics.

This tour is best suited for those who want a structured, informative day on Ithaca, especially if they appreciate a balanced schedule and beautiful coastal scenery. While it doesn’t cater to limited schedules or cruise ship passengers, it remains an excellent choice for independent travelers eager to discover Ithaca’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour’s schedule and activities, including boat rides and sightseeing stops, are generally suitable for families. However, travelers should consider individual children’s comfort with boat rides and walking.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to purchase meals and refreshments during the stops, especially in Frikes.

What should I bring for the swim stop?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light waterproof bag for valuables. The secluded beach offers a great chance to enjoy the water.

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Drivers wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pick-up time. Precise times are provided 24 hours before the tour.

Can I join the tour from villages outside the pickup zones?
Pickup service is not available from Fiscardo and Assos due to their location outside designated zones. Check with the provider for other options.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions threaten safety, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. In case of cancellation, full refunds are available or rebooking options are offered.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby