Kefalonia: Ithaca Private Day Trip with Ferry Tickets

Explore the Legendary Island of Ithaca on a Private Day Trip from Kefalonia

This 10-hour private tour offers a seamless way to experience Ithaca, the island famed as the home of Odysseus. Starting with pickup from your Kefalonia accommodation, the journey involves a ferry ride from Sami to Pisaetos Port on Ithaca, included in the price. Once on the island, you enjoy a flexible itinerary that allows you to explore at your own pace, guided by a professional driver-guide.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of scenic views, charming villages, and historical sights without the hassle of planning logistics. The round-trip ferry tickets and door-to-door transportation make this a comfortable and convenient option. A highlight is the visit to Vathi, the island’s picturesque capital, and the chance to relax at Filiatro Beach with its crystal-clear waters. While the full day packs in many stops, it suits those prepared for some walking and uneven terrain, especially at monasteries and villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day private tour from Kefalonia to Ithaca, lasting approximately 10 hours
• Includes ferry tickets between Sami (Kefalonia) and Pisaetos Port on Ithaca
• Visits to Vathi, Kathara Monastery, Kioni, Frikes, and Filiatro Beach
• Door-to-door service with a professional driver-guide
• Flexible and customizable itinerary to explore at your own pace
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle provided for all transfers

From Kefalonia to Ithaca: Ferry and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Kefalonia, handled smoothly by a driver-guide. After a 45-minute drive, you board a 40-minute ferry from Sami to Pisaetos Port on Ithaca, with tickets included in the package. Upon arrival, the guide leads you through a series of scenic stops and attractions, all in a private group setting for a relaxed experience.

The transportation continues via comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, with short drives between stops—including 10- to 45-minute journeys—making the day manageable and well-paced. The door-to-door service ensures you won’t have to worry about logistics or navigation, so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

Exploring Vathi: The Picturesque Capital and Harbor

Vathi, the main town on Ithaca, is a highlight of this tour. The photo stops and free time allow for a leisurely walk through its colorful streets and along the serene harbor. Visitors can browse local shops and enjoy a self-guided exploration of this scenic town. The one-hour stop provides a perfect opportunity to soak in the village’s charm, whether by visiting a cafe or simply strolling along the waterfront.

This stop offers a glimpse of authentic island life, with traditional buildings and quiet surroundings. The guide helps set the scene with insights into local history, and the relaxed pace means there’s no rush to see everything at once.

Visiting the Kathara Monastery for Panoramic Views

A key highlight is the visit to Kathara Monastery, which offers breathtaking views across Ithaca. The 30-minute stop includes a guided look at the historic site, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the panoramic landscape. The monastery itself is a peaceful spot, perfect for appreciating the natural beauty that surrounds it.

The drive to and from the monastery involves scenic curves and vistas, enhancing the sense of discovery. The combination of history, spirituality, and vistas makes this a memorable part of the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering the Charming Villages of Kioni and Frikes

The tour includes visits to two of Ithaca’s most picturesque villages: Kioni and Frikes. At Kioni, you get 45 minutes for photos, exploring, and soaking in views of the waterfront. Known for its traditional architecture and lively harbor, Kioni is an ideal spot for lunch or a coffee break.

Frikes offers a peaceful, authentic fishing village experience with a 60-minute stop for walking, shopping, or simply relaxing by the water. Both villages provide plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images of the narrow streets, colorful houses, and vibrant harbors.

Relaxing at Filiatro Beach with Crystal-Clear Waters

The highlight of the afternoon is Filiatro Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxing atmosphere. The 2-hour stop allows for swimming, sunbathing, or just unwinding in this beautiful setting. It’s a perfect chance to refresh after a day of sightseeing, and the calm waters are suitable for all comfort levels.

The trip to Filiatro Beach involves a 20-minute drive from the villages, and the beach’s scenic surroundings make it ideal for photographs. The duration provides ample time for a dip or a quiet moment with a picnic.

Return Journey and Ferry Back to Kefalonia

After enjoying the beach and some leisure, the tour continues with a 20-minute drive back to the port for the ferry ride. The 40-minute ferry then takes you back to Sami on Kefalonia, completing the round-trip transfer included in the package.

The return journey offers additional scenic views and a relaxing end to a full day of exploration. Once back in Kefalonia, the driver-guide drops you off at your accommodation, making the experience completely hassle-free.

Included Services and Optional Extras

This private tour includes all transportation, such as air-conditioned vehicles and ferry tickets. The driver-guide provides informative commentary in both English and Greek, enhancing your understanding of each stop. All entrance fees, including those for Kathara Monastery, are covered.

Optional lunch options include traditional Kefalonian Riganada, with local wine and bottled water, depending on the provider. These refreshments add a local flavor to your day, though they are not mandatory.

Physical Requirements and Practical Tips

The tour involves walking and exploring at several stops, including villages, monasteries, and beaches. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for uneven terrain. The monasteries and villages may involve some steep or uneven paths, and the scenic views are best appreciated with a camera and sun protection.

Travelers should bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a camera to make the most of the day. The tour is suitable for families and couples, but some walking and standing are involved, so guests should be prepared for a moderate physical exertion level.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Unlike more generic excursions, this private day trip offers a customizable and flexible schedule with door-to-door service. The inclusion of a professional guide ensures you receive personalized insights, and the ferry tickets included remove logistical concerns. The combination of scenic drives, charming villages, panoramic vistas, and beach relaxation makes this a well-rounded way to explore Ithaca’s highlights.

The stunning views at Kathara Monastery and the crystal waters of Filiatro Beach are particularly praised, offering genuine moments of beauty and tranquility. This tour balances sightseeing with relaxation, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive yet leisurely experience.

Visiting Ithaca: Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour best suits travellers who appreciate scenic landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites without the stress of planning logistics. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a private, flexible day that highlights the natural and cultural charm of Ithaca.

Those who prefer a full-day itinerary with diverse stops—from monasteries to beaches—will find the balance ideal. The tour’s relaxed pace and personalized approach particularly appeal to travelers wanting an intimate, authentic experience of this legendary island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, round-trip ferry tickets, a professional driver-guide, and all entrance fees for attractions like Kathara Monastery.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration of the tour is approximately 10 hours, with pick-up in Kefalonia and return after the ferry ride.

What stops are part of this tour?
Stops include Vathi, Kathara Monastery, Kioni, Frikes, and Filiatro Beach.

Is lunch included?
Lunch options, such as traditional Kefalonian Riganada, with local wine and bottled water, can be added, but are not mandatory.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a camera are recommended.

Are there any physical limitations?
Some walking and uneven terrain at monasteries and villages may be involved; guests should be prepared for moderate activity.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the flexible schedule allows for some customization based on your interests and pace.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and variety of stops make it suitable for families and couples.

What languages are available for the guide?
The driver-guide speaks English and Greek.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now allows you to reserve and pay later for flexibility.

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