Exploring the stunning island of Ithaca can be an unforgettable adventure. This 10-hour guided tour promises to whisk travelers away to some of the island’s most remarkable sites, including the charming villages of Stavros and Kioni, and the serene Kathara Monastery. With an extra boat trip and a refreshing swim at Gidaki Beach, this experience offers a well-rounded journey through Ithaca’s natural beauty. Seamless transportation and the option to reserve now and pay later make this tour a convenient choice for those seeking to discover the island’s wonders.
Key Points
- This tour offers an in-depth exploration of Ithaca, including visits to Kathara Monastery, Stavros, Kioni, Gidaki Beach, and Vathy.
- The tour includes a traditional kaiki boat ride to Gidaki Beach, known for its white pebbles, providing a unique and immersive experience.
- Travelers can enjoy a traditional lunch at a tavern in Kioni, allowing them to experience the local cuisine and culture.
- Transportation is provided via bus/coach, ferry, and the traditional kaiki boat, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those over 95 years old, and large bags and luggage are not allowed.
Tour Overview
The tour offers an Ithaca exploration experience that includes an extra boat trip and swim.
It’s a 10-hour activity priced from £63.06 per person. The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. There’s also a "reserve now, pay later" option to book a spot without upfront payment.
The tour visits the Kathara Monastery, the villages of Stavros and Kioni, Gidaki Beach, and Vathy.
Lunch is included at a traditional tavern in Kioni.
Transportation is via bus, ferry, and a traditional kaiki boat.
Looking for more options in Stavros? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors can expect to see the Kathara Monastery, the highest point of Ithaca, on this tour.
The itinerary also includes explorations of the villages of Stavros and Kioni, as well as a swim at Gidaki Beach, known for its white pebbles.
Plus, the tour will venture to Vathy, the capital of Ithaca, where participants can enjoy local cafes and narrow streets.
Lunch in Kioni at a traditional tavern is also part of the experience.
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Visit Kathara Monastery, highest point of Ithaca
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Explore villages of Stavros and Kioni
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Swim at Gidaki Beach, known for white pebbles
Transportation Details
Pickup locations for this tour span 16 different points, including Makris Gialos, Dolphin Supermarket, and Paradise Beach. Participants will be transported by bus/coach, ferry, and traditional kaiki (boat) throughout the day. The journey begins with a 1-hour bus/coach ride to Aetos Pisaetos Port, followed by a 40-minute ferry crossing. Additional bus rides total approximately 2.5 hours. At the end of the tour, drop-off locations mirror the pickup points.
| Transport Mode | Duration |
|—————-|———–|
| Bus/Coach | 1 hour |
| Ferry | 40 minutes|
| Total Bus Rides| 2.5 hours |
Included Features
The tour includes ferry tickets, a traditional kaiki sailing to Gidaki Beach, and food and drinks. This ensures a seamless and immersive experience during the day-long exploration of Ithaca.
Key inclusions are:
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Ferry tickets for transportation between the mainland and the island
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A traditional kaiki boat ride to the picturesque Gidaki Beach, known for its white pebbles
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Provision of food and drinks, allowing you to fully enjoy the day without worrying about meals
These thoughtful inclusions enhance the overall value and convenience of the Ithaca Exploration tour.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
This tour may not be suitable for all travelers. Individuals with mobility impairments or those over 95 years old may find the activities challenging.
Large bags and luggage aren’t allowed on the tour, so participants should pack light. The tour operates rain or shine, so travelers should come prepared for varying weather conditions.
Participants should pack light as large bags and luggage aren’t allowed, and come prepared for varying weather conditions as the tour operates rain or shine.
Despite these considerations, the Ithaca Exploration with Boat Trip and Swim offers a unique opportunity to discover the island’s natural beauty and cultural highlights.
Travelers should review the important information carefully to ensure the tour aligns with their abilities and expectations.
Exploring Kathara Monastery
One of the highlights of the Ithaca Exploration tour is a visit to the Kathara Monastery, the highest point on the island.
Atop the island’s peak, visitors can bask in panoramic views of Ithaca’s rugged terrain, sparkling azure waters, and picturesque villages.
The monastery itself is a marvel, with its ornate Byzantine architecture and rich history dating back to the 17th century.
Guests can:
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Admire the intricate frescoes and icons adorning the monastery’s interior
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Learn about the site’s significance in Greek Orthodox tradition
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Enjoy a moment of peaceful contemplation amid the tranquil surroundings
Visiting Stavros and Kioni Villages
After exploring the heights of Kathara Monastery, the tour proceeds to the charming villages of Stavros and Kioni.
In Stavros, visitors wander the quaint streets, admiring the traditional architecture and local shops.
The tour then continues to Kioni, a picturesque seaside town. Here, guests can stroll along the harbor, lined with restaurants serving up fresh seafood and classic Greek dishes.
With its tranquil ambiance and stunning views, Kioni offers a glimpse into the relaxed island lifestyle.
Kioni’s tranquil ambiance and stunning views offer a glimpse into the island’s relaxed lifestyle.
The village’s narrow alleys and whitewashed buildings create a quintessential Greek island atmosphere.
Discovering Vathy and Kioni
As the tour continues, visitors are taken to the capital of Ithaca, Vathy. This charming town boasts:
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Narrow, winding streets lined with local cafes and shops
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The bustling port, where traditional fishing boats dock
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Panoramic views of the surrounding hills and harbor
After exploring Vathy, the tour moves on to the picturesque village of Kioni.
Here, visitors enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at a local tavern, savoring the flavors of Ithaca’s cuisine.
The day’s adventures conclude with a scenic ferry ride back to the starting point, leaving travelers with lasting memories of this stunning Ionian island.
Since You Asked
Is Photography Allowed Throughout the Tour?
The tour allows photography throughout, though passengers should avoid disturbing others. Certain locations, like monasteries, may have restrictions. Visitors should follow the guide’s instructions and be respectful of the sites and fellow travelers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can’t bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The included features cover all food and drinks during the day, so it’s not necessary to bring your own. Bringing outside items is not allowed.
Is There a Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour includes transportation via bus/coach, ferry, and traditional kaiki, which may limit the total number of participants to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Will There Be Any Free Time for Exploring on My Own?
The tour includes free time for independent exploration. Guests can wander the villages of Stavros and Kioni, as well as explore the capital Vathy with its local cafes and narrow streets during the 10-hour itinerary.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special dietary meal for this tour. The tour provider allows participants to make such requests in advance to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences.
Final Words
This Ithaca exploration tour offers a comprehensive experience, blending visits to historic sites, picturesque villages, and a refreshing boat trip and swim. With seamless transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a traditional lunch, it’s a convenient way to discover the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
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