Ionian

Although there are differences between the islands in terms of size, landscape and some other characteristics, in general the physical environment is similar in all and the climate does not vary considerably from the north to the south Ionian Sea. Western Greece is far rainier than the rest of the country and therefore all Ionian Islands are very green and rich in flora and fauna.

For more information on what to do and see in this region, see: www.visitgreece.gr/islands/ionian-islands and www.discovergreece.com/ionian-islands

The Ionian Islands, historically significant due to their strategic location on Mediterranean trade routes, have long been sought after by neighboring and distant powers. This has shaped a unique and enduring local culture, which its people proudly uphold. Known for their sociability and humor, the islanders distinguish themselves from mainland Greece. Since the 1960s, the islands’ natural beauty has attracted growing tourism, but this expansion has also brought environmental sustainability challenges. This report outlines key ecological threats, their causes, and the efforts of local groups addressing these issues to preserve the islands' heritage and environment for future generations.

Support protection of the Argosaronic Region:

The Ionian Environment Foundation (IEF) identified its core focus areas after an in-depth study of regional challenges and three years of active engagement. The report highlighted key environmental threats, including rapid tourist expansion, unregulated construction, and pressures on natural resources. Additionally, marine ecology faces risks from oil exploration, overfishing, pollution, and climate change. To address these issues, the IEF employs direct action, research, fieldwork, campaigns, and educational initiatives. Its efforts span marine conservation, habitat and biodiversity protection, sustainable development, and civil society capacity building, working to safeguard the Ionian Islands’ unique environment for future generations.

For more information, visit the IEF website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram: www.ionianenvironment.org/about-us

Support local producers and experience local gastronomic specialities while you stock up on provisions:

Available on all Islands:

• Local Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Herbs & Spices (oregano, thyme, mountain tea)
• Artisanal Honey

From Corfu:

• Koumquat Liqueur (bright orange or clear)
• Koumquat Spoon Sweet or Jam
• Mandolato (traditional nougat with almonds)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (local lianolia variety)

From Kefalonia:

• Robola White Wine (PDO-certified) A dry white wine made from the Robola grape grown on the island’s limestone hillsides—crisp and mineral
• Ladotyri Cheese (preserved in olive oil) or Feta Kefalonias, a locally made feta with stronger, tangy flavor than mainland varieties
• Kefalonian Honey (thyme or pine-based)

From Zakynthos:

• Ladotyri Zakynthou Cheese a spicy, firm cheese preserved in olive oil
• Pasteli (sesame-honey bars with nuts)
• Spoon Sweets (e.g., cherry, quince)

From Lefkada:

• Vertzami or Vardea Wines Local red and white grape varieties producing bold reds and aromatic whites‍
• Herbal Tea Blends (sage, oregano, chamomile)

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Don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of the many cultural sites in the main Ionian islands that are easily accessible on foot from their main ports or marinas:

Corfu (Kerkyra)

Port: Corfu Town (Kerkyra Port or Old Port)

• Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio): 10 minute walk – Venetian fortification with panoramic views, a lighthouse, and a small chapel.
• ‍Spianada Square & Liston Promenade: 10 minute walk – Inspired by French and Venetian design, elegant Napoleonic-era arcade modelled after the Rue de Rivoli in Paris; the heart of Corfu Town’s social life.‍
• Church of Saint Spyridon: 5 minutes walk from Liston – Home to the relics of the island’s patron saint, housed in a 16th-century church, famed for its tall bell tower and ornate interior.‍
• Archaeological Museum & Museum of Asian Art: 8 minutes walk – Unique collection showcasing rich local and international collections in a neoclassical palace once used by British colonial rulers.‍
• Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Cobbled streets, elegant mansions, and a blend of Venetian, British, and French influences.

Port: Gouvia Marina: you can take a short taxi or bus to the sites above

Kefalonia

Port: Argostoli town Quay

• Kefalonia Archaeological Museum – Displays Mycenaean, Hellenistic, and Roman artifacts.
• Koutavos Lagoon & De Bosset Bridge: 5 minutes walk – Walk the longest stone bridge over a sea water body in the world, built 1813.
• Bell Tower & Drapano Bridge Views: 5 minutes walk – Offering a great panorama of Argostoli and the bay.
• Bust of Nikos Kavvadias: Celebrates the life of the famous sailor-poet.
• Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum: 10 minutes walk inland – Reconstructs life in pre earthquake (1953) Kefalonia, with photos, costumes, and furniture

Port: Fiskardo (north)

• Roman Cemetery: Located near the port, this small site includes ancient graves and stone sarcophagi.
• Venetian Houses & Waterfront Walks: The only Ionian town spared from the 1953 earthquake, rich in preserved architecture.

Zakynthos (Zante)

Port: Zakynthos Town

• Solomos Square & Museum of Post-Byzantine Art: 5 minutes walk from port – The square features neoclassical buildings and the museum houses numerous religious icons and frescoes from historic churches.
• Church of Agios Dionysios: 2-3 minutes walk – The island's most important religious site, dedicated to its patron saint, with relics of the saint and an ornate interior.
• Bohali Hill (optional short uphill walk or taxi): Offers stunning views over the town and remains of a Venetian castle.

Lefkada

Port: Lefkada Town marina

• Agia Mavra Fortress: 5–10 minutes walk – A medieval castle guarding the entrance to Lefkada, dating from the 14th century.
• Wooden Bridge & Lagoon Walks: 5 minutes walk – A charming stroll through town with views of the lagoon and traditional architecture.
• Photographic Exhibitions & Art Spaces: Lefkada hosts seasonal exhibitions and small galleries near the marina area.
• Phonograph and Folklore Museum of Lefkada: 5 minutes walk from Marina – Small but charming museum with local crafts, household items and early phonographs.

Paxos

Port: Gaios

• Venetian Fortress on Agios Nikolaos Islet: Visible from port; accessible via a short boat hop or kayak.
• Church of Agioi Apostoloi: Small but historic, located in the main square.‍
• Museum of Paxos (Gaios): Offers insights into the island’s folk culture and maritime history.

Ithaca

Port: Vathi

• Archaeological Museum of Vathi: Exhibits from ancient Ithaca, including Mycenaean relics.
• Navy–Folklore Museum: 5 minutes from the quayside – Showcases Ithacan history, seafaring heritage, and traditional crafts.
• Church of Saint Nicholas & Waterfront Neoclassical Homes: Short walking circuit through the heart of Vathi.

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