Top 5 Ionian Islands to visit on your Greece holidays

Located west of mainland Greece, facing Italy, the Ionian Islands are a lush archipelago bathed by the Ionian Sea, composed of 7 main islands and many islets. Less arid than the Cyclades, they offer a mix of paradisiacal beaches, picturesque villages, Venetian heritage and unspoiled nature.

While the whole archipelago is known for its beauty, some islands truly stand out. Corfu, Zakynthos (Zante), Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Paxos each offer unique experiences, perfect for every kind of traveller—from family friendly holidays in Greece to romantic getaways.

This is an ideal destination for a Greece holiday. And if it becomes love at first sight, you might be tempted to settle there and invest in a house or apartment in the Ionian archipelago. Meanwhile, here’s our guide to help you choose which islands to visit during your next trip to Greece.
 

1. Corfu: Venetian elegance and stunning coves

A classic stop on any Greece island hopping itinerary, Corfu (Kerkyra) is located at the northern tip of the archipelago. Spanning nearly 393 km², this island combines mountainous landscapes, lush olive groves, and a coastline of cliffs and idyllic coves—ideal for a relaxing Greece beach holiday.

Its landscapes are breathtaking, but its heritage is equally remarkable. Some places, such as the islet of Pontikonissi, are even mentioned in mythology—legend has it that Ulysses stopped there before returning to Ithaca.

Over the centuries, Corfu has been shaped by both Greek and Western influences—Venetian, French, and British—which are still reflected in its architecture, music, and cuisine.

Highlights to visit on the island include:

• The old town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobbled streets, Venetian charm, and neoclassical architecture.
• The Achilleion Palace, former residence of Empress Sisi.
• The beaches of Paleokastritsa, Agios Gordios, Glyfada, and the Canal d’Amour in Sidari.
• Traditional inland villages: Pelekas, Gastouri, Lakones.
• The Byzantine monastery of Vlacherna and, just opposite, the islet of Pontikonissi (also known as “Mouse Island”).

Whether you're into culture, hiking or sailing holidays in Greece, Corfu has something for everyone.
 

Houses and apartments in Corfu

2. Zante: white cliffs and turquoise waters

With its 405 km² and spectacular coastline, Zakynthos (Zante) is one of the top picks for family holidays in Greece. The island is known for its dramatic landscapes and breathtaking natural sites. Its lush vegetation thrives thanks to a mild Mediterranean climate and abundant winter rains, making it one of the greenest islands in the archipelago. 

The island is also home to Greece’s second national marine park, a haven for the endangered Caretta-caretta sea turtle—perfect for nature lovers planning an eco-friendly travel to Greece.

Must-see attractions in Zakynthos include:

• Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), one of Greece’s most photographed spots, only accessible by boat.
• The Blue Caves, which can be explored by boat or kayak.
• Laganas Bay, where you can spot sea turtles while swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking.
• The unspoiled Vasilikos Peninsula, rich in peaceful beaches.
• The lively town of Zakynthos.
• Traditional villages like Leri, Volimes, and Maherado, where you can taste local specialties and admire scenic views.

Combining family-friendly fun with wild nature, Zakynthos is a great stop for Greek island holidays that balance vibrant nightlife and tranquil escapes.
 

Houses and apartments in Zante

3. Kefalonia: wild nature and Greek authenticity

If you're looking for authentic Greece holidays, Kefalonia might be your perfect match. The largest island of the archipelago (about 786 km²) is also the most mountainous. Less touristy than Corfu or Zante, Kefalonia appeals to travellers seeking authenticity and unspoiled nature. 

It is dominated by Mount Ainos, rising to 1,628 metres and designated as a national park covered with fir trees. The island features lush valleys, olive-covered hills, and a jagged coastline of beaches, coves, and cliffs - ideal for walking holidays in Greece.

Kefalonia is also known for its cheese, local cuisine, white Robola wine, and strong Venetian heritage visible in towns like Argostoli, Assos, and Saint George’s Castle.

Top places to visit include:

• Myrtos Beach, nestled below dramatic cliffs and among the most beautiful in Greece.
• The village of Assos, a gem perched on a peninsula.
• Fiskardo, a chic and charming port in the north.
• Melissani Cave and its underground lake with glowing blue water.
• The wooded slopes of Mount Ainos, ideal for hiking.

Kefalonia is ideal for travellers who prefer slow travel in Greece and want to stay far from mass tourism.
 

Houses and apartments in Kefalonia

4. Lefkada: dream beaches and water sports

Linked to the mainland by bridge, Lefkada is among the most accessible Greek islands. It’s a popular spot for active Greece holidays, including kitesurfing, sailing, and hiking.

Referred to as the island of Orpheus, Lefkada boasts a rich ancient history and was successively under Venetian, French, and British rule.

Don’t miss these highlights:

• Porto Katsiki, one of Greece’s most iconic beaches, framed by white cliffs, and nearby Egremni.
• Nidri, a typical village and the main port for excursions to the islet of Scorpios.
• Vassiliki, the most popular windsurfing spot.
• Villages like Karya or Agios Nikitas, rich in artisan traditions.
• Lefkada Town with its Venetian architectural heritage.
• Faneromeni Monastery, a historic site offering panoramic views of the sea and town.

Less known than its neighbors, Lefkada promises Greece holidays full of contrasts: dream beaches, water sports, and picturesque hilltop villages.
 

Houses and apartments in Lefkada

5. Paxos and Antipaxos: small-scale escape

South of Corfu, Paxos (25 km²) and Antipaxos (5 km²) are two small islands that make any Greece sailing tour truly special. Only accessible by boat, they offer a secluded, timeless atmosphere.

What not to miss:

• The coves and beaches near Gaios, Paxos' capital and main port.
• The villages of Lakka, Longos, and Ozias on Paxos.
• The marine caves of Paxos, best explored by boat.
• The Caribbean-like beaches of Antipaxos, especially Voutoumi.
• Olive groves, vineyards, scenic trails, and panoramic views.

Paxos is a charming island, perfect for a short escape or a stopover during your Greek islands cruise. Antipaxos is a serene, almost uninhabited haven, renowned for its paradisiacal beaches and clear waters.
 

Houses and apartments in Paxos

From Zante’s grand beaches to Paxos’ secret coves, from Kefalonia’s villages to Lefkada’s cliffs, the Ionian Islands offer an incredible variety of landscapes and atmospheres. Whether you're dreaming of a family holiday in Greece, a romantic sailing tour, or a once-in-a-lifetime Greek islands hopping trip, these destinations are not to be missed. And who knows—you might just fall in love and decide to stay for good.

Looking to buy a home in the Ionian Islands? Discover a wide selection of houses and apartments for sale at Meretdemeures.com:

 

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