Ithaca is one of the most famous islands in the world. The legendary home of Odysseus, the destination of the greatest journey in Western literature — and it sits just 20 minutes by ferry from Kefalonia's Sami port. Most visitors to Kefalonia see Ithaca from across the water and mean to go. The ones who actually make it come back talking about it for years.
The best way to do it — especially if you don't have your own transport on Ithaca — is the full-day bus and ferry tour that operates from multiple pickup points across Kefalonia. It's a long day (10 hours), it visits four distinct places, and it's currently rated 5 stars on GetYourGuide. The Belgian couple who booked it in June called it "so much fun."
Here's exactly what you get.
What the Tour Covers
The day begins early — pickups start from 7:00am at various points across Kefalonia, from Lassi and Argostoli to Agia Efimia, Karavomilos and Sami. The ferry crosses from Sami to Ithaca in approximately 20-30 minutes.
Vathy — Ithaca's capital — is the first stop. The town wraps around a deep, sheltered bay surrounded by hills: one of the most beautiful natural harbours in Greece. The morning light on the water at Vathy is something that stays with you. Wander the waterfront, explore the small streets, stop at a kafeneion.
The Kathara Monastery sits at the highest point of Ithaca — panoramic views over rugged hills, hidden coves and the deep blue Ionian stretching in every direction. On a clear day you can see Kefalonia, Lefkada and the mainland. The monastery itself dates to the 17th century and houses a revered icon of the Virgin Mary.
Stavros is a quiet village in the north of the island, associated with the ancient capital of Odysseus. A small archaeological museum here contains finds from the area including a votive mask believed to be of Odysseus.
Kioni is the tour's finale — and possibly its highlight. A tiny harbour village of elegant Venetian-influenced architecture, crystal-clear water and a handful of excellent tavernas. There's time for lunch here (included) before the ferry back to Kefalonia.
A swim stop is included, and guides are bilingual (English and Greek).
Tour Logistics
Duration 10 hours Price From €48 per person Pickup Included — multiple points across Kefalonia Guide Live guide, English & Greek Cancellation Free up to 24 hours before Payment Reserve now, pay later Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 (verified reviews)Pickup points include: Lassi (Makris Gialos, Dolphin Supermarket, Vagelati market), Argostoli (Bazaar Supermarket, Port ferry, I Love Kefalonia), Agia Efimia, Karavomilos Square, Sami (Pericles Hotel, Avgerinos Travel).
What Travellers Say
Gary from the UK: "Superb day — long & tiring, but we enjoyed every minute of it. We saw so much, were told so much & were truly given an experience that we will remember for a lifetime."
Danielle from Canada: "So much fun. The tour is long, but takes you to all the best spots to visit Ithaca. If you're a fan of gorgeous views, scenic bus rides, ancient history and literature and beautiful water, I'd totally recommend."
Is It Worth It?
Ten hours is a commitment. But Ithaca is the kind of island that rewards exactly that kind of commitment. It's small, mountainous, largely untouched by mass tourism — and having a guide who knows the mythology and can tell the stories as you travel makes a genuine difference.
If you're visiting Kefalonia for a week or more, a day on Ithaca is one of the best uses of a day. If you're a fan of Homer, Greek mythology or simply beautiful Ionian scenery, it's not optional.
Book the tour directly:
🎫 Kefalonia: Mythical Ithaca Island Full-Day Bus Tour — from €48 Free cancellation · Reserve now, pay later · Pickup included
Want to know more about visiting Ithaca, or need help planning your Kefalonia itinerary? Ask Memas — our AI island guide is here to help.
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