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Ionian Islands - 30 Nights

Ionian Islands - 30 Nights
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  • Famous

UNESCO World Heritage Listed -  The Acropolis, Athens


UNESCO WHL - Archaeological Site of Delphi


UNESCO WHL - Meteora


UNESCO WHL -  Old Town of Corfu - was under Venetian rule for 400 years


The Durrels of Corfu


Vlacherna Monastery was in the Bond film "For Your Eyes Only"


Shipwreck Cove of Zante


UNESCO WHL Olympia - site of the first Olympic Games


UNESCO WHL  - Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae


UNESCO WHL -  Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns


Corinth Canal



Ferry Options
  1. Drive from Kastraki to Igoumenitsa and take the car ferry to Corfu Town. After a few days here park up the car and take the direct ferry to Paxos. Hire a scooter or ATV to get around. Return the same way and pick up the car in Corfu Town.

  2. Drive from Kastraki to Igoumenitsa and take the car ferry to Paxos. Then take the car ferry to Corfu Town via Igoumenitsa.

I think option 1 is best as you will save hours of ferry time by travelling direct and any money lost in parking and scooter hire will be made up by not having to pay for the car on the ferry. If a direct car ferry between Corfu and Paxos becomes available option 2 will be best.



You will need to pick it up in Athens and drop it off at the airport on your way out. If you are going to stick to this schedule get it for 28 days. 


You will probably want to get something small as some of the island roads are quite narrow.




  • Rental Scooter / ATV / Car / e-bike Paxos - book well ahead in peak season

Rent car & Moto - at the dock where you arrive 1 km from the town centre

Electra Rent a Car - at the dock

Paxos Scooters - in town

Paxos on Wheels - in town

Salty Wheels - e-bikes in town

Gotta Ride - at the bus station




  • Itinerary - click / tap the blue links to go to maps

Athens 2N -

400 km / 5h 

Kastraki 2N -

200 km / 3h 45m

Old Corfu Town 2N

Ferry

Gaios 4N - Daytrip to Antipaxos

Ferry

70 km / 2h 15m (back to the scenic coast road - 10 km longer than inland)

Kassiopi 2N - 

25 km / 30m

Sidari 2N - 

35 km 1h

Paleokastritsa 2N -  

35 km 1h

Agios Gordios 2N - 

375 km 6h

Arkoudi 1N - 

50 km 2h

Zakynthos Town 2N - 

15 km 30m

Alykes Beach 2N -  

65 km 1h 45m

Laganas Beach 3N - 

180 km 4h

Dimitsana 2N - 

155 km 2h 15m

Loutraki 1N = 30N

110 km 1h 15m

Athens Airport




There are 7 principal islands in the Ionian Island group which are traditionally called the Heptanese, meaning - 7. They include Zakynthos, Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxi and Kythira. There are other smaller islands which also have a lot going for them.


Culturally and historically they are tied to Italy. Corfu was one of the first Greek islands to open up to tourism.

It has 217 kms of coastline and is unusually green for a Mediterranean island. 


Zakynthos - has 123 kms of coastline and most of it is stunning.


Paxos - is roughly 10 km long and 3 km wide in parts and full of olive groves and famous for its olive oil and known as one of Greece's best kept secrets.


Antipaxos - is nearly 4km long and slightly over 1½ km wide and full of wineries and famous for its wine and one of the most famous beaches in the Ionian Sea. It is the smallest of the Ionian Islands.




Greece is a Shengen member state so most countries will get 90 days on arrival.



For two people sharing costs it should be a reasonably priced holiday for Europe. Car rental is reasonable and your 3 and 4**** hotels should be under $200. Food and drinks can be good value. If you drink plenty of Ouzo you will save money the next day when you won't want to get out of bed. 😆




  • Population -

Corfu - 102,071

Zakynthos - 41,472

Paxos - 2,500 - increasing to over 200,000 in the tourist season

Antipaxos - 30




  • AKA -

Corfu - Kerkyra - The island of Faiakes

Zakynthos - Zante (the Italian influence) - "the Flower of the Levant"

Paxos - Paxi - Paxoi - Paxous

Antipaxos - Antipaxi




  • About -

Athens 2N - (tours)

See the major sights of Athens staying in central Plaka.




Kastraki 2N - (tours)

Get an early start with your rental car and head to Delphi. You will need to get it for 28 days. Take the E962 for the slower more scenic route. The othe route is the E75 which cold save you 30 mins to an hour. 


Stop off for a coffee in scenic Arachova.  Visit the Oracle  of Delphi and have lunch overlooking this famous area. Stop in at the ancient village of Chrisso for a coffe and look around on your way to Meteora. 2 nights here to give you plenty of time to visit the amazing monasteries.




Old Corfu Town 2N - (tours)

Drive to the Igoumenitsa Ferry Port and take the car ferry to Old Cofu Town. Spend a few days looking around this UNESCO site. Stay right in the old town. Have a look at Mouse Island.



Enroute

Pay to park the car somewhere. Hop on the early ferry to Paxos.



Gaios 4N -  incl daytrip to Antipaxos - (Catamaran tour)

Spend  four nights in this picturesque little village by the water. Hire a scooter or atv (book ahead) to have a look around the island. You may not need it everyday as you are staying in the heart of everything. Do a day trip over to little sister island Antipaxos. You could do a boat trip around the island and you could just relax along the waterfront enjoying the ambiance.



Enroute

Catch the ferry back to Corfu Town, pick up the car and hit the road.

Head up to Kassiopi via Corfu's tallest peak, Mount Pantokrator (can drive to the top - and have a coffee looking out over Albania). Head back to the coast and stop for luch at the White House restaurant made famous in The Durrels TV program. 



Kassiopi 2N - (e-bike tour)

Two nights in Kassiopi checking out the area and the quaint little harbour filled with restaurants and tavernas.


 Go down to Agni beach, rent a speedboat and have a great day out on the water. Head south and check out the coast line. You could tie up to the dock at Kaminaki Beach and have lunch at Thalassa Seafood Taverna or futher south at Mitsos Taverna at Nissaki Beach. Or even futher south is a little pier at Glyfa Beach and the Glyfa Taverna. Don't forget to check out the Blue Caves too.  Stop at one of the tavernas when you bring the boat back. Toula's is said to be the best.

Click here for a map.




Sidari 2N - (tours)

A short half hour drive today to Sidari with it's stunning beaches and buzzing night life. 




Paleokastritsa 2N 

Enroute do a tour of the Mavromatis Kumquat Distillery, Paleokastritsa Monastery and beach (one of the best in Greece). Then get a hotel a short walk away from La Grotta Lounge and Pub. Spend the rest of the afternoon having a swim and some sundowners with the car nicely parked away. Head out for a stroll for dinner to somewhere like the Akron Beach bar. Spend the next day relaxing around the pool and back at La Grotta.




Agios Gordios 2N 

First stop today will be at Mr Honey where you can learn about bees and buy some souvenirs. Next head down to the hidden gem that is  Myrtiotissa Beach and have a swim. Bathers optional! Time for lunch and there's a nice place overlooking the water called Καντίνα Μυρτιώτισσας. Continue down to  Agios for some sunsets and nightlife.




Arkoudi 1N 

Head off for the ferry. It would be quite a long day getting all the way to Zakynthos today so you'll have a night in a nice hotel with a pool and beach bar at the sandy beach of Arkoudi. Lash out and get a room with a hot tub looking out to sea and the sunset. Head over to the ancient roman baths a 5 minute drive away for a free mud bath washed off with healing waters.


After a buffet breakfast on the rooftop terrace overlooking the Ionian Sea make your way to the port and catch the ferry over to Zakynthos. Or you might like it here so much you want to spend another night.




Zakynthos Town 2N

Spend two nights in Zakynthos Town Park the car up and stroll around the many nearby sights, museums and shops. There are plenty of restaurants and bars for a good night out in the old town.


On day 2 drive out to some of the nearby attractions around the town. Spend a few hours and have lunch at Tivilsi Beach. On the way back head up to Bochali to see the the Venetian Castle and the Solomos Wines Winery. Then have dinner up the hill watching the evening lights coming on in this pretty town at the Latas Cafe Restaurant.




Alykes Beach 2N 

Head up the coast and book into your hotel at Alykes Beach. Spend the day relaxing by the pool or the beach or a beach bar. Plenty of nearby nightlife. Next morning drive up to Agios Nikoloas (30 min) and take a boat tour to see the famous Shipwreck Beach aka Navagio Beach.


If you want to spend a night or two in a windmill with amazing views keep heading north to the Potamis Windmills & Apartments.


On your way back stop in for a healthy soak at Xigia Sulphur Beach (the northern one) and some afternoon tea at the spectacular Xigia Tavern.




Laganas Beach 3N

Head on over to the lookout for Shipwreck Beach. While you are here you could walk to the Church in a cave


Drive down to Porto Limnionas and spend some time relaxing in and around the water. Have lunch at the Porto Limnionas Tavern with great views from the deck.  Stop in at the Olive Press Museum on your way to Laganas Beach and your new hotel.


Three nights here to let your hair down and see the southern part of the island. Check out the surrounding beaches and towns including the pine forested Vasilikos Peninsula which is one of the nicest parts of the island. Watch the sunset at Keri Cliffs and have dinner at one of the many tavernas. See the Keri Lighthouse and the biggest Greek Flag in the world.



Enroute - (Private Olympia Tour)

Catch the ferry back to the mainland and make your way to historic Olympia home of the Olympics. 



Dimitsana 2N - (Guided Hike)

After seeing the main attractions and having lunch make your way to the stunningly quaint village of Dimitsana. Spend a couple of nights here in one of the lovely old stone buildings. 


(History buffs might want to continue on to the UNESCO site of the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae. There is not a lot to see there for the layman and it will add 80 km and an hour and a half to your trip.)


During the day learn about this fascinating and beautiful place that most tourists have never heard of. There is a lot to find out.




Loutraki 1N 

Drive back towards Athens via  the Corinth Canal. History buffs won't want to miss the UNESCO site of Mycenae which nearby. 


Have a look at ships going through and the submersible bridge. Another highlight here is Ancient Corinth with the Temple of Apollo. Enjoy lunch from one of the cafes or tavernas overlooking the canal. Help settle your lunch with a bungy jump into the canal. 😀


Have a well earned soak in the Water of Life at Loutraki on the site of Thermae the original hot springs in Greece. The miraculous waters of Loutraki have healed many famous people over the centuries. Soldiers would come here after battles. So if you suffer from skin disease, arthritis, back pain, neuralgia, gynaecological diseases or diseases of the circulatory system this is the place for you. See DO below for details.


Spend your last night in this charming seaside resort. Go out with a bang. There's a lot of restaurants, bars and clubs along the seaside. After breakfast go for a cruise down the canal then relax on the beach. Or squeeze in some last minute shopping or sightseeing. Perhaps a massage back at the health spa. 




Athens Airport

After lunch (depending on your flight times - early evening would be good) head out to the airport, drop the car off and sadly fly home. Or happily fly off to your next adventure.




In Corfu summer is peak season and busy and expensive. Shoulder season is best as usual. Late April - May and September - early November. Late Spring - Early Summer.


On Zakynthos it's March - May and September - December so you can start a bit earlier or finish a bit later. 


Paxos is very crowded from June to August. May and September are the shoulder months and the best time to go. The tourist season runs from May until early November.




Airports -

Athens International Airport (ATH) - has direct flights to the east coast of the States and Canada, all parts of Europe, Ethiopia, Egypt and the Middle East, Singapore, Shanghai and Beijing




  • Ferries -

Car ferries leave Igoumenitsa on the mainland for Corfu which takes an hour. There are 6 to 13 sailings depending on the time of year.


Corfu to Paxos


Paxos to Antipaxos


There is a car ferry from Killni to Zakynthos and the fastest one takes 1 hour 15 mins and runs 4 times a day. There are 7 in total.


You can take a ferry from Italy (Bari and other ports) to Corfu if you are driving over from the west.




  • Stay - All Hotels have parking except for Athens & Corfu Old Town

ATHENS 2N

Metropolis Hotel ** 


Athos Hotel *** -

both in Plaka with roof terraces for dining and views of the Acropolis




KASTRAKI  (METEORA) 2N

Guest House Lithos - 

On the main square and has its own Taverna plus balconies with Meteora views) free parking, bar




OLD CORFU TOWN 2N - 

You will need to find a park in the street or in one of the nearby parking lots which have flat rates of around €3. Once you are in the Old Town you can walk everywhere.


Arcadion Hotel ***

Excellent location overlooking Spianada Square, rooftop bistro, 2 restaurants, bar with mixologist, good breakfast included


Locandiera

Ground floor apartment in an excellent location close to the centre of the old town in a historical building 




PAXOS 4N -

Lefkas Apt

Great location 2 mins walk from the centre, 1 bdrm apt, terrace with sea views, fullt equipped kitchen, outdoor dining area


Villa Eleni Paxos

Great location 3 minutes walk from the centre, 3 bedroom villa, two lovely verandah patio areas, terrace with sea views, fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, washing machine, coffee machine, garden


Aglaia V Studio

Excellent location right in the heart of everything, 1 bdrm apt, fully equipped kitchen, balcony with sea views, 


Paxos Apartments

Great location 2 minutes walk from the centre, 1 bdrm apt, balcony with sea views, fully equipped kitchen, coffee machine, car and bike hire, garden, outdoor dining area, pub crawls




KASSIOPI 2N

Corfu island KASSIOPI’S best sea view apartment

Two bedroom apartment with terrace and sea views, free parking, outdoor dining are, kitchen, perfect location for beach and restaurants




SIDARI 2N

Del Mare Beach Hotel

Excellent location on the Canal D' Amour beach, Outdoor pool, sun terrace, free parking, restaurant, bar, close to the nightlife


Angelina Hotel & Apartments ***

Excellent location in amongst the action and 200m from the beach, outdoor pool, free parking, restaurant, bar, live entertainment in the main bar, Buffet breakfast included, also dinner deals




PALEOKASTRITSA 1N - 

Paleo ArtNouveau Hotel - Adults Only ****

Excellent location minutes walk from La Grotta bar, free parking, 2 swimming pools with stunning views, restaurant overlooking the sea, bar, 250m from the beach, poolside snackbar, breakfast buffet included, tea / coffee maker in room

 



AGIOS GORDIOS 2N - 

Dandidis Seaside Pension

Excellent location on the beachfront and close to restaurants, free parking, outdoor terrace, cafe bar, restaurant


Agios Gordios Beach Resort

Excellent location steps from the beach and many restaurants, free parking, garden, terrace, often half priced specials




ARKOUDI 1N -

Almira Hotel ***

Excellent location on the beach close to a cafe, restaurant and bar,  outdoor pool, terrace, restaurant, bar, exceptional breakfast included, bicycle hire 




ZAKYNTHOS TOWN 2N - near the old town - 

Strada Marina **** 

Excellent waterfront location close to shops, cafes, restaurants and tavernas, rooftop pool and terrace, traditional style building, amazing balcony views, good buffet breakfst included, there is plenty of street parking nearby




ALYKES BEACH 2N - 

Marion Holiday House

One bedroom house in an excellent location close to the beach and the action, free parking, outdoor pool with pool bar, garden and courtyard, patio and outdoor dining area


Alykanas Beach Grand Hotel by Zante Plaza ****

Excellent location beachfront and close to the action, includes buffet breakfast and dinner, free parking, 2 swimming pools, garden, terrace, hot tub, evening entertainment, 24 hour desk, darts, bicycle hire, spa & wellness centre, bar, restaurant, coffee shop


Or 

Head futher north if you want to 

stay in a Windmill

in a spectacular location




LAGANAS BEACH 3N -  

Timos Hotel **

Excellent location 100m from the beach and minutes from all of the action in the main street, free parking, outdoor pool, 24 hour desk, bar, garden, snack bar, happy hour, coffee house


Zante Plaza Hotel & Apartments ***

Excellent location close to the beach and the main streeet, free parking, 2 swimming pools, breakfast and dinner included in the price, 24 hour desk, garden, sun terrace, snack bar, packed lunches available, 2 restaurants, bar




DIMITSANA 2N

Enastron Guesthouse

Excellent location in the centre of the village and with city and mountain views, free parking, bar, exceptional breakfast included


Proselinos

Excellent location in a historical buildung close to the centre, free parking,  terrace, patio, tea / coffee maker in rooms


Archontiko Deligianni

Excellent location near the centre, in an 18th century building, free parking, bar, sun terrace, seating area with fireplace, superb traditional  homemade breakfast included, coffee house




LOUTRAKI 1N

Hotel Excelsior *** 

Excellent beachfront location, free parking, restaurant, bar, close to an array of restaurants and bars, 24 hour desk



  • Features -

Myrtiotissa Beach - 

possibly the world's best - no costume required


Navagio (Shipwreck Cove) - 

possibly the world's best - costume required


Loggerhead Turtles -

Zakynthos




  • History -

CORFU

Unlike the rest of Greece, Corfu never came under Ottoman rule. It became a refuge for Greek scholars and  artists who were fleeing the Ottomans.


Corfu's other name Kerkyra was Poseidon's (The King of the Sea) girlfriend and they made love on the island which gave birth to the race known as the Phaecians.


It has a long and colourful history. They've had many visitors from the Albanians (ancestors), Corinthians, Greeks, Spartans, Romans (including Mark Anthony), Vandals, Normans, Pirates, Venetians, Ottomans, French (Napoleon), Russians and the British.


It held off two major sieges and during the first one lost half of its population  who were carried off to be sold as slaves.


It became a part of Greece in 1864.


Prince Phillip was born here in 1921 on the dining table in the family Villa named Mon Repos just south of Corfu Town.


The Italians occupied the island in WWII. They were replaced by the Germans who flattened the city and sent the islands 1,900 Jews off to their deaths.




ZAKYNTHOS

Zakynthos was the son of Dardanus, the King of Troy (who was a son of Zeus). He was the first settler and freed the island of snakes.


In the early years Zakynthos was ruled by Macedonians, Romans and Byzantines. It was then dominated by Italian powers for 600 years until the Ottomans took over. They traded it to Venice in 1484.


Next came the French, Ottoman / Russia and British and Greece in 1864.

Like Corfu it was invaded by the Italians and then the Nazis in WWII. Unlike Corfu they hid all of their Jews in the hills and nearly all of them avoided the trip to the gas chambers.


In 1953 there were 113 earthquakes recorded between Zakynthos and neighbouring Kefalonia. Zakynthos town was flattened and many villages damaged. Unlike on some of the other islands the old buildings in Zakynthos were rebuilt preserving Ioanian architecture.


In the 1960's it successfully started to open up to tourism.




PAXOS & ANTIPAXOS

Said to be created by Poseidon who smashed his trident into Cofu and a few pieces broke off. Apparently he used it as a place to relax and secretly meet up with his mistress Lady Amphitrite. Since the 14th century until recent times the island was ruled by the Venetians which still very much affects the culture today.


Antipaxos was inhabited by the Souliotes who became famous for their resistance to the Ottoman Empire. When the were defeated in 1803 they left the island uninhabited which it pretty much remains today.





· See -

Athens 2N

The Acropolis for starters not to mention Plaka where you are staying. Here's a few more ideas.



Kastraki 2N

Village of Chrisso near Delphi

Have a look at these tours and activities.



Old Corfu Town 2N 

Mouse Island  - Vlacherna Monastery was in the Bond film "For Your Eyes Only"

Mon Repos Museum

 - where Prince Phillip was born on the dining room table

Spianada Square and Palaio Frourio Fortress

Achilleion Palace 



Paxos 3N

Longos and Lakka - the other two main towns

Loggos beach - plenty of shops and tavernas nearby

Olive Press Museum  - outside the village of Magazia


Antipaxos daytrip

Voutoumi Beach - The Jewel in the Crown

"The most unique beach with crystal waters and amazing place to swim."

                                                                                         - Dimitris Tzankatian

#5 in the worlds top 50 beaches - alfresco lunch at a taverna overlooking the beach 


Vrika Beach - soft white sand, bright turqoise and emerald water, colourful marine life, two  beach clubs and a taverna!




Kassiopi 2N

Kassiopi Castle - great views

Old Perithia 

- Ghost Village - have lunch in the old tavern - go via the coastal road as Google will lead you astray




Sidari 2N

Canal d'Amour Beach 



Enroute to Agios Gordios from Paleokastritsa

Mr Honey 

- beekeeper and maker of honey products -

Click here to find  Mr. Honey on the map



Zakynthos Town 2N

Solomos Square - Open Air Cinema

Aristeon Olive Press Museum - Flavoured oils

Gerakas beach - favoured by turtles and naturists




Alykes Beach 2N

The Zante Water Village -  is a 15 minute drive away, closes at the end of September



Laganas Beach 3N

See the Loggerhead Turtles - and meet the volunteers




Dimitsana 2N - Map

Visit the neighbouring villages of  - 

Zatouna - Ou Blexeis taverna would be a good place to have lunch.


Zigovisti - see the big book monument of the names of the 200 villagers who fought in the Greek War of Independence. Have a coffee in the square.


Stemnitsa - one of the most beautiful villages in the area. A good stop for coffee and cake at the historical cafe Gerousia which opened in 1870.




Loutraki 1N

Submersible bridges at the Corinth Canal




· Do -

Athens 2N

Have a look at these tours

See a show at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus




Kastraki 2N

Visiting the monastaries

Here are a few different tours available




Corfu Old Town 2N + 1N

Walking Tour with dogs!

Durrell TV show in Corfu town

Day trip to Albania

Hiking Paths - The Corfu Trail




Paxos 3N

Scuba diving - caves, wrecks and reefs

Olive oil tasting in Lakka

Go for a hike

There are said to be thermal hot springs on Paxos but you will need to do a bit of dtective work to see if you can find them

Rent a boat or hop on a tour


Antipaxos daytrip

Wine tasting - try the unique "black wine" - just organise a wine tasting tour with a travel agent on Gaios.




Kassiopi 2N

 Go down to Agni beach, rent a speedboat and have a great day out on the water. Head south and check out the coast line. You could tie up to the dock at Kaminaki Beach and have lunch at Thalassa Seafood Taverna or futher south at Mitsos Taverna at Nissaki Beach. Or even futher south is a little pier at Glyfa Beach and the Glyfa Taverna. Don't forget to check out the Blue Caves too.  Stop at one of the tavernas when you bring the boat back. Toula's is said to be the best.

Click here for a map.





Sidari 2N

The FlyFish Tubing Ride

The Radars Tubing Ride




Enroute to Paleokastritsa

Kumquat Distillery Tour sampling & products - Mavrommatis since 1965

Paleokastritsa Monastery 




Paleokastritsa 2N

Play golf at the Corfu Golf Club

Hire a boat




Agios Gordios 2N

Quad Safari - Pink Palace




Enroute

Olive Oil tasting at the Governor's Mill 




Arkoudi 1N

A 5 minute drive away from the hotel you can have a free mud bath and wash it off with the healing waters at the ancient Roman Baths.  Click here for a link to the map.




Zakynthos 2N

Rent your own boat (with or without driver) 

Alexandra Roma - pedestrian shopping street




Alykes Beach 2N

Goumas Estate - Wine & Art & Tasting

Plenty of watersports




Laganas Beach 3N

ATV tour from Cave Bar - Kalamaki

Cooking class at the Green Frog - Argassi

Cameo Island - Agios Sostis

Free bus to Banana Beach




Dimitsana 2N

Historic Dimitsana, the Pride of the Peloponnese in Greece




Enroute

Zulu Bungy jump at the Corinth Canal




Loutraki 1N

Blue Flag beach

Hot Springs

Casino




· Highlights -

Day Trip to Albania


Paleokastritsa - one of the best beaches in Greece


Paleokastrista Monastery


Dimitsani - delightful medieval mountain village in a magical setting


Some of the best beaches in Europe


Plate smashing restaurants - near Corfu Old Town


Open Air Water Power Museum - Dimitsana




  • Eat - Greek, Venetian and Italian Influences

Sofrito - a Veal casserole / Pastitsada - Veal tomato and pasta / Bourdeto - Fish casserole / Pastrokio Eggplants - baked with cheese, eggs, pork, salami in a tomato sauce 

Sykomaitha - Delicious Fig Cake




Athens 2N

Lunch or dinner on the roof garden at La Grand Bretagne overlooking the Acropolis

Dinner at Thespis under the illuminated Acropolis


Enroute

Coffee with a view over Arachova at To Archontiko

Lunch with a view over the valley in Delphi




Kastraki 2N

Breakfast - Patisserie Rompos since 1924 in Kalabaka

Meteoron Panorama - best views in town, don't miss!! Ring ahead for terrace reservation.

Batalogianni Zoi - A Culinary Gem with Stunning Views

Qastiro Meteora Cafe Bistro - outside tables to enjoy a beer and take in the view. Also do breakfast, brunch & lunch.

Taverna Efrosino - outdoor seating with views, where a local would eat




Old Corfu Town 2N

Cavalieri Rooftop Bar - spectacular views

Salto Wine Bar 

Fishalida

Chrisomalis since 1904 - a favourite of Mr Durrel and Anthony Quinn

Pane & Souvlaki - al fresco

Rex - Since 1932 local specialties

Rouvas - Since 1937 traditional

Tsipouradiko - No plan, just what there is! - drinks and appetisers

Starenio Bakery

Papagiogis Patisserie - Since 1924 for Pistachio Gelato




Paxos 3N 

Louka's Bakery - one of Greece's most revered

Capriccio - for "the best gelato in Greece"

Pizzeria il Primo - for the best pizza

Fanalino Restaurant Bar - breakfast / brunch & dinner


Antipaxos

There are two beach clubs and a taverna at Vrika Beach

Taverna Voutoumi at Voutoumi Beach




Enroute from Old Corfu Town to Kassiopi -

Stop and have lunch at the White House - made famous by the TV program "The Durrells", it was the boyhood  residence of British author Lawerence Durrell who lived here in the 1930's. If you're a fan of the show you can stay here as well.




Kassiopi 2N

Trilogia Plous Restaurant - get there in time for the sunset

Old Perithia Tavern - Family run for 150 years  - 30 min drive to a beautiful spot in the hills

Cavo Barbaro - Open air & good seafood by the beach, a short drive away




Sidari 2N

El Greco - oldest taverna in Sidari with sea view

Greek Taverna Konaki - authentic experience

Kelly's Ice House - ice cream and alcohol




Paleokastritsa 2N

Akron seaside bar-restaurant

Corner Snack Beach Bar




Agios Gordios 2N

Sabbia




Arkoudi 1N - all a short walk from the hotel

Hotel restaurant

Rqd Paradise Bar - Restaurant

Rqd Pastry Bakery

El Bahia Coffee Shop

Giova Gelato




Zakynthos Town 2N

Artogonia Coffee Bakery - for morning smoko

Yard of Taste

Allontinó - small family run with live music most evenings

Latas Cafè Restaurant - overlooking the town as the lights come on in the little village of Bochali




Alykes Beach 2N

Paporo Restaurant - Family run

Porto Paridiso Beach Bar Bistro - Alykanas Beach

Nobelos - award winning seaside restaurant 20 mins up the coast




Laganas Beach 3N

To Diafokereiko - hidden treasure open since the 1600's, a 20 min drive north west

Ampelostrates - Zakynthian Cuisine in a restored stone house on a farm with ducks & horses and a vineyard, a 20 min drive north west - open on weekends and you will need to book as it was made known by Anthony Bourdain

Cool Peppers 

Hamsa Beach Bar

Sirocco Restaurant - for Steak Pies

Gerakas Taverna - if you go down to Gerakas beach




Dimitsana 2N

Ta Pano Kato - All day Café bistro & craft cocktail bar

Νότες Σοκολάτας - The Chocolate Shop

The Bakery of Dimitsana

Go for a wander around the village and find a place with a good view




Loutraki 1N

Lunch at Loutraki near Corinth on the way back or at the Corinth Canal - 

To Perama would be a good choice

Paladar - by the beach facing west

Maistrali - also by the beach facing west




  • Drink -

Athens 2N

Open Air Ancient Greek Theatre Performance

Brettos - since 1909, local institution in Plaka

Agia Irini Square - lots of good value cafes & bars

The Clumsies - Perfect imperfection, #3 in the "Worlds best 50 bars" - 2020




Kastraki 2N

To Arhontiko - Coffee  in Arachova with a spectacular view - just before Delphi

Senses Resto Bar




Old Corfu Town 2N

Liston Gastrotheque - breakfast / brunch, cafe, food, bar, signature cocktails

Prosalendou Street  - you're in tsipouradiko heaven

NAOK Azur (Rooftop terrace)  - ethnic music every night - see rooftop bars in - Sundowners ⬇️




Paxos 3N - the music gets turned down a little at 2am to let the fishermen get to sleep

Cafe Kalimera - one of the oldest in Gaios and a local institution, popular  for drinks at night too and has music

The Plum Bar - waterfront cocktail bar with pizza, pasta etc

Averto - in Magazi for a meal and live music and top DJ's on select nights of the week. It is also home to a famous olive stealing cat. 8 mins drive from Gaios

Aeolus Beach Bar - Polynesian style with exotic cocktails

Have an evening out in Loggos




Kassiopi 2N

Harbour Bar - great view, live music, cocktails in watermelons 

Angelos Bar - exotic cocktails and music

Beachside tavernas stay open late




Sidari 2N

Mojito's Beach Bar - with a fire pit

Nightlife




Paleokastritsa 1N

La Grotta Bar - Seafront bar built into the rock serving cocktails, beers & coffees amid a mellow ambiance.

The hotel bar




Agios Gordios 2N

The Pink Palace 24 / 7 

Sabbia Beach Bar 

Lemon Tree




Arkoudi 1N

Beach bar at the hotel

Rqd Paradise Bar - Restaurant - near the hotel




Zakynthos 2N

Strada Marina - Bar Street along the waterfront 

Tsilivi Beach for cheap cocktails




Laganas Beach 3N

Has over 100 bars

Republic Beach Club

Cubaneros Beach Bar




Dimitsana 2N

Just stroll around the village




Loutraki 1N

Seaside bars and clubs

Casino




  • Sundowners -

Athens 2N

Thea Terrace Bar & Restaurant - rooftop with great views

Roof Garden at the Plaka Hotel

Stork Rooftop Bar Restaurant - atop the niche hotel

360 Cocktail Bar - also do brunch with a view




Kastraki 2N

From the viewpoints and observation decks a short drive from Kastraki. Take a snack and some liquid refreshments.




Old Corfu Town 2N

Rooftop Bars & Restaurants

The Cavalieri Roofgarden

Corfu Sailing Club Restaurant 

Kaisers Throne - 13 km from Corfu Town




Gaios 3N

Get up early for a spectacular Gaios sunrise

Erimitis Bar and Restaurant - for cocktails and amazing sunset views in "The Garage"

Sunset cruise




Kassiopi 2N

Pyramid Restaurant and Cocktail Bar - Top 10 - Sunset looking out over their private beach a 15 min drive from town

Tavernaki 




Sidari 2N

7th Heaven Restaurant - High above Loggas Beach - Sundays are Big - Glass bottom viewing platform - 10 min drive




Paleokastritsa 2N

Poseidon Beach Bar

Monastery of Paleokastritsa




Agios Gordios 2N

Stevens on the Hill Restaurant - Bar




Arkoudi 1N

Hotel beach bar




Zakynthos Town 2N

Solomos Square - for ice cream and coffee

Base rooftop cocktails

Bochali - up the hill




Alykes Beach 2N

Taverna Psarou - near Alykanas Zakynthos

Nobelos Bio Restaurant - Agios Nikolaos - Something special




Laganas Beach 3N

Cave Damianos Restaurant - Agslas Village

Keri Lighthouse Restaurant

Mizithres Summer Vibes

Cave Bar - Kalimaki




Dimitsana 2N

From on top of the hill of Agia Paraskevi overlooking the town of Dimitsana. Follow the dirt road.




Loutraki 1N

Anywhere along the beach




  • Souvenirs -

Handmade Leather Sandals / Olive Oil Soap / Kumquat products / Honey products / Worry beads (Komboloi) / Mati - eye that repels the evil eye / Flavour infused Olive Oil - Olive Oil from Paxos - Black Wine from Antipaxos -  Zakynthos Olive Oil is prized / Ouzo / Ancient Greek Gods and Goddesses figurines / T-shirts / Gold and Silver jewellery / Natural Turquoise / Greek Tea and Coffee / Olive wood handicrafts / Greek Oregano and Greek Red Saffron / Handmade bags





  • Tips -

Be very careful on the cliffs above Shipwreck Cove - you wouldn't be the first tourist to slip off






· Festivals -

CORFU

The Loustri Pie Festival - all the pies you can eat / Easter is big in Corfu / Kassiopi Wine Festival / Arillas Beer Festival / August is the month for village Religious Festivals / International Dancing Festival / The Varkarola - celebrating the miracle that saved the island from the Turks


ZAKYNTHOS

Carnival / Greek Easter / Religious Festivals


PAXOS

Paxos International Music Festival - first week of September / Olive Oil Festival - October / Festival of th prophet Elias - Greek Dancing in Lakka / Neroladia Festival - free bread, olives and music, Paxos Reggae Festival - end of August / Fishing Festival - Lakka in August / Varkaarola Festival - Gaios in August, decorated boats, traditional music, dancing and fireworks


ANTIPAXOS

Wine Festival - July


  • Extra -

See Islands / Greece - Crete and the Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens in Hotels



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