Why Hire a Car in Ithaca?

Ithaca, legendary home of Odysseus, remains one of Greece’s most authentic islands. With car hire in Ithaca, you can explore the island’s two coastlines — the protected Vathy harbour on the east, the dramatic west coast with caves and hidden coves, and mountain villages that still operate on island time. This is the Ionian’s quietest inhabited island — no package tourism, no cruise ships, just genuine Greek life.

Ithaca is small (29km long) but mountainous, making a car essential for reaching scattered beaches and villages.

Driving in Ithaca — What to Expect

Ithaca’s roads are narrow, winding, and steep — the island rises to 800m in places. A compact car is mandatory for village streets and hairpin turns. The main road connects Vathy (the capital) to Kioni and Frikes on the north coast. Stavros in the interior is the island’s second town.

Driving times are short in distance but longer than expected due to terrain: Vathy to Kioni takes 25 minutes for just 12km. Parking is free and easy everywhere — Ithaca doesn’t have traffic.

Top Destinations from Ithaca

Vathy is one of Greece’s most beautiful harbour towns, with pastel houses and a long waterfront of tavernas. The Archaeological Museum displays finds from Odysseus’s alleged palace (3km north).

Kioni and Frikes are fishing villages on the north coast with excellent seafood and boat rentals. Gidaki Beach near Vathy is a protected cove with clear water.

Stavros in the interior is traditional Ithaca, with a folk museum and views across the island. Anogi Monastery above the village has Byzantine frescoes.

Meganisi Island (reached by ferry from Vathy or Lefkada) offers more beaches and traditional villages for a day trip.

Car Hire Tips for Ithaca

Ithaca has no airport — arrive by ferry from Kefalonia (30 minutes) or Lefkada (45 minutes). Rental cars are available in Vathy port. Book ahead for summer — the island has limited vehicles.

Fuel stations are in Vathy and Stavros. Ithaca is small, so you won’t need much fuel. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; cash for village tavernas.

Best Time to Visit

May, June, September, and October are ideal — warm weather, calm seas, and authentic island life. July and August bring Greek tourists but Ithaca never feels crowded. May offers wildflowers; October has warm water and empty beaches.

Book Your Ithaca Car Hire

Compare trusted suppliers and find the right vehicle for your Ionian adventure. With no hidden fees and free cancellation on most bookings, you can explore Ithaca’s harbours, caves, and mountain villages at your own pace. Arrive by ferry, pick up your car, and discover the island that Odysseus spent ten years trying to reach.

Related Destinations

Looking for car hire nearby? Also explore Kefalonia, Lefkada, Corfu, and Zakynthos.