Feeling adventurous? Make the most of your trip by visiting multiple Ionian islands, not just one. Island hopping from Kefalonia to Zakynthos, Ithaca, and Lefkada is easier than you’d think, with ferry options that are as scenic as they are fun.
🛵 Heading South: From Kefalonia to Zakynthos by Ferry
🌴 Zakynthos is known for its iconic Shipwreck Beach, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs. This southern gem of the Ionian Sea combines postcard-perfect beaches with a rich Venetian past. You’ll find rugged landscapes up north, party beaches in the south, and calm family-friendly spots in between. Zakynthos is also one of the few places you might spot loggerhead turtles nesting in the wild.
From Pessada (GPS: 38.11830, 20.55240), in southern Kefalonia, hop on a ferry to Agios Nikolaos in Zakynthos (GPS: 37.85630, 20.76690). This is ideal for exploring Zakynthos’ quieter, more natural side.
Note: Set in northern Zakynthos, Agios Nikolaos can be tricky to reach without a car—so it’s best to arrange your transport in advance or rent a car once you arrive.
You can only buy tickets on the day at the port office, so make sure to get there at least 30 minutes before the ferry leaves.
📍 Check the Pessada–Zakynthos route
🚢 Kefalonia to Zakynthos – The Town-to-Town Route
🌴 Zakynthos also offers a lively capital, Zakynthos Town, filled with shops, restaurants, and neoclassical charm. It’s perfect for strolling along the waterfront, exploring museums, and enjoying vibrant nightlife. At the heart of the island, Zakynthos Town offers a rich cultural experience—from lively folk music and local delicacies to the historic Venetian castle overlooking the sea.
Ferries from Poros Port (GPS: 38.14540, 20.78530) go to Killini, then continue on to Zakynthos Town—ideal if you’re heading to the main town or travelling without a car.
📍 Poros–Killini–Zakynthos routes
⚓️ Kefalonia to Ithaca – A Quick and Easy Hop
🏛 Ithaca, legendary home of Odysseus, is quiet, green, and full of myth. It’s the go-to island for peace, poetry, and panoramic views. Though smaller than its neighbouring islands, Ithaca offers stunning beaches, peaceful hiking trails through olive groves, and charming fishing villages where life moves at a slower pace. It’s ideal for slowing down, soaking up nature, and feeling like a character in a Greek epic.
Board the ferry in Sami for a direct route to Pisaetos, Ithaca’s primary port.
- Ionian P Lines: Tickets sold at Marketou Travel in Sami (GPS: 38.25230, 20.64896)
📞 +30 26740 22045
📍 Ionian P Lines info
- Levante Ferries: Depart from the main ferry dock, tickets at the kiosk (GPS: 38.25280, 20.64970)
Tip: If you’re planning to explore Ithaca’s remote areas, it’s worth arranging to rent a car on arrival or in advance.
🛳 Kefalonia to Lefkada – The Northern Hop
🏖 Lefkada offers breathtaking beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni, windsurfing in Vasiliki, and picturesque mountain villages. It’s unique among the Ionian islands in that you can drive to it from the mainland via a floating bridge. Beyond its beaches, Lefkada is rich in local culture, from traditional music festivals to excellent wineries. It blends smooth accessibility with the laid-back charm of island life.
From Fiscardo (GPS: 38.45610, 20.57630), head to Lefkada using the following options:
- Westferries: Ideal for those travelling with a car
📞 +30 698 672 1000
- Lefkada Palace Ferry: Foot passengers only—perfect for a relaxed scenic crossing
📅 Tickets for both ferry services are available at West Point Travel in Fiscardo.
📍 Conveniently located in central Fiscardo
📞 +30 26740 41400
Planning to drive around Lefkada? It’s easy to rent a car in town or at the port for maximum flexibility.
🎟 Island Hopping Tips
- In peak season, book your tickets early—seats go quickly.
- Most tickets are sold in advance at port offices, but some can also be booked online through Levante Ferries.
- Pessada ferry tickets must be purchased on the day at the port office.
- Always arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid last-minute stress.
- When travelling with a vehicle, be sure to provide your registration number at the time of booking.
- If you’re using a rental car, confirm with your provider before boarding—some do not allow inter-island travel.
Ready, steady… sail!
Whether you’re after myth, nightlife, or pristine beaches, island hopping from Kefalonia unlocks a whole new level of adventure in the Ionian Sea.
