The radiating energy of Ikaria Island is next to none. You can expect a journey of discovery and delight as you become enchanted by the carefree charm of the Ikarian people. An Island of such grandeur (in nature and landscape) means you will be spoilt with things to do in Ikaria.

How do you travel and what are your interests? Are you the thrill seeker, the beach hopper, or do you like to get down and dirty with the locals? This Ikaria travel guide will entice even the more laid-back travelers to get on a ferry and visit Ikaria. From countless hiking trails to thermal baths, and some of the most diverse coastlines and beaches in the Greek Islands, Ikaria will offer you a myriad of experiences that are truly unique to the island’s culture.

I can’t boast enough about the magnitude that is Ikaria. The natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming locals have been imprinted on me. It is breathtaking, raw, and a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Before we delve into these remarkable 13 things to do in Ikaria, I should touch on the easiest way to get to the island.

How To Get To Ikaria

For some reason, the scheduling for flights to Ikaria and the ferry to Ikaria seems to be a little tricky to navigate. Ferries tend not to run so often (please check ferry schedules in advance before booking your Ikaria accommodation) and flights aren’t as regular as your standard Cycladic island destinations. That doesn’t mean getting to Ikaria is difficult, just plan wisely and ahead (and ask a local for help if you’re unsure). *If it’s not your first rodeo, skip ahead*

Flights To Ikaria:

Ikaria Airport (JIK) is located around 12km from Agios Kirykos, the capital of Ikaria Island. Luckily, it serves daily domestic flights even during the winter months from Athens, and during the summer months, opens flights from other major cities in Greece such as Thessaloniki.

• Flights from Athens to Ikaria are approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour. You can choose to fly with Aegean Airlines (or Olympic Airlines) and in the summer months (June-August), Skyexpress will also run flights out of, and to, Ikaria.
• The plane to Ikaria is small and with that, you will feel more turbulence. If you have not flown to the Greek Islands before, this may come as a shock. You’ll be perfectly safe believe me! *Have an ouzo and enjoy the ride*
• You can organise to have your rental car meet you at Ikaria Airport (JIK) or you can get a taxi to your Ikaria accommodation. (We reserved a car from Aventura Car Rental Ikaria and it was a seamless exchange).

Ferry To Ikaria:

I love a good ferry ride, you can sit on deck and enjoy the gentle sea mist as it greets your face (not so good for the hair though). The ferry from Athens to Ikaria can be anywhere between 5 to 9 hours in duration. It will depend on which Ferry Line you sail with, if there are any stops along the way (as there often are), and which months you are traveling to Ikaria. The ferry is caught from Piraeus, the port of Athens, to Ikaria.

• Always check the Athens to Ikaria ferry schedule. During off seasons there might only be 3 ferries a week.
• Blue Star Ferries are among the best. Often their carriers are the most time efficient and make a few stops along the way, depending on which route and schedule. I can’t say I’ve ever had an issue with Blue Star Ferries, though delays can be expected so be patient (as much more than you already can be by sailing the sea).
• Greek ferries are gigantic, and the process of loading onto the ferry and off is quite literally like gathering up the herd on a farm. Take precaution when boarding and off-boarding, and take your carry-on and small bags with you to your seat if you have anything valuable inside (that’s what I do anyhow).
• Suitcases are stored below deck, and they will be everywhere when it’s time to disembark. Hungry tourists ravage to get their bags as fast and impatiently as possible. Do not be surprised by this, it’s the Greek travel life.

13 Things To Do In Ikaria

Making the journey to Ikaria Island means you’re ready to kick the true Ikarian way. We aren’t here to experience lavish luxury, we’re here to unearth the treasures of a culture true to connectedness, longevity, and tradition.

01. Explore The Anti-Pirate Houses Of Ikaria

Ikaria is home to several camouflaged dwellings that have been built under rock formations that hid dwellers from invaders (AKA pirates). The history of these anti-pirate dwellings is intriguing and dates back to ancient times.

Unfortunately, Ikaria’s positioning in the Aegean Sea meant they faced the challenge of the sea’s pests, also known as the pirates of the Mediterranean. To protect themselves, they built homes in inland areas that were difficult to access but with an impeccable view of the sea to spot incoming pirates as they breached waters. These dwellings are a testament to the Greek island’s resilience in the face of diversity.

You can explore many of these stone homes in Lagkada Ikaria (if you can spot them) and my favourite is the Chapel of Theoskepasti, located near the village of Pigi. It is, of course, formed beneath a boulder in plain sight which allowed inhabitants to practice Christianity in discreteness during the Ottoman ruling and pirate invasions. It is an Ikaria beauty.

02. Take A Blue Zone Cooking Class

As cliche as it may sound, you cannot come to Ikaria Island and NOT partake in a blue zone cooking class. There is so much to learn about the history of the Ikarian diet and the modern approach to slow food. There is no complexity to this type of cooking, it is honest-to-goodness, rooted in traditional methods and practices, and is as nourishing as anything.

The masters of the Blue Zone kitchen are none other than the Karimalis family. Their winery and farm stay host enriching cooking classes and when they’re not attending to the farm during April – August, George and Eleni are traveling the world teaching others the Ikarian way of life and sharing their knowledge of food and lifestyle practices. I cannot stress enough how magical this experience is, it is one of the best things to do in Ikaria.

You will leave Ikaria with a new profound understanding of how to cook in harmony with your ingredients, ensuring you’re getting the most out of your food (and your life).

03. Beating Around The Bush – Hiking In Ikaria

This is one for the adventurous traveler. Hiking in Ikaria may not be for the faint-hearted. The terrain is prickly, rough, and grand. With all that said, choosing which hike and trails you’d like to embark on is key and will allow you to prepare beforehand.

From lush green trails and jaw-dropping coastal paths, hiking in Ikaria will ignite all your senses as you stumble through the diverse landscape. Name a better way to connect with the Island’s natural beauty! Choose between the Ano Chalari Trail, Armenistis Loop, and much more.

04. A Key To Wellness – Thermal Springs Ikaria

Your Ikaria travel guide would not be complete without a trip to its ancient thermal springs. It’s like bathing back in time, and you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, and like a million dollars (I’m not kidding either). The thermal baths in Ikaria are amongst the best in the world due to their healing properties, temperature variance, and ability to treat ailments and skin diseases.

Therma Ikaria is today, still considered the primary region in Ikaria for this hydrotherapy and the town has numerous hotels, restaurants, and guesthouses. If you visit Ikaria make sure you seek out these Spas and hot springs for a little R&R amidst the chaos that comes with traveling Europe.

05. The Panigiria – Ikaria Festivals

If you happen to visit Ikaria during the time of a Panigiri, you’re in for a cultural fiesta. These local gatherings are a mass celebration of culture, where traditional music meets dance, and where food and drink are consumed liberally. Not to be mistaken for another festival, the Panigiria are an integral part of the Ikarian society that bears witness to their strong sense of community and a joyous spirit of togetherness. It is a highlight when it comes to deciding on the things to do in Ikaria when visiting.

06. Attend The Land – Farm Work In Pigi

Want to get down and dirty with the locals? If you want to gain a better understanding of sustainable agriculture and how to tend to the land in Ikaria, then it would be worthwhile participating in the Farm work activities at the Karamlis Winery. You can be involved in vineyard harvesting (grape picking), assisting in collecting fruits and vegetables, and even engaging in milking goats and cheese production. I think this is the most honest way to connect with the culture of Ikaria and how the ancestors used to live on and tend to the land.

07. Take A Sip – A Tour Of Ikaria Wine

As we work our way through the Ikaria travel guide, we make some pit stops along the way. Mainly to catch our breaths, but also to taste exquisite wines made from Indigenous varieties of grapes which cannot be found in other parts of Greece. Ikaria’s wine culture has progressed immensely over the last decade and it could very well be why many visit Ikaria. The island’s unique microclimate is a contributing factor to the production of its distinctive and high-quality wines. You Wine enthusiasts will enjoy some biodynamic varieties at Karimalis Winery, Afianes Wines, and Tsantiris Winery.

08. Visit Nas Ikaria

Golden sands, clear water, a mesmerising coastline, and home to some of the best seafood, Nas is a must-visit in Ikaria. The village is quaint and possesses a natural charm. Explore the tavernas and enjoy local delicacies, gaze at the ancient Temple of Artemis, and bask in the serene setting, as you overlook the shore of Nas Beach Ikaria. It is an electric sight both during the day, though especially as the sun begins to set and casts a golden glow over the island’s apron.

09. Dive Into The Blue Zone – Seychelles Ikaria

Seychelles Beach Ikaria is the most glorious hidden pocket on the island. With a smokey ice blue coloured ocean, you would almost question how such a sight could exist. It attracts travelers near and far and is a must when planning your itinerary for things to do in Ikaria. It is one of the best beaches in Ikaria (albeit the most popular so get in early), truly picture-perfect. The beach is only accessible via a moderate hike down or by boat. You will be rewarded with its unspoiled Ikaria beauty should you wish to visit (which you must).

10. Sweet Delights: The Best Spot in Armenistis

This Ikaria travel guide is not complete without throwing in some culinary delights, for you cannot truly understand a culture if you don’t taste the local food. Greece is nothing without its sweet treats. It encompasses the culture’s love for syrupy goodies and simple, yet complex flavour profiles. The recipes of Grandma in Armenistis Ikaria is the best spot to enjoy all the Greek desserts you could ever want and need. Have a seat on the balcony and bathe in the sweetness of Greek Walnut Cake, Loukoumades, and even some Galaktoboureko.

11. Exploring Evdilos Ikaria

There is no shortage of things to do in Ikaria, and your visit is incomplete unless you wander through Evdilos Ikaria. Evdilos operates as a second ferry port on the Island and is quite a social hub. The outskirts of the port are adorned with enchanting architecture, while below, numerous restaurants are engulfed with conversations, with people overflowing onto the path, immersing themselves in the beauty of Ikaria. Take a leisurely stroll around Evdilos Ikaria, let your skin be sunkissed by the golden Mediterranean sun, and sip on your Freddo Espresso all day, long.

12. The Delicacies Of Agios Kirikos Ikaria

Am I the only one obsessed with buying travel-friendly Greek Olive Oil and Greek honey when I travel to Greece? There are so many native varieties and honestly, it is the best in the world. I’d say the honey is quite competitive when it comes to Crete and Ikaria honey (who can agree?). When it comes to finding things to do in Ikaria, Agios Kyrikos (or Agios Kirikos) hosts some of the best retail shops to browse for island specialties and food.

If you want to browse through traditional Ikarian and Greek products from micro-producers, then Throubi is your go-to. They sell pure and organic products such as spices, teas, and condiments, which constitute longevity and overall well-being. I am a massive specialty coffee fanatic so you best believe I was going to search for the best Ikaria coffee on the island, and I did. Coffees&More – Ipanema Espresso is your go-to for a little third-wave coffee. They also have a cold brew by the can, it’s magical.

When you visit Ikaria you have to try their local cheeses and meets. Get some of these traditional Ikaria products from Delikaria, where you’ll find these fine food items from some of the best producers. (Maybe bring another suitcase?)

13. On Top Of The World – Castle Of Koskina

Last but not least, in our Ikaria travel guide, is the iconic Castle of Koskina. Koskina is perched smack bang, in the centre of the island. It’s hard to miss as you road trip across Ikaria from Evdilos to Plagia, it’s breathtaking, an Ikaria beauty that seems so out of reach. This castle dates back to the Byzantine times (approx. 10th century) and was also used to protect the inhabitants of the land from pirates and others who imposed danger.

Only the most adventurous of travelers will embark on the climb up, but what I do know is that the view and experience once you reach the top is, unlike any other.

Your Sign To Visit Ikaria

Ikaria may have seemed like just another Greek island, but as you can see, there is a myriad of culturally invigorating and adventurous things to do in Ikaria. There is no shortage of tradition, cultural connectedness, and culinary experiences. The Ikarian way of life is magnetic, and there is still so much to explore on an island of such grandeur.

Although we’ve given you the 13 best things to do in Ikaria, don’t be shy to go off the beaten path and make your mark on the island of longevity. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and you will be surprised by what they choose to share with you when you just ask!

What will you be visiting first in our Ikaria travel guide?