Login

Ikaria

Today
14°C

Photo of Ikaria

About Ikaria

Famed for its slow and steady pace of life, Ikaria -- the Greek for 'Icarus' -- is a brilliant destination for fans of low-key, old Greece. Many of the island’s residents continue to make their living as goat farmers and grow much of what goes into their fresh, seasonal cuisine. If you’re dreaming of a laid-back escape in the Aegean Sea, you need look no further than our pick of the best places to stay in Ikaria.

Pull on your walking boots or your most comfortable sandals to explore Ikaria’s rugged interior on foot. Rugged green hills are criss-crossed with cool rivers, dramatic waterfalls and craggy gorges which lead towards the glittering sea. Ikaria doesn’t boast the best beaches in Greece, but its clifftop sunsets are seriously striking, and there are ample opportunities to sail along the coastline to coves and sheltered swimming spots. Head to Armenistis or Agios Kirikos for long sandy beaches, or for healing hot springs. Keen divers will delight in discovering the underwater ruins of ancient Therma, which slid into the sea during an earthquake in 205 B.C.

Ikaria’s spring and summer festivals are the stuff of legend, celebrated with wild abandon by residences all ages. Expect all-night dancing, feasting and copious amounts of red wine at events all through from May to August. Spend your days kicking back poolside at one of the best places to stay in Ikaria after long, fun-filled evenings. The island has one of the highest life expectancies and best qualities of life in the world — they must be on to something!

The Best Places to Stay in Ikaria

For Sea Views

  • Cavos Bay boasts beautiful ocean views from its terrace and the private balconies of its simple, modern rooms. Stroll 500s to a long stretch of sandy beach, or explore the lovely village of Armenistis, which has a great selection of cafes, bars and tavernas. A relaxed and affordable seaside hotel.
  • Erofili Beach Hotel has a more classic feel, with terracotta tiled floors, polished wood furnishings and paitings of the island adorning the walls. A whitewashed building with green accents, this hotel also offers dramatic sea views from its rocky perch. An easygoing seaside holiday escape.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Athens International Airport, and catch a connecting flight to Ikaria Island National Airport. There are also regular ferries from the nearby Cyclades.
  • There's plenty to see on Ikaria! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 28°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Ikaria

Best Hotels in Ikaria

  • Cavos Bay Ikaria 63 rooms from £65

    Beach Life  -  With just a three minute walk to the beach, plus a lovely pool and terrace on site this is ideal for a beach break
    Less £  -  The accommodation may be simple, but the views are epic and you're just minutes from the beach
    Views  -  Panoramic Sea Views and sunsets to die for!
    Great walks  -  Hundreds of waymarked footpaths around the island.
    Swimming PoolPet friendlyViewsParking

    Good value hotel with few frills but bright and cheery rooms in an unbeatable location on the enchanting north coast of Ikaria, and within a ten minute walk to a large beach. See More

    Check Availability
  • Erofili Beach Hotel Ikaria 32 rooms from £68

    Local exploring  -  Perfect launchpad for exploring the captivating island of Ikaria with its lovely beaches and pretty unspoilt villages
    Beach Life  -  The hotel is three minutes walk from the beach with direct access via a path from the pool area
    Views  -  Gorgeous views over the Aegean
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the charming history of the nearby Koskina Castle.
    SpaSwimming PoolGardenViews

    Perched looking out over the Aegean Sea, the Erofili Beach Hotel's positioning couldn't be much more picturesque. Rooms are simple and elegant, the best of which offer sea views and the hotel's pool is perfect for mid-afternoon relaxing. A seaside gem. See More

    Check Availability