Those with an explorer’s soul will be happy to visit the smaller villages such as the mountainous Perichori (pop. 350) with two tavernas and some locally made wine if you’re lucky. The pretty seaside village of Kioni has old homes from the 16^th century that have withstood the area’s earthquakes, along with the remains of three windmills, plus the attractively swimmable beach nearby of Plakoutses. The inland village of Anogi, believed to be the oldest on the island and the once busy villages of Exogi (pop. 50 today but 1,300 several decades ago) are both worthy attractions. Exogi also features many remains of a Byzantine settlement, where many tools and even old coins have been found. Do climb on the hill above the village for some breathtaking views.

The island is generally a great place to go hiking, with several mapped out trails, such as from Anogi to Kioni, from Aetos to the Acropolis of Alalkomenes, and from Perachori to the Nymphs Cave, to name just three. From the bust of Homer in Vathy and the Venetian cannons on Loutsa beach to the outdoor museum on the way to Kalamos and the site for Odysseus’ Palace according to myth, Ithaki will unveil its intriguing secrets as you explore its nooks and crannies.