Imagine waking up to sea views, wandering through olive groves and spending long, warm evenings in a harbour taverna. The Ionian Islands offer not just homes, but a slower, richer way of life. If you’re ready to turn your Greek island dream into reality, here’s where to start.
The Ionian islands offer a relaxed lifestyle in a natural landscape of green countryside and turquoise waters. Located west of mainland Greece, there are seven principle islands in the clear blue Ionian sea.
Often referred to as “Eptanisa” (Seven Islands), they are Corfu, Kephalonia, Zakynthos, Lefkada, Ithaca, Kythira and Paxos. Each of these islands has a unique charm and some gorgeous houses for sale.
But which Ionian Island is right for you? Here we look at each island in turn, providing information on lifestyle, population, property for sale and how to get there.
What makes the Ionian islands a good choice for property buyers?
In the first instance, property buyers are attracted to the beautiful coastlines and picturesque villages. Indeed, the beaches and scenery of the Ionian islands are absolutely stunning. But it is the warm welcome you receive from the local people that really makes a place feel like home. It is the cultural heritage that creates that charming community atmosphere and a safe friendly environment.
On the Ionian Islands, you can find homes for sale in traditional port towns, scenic villages and in the tranquillity of the countryside. The old towns have historic architecture combined with all the amenities you may need, such as restaurants, shops and banks, while the countryside houses offer peace and privacy. With around 1,000 kilometres of coastline, there are plenty of opportunities to buy villas and apartments near the sea. It is often those breathtaking sea views that many of us fall in love with during a viewing trip.
Compared to some other Mediterranean locations, the property prices are relatively affordable, with property for sale to suit most budgets. Investing in a house in one of the most popular tourist spots, can also turn your property purchase into a good holiday rental income. During the summer season, there are many countries that have direct flights to the Ionian islands, bringing thousands of tourists.
The rise in international arrivals demonstrates the growing popularity of the Ionian islands, particularly among citizens of the United Kingdom. According to Statista, 973,000 visitors from the UK travelled to the Ionian Islands in 2024. A number of these will have been going to their own holiday homes or visiting family who have moved here. Some estimates suggest that around 10,000 British citizens have made their home on Corfu alone, and there are in the region of 2,000 on Kefalonia.
Corfu
Kefalonia
Zakynthos
Lefkada
Ithaca
Kythira
Paxos
Corfu
Corfu is a popular place to live and holiday, due to its affordable cost of living, mild climate and cultural history. Your free time could be spent wandering around Corfu’s UNESCO-listed old town. Then, after browsing the shops and picking up fresh produce from the Central Market, it’s a blessing to be able to sit at a seafront cafe in the sunshine.
Or, if you prefer the tranquillity of a luxury villa surrounded by green vegetation, head to the north/northeastern side of the island. Here you could spend pleasant evenings at a waterside restaurant in the picturesque fishing village of Kassiopi.
Corfu is a great place to live in any season, with museums and historical sights to visit, and activities such as water sports, horse riding, canyoning, and swimming in the sea. Plus, you can join the local community at traditional celebrations and events, such as the carnival in February and the Easter festivities. Corfu town has shops and other facilities open year-round, plus a modern general hospital with 680 doctors.
Corfu’s population and visitors
The island of Corfu has a permanent population of around 100,000 people. About 40,000 live in the capital city of Corfu Town. Settling into life here as a non-Greek speaker is made easier by the sizeable expat community, that are close at hand for advice. This makes Corfu particularly appealing to retirees and families with children. Although, young adults looking for nightlife are also catered for in resorts such as Ipsos.
In fact, Corfu welcomes over 1m tourists each year, creating an exciting holiday atmosphere in the summer months. In 2024, local authorities reported more than 800,000 day-trippers and almost 2m inbound air arrivals. Thus, creating opportunities for homeowners to rent to tourists for part of the year.
Property for sale on Corfu
Corfu properties can be found to suit most budgets. Those with sea views are greatly sought-after and therefore have holiday rental potential and are a good long-term investment. Due to the island’s history the architecture was influenced by the Venetians, French and British. However, it is the modern villas with sea views and pools, that really grab your attention. While village houses can be found for under €150,000, a two-bedroom villa near the sea can start at around €435,000. But, if you go inland a little, you can get panoramic views in serene countryside for less. If it’s luxury you are after Corfu has that too, complete with those stunning sea views.
How to get to Corfu
Corfu’s international airport has many daily flights to and from Athens, all year-round. During the tourist season, there are also direct flights from 29 countries. Another option is the ferry from Igoumenitsa. During the high season, some ferries also arrive from Italy.
Kefalonia
Kefalonia has many beautiful natural landscapes
Kefalonia offers a relaxing way of life, surrounded by natural beauty. Both the locals and resident expats are welcoming to newcomers, creating a warm community atmosphere. When you explore the island you will discover, beautiful beaches, lush forests, archaeological sites and museums.
The Capital of Kefalonia is Argostoli, which has good amenities and heaps of Greek charm. Nightlife is fairly low-key, with superb restaurants offering delicious local cuisine, using fresh vegetables, fruit and seafood. Your meal may also be accompanied by the local Robola wine and live traditional Greek music. There are health centres and pharmacies across the island and a public hospital in Argostoli.
Kefalonia’s population and visitors
According to a 2021 census, the island has a population of over 36,000. In 2024, Kefalonia island received over 755,000 international visitors.
Property for sale on Kefalonia
Around the coast you will find lovely houses and apartments for sale, including luxury villas with pools for around €900,000. As well as Argostoli, there are quieter seaside villages to suit every taste, such as Lixouri, with its picturesque waterfront. Then there is the upscale Venetian-style of Fiscardo, with its boutique shops and luxury yachts. Or, for a tranquil beach location discover Ammes.
How to get to Kefalonia
As well as flights to Kefalonia from Athens, you can also fly direct from ten other countries during the holiday season. Ferries run to Kefalonia from Pireaus port and Kyllini in the Peloponnese. During the summer you can also catch ferries to other nearby islands.
Zakynthos
Loggerhead turtles know a good beach when they see one, and Zakynthos (also known as Zante) has many. There are numerous sandy beaches, such as Alykes, Kalamaki, Laganas, Tsilivi and then there is the most photographed one of them all, named “Shipwreck Beach”. The island’s east coast, is the most well known for its variety of sandy beaches, but there is an excellent varied coastline all around the island, with blue caves and beaches backed by dramatic white cliffs.
The south side of the island is where you’ll find the large holiday resorts, with bustling bars and restaurants. While further north among the forests, olive groves, vineyards and fruit orchards you will discover traditional villages. Here life is more laidback, and you can while a way a pleasant few hours choosing your favourite wine at one of the island’s many wineries. Or you could treat yourself to a local sweet delicacy, such as Mandolato (nougat and toasted almonds) or Pasteli (honey sesame bars).
The island’s history and culture has been greatly influenced by the Venetians, most notably in the musical culture and architecture, especially in Zakynthos Town. The area is a photographers dream, from the old town alleyways to the panoramic views on the walk to Bohali. Then, at the end of the day, it is the incredible sunset that leaves everyone with a magical feeling of wellbeing.
Zakynthos’s population and visitors
The population of Zakynthos is estimated to be around 40,700. However, during the peak tourist season, the island sees approximately 2.9m visitors.
Property for sale on Zakynthos
While a two-bedroom villa with a sea view tends to cost upward of €600,000, a two-bedroom country home can cost half that. If you are looking at property over €800,000 in order to qualify for a golden visa, there are some stunning villas with pools and sea views.
How to get to Zakynthos
Zakynthos airport receives flights from Athens, as well as Corfu and Kefalonia. It’s also possible to fly direct from 17 countries during the summer season. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Athens, then catch a ferry from Kyllini. There are also ferry routes to Zakynthos from Kefalonia, Paxos, Corfu, Lefkada and Meganisi.
Lefkada
Known for its incredible beaches backed by white cliffs, Lefkada’s natural beauty is attracting an increasing number of house buyers. The clear turquoise waters invite you to swim and enjoy a huge selection of watersports, from waterskiing to flyboarding. In fact, the sea around Lefkada comprises 24 smaller islands and has a reputation for providing some of the best sailing in Greece. While winters here are fairly quiet, summers are very lively, as families and young adults arrive to enjoy the nightlife and beaches.
When you explore inland, you will find pretty villages and places to hike in the mountains. Highlights include the Medieval Castle of Agia Mavra and the walk up to Nydri waterfalls. You will also find a hospital on the island, as well as pharmacies, banks and shops, especially at Lefkada Town (also known as Lefkas), which is the island’s capital and administrative centre. More amenities can also be found a 30 minutes’ drive away at Preveza.
Lefkada’s population and visitors
The estimated population of Lefkada in 2024 was around 22,826. Approximately 1m tourists visit each year.
Property for sale on Lefkada
Two-bedroom village houses cost from around €155,000 and two-bedroom sea view apartments start at €175,000. For a three-bedroom luxury villa with a pool and incredible views, expect to pay upwards of €795,000.
How to get to Lefkada
Lefkada is served by Preveza Airport, which has direct flights from 14 countries. The airport in Preveza is officially named Aktion National Airport. Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a floating bridge, making it very easy to drive to the airport in about 20 minutes.
Ithaca
Tranquil Ithaca is lush and green
Ithaca is a calm and unspoilt little island off the north-east coast of Kefalonia. For those seeking relaxation in an authentic Greek setting, Ithaca is the idyllic Ionian Island. Known for its natural beauty and lush greenery it’s a popular destination for families, nature lovers and those wanting peace and quiet. Ithaca’s landscape feels magical with small caves, charming villages and picturesque ports.
On Ithaca you might spend your time hiking in the hills, doing crafts, gardening or passing time at the village café with the locals. There is a safe and friendly community atmosphere, which is backed up by a rich cultural heritage and history. Ithaca is renowned as the home of Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey, adding to its appeal for those interested in mythology and history.
Ithaca’s population and visitors
The population of Ithaca is thought to be less than 3,000. The lifestyle on this island is most suited to the older generation, seeking a quiet life.
Property for sale on Ithaca
A traditional little detached stone house with one, two or three bedrooms is similar to an English bungalow. It is on one level and has a tiled roof. Prices range from around €160,000 up to €500,000 depending on condition and location. Two-storey houses in a seaside village start at around €450,000.
How to get to Ithaca
The nearest airport to Ithaca is on Kefalonia and ferries then connect Kefalonia to Ithaca.
Kythira
Although Kythira is an Ionian island, it is much further south than the other six. It is actually located south of the Peloponnese and north of Western Crete. Therefore, the scenery and architecture are more similar to the Cyclades and the Peloponnese. On the north side there are two-storey houses with tiled roofs and to the south you will find single-storey cube houses. However, on high ground you will also see Venetian castles.
This pretty little island has managed to keep its traditional style, and the tavernas serve some delicious seafood caught locally. Kythira is such a charming island for couples and families to spend relaxing quality time together. You will feel like you have travelled back in time, as you create summer memories on the beach. Then in spring and autumn you can walk the hiking trails and explore the island’s wonderful scenery. As well as enjoying the stunning sea views, you’ll wonder at the Mylopotamos waterfall and the beautiful sunset behind the lighthouse at Cape Spathi.
Kythira’s population and visitors
The population of Kythira Island was estimated to be around 3,500 in 2024. Most tourists visit Agia Pelagia, Chora, Kapsal and Avlemonas, while those seeking peace and quiet explore further to find secluded beaches and traditional villages, such as Mitata and Potamos.
Property for sale on Kithira
Property for sale on Kythira varies greatly in style and condition. Seaside apartments start at around €175,000 and you can find houses needing renovation for a similar price. However, if you have €800,000 to spend, you could get a four-bedroom house that is ready to move into.
How to get to Kythira
Kythira has a national airport with domestic flights from Athens. You can also reach the island by ferry, with routes from Piraeus and Crete.
Paxos
On Paxos you can escape a busy work life and totally chill out in tranquil surroundings. The island provides charm and calm. Among the breathtaking landscape you’ll find olive groves and villages, where old fashion hospitality still thrives. As well as smart restaurants there are traditional tavernas and waterfront cafes, where a warm welcome is guaranteed, like you are family.
The island’s main port town is Gaios, which has a combination of traditional Ionian buildings and modern amenities. There are shops and a medical centre, and in an emergency patients are helicoptered to Corfu hospital. As most visitors to Paxos are day-trippers who rarely venture past Gaios, those fortunate to own property here have much of the island to themselves.
There are some charming fishing villages, such as Loggos and Lakka, and hidden beaches to discover. Popular pastimes include snorkelling, sailing, diving and fishing, and out of the summer season you might find a beach all to yourself. On walks into the countryside you’ll come across, olive groves, wild flowers, old churches, deserted buildings and stunning view points. There are few jobs here, but some professionals do enjoy the opportunity to work from home in peaceful surroundings.
Paxos’s population and visitors
The population of Paxos Island is estimated to be around 2,500. A few British house buyers have already purchased property here, particularly on the north side of the island. Then over the summer months, around 200,000 visitors arrive.
Property for sale on Paxos
Due to strict building laws and a desire for sustainability, properties offer privacy and retain their traditional appearance. There is a growing demand for homes here, which should result in a property purchase now, becoming a good investment in the future.
Two-bedroom houses on Paxos start at around €280,000. However, at opposite ends of the scale you can still find cheap properties to do up and luxury villas with sea views, that cost over €1m. The privacy these villas provide make them particularly appealing to celebrities who want to spend holidays out of the public eye.
Getting to Paxos
Paxos doesn’t have its own airport. However, you can fly to Corfu and then catch a ferry to Paxos. You can also catch a car ferry from the mainland port of Igoumenitsa. It is also sometimes possible to take a seaplane from Corfu. Although it’s not the quickest island to get to, once you are there, you’ll appreciate the exclusive feel of being on a remote island.
Something I have discovered about Greece is that it’s worth going the extra distance to discover the authentic Greek lifestyle, where villages have a friendly community atmosphere and you are surrounded by nature and sparkling blue sea.
Expert guidance when buying in Greece
When buying property on a Greek Island, you do need to be cautious and make sure all the paperwork is in order. Your Overseas Home can connect you with property professionals like Elxis, who have almost 30 years of experience in the field of Greek real estate. This enables them to confidently guide you through every step of your property purchase. From the viewing trip through to opening a bank account they will be there to help. They also have a superb selection of properties for sale in the Ionian Islands.
Your point of contact at Elxis will either speak English, German or Dutch and an English/Dutch speaking Greek Lawyer is also at your service, for that extra reassurance. From the very start of the buying process, they will offer legal, fiscal and practical advice. In addition, Elxis can take care of the cadastral survey, notarial transfer and registration in the land register using their in-house legal team.
You can find out more about buying property in Greece by downloading the Greece Buying Guide.
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