Discover Ikaria Activities
Ikaria offers many exciting ways to immerse yourself in its natural elements, unique culture and laid-back lifestyle. It is the ultimate destination for exploring ecosystems and connecting with a peaceful culture. Whether discovering fascinating landscapes and geographical formations with a local guide, taking a swim by the waterfalls, learning about the secrets of longevity from the islanders, or relaxing in thermal hot springs by the seaside, there are a variety of tours and activities to engage travelers of all types.
Taste, Adventure, Play, Relax, Learn
Choose your vacation experience!
Ikaria's culture is strongly connected to nature, agriculture and food. You might have many interesting cultural experiences at local wineries which offer guided tours, an introduction to wine-making history and process. The winery visit could not possibly be complete without tasting local wine varieties including the wine of ancient times, the Pramneios. Locals are used to foraging various fruits, greens and plants from nature so why would you not join us on harvesting olives, grapes or collecting mushrooms. Learn about the secrets of longevity during a cooking class using local ingredients and taste a delicious Ikarian and Greek dishes.
Ikaria is an adventure-seeker’s paradise. Although relatively small in size, the country offers a wide range of activities. There are diverse landscapes to discover and exciting ways to explore them. People of all ages can enjoy these activities in a safe way that is fun. If one adventure is not enough, there are plenty of other ways to experience the country’s diverse landscape - hiking and trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, road cycling and bouldering.
Ikaria Island offers abundant adventures at its many beach destinations. Marine activities include surfing, paddleboarding, snorkelling, windsurfing and beach hopping tours by boat. In addition to enjoying the sun and the waves on one of the 30 beaches of Ikaria your visit is hardly complete without participating in one of the famous village feasts (panigiria). These cheerful events are mainly held during the summer at multiple locations of the island and are accompanied by live traditional Greek music and people dancing in circles and bouncing to the rhythm of Ikariotiko, the traditional song of Ikaria.
Your discoveries don’t need to be necessary exhausting, and Ikaria has much to offer for those who want to recharge and enjoy the island at a leisurely pace. Whether you choose a massage, a yoga lesson, a meditation session or an afternoon soaking in the thermal hot springs, there are many relaxing ways to experience Ikaria’s diverse beauty. The island's isolated beaches are simply ideal for a quiet afternoon of exploration and reflection.
One of the many benefits of travel is the opportunity to expand your perspective and explore new habitats and cultures. There are several ways to learn more about the people, places, and environments that make Ikaria so special. In a guided tour through various ecosystems, you can discover indigenous plants and animals. You might listen to stories about the history and the myths of Ikaria including the story of Icarus, God Dionysus and the pirates who sacked the island for decades. Get an introduction to beekeeping and taste the famous honey of the island, the 'anamatomelo', learn how to make your own natural soaps from plants provided by nature. No matter what you choose, these experiences will be with you long after your vacation ends.