The Best Bars in Ithaca, Greece

Here’s a classic bar in the heart of Vathy, always worth rocking up at for a cocktail or beer. It’s one of the oldest on the island and has long set the tone for the nightlife in the area. The music varies from rock to pop but is always upbeat and fun. The bartenders are experienced and engaging, and serve up drinks to match all tastes. Be sure to go inside to see the endless photos displayed of people’s summer holidays through the years.

Friendly bartenders? Check. Live music? Check. Perfectly executed cocktails? Check. You go into Rozes in Vathy as a customer and leave with a brand-new group of pals. The atmosphere is exactly what you want from island life: chilled out and radiating positive vibes. The bartenders are always smiling and invariably grooving to the music while serving up creative cocktails. In a nutshell, Rozes is an absolute must while you’re visiting Ithaca.

If you’re on holiday in Ithaca when a big game is on and you don’t want to miss it, make a date with Spavento, on the harbour in Kioni. Grab an ice-cold beer and settle in for the match, which unravels on a big screen with a crowd of local residents glued to the action. It’s a colourful place that’s open all day – for that matter, all year round. The owner has great taste in music and sets the tone for a leisurely island day. And if you’re sailing through, you can dock metres away.

With a name like Rhapsody Bar, you know the soundtrack is going to be great. Located right by the waters in Vathy, it’s a perfect spot to come to listen to great tunes, unwind with a cold white wine, and watch the boats rock gently on the breeze-ruffled sea. Throughout the week they host guest DJs from around the island and the rest of Greece to get you up and moving. All in all, a lively favourite, serving drinks strong enough to get you in the mood, from sunset to sunrise.

This all-day cafe and bar is a terrific place to visit after a day at the beach. Located on the harbourside of Vathy, Cafe del Sol does a refreshing line in cold beer, spirit-laced stronger stuff, wine, and snacks and nibbles to accompany them. It’s a very popular steki – as they call a local spot – to get a feel of what island life is like for residents. Settle in and order an Aperol spritz or mojito. Now simply bask in the watery view as you drift off, people-watching.

The rooftop bar at Lizzy’s brings you that much closer to the shifting moods and colours of the Ionian sky. The sophisticated but not stuffy terrace is at the heart of this elegant bar in Kioni bay. They have a wide selection of premium wines and delicious cocktails to choose from, and the atmosphere is quite romantic. Come with a special person – the soft live music in the background, while you watch the sunset over the bay, will make you fall in love all over again.

While bar-hopping in Vathy, you must stop in Parathinalos. It’s a casual and comfortable bar with great music and an inviting atmosphere just steps away from the sea. They have a large selection of beers from all over the world to work your way through during your holiday. The cocktails range from classic such as gin fizz to more creative – and dizzying – ones featuring all the colours of the rainbow. The bartenders are eager to create something unique for you – helping to make Parathinalos a lot of fun.

The quaintest cafe and bar in Kioni deals in coffee and breakfast during the day and cocktails into the evening. It is owned and operated by a friendly couple who make delicious tiki creations and the perfect Aperol spritz. The sound of the sea and the smell of the maritime air create a tranquil atmosphere that lulls everyone. Order the crispest, coldest bottle of white wine they have and toast the remains of a perfect day as the yachts come in and out of the harbour.

For the best mojitos on the island, head over to Avli. It’s a small, narrow spot in the heart of Vathy with fantastic views. It’s a favourite among the young residents of the island, and their youthful energy resonates in the upbeat music, positive vibe and fun atmosphere at Avli. The staff are very hospitable and create a friendly environment for visitors and locals alike. If you’re hungry, their kitchen has great snack food.