15 days in Ionian Islands & Sicily Itinerary

To see a greener and less-crowded version of Greece, place the Ionian Islands at the top of your itinerary. Stretching along the west coast of the Greek mainland, this chain of islands boasts villages, rural landscapes, and beaches washed by the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea. The "Seven Islands," as the locals prefer to call them, often seem far removed from the rest of the country. Greatly influenced by past Venetian, British, and French rulers, the islands retain their distinct atmosphere and boast a rich cultural and architectural heritage. To experience some of that special Ionian culture, head to the smaller islands of Paxi and Ithaki, which offer wild terrain and outstanding local cuisine.

The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is a ruggedly attractive land. The island has a long history of foreign domination and has been controlled by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. The result is a distinct culture blending elements from all of those areas and featuring an intriguing dialect. This is a huge island with plenty of small villages to tour, each with its own treasures. Beyond the popular coastal areas, Sicily's inland attractions include an unspoiled landscape of mountains, hills, and villages that sometimes seem frozen in time. While the natural environment is its biggest draw, Sicily's greatest asset may be its people. They are proud of their traditions and incredibly hospitable to visitors.