Overview
The Ionian Islands are a cluster of lush, green islands located off the west coast of mainland Greece, in the Ionian Sea. Unlike the rocky Cyclades or Dodecanese, the Ionian Islands are known for their fertile landscapes, forested mountains, and soft sandy beaches.
This island group includes:
- Corfu
- Zakynthos
- Kefalonia
- Lefkada
- Paxos & Antipaxos
- Ithaca
- Kythira
The region is well-connected via international airports in Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Lefkada (via Aktion Airport). Ferries and private yachts also make inter-island travel accessible and scenic.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
The Ionian Islands offer a more relaxed, verdant alternative to the Aegean. The lifestyle here is about sailing, family holidays, and authentic island culture, with strong Italian and Venetian influences present in architecture and cuisine.
These islands are ideal for:
- Nature lovers and retirees
- Families seeking a peaceful second home
- Sailing enthusiasts and yacht owners
- Buyers looking for elegant yet unpretentious living
With cooler summers and rich agricultural land, the Ionian Islands are distinctively green, charming, and less windswept than the Aegean islands.
Property Market & Investment Appeal
The Ionian Islands offer diverse price points, generous land plots, and strong potential for medium- to long-term investment. Many areas remain underdeveloped or lightly regulated compared to more saturated island groups like the Cyclades, giving buyers more freedom and privacy.
Average Prices (General Ionian Islands):
- €2,200–€3,500 per sqm in inland villages or undeveloped areas (e.g., inland Lefkada, Kefalonia, Ithaca)
- €3,500–€5,500 per sqm in coastal zones with sea views or resort access
- €5,500–€8,500 per sqm in top-tier locations with direct waterfront access or luxury finishes (e.g., Paxos, northeastern Corfu, coastal Kefalonia)
- €8,000+ per sqm for newly built, turn-key seafront villas in ultra-prime zones
Rental yields during the high season (May–September) can be strong, especially in Corfu, Zakynthos, and Paxos, where demand from European holidaymakers remains high.
Buyers are typically from Italy, the UK, Germany, and increasingly the US, France, and Scandinavia. Properties in the Ionian Islands are well-suited for holiday homes, retirement plans, and Golden Visa applications.
Spotlight: Corfu Real Estate Market
Corfu is the northernmost Ionian island and among the most prestigious. It has long been a favorite of British, German, and Italian buyers, known for its grand estates, olive groves, and neoclassical town.
Corfu is known for its high-end buyer pool, discreet estate sales, and strong demand for restored heritage homes. It remains one of Greece’s most mature and stable luxury property markets.
Average Prices in Corfu:
- €3,000–€4,500 per sqm in traditional inland villages
- €5,000–€8,000+ per sqm in northeast Corfu (e.g., Kassiopi, Agni, Kalami)
- €8,000–€12,000+ per sqm for newly built, seafront or ultra-private luxury homes
Property types:
- Historic villas with gardens and views
- Newly constructed estates with pools and private access
- Boutique hotels and commercial conversions in Old Town Corfu
Notable Islands in the Ionian
- Corfu – Cultural, elegant, and aristocratic
- Zakynthos (Zante) – Family-friendly, with dramatic coastline and Blue Caves
- Kefalonia – Large and diverse; known for its villas and vineyard estates
- Lefkada – Accessible by road, rising in demand for waterfront villas
- Paxos & Antipaxos – Boutique, private, and favored by yacht owners
- Ithaca – Mythical, authentic, and ideal for tranquil retreats
Why Consider Buying Property in the Ionian Islands?
- Green, peaceful environments with excellent sailing conditions
- Italian-influenced architecture and culture
- Varied investment options — from restoration projects to luxury builds
- Excellent infrastructure and access via airports and marinas
- Appealing to lifestyle buyers, retirees, and Golden Visa applicants
Explore Properties in the Ionian Islands
From hillside villas in Corfu to beachfront retreats in Kefalonia, find your next home in the Ionian:
