Ikaria FAQs - Top 10
Here are some questions we receive a lot about traveling to Ikaria Island!
Do I need to rent a car on Ikaria? Yes, if you plan to visit more than one area of the island. Local buses run but on a very limited schedule and if you are on the island for only a small time period, it will be hard to plan a whole trip around Ikaria’s bus system. See our page Planes, Ferries and Car Rentals for car rental options and agencies.
Can I rent a scooter, motorcycle or quad? We highly recommend you don’t. Ikaria’s roads are not like those on more popular islands (Mykonos or Santorini). The road network is rudimentary in many places and accidents can happen very easily using such vehicles. In the Ikaria Guidebook, you’ll find detailed maps and more information about Ikaria’s complex road network. Key takeaway - stay on the main roads!
Do I need to book my hotel and car in advance? In the summer months - yes. Now that Ikaria is no longer a secret, we recommend booking hotels and your car rental in advance, along with plane and ferry tickets. During the winter months, some hotels shut down and some rental agencies may go down to slimmer inventory so you should still book your car in advance.
How big is Ikaria island? The island spans over about 255 sq.km (99 sq.mi)! It will seem even larger once you are traveling around, as the roads are very twisty. If you see a distance mentioned, remember that you will be traveling at a slow speed to take in the road layout and other vehicles. The Ikaria Guidebook has many helpful maps to help you navigate around the island.
Are there wild goats on the island? Yes! Many of them. Remember that they have the right of way on the roads, as do any sheep or other livestock!
Can I camp on Ikaria? Free ‘nature’ camping is not allowed. Such activities cause harm to rivers, beaches and the sea. (Campsites need proper facilities). Please refrain from such activities to help respect Ikaria and keep it clean. Look for an organized place to stay.
Do I need to speak Greek? No. But locals are happy when you can say a few words like hello (Kalimera) and thank you (Efaristo). Most Ikarians involved in tourism speak basic English.
When is the best month to travel to Ikaria? It depends on what you are looking to do. For walking/hiking the springtime is great! For beach activities, June, July and September. For quieter days, September and October. August has become crowded and is the hottest month.
Where can I buy the Ikaria Guidebook? The paperback version is being sold in limited quantities here and on Amazon. It is also sold in many shops all around Ikaria Island. You can buy the ebook version here.
Do people on Ikaria really live longer? Studies say yes! Come to Ikaria and explore for yourself what makes the Ikarian lifestyle so healthy and inviting. We also suggest also doing a local excursion to a winery or farm or a cooking class to get close to Ikaria’s healthy secrets.
Is your question not here? Send it to us and we will help to answer it! info@ikariaguidebook.com
