The tiny beautiful Greek island with gorgeous beaches and way less tourists than Santorini

A stunning and tiny island loved for its serenity and enchantment, Ithaca is the stuff of dreams. Here you will find a small population of only 32,724 residents who call this pretty island their home, which tourists can visit without the heaving crowds seen in its more popular neighbouring spots such as and Mykonos. Ithaca instead offers all the memorable hallmarks of a on an island steeped in history that seemingly blends natural beauty with a peaceful atmosphere.

Ithaca is renowned as being the island home of the Greek hero Odysseus from the epic poem The Odyssey. However, this pretty destination offers plenty more on top of its literary significance. This picturesque island is found in the Ionian Sea, just off the northeast coast of Kefalonia, west of mainland Greece.

This island is carpeted with lush greenery and gorgeous beaches waiting to be explored, all dotted with quaint villages and friendly locals.

Summertime on Itchaca is also when the island truly comes alive with a host of festivals and cultural events proudly sharing the island's traditional music and food with all intrepid travellers embarking to its shores.

The summer festival of "Panighiria" (meaning Greek celebrations) is a foodie's heaven with mouthwatering island dishes up for grabs including the Savoro, which is fried fish with garlic mash being staples.

The average temperature in Ithaca during June is 28C, and the weather is mostly dry.

Beaches here provide breathtaking natural beauty, with Filiatro Beach and Gedaki Beach coming in highly recommended.

Its beaches are also ideal for young children and families, thanks to calm waters. The island is also ideal for explorers, thanks to its rocky or smooth stone shores, all contributing to the water's clarity.

Other top ways to spend your sun-drenched days on the island include exploring the picturesque villages of Kioni and a visit to the Monastery of Kathara offering endless panoramic views of the island.

Other top sights when visiting Ithaca include a visit to Afales Bay with its surrounding vineyards, the Acropolis of Alalkomenes for a glimpse into Ithaca's history and the famous School of Homer - a site of interest for those following Odysseus's footsteps.

Hiking lovers will be in their element here too with the island being home to a host of exhilarating trails offering epic views of Ithaca's natural beauty.

There are also plenty of boat trips around the island, with a visit to the Vathy Harbour providing poetic moments as you stroll along the waterfront enjoying all the views.

One review on TripAdvisor raved about the island of Ithaca, reading: "Perfect place with a charming harbour offering 4 or 5 restaurants all catering for different tastes with outdoor seating that's great for chilling out watching the sailing boats coming in and out of the harbour. Perfection."