Situated along the west coast of mainland Greece, the Ionian islands offer a wide variety of beautiful beaches, tranquil fishing villages and resorts with lively night life. Through the passing of time, they were conquered by the Venetians, the French and the British as evidenced by their outstanding architecture. Each island has its own distinct character, from Ithaka, the homeland of Odysseus to cosmopolitan Corfu, and the rugged beauty of kefalonia. The Ionian Sea is known for its tranquil waters and these islands are famous for their lush greenery.