August is a month that combines the climax of summer with traditional celebrations on every corner of the Greek islands. Specifically, the 15th of August is one of the most important dates in Greece, and it’s the ideal occasion for a holiday to one of the country’s beautiful islands. Warm days and cool nights, picturesque beaches, and exciting festivals create the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable getaway. In this article, you will discover our favorite islands worth visiting on or around August 15, ensuring unique experiences and beautiful memories.
Get ready to explore traditional customs, fun celebrations, and unique landscapes that will leave you spellbound.
What are we celebrating on August 15?
August 15, also known as the Assumption of Theotokos, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of the biggest religious festivals in Greece. This day symbolizes the ascension of the Virgin Mary to heaven and is celebrated with great pomp and reverence throughout the country. Churches organize special services and vigils, while thousands of faithful pilgrims head to holy shrines such as Panagia Tinos and Panagia Soumela.
Apart from the religious aspect, August 15 is a national holiday celebration with traditional festivals that include music, dances, and local flavors. These festivals last until the early hours of the morning, keeping the tradition alive and offering a unique atmosphere of community and celebration in every corner of Greece.
Which Greek islands to visit on August 15
Are you wondering where you could escape to on the Greek islands this August 15th? Don’t worry, below you can find islands for all preferences. Whether you prefer nearby destinations that offer quick access and easy accommodation, or you’re looking for more remote islands with a sense of exploration and adventure, Greece has plenty of options.
Choose one of these fantastic islands to spend the 15th of August:
1. Paros
Paros on August 15 offers a unique experience combining religious worship with vibrant cultural life. The festivals, musical events, and traditional dances create an atmosphere of celebration and joy that will be unforgettable. Moreover, the natural beauty of the island, with its wonderful beaches, picturesque villages, and archaeological monuments, make Paros an ideal destination for your summer holidays. It is located in the center of the Cyclades and is known for its magnificent beaches, such as Golden Beach, Santa Maria, and Kolimbithres. The island combines traditional Cycladic architecture with modern amenities, offering a variety of activities, from water sports to walks in the picturesque streets of its villages.
Paros is known for its excellent local cuisine. During August 15, the taverns and restaurants of the island serve traditional Parian dishes such as lobster pasta, kakavia (fish soup), stuffed squid, and gouna (Parian salted mackerel baked in the sun). It is also worth trying local sweets, such as pastelakia and almond cakes, which are made with pure, local ingredients and have a special taste. The top festival in Paros is that of Panagia Ekatontapyliani in Parikia. It is a great religious and cultural celebration that attracts thousands of visitors. After the Divine Liturgy, a procession of the icon of the Virgin Mary follows through the streets of the city, accompanied by traditional music and dances. In the evening, the celebrations culminate with concerts and dance bands, creating a festive atmosphere that enchants every visitor.
How do I get to Paros?
You can find ferry tickets from Piraeus to Paros every day. The duration of the trip is 3h 40m – 4h 30m and ticket prices start from €40.50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
2. Tinos
Tinos on August 15 offers you a unique experience that combines religious devotion and cultural celebration. The island is known for the festival of Panagia Tinos, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over Greece and abroad. The main event is the procession of the icon of the Virgin Mary through the streets of Tinos, accompanied by religious ceremonies and traditional music. In the evening, the celebrations continue with concerts, dances, and cultural events that create a festive atmosphere. Apart from the religious events, it is worth visiting the picturesque villages of the island, such as Pyrgos and Volax, known for their traditional architecture.
During the 15th of August, the taverns and restaurants of Tinos offer a gastronomic feast with local dishes such as fava, louza (traditional pork sausage), and cheeses such as kopanisto. Seafood, such as octopus and squid, is served fresh and cooked according to traditional recipes. The local sweets, such as desserts like dry cakes and almonds, are extremely popular and worth trying. The natural beauty of the island, with beaches such as Kolimbithra and Agia Seasa, combined with the rich cultural heritage and the warm hospitality of the locals, make Tinos an ideal destination for 15 August.
How do I get to Tinos?
You can find ferry tickets from Piraeus to Tinos every day. The trip duration is 2h 45m – 4h 50m and ticket prices start from €49.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
3. Corfu
Corfu on August 15 offers an experience that combines traditional religious devotion with vibrant cultural events and natural beauty. The island is known for its impressive festivals, with the central one being that of Panagia Vlaherna in Pontikonisi. The celebrations include religious ceremonies, processions, and musical events that fill the streets of Corfu Town. Traditional dances and local customs offer a unique festive atmosphere that enchants every visitor. It is also worth visiting the monastery of Panagia in Paleokastritsa, one of the most important religious centers of the island.
The Corfiot cuisine is another reason to visit the island on August 15. Local restaurants and tavernas serve traditional dishes such as sofrito, pasticcio, bourdeto and bianco, highlighting the culinary influences from the Venetian period. The seafood, such as octopus and prawns, is also fresh and of excellent quality. Don’t miss trying the local sweets, such as pastitsada and compotes made from fresh fruits of the island. The natural beauty of Corfu, with stunning beaches such as Paleokastritsa and Glyfades, combined with the picturesque villages and rich cultural heritage, make the island an ideal destination for spending the 15th of August.
How do I get to Corfu?
To get to Corfu first you have to drive to the port of Igoumenitsa. You can find routes from Igoumenitsa to Corfu every day, and the duration of the trip is 50m– 1h30m. Ferry ticket prices start from €5.60.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
4. Naxos
Naxos is a destination that enchants every visitor, especially on August 15. The island hosts the festival of Panagia in the Monastery of Filoti, one of the most famous and beloved festivals of the summer. Events include religious ceremonies, processions, and musical events that transform the streets into a grand festive setting. The music and traditional dances create a unique atmosphere of joy and unity, that will fascinate you.
Naxos is famous for its rich local cuisine, which is one of the most important reasons to visit the island on the 15th of August. In the tavernas and restaurants, you will find traditional dishes such as roast lamb, pumpkin balls, and the famous Naxos Gruyere. Apart from the culinary delights, Naxos has magnificent beaches such as Agia Anna and Plaka, as well as picturesque villages such as Apeiranthos, which offer wonderful routes for exploration and relaxation.
Naxos combines traditional Cycladic architecture with modern amenities, making it an ideal destination. The natural beauty of the island, the historical monuments such as Portara, and activities such as hiking and water sports, offer a complete experience for every visitor. Whether you’re looking for relaxation on the beaches or adventure in the mountains, Naxos has something for everyone, making it an excellent choice for your summer holiday.
How do I get to Naxos?
You can find routes from Piraeus to Naxos every day. The trip duration is 3h 25m – 5h 45m and ferry ticket prices start from €42.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
5. Ikaria
Ikaria is known for its special atmosphere and the unique festivals that are organized on August 15. The island hosts some of the most frenetic and traditional festivals in Greece, with the main one being the festival of Christ of Rachon. The celebrations include live music with violins and lutes, traditional dances, and plenty of food and wine. The celebrations last until the early hours of the morning, creating a unique sense of community and fun that will blow you away.
Ikaria is also known for its rich gastronomic tradition. During August 15, the taverns and squares of the island are filled with local dishes such as roast goat, sphongato (an omelet with various greens), and dolmades. Don’t miss the local wine and spoon sweets, made with local fruit and honey. These culinary masterpieces will make you appreciate even more the rich cultural heritage of Ikaria.
The natural beauty of Ikaria, with secluded beaches such as Seychelles and Na, as well as traditional villages such as Agios Kirikos and Evdilos, offer many opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The island is also known for its thermal springs, especially in Therma, which offer natural rejuvenation and treatment. With the special hospitality of the locals and the relaxed pace of life, Ikaria is an ideal destination for the 15th of August, combining tradition with natural beauty and spiritual upliftment.
How do I get to Ikaria?
You can find routes from Piraeus to Ikaria every day. The trip duration is 6 – 7 hours and ferry ticket prices start from €58.50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
6. Skiathos
Skiathos, known for its magnificent beaches and lively nightlife, is transformed into a true center of celebration and tradition on August 15. The island hosts the festival of Panagia Kounistra, one of the most important religious events in the region. Celebrations include processions, religious ceremonies, and traditional musical events that fill the streets and squares with sounds and colors. In the evening, the town of Skiathos comes alive with concerts and dance bands, creating a unique atmosphere that unites locals and visitors.
Skiathos is also famous for its excellent cuisine. During August 15, the taverns and restaurants of the island serve local dishes such as stuffed squid, octopus stew, and fried shrimp. Don’t miss the traditional sweets, such as almond loaves and galaktobureka, made with pure, local ingredients. The local flavors combined with the hospitable atmosphere of the restaurants make eating in Skiathos a real treat.
The natural beauty of Skiathos with its crystal blue beaches such as Koukounaries and Myrtias, and its rich forests, offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Also, the picturesque alleys of Chora and the traditional villages of the island, such as Koukounaries and Agia Paraskevi, offer a charming glimpse into traditional Greek life. With the warm hospitality of the locals and the rich cultural heritage, Skiathos is an ideal destination for 15 August, combining natural beauty with tradition and celebration.
How do I get to Skiathos?
To get to Skiathos first you have to drive to the port of Volos. You can find routes from Volos to Skiathos every day. The duration of the trip is 1h25m– 2h45m and the ferry ticket prices start from €27.20.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
7. Syros
Beautiful Syros, known as the ‘Lady of the Cyclades’, celebrates August 15 with great splendor in three different churches, highlighting the spiritual and cultural life of the island. In particular, this day is dedicated to the church of Panagia Piskopiani, the Parish Church of the Transfiguration of the Virgin Mary, and the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary on the hill of the village of Kini. After visiting the first two churches, an extended stop at the settlement of Kini is a must. There, the traditional custom of the ‘fireflies’ comes to life, with families lighting fires in tin cans and decorating their houses, while children decorate the beach and the terraces. The highlight of August 15th on the hill of Kinios is the impressive sunset, offering a magnificent view that charms even the most demanding visitors. Syros, with its unique architecture and rich cultural events, creates an ideal environment to experience the celebration of August 15 in all its glory.
The local cuisine of Syros is one of the main reasons to visit the island on August 15. The tavernas and restaurants of Ermoupolis and the surrounding areas offer traditional dishes such as louza (pork sausage), caper salad, and farsi halva. The local sweets are particularly popular, such as loukoumia and halvadopites, which are made with pure, local ingredients and are an integral part of Syrian gastronomy. Syros is known for the excellent quality of its local products, which you can enjoy at every meal.
The natural beauty of Syros, with its enchanting beaches such as Galissas and Kini, and picturesque villages such as Ano Syros, offer many opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Apart from the religious and gastronomic events, you can visit the historical and cultural attractions of the island, such as the Apollo Theatre and the Industrial Museum. Syros, with its rich cultural heritage and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants, is an ideal destination for August 15, combining tradition, cultural life, and natural beauty.
How do I get to Syros?
You can find routes from Piraeus to Syros every day. The trip duration is 2h 20min – 3h 40min and ferry ticket prices start from €45,50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
8. Astypalaia
Astypalaia is a hidden treasure in the Aegean that on August 15th is transformed into a centre of celebrations and tradition. The island, known for its unique butterfly-like shape, hosts the festival of Panagia Portaitissa, one of the most important and beloved festivals of the Dodecanese. The celebrations include religious ceremonies, processions, and traditional dances that last until the early hours of the morning. Live music with traditional instruments and local costumes add a special feel to the event, making you feel part of a big, festive family.
The gastronomy of Astypalaia is another reason to visit the island on 15 August. Local restaurants and tavernas serve traditional dishes such as lodenia (tomato and onion pie), pumpkin fritters, and the famous local cheese chlori. Don’t miss the traditional sweets such as pougia (stuffed leaves with honey and walnuts) and pastelias. These flavors, prepared with pure, local ingredients, will take you on a journey to an authentic Greek gastronomic experience.
The natural beauty of Astypalaia with its impressive beaches such as Livadi and Vatses, as well as the picturesque villages such as Chora with its Venetian castle, offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The island combines traditional Cycladic architecture with rich cultural events, making it an ideal destination for the 15th of August. Astypalaia, with the warm hospitality of its inhabitants and its authentic atmosphere, is sure to conquer you at first sight.
How do I get to Astypalaea?
You can find routes from Piraeus to Astypalaia every day. The duration of the trip is 8 – 10 hours and the ferry ticket prices start from €56.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
9. Lesvos
Lesvos is a destination that exudes charm and tradition, especially around August 15, when festivals and celebrations bring every corner of the island to life. The festival of Panagia in Agiasos is one of the most famous and picturesque of the island, attracting crowds of believers who flock to worship and participate in the events. Agiassos, with its narrow streets and traditional houses, is filled with the sounds of traditional music, dances, and religious ceremonies that last all day and night.
The gastronomy of Lesvos is another reason to visit on August 15. The local taverns and restaurants offer authentic dishes, such as ouzo with meze, sardines from Kalloni, lemon goat, and many more. The local sweets, such as almond and baklava, are made with local ingredients and offer a unique taste experience. The gastronomy of Lesvos, with its varied flavors and aromas, highlights its rich cultural heritage.
The natural beauty of Lesvos, with impressive beaches such as Molyvos and Eresos, as well as picturesque villages such as Mithymna and Petra, offer many opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The island also has rich historical monuments, such as the Castle of Mytilene and the ancient theatre of Mithymna, which are worth visiting. With the authentic hospitality of its people and its rich cultural tradition, Lesvos is an ideal destination for August 15, combining religious worship, tradition, and natural beauty in a magical setting.
How do I get to Lesvos?
You can find routes from Piraeus to Lesvos every day. The duration of the trip is 12 – 14 hours and the ferry ticket prices start from €53.50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
10. Kefalonia
Kefalonia is a magical destination that you should visit, especially on August 15th, with rich traditions and celebrations that touch every visitor. The island hosts the festival of Panagia in Markopoulo, one of the most famous and beloved of the region. The various celebrations include religious ceremonies, where believers gather to venerate the image of the Virgin Mary, and traditional dances that last late into the night. The phenomenon of small snakes appearing in the temple of Panagia Fidousa is impressive, a fact that is considered miraculous and attracts many visitors.
The gastronomy of Kefalonia is one of the main reasons to visit the island on August 15. Local taverns offer excellent traditional dishes such as meat pie, garlic, and lagoto (cooked goat with red sauce). It is also worth trying local sweets, such as mantolas (caramelized almonds) and baklava, made with pure, local ingredients. The flavors of Kefalonia, with its variety and rich tradition, will delight you and take you on a culinary journey.
The natural beauty of Kefalonia with its crystal blue beaches, such as Myrtos and Antisamos, and impressive caves such as Melissani and Drogarati, offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Also, picturesque villages such as Assos and Fiskardo combine traditional architecture with modern amenities. Kefalonia, with the warm hospitality of its people and its numerous natural beauties, is an ideal destination for the 15th of August, combining tradition, celebration, and adventure in a magical setting.
How do I get to Kefalonia?
To get to Kefalonia first you have to drive to the port of Kyllini. You can find routes from Kyllini to Kefalonia every day, the trip duration is 1h 30m and ferry ticket prices start from €14.50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the type of seat, and the ferry company you choose to travel with.
Book ferry tickets for August 15 using Ferryscanner
August 15 is one of the best times to enjoy your summer holidays on the Greek islands. Don’t miss the chance to book your ferry tickets using Ferryscanner, the search engine that offers you all the best options for your travels.
Ferryscanner provides easy and quick access to schedules and prices for all popular Greek islands. You can compare ferry companies, see the best offers, and book your tickets with just a few clicks. Whether you choose to visit Kefalonia, Syros, Ikaria, Naxos, Naxos, Patmos, Astypalaia, or any other island, Ferryscanner will ensure a comfortable and economical transfer. Enjoy August 15 in one of the most beautiful Greek destinations. Make your reservation today and get ready for an unforgettable holiday full of religious ceremonies, traditional celebrations, and natural beauty.