How about taking a trip to the Greek islands of the northeastern Aegean? These islands all have a long history and rich cultural traditions. Some of these islands resist mass tourism and prefer to stick to the more basic, natural wonders. However, some have modern infrastructure and are easy to visit, such as Mytilene, Chios, Lemnos, Samos, Ikaria, and Samothrace. The smaller ones such as Oinousses and Psara are not to be missed either. These islands are an ideal destination for holidays and not only.
The northeastern Aegean often attracts families for their holidays, but it is always inviting for everyone to visit. For instance, fans of alternative tourism frequently flock here. You can find many interesting things to do, from impressive beaches to hiking and historical excursions to the beautiful picturesque villages and gorgeous nature. The combination of green mountains and turquoise sea is harmonious. These islands all have a plethora of fascinating archaeological sites but keep in mind each one is unique and has its own experiences to offer. To discover them all and explore their incredible beauty, all you have to do is book your ferry tickets using Ferryscanner.
Ikaria: The fun of the Northeastern Aegean
Just hearing the name Ikaria makes you want to hop right on the ferry. Its characteristics are the dense vegetation, the picturesque villages, and the intense entertainment. If you are a lover of festivals, water sports, and nature then Ikaria is an ideal destination. The rhythm of this island is relaxed. You feel far away from the stress of daily life. This is why it is called by many ‘the island of happiness’. Ikaria has two ports, Evdilos and Agios Kirikos. The duration of the trip from the port of Piraeus is approximately 8-9 hours.
Ikaria has one of the largest beaches in the northeastern Aegean. Crystal-clear waters and both sand and pebbly shores make up the magical landscape of its coast. The most well-known beaches here are Mesakti, Seychelles, Livadi, and Armenistis. Visit some of the beautiful settlements during your stay, such as Gialiskari, Therma, Arethousa, and Kastanies. Also, Ikaria is ideal for surfing, hiking, canoeing, sailing, and climbing. The festivals here are full of traditional Greek music and dancing, which last until the morning. The largest festival takes place every year during the period of 15 August. When you set foot on this island, you will feel like time has stopped and you have been transported to another more relaxed reality.
It is undoubtedly the island of revelry. According to tradition, the water that springs from the island is part of the reason the inhabitants here live for many years. The locals call it Nikaria.
Agios Kirikos is the capital of the island. The ancient city of Nash is worth a visit, as mythology says that the Naiads lived there. It also has many beautiful monasteries. Ikaria also has thermal baths for taking your relaxation even further.
Samos: The green of the northeastern Aegean
East of Ikaria is the beautiful island of Samos. An important commercial center of antiquity, the green gem of the northeastern Aegean Sea will enchant you. Samos is the island of Hera, of sweet wine, and also of great personalities such as Pythagoras. Traditional settlements, beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and an abundance of archaeological sites and museums make up a trip to Samos. This island has two ports, Karlovassi and Vathi, which is the capital of the island. The duration of the route from Piraeus is 10 to 12 hours so probably best to book a cabin. The narrow streets and beautiful old houses here will transport you back in time.
Does Samos have nice beaches?
Naturally, Samos has stunning beaches. For instance, Potami, which is an impressive beach near Karlovassi. Other equally beautiful beaches with bright blue waters are Kokkari, Tsamadou, Psili, and and the beach of Mykali. Samos is also an ideal destination for nature lovers. If you like adventures in nature, visit the island’s waterfalls near Potami beach. Finally, a visit to the cave of Pythagoras is a must. The view from the entrance is gorgeous.
Lesvos: The tradition of the Northeastern Aegean
Lesvos is characterized by natural beauty, rich gastronomy, and fascinating history. The third largest island in Greece has lots more to offer than you might think. Apart from untouched beaches, you can also find archaeological sites, castles, and monasteries. The fastest way to reach Lesvos from Piraeus takes about 12 hours. You can also get to the island from the ports of Thessaloniki and Kavala, which are in the northern part of mainland Greece. It is advisable to take a car with you or rent one while visiting the island because of the long distances. Mytilene is the main port and capital of the island. The traditional architecture and the old neoclassical buildings are prominent in the city.
What to see, where to go, what to eat!
From the port, the imposing Byzantine castle will grab your attention. The island of Lesvos is famous for its traditional products such as ouzo, fine olive oil, olive oil, oil cheese, and delicious almond bread. It is worth noting that Lesvos is the homeland of many great figures such as the ancient poetess Sappho, Theophilos, Stratis Myrivilis, Argyris Efthaliotis, and of course Odysseus Elytis. The unique gastronomy and the crystal clear waters will make you want to return to this destination again and again.
Make sure to swim at the long sandy beach of Vateres, and also at the beach of Eressos. A visit to the thermal baths of Eftalou and the beach of Agios Hermogenis with its beautiful pine trees is also a must. Lesvos is known for having beautiful villages. Agiasos, Plomari, Molyvos, and Petra are just a few examples. Finally, pay a visit to the petrified forest which is a rare natural monument.
Lemnos: The rich gastronomy of the North Aegean
One main characteristic of Lemnos is its volcanic landscape with its traditional settlements, impressive beaches, special geological formations, and excellent gastronomy. Myrina is the main port of the island.
From the port of Piraeus, the journey is quite long. However, Lemnos is ideal for island hopping. The shortest route is to the port of Kavala which takes about 4 hours. The prehistoric occupation of Lemnos is evidenced by the settlement of Poliochni, which was inhabited from the 3rd millennium BC. Furthermore, here you will also find the unique desert in Evropi. Pay a visit to the impressive castle of Myrina, built in the 12th century where you can see some deer. Go at sunset to see the breathtaking colors.
The gastronomy and local products of Lemnos will not leave you disappointed, such as the honey cheese, the kalathaki, the noodles, and the flamaria. The wonderful wine though truly steals the show. Also, due to the volcanic landscape, the soil of Lemnos has unique minerals and trace elements that make the island’s products unrivaled. Add to your list the Lemnos Archaeological Museum the sanctuary of Kaveira in the north of the ancient city as well as the sanctuary of Artemis. The archaeological site of Hephaestia where the cave of the mythical Philoctetes is located is also very interesting.
Also, due to soil erosion, large sand dunes have formed north of the village of Katalakkos. If you like photography, visit the wetland of Aliki, though keep in mind that during summer the lake is usually dry. The puzzle of rare natural phenomena that Lemnos has to offer is completed by the petrified forest. In the village of Kornos, you will find thermal springs.
Samothrace: The natural wonder of the northeastern Aegean
Samothrace is a mysterious island of the Northeastern Aegean Sea that challenges you to explore and discover it. Waterfalls, pristine beaches, wildlife, and picturesque mountain villages are the recipe for the island’s success. The wild beauty of Samothrace attracts lovers of alternative tourism, especially a younger crowd. To discover Samothrace you will need to go to Alexandroupoli and take the ferry. The journey from here to the port of Kamariotissa takes about two hours.
The beloved pedestals of the Northeastern Aegean are located in Samothrace and you must take the time to swim in them. The pedestals are natural pools created by the waterfalls. The source of it all is the mountain Saos. You can also spend the day at the sandy beach of Pachia Ammos. Above it, there is the imposing rock where the chapel of Panagia Krimniotissa is located. The beach of Kipoi is impressive with its dark pebbles.
Chios: Beautiful villages and the smell of mastic
If you find yourself in Chios one thing’s for sure – you’ll never get bored. You’ll always have a beautiful village to explore and one of the island’s countless beautiful beaches to dive into. When you talk about Chios, the first thing that comes to mind is the mastic which has been cultivated on the island since the 1st century AD. Meanwhile, the 66 villages have a characteristic beauty and you will surely fall in love with them. Their impressive architecture invites you to take a beautiful journey back in time. The images of these alleys will be unforgettable. Mastic is produced in southern Chios. Famous mastic villages you should visit are Pyrgi, Armolia and Mesta with the traditional grey stone. The paved streets of the village are covered with arches.
In northern Chios, the villages of Vrondados, the seaside Lagada and Kardamyla stand out. On the island, you can admire the famous villas, and cylindrical buildings that served as outposts for pirates. A stone tower located in Anavatos is definitely worth a visit. The monastery of Nea Moni from the 11th century, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a must-see. To explore all of the above, simply book ferry tickets, board the vessel at the port of Piraeus, and in about 8 hours you will be in the port of Chios.
Due to its large size, this island has a wide variety of wonderful beaches. For instance, Mavra Volia with its volcanic landscape. You can take a walk from the sandy beach of Karfas, which is located near the town of Chios to Komi Beach in southern Chios. Other beaches worth swimming at are Daskalopetra, Gialiskari, Metochi, and Agios Isidoros. Finally, the local gastronomy of the island will have a special place in your heart. It is worth mentioning that you should try the local sweets, the special cheese mastelo, and the island’s wine. Keep in mind that Chios is ideal for island hopping because it has frequent routes to nearby islands such as Samos and Lesvos.