SchinoussaCyclades · Greece

All About Schinoussa

Schinoussa is a relatively flat island by Cycladic standards, although no less charming than the neighboring Naxos, Irakleia, Koufonisia, and Keros. Taking a ferry to Schinoussa is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets. Upon arrival, you will notice that the landscape is made up of low green hills and undulating valleys, with many small beaches scattered around the coastline.

It is the ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those who wish to take a step back from their humdrum lifestyles to enjoy the simplicity and beauty of the Lesser Cyclades in a nutshell. Inhabited since antiquity, finds from the island such as statuettes and parts of marble columns are on display in the Naxos Archaeological Museum dating back to the ancient Greek and Roman eras. You can still find Byzantine monasteries and even a tiny medieval castle on Schinoussa, as well as welcoming locals, delicious cuisine, and beautiful scenery.

Birdwatching and rock climbing are becoming popular island pursuits, which is also famous for its exquisite fava beans. By booking ferry tickets to Schinoussa you will find absolute peace and total tranquillity in unspoiled surroundings.
 

Routes and Ferries to Schinoussa

Although quite a secluded island, Schinoussa is on the main ferry lines that serve the Cyclades, so it is very easy to get to when you book a ferry using Ferryscanner. There are frequent departures from the port of Piraeus in Athens, so book your ferry tickets to Schinoussa from there and enjoy a 7.40 hour trip with Blue Star Ferries.

Already in the Cyclades? Book ferry tickets to Schinoussa with the company Small Cyclades, which runs every day (during summer) and arrives there in a short amount of time. From Naxos, the journey only takes 1.15 hrs, while you can also sail from Donoussa (1.50 hrs), Aegiali in Amorgos (3.15 hrs), Katapola in Amorgos (4.15 hrs), Koufonissi (30 minutes), and Irakleia (10 minutes). You can also book your ferry tickets to Schinoussa from the islands of Paros (1.20 hrs) and Syros (4.10 hrs).

If you have booked your ferry tickets to depart from Piraeus, you can get to the port from Athens International Airport in a number of ways. The X96 express bus leaves every 30-40 minutes for the port throughout the week. Alternatively, you can catch a taxi or arrange for a private transfer and arrive there in comfort, or travel by train from the city center.

The nearest airport to Schinoussa can be found on Naxos, which serves domestic and international flights all year round. After arriving at Naxos National Airport ‘Apollon’, you can book your ferry tickets to Schinoussa and sail from the port of Naxos, which is only 3 km away from the airport.
 

Ports of Schinoussa

Like any small island in the Cyclades, Schinoussa has few villages, and one of them is actually the port as well as your first introduction to the simple lifestyle that awaits you here. In this case, the port is known as Mersini and it is a natural harbor on the west side of the island.

Due to its small size, construction of a new, larger port has begun in the bay of Livadi, where archaeological findings have been unearthed dating back to the Neolithic period. Use Ferryscanner to compare prices, routes, ferry companies and book ferry tickets to Schinoussa.
 

Capital & Villages

Schinoussa only has about 250 permanent residents, most of whom are involved in farming and animal husbandry, with just two villages. The only paved roads on the island are the ones that link the port to the village of Panagia although there are trails for hikers to enjoy from one settlement to another.

Mersini

The port of Mersini welcomes ferries to the island and is classed as one of the most sheltered harbors for small craft in the Aegean. You will find some tourist amenities, such as rooms to rent and restaurants, and it is well known for its wonderful fish taverns.

An annual festival takes place here every December 6th in honor of the patron saint of fishermen, Agios Nikolaos.

Panagia

The island’s capital or Chora is also called Panagia, and is situated on a hill above the port – although it isn’t visible from the sea. It was once a favorite haunt for pirates, who used it as a base from which to plan their raids and to hide the loot.

Chora sits in the heart of the island and from here, you have access to almost every beach on Schinoussa via narrow walking trails. The tiny village is charmingly picturesque and a lovely place to absorb the traditional Cycladic culture, with family-run taverns and friendly coffee shops and bakeries. Taking pride of place in Chora is the quaint church of Panagia Akathi, the protector of the island and namesake of many of its inhabitants.

Messaria

Mesaria is a tiny village on the north side of the island that mainly comes to life during the summer months when tourists appear. It is connected to Chora by a cobblestone road only 1,500 meters away and boasts the imposing Church of the Annunciation at the entrance to the village. Mesaria is surrounded by the rustic scenery of vineyards and orchards yet is incredibly picturesque with its charming whitewashed houses and sense of total harmony.
 

Best Beaches

Schinoussa is blessed with many beautiful beaches, most of which are sandy or pebbled, and all within easy walking distance from the main town. Some are suitable for water sports (especially windsurfing) and scuba diving, while others are perfect anchorage spots for small yachts on the southern and southeastern side of the island.

A handful of nearby islets such as Ofidoussa, Agrilos, and Aspronissi make for great day trips and are protected under the Natura 2000 project due to their natural beauty and indigenous flora and fauna.

Aligaria Beach

This beach is about 1.5 km from Chora and is sandy with transparent waters and a couple of trees for shade. As with most beaches on Schinoussa, it is unorganized and therefore offers a relaxing place to unwind in tranquil surroundings. You can reach it by taking a 15-minute walk along a dirt track from the main town.

Almyros Beach

The beach of Almyros is about 2 km from Chora and is popular with families due to its sandy features and shallow waters. The beach itself is quite large and also attracts windsurfers hoping to catch one or two waves. You will find a small beach bar there serving snacks and refreshments as well as a small parking area.

Mersini (Piso Amos) Beach

This beach is very close to Mersini village and yet still feels strikingly remote. You will find it about 60 meters away from the harbor and its natural beauty will leave you awestruck. Crystal-clear waters and a few tamarisk trees create a quiet haven for you to enjoy as you soak up the serene landscapes and hot summer sun.

Gerolimnionas Beach

The tiny beach of Gerolimnionas is worth a visit if you are into snorkeling, or just want a romantic spot to escape to. The sandy beach is only 15 meters wide but the turquoise waters are truly mesmerizing. You can approach it via a dirt road just before Messaria village although it is best to go by foot as the road is difficult for cars to pass, although the route is very scenic.

Lioliou Beach

This is a wide, sandy beach lined with shady trees and can be found in a small cove about 2.7 kilometers from Chora along a dirt road. Children and adults alike will enjoy this beach, which offers clear shallow waters and some rock formations to either side. There is even a small tavern nearby serving wonderful local cuisine.
 

Transportation Around Schinoussa

Once you get to Schinoussa, be prepared to do a lot of walking as there is no public transport to speak of. Such a tiny island is best discovered on foot and most of the beaches can be reached that way after a short walk. Note that there are also no taxis on the island and only one gas station.

However, there is a helipad that serves the local community in the event of an emergency airlift. You can rent a small scooter to get around and take a boat trip around the island or to the tiny nearby islets. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Schinoussa.