Beyond Santorini and Mykonos
Exploring the Lesser-Known Aegean Island Paradises
The Aegean islands are known for their crystal clear waters, picturesque beaches, and rich history. While some of the more popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos may be on your radar, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the Aegean Sea. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the lesser-known islands that are worth a visit.
The Island of Nisyros
Located in the southern Aegean Sea, Nisyros is a small volcanic island that offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. The island is home to a dormant volcano, which you can explore by hiking to its crater. The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can even see the neighboring islands of Kos and Tilos on a clear day.
Aside from its volcanic landscape, Nisyros also has charming villages, such as Mandraki, which is the island’s main port. Here, you can wander through narrow streets, admire traditional white-washed houses, and enjoy delicious local cuisine at one of the many tavernas.
The Island of Folegandros
Folegandros is a small island in the southern Aegean Sea, known for its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The island is home to just over 700 residents, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a quiet and authentic Greek experience.
One of the highlights of Folegandros is Chora, a picturesque village perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Here, you can wander through narrow alleys, admire traditional Cycladic architecture, and enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Folegandros
The Island of Amorgos
Amorgos is a hidden gem in the eastern Aegean Sea, known for its rugged landscape and stunning beaches. The island is home to the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, a 1000-year-old monastery built into the side of a cliff. This impressive structure is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.
Aside from its cultural and historical attractions, Amorgos also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea. Agia Anna, Agios Pavlos, and Mouros are just a few of the beaches that are worth a visit for their crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.
Amorgos
The Island of Serifos
Serifos is a small island in the western Aegean Sea, known for its rugged landscape and traditional villages. The island is home to the Chora, a charming village with narrow streets, white-washed houses, and stunning views of the sea. Here, you can also visit the Venetian Castle, which dates back to the 15th century and offers panoramic views of the island.
Serifos is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea. Livadi, Psili Ammos, and Agios Sostis are just a few of the beaches that are worth a visit for their crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.
The Island of Anafi
Anafi is a small island in the southern Aegean Sea, known for its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The island is home to just over 200 residents, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a quiet and authentic Greek experience.
One of the highlights of Anafi is the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, a 17th-century monastery built into the side of a cliff. This impressive structure is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.
Aside from its cultural and historical attractions, Anafi also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea. Klisidi, Agios Nikolaos, and Katsouni are just a few of the beaches that are worth a visit for their crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.
Anafi
The Island of Astypalaia
Astypalaia is a small island in the southern Aegean Sea, known for its rugged landscape and traditional villages. The island is home to the Chora, a charming village with narrow streets, white-washed houses, and stunning views of the sea. Here, you can also visit the Venetian Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and offers panoramic views of the island.
Astypalaia is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea. Livadi, Agios Konstantinos, and Vatses are just a few of the beaches that are worth a visit for their crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.
How to Get to the Aegean Islands
The Aegean Islands are easily accessible by ferry or plane. The most popular way to get to the islands is by ferry, which departs from Athens and other major ports in Greece. The journey time varies depending on the island, but it typically takes between 2-5 hours.
If you prefer to fly, there are also several airports in the Aegean Sea that offer domestic flights to the islands. The most popular airports are located in Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos.
Where to Stay in the Aegean Islands
The Aegean Islands offer a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay, consider staying at one of the many boutique hotels on the islands. For a more budget-friendly option, there are also plenty of guesthouses and apartments available for rent.
The Aegean Islands are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and crystal clear waters, these islands offer a unique and authentic Greek experience.
