We're Island Hopping in Greece' North Aegean Islands!

North Aegean Island hopping: Lésbos, Chíos, Lemnos, Samos, Thassos, Samothrace, Icaria

Exploring the North Aegean islands is like stepping into a treasure trove of Greece’s diverse beauty. From the lush landscapes of Lésbos to the historical charm of Chíos, the tranquil shores of Lemnos, the vibrant culture of Samos, the allure of Thassos, the mystique of Samothrace, to the laid-back vibe of Icaria, each island holds its own magic waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s strolling through quaint villages, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or delving into ancient tales, this cluster of islands offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler.

Travel Tip(s)

If you’re planning to hop between Greek islands, knowing about island groups helps you save money while enjoying awesome adventures. It’s like smart travel on a budget without missing out on amazing experiences.

Lésbos

Also spelled Lésvos, also called Mitilíni

what to expect
plan your trip
getting there

This stunning island, facing the Turkish coast from the north and east, has something for everyone’s taste.

From art to beautiful beaches, to rich culture, romantic villages, and of course Ouzo. Ouzo is a dry anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed on the island.

The island was also the home of the Greep poet Sappho in the 6th century BC.

You’re bound to fall in love with Kea and its traditional, age-old cafes, salted sardines, quaint villages, and unsurpassed view.

Book a ferry from Piraeus port, Athens. Alternatively, if you find yourself on the northern side of Greece you can take a ferry from the port of Kavala.

Chíos

what to expect
plan your trip
getting there

Chios, which was constructed on the east coast of the Greek island facing Ionia in Asia Minor, is evidence of the island’s naval prowess and aristocratic heritage.

Visit the Naval Museum to witness exact reproductions of steamboats and sailing ships. The magnificent houses of the ship owners can be seen as you stroll through the charmingly tiny lanes of Kaloplitis. Continue all the way to Tampákika to witness the Ioustiniani Palace and the stately mills of the former tanneries.

Worth visiting are:

The Byzantine Museum, located in an old Ottoman mosque, houses an exact replica of the famous Delacroix painting “Massacre at Chios,”.
The renowned “Korais” library contains Adamantios Korais’ personal library among its 1,300 historical tomes.

Via ferries: From Athens, take the ferry from Piraeus port. Usually, routes are carried out all year round, 3 times per week, and the trip duration is about 9 hours. In addition, Chios is connected via ferries with some other Greek islands such as Lesvos, Mykonos, Syros, Ikaria, Samos, and the port of Kavala (the latter usually only during the summer). Chios is linked with the port of Cesme in Turkey throughout the year.
Flights to Chios: Chios National Airport “Omiros” receives domestic flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, Lemnos, Mytilene, Rhodes, and Samos. The airport lies near Kampos village, 3 km away from Chios Town.
Airport Transfer to Chios: You’ll need a taxi transfer from the airport. Check out the following article, complete with contact information: THE 10 BEST Chios Taxis & Shuttles (with Photos) – TripAdvisor

Wheelchair Accessible Beaches

Daskalopetra, Komi, and Limnos Beach.

Lemnos

Also known as Limnos

what to expect
plan your trip
getting there

Lemnos, with its relaxing vibes and beautiful beaches, will keep the family busy. There are so many things to do on the island if you like to explore that you’ll need some planning to fit it all into one holiday. And then you want to soak up the sun on its beautiful sandy beaches, too! By the way, they have 4 Blue Flag beaches. Namely, Thanos, Evgatis (or Nevgatis), Agios Ioannis, and Platy. Not bad!

If you’re a birdwatcher, go see Alyki and Chortarolimni, two small lakes that are the breeding places of many rare and endangered bird species.

Byzantine Castle overlooks Mýrina, the capital and main port of Lemnos.

The archaeological site of Hephaestia (prehistoric capital of the Pelasgians) is an absolute must-see with ruins dating back to more than 2,000 years ago.

It is believed that the oldest parliament in the world lies in the prehistoric settlement of Poliochni. It’s also the oldest Neolithic city on the European continent.

Near Moudros is the Petrified Forest where you will see fossilized pieces from nature aged 20 to 22 million years!

And in addition to all the above, this lovely Greek island has a waterfront lined with traditional taverns and restaurants. Try their renowned golden-colored Muscat of Limnos, a sweet white wine traditional to the island. Alternatively, ask for Bougatsa (a sweet pastry with custard creme) and Kafedaki (coffee).

Fly in from Athens to Lemnos International Airport “Hephaestus”, about 22 km from Mýrina. You may need an airport transfer to your accommodation.

Alternatively, if you’re up to a 9-hour ferry trip, you can from Lavrion port to Lemnos. The ferries from Piraeus port is more than double the cruise time.

Samos

Wheelchair Accessible Beaches

Mesakti, and Therma Beach.

Thassos

what to expect
plan your trip
getting there

Thassos is the perfect family holiday destination. This is not where you seek dazzling nightlife. On the contrary, here you get in touch with nature again through the many hiking trails to abandoned caves and castles. Visiting the 18th-century Monastery of Archangel Michael and the Ancient Agora is highly recommended.

The Holy Nail from the right hand of Jesus Christ can be viewed at the Monastery of Archangel Michael. It traveled a long and challenging path from the day it was found during excavations in Jerusalem a the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The monks rescued the Holy Nail, amongst other holy objects, and fled by sea. Only to get stranded on Thassos after a heavy storm at sea. Then they decided to hide their precious findings in the rocks. And so many years have passed, and the Monastery needed restoration. In the exact place of the chapel of the Holy Archangel, the Holy Nail was re-discovered. When the news broke, the monks were determined to return it to Mount Athos, where they got it from. Despite receiving a message in a dream from Archangel Micheal to return the Holy Nail to Thassos. However, today the Holy Nail can be viewed at the Monastery of Archangel Michael.

Thassos does not have an airport. Thus, the only way to get to Thassos is by ferry from Kavala and Keramoti in Northern Greece.

Icaria

Also known as Ikaria.

Samothrace

Also known as Samothraki

what to expect
plan your trip
getting there

Samothrace is one of the most rugged of the Greek Islands, with Mt. Saos and its tip Fengari rising to 1,611 m (5,285 ft).

Granite and basalt are the Samothrace’s major resources. So it’s to no surprise that the 2.5-meter statue of Nike is a marble statue on the famous Sanctuary of Great Gods site. Known as the Winged Victory of Samothrace the statue dates back to 190BC. Pieces from the original statue were discovered in 1863 and the now headless display can be seen in the Louvre in Paris.

Samothrace does not have an airport. Thus, taking a ferry is the only way to get to Samothrace. Ferries usually run from Limnos and Lesvos islands. Also from the mainland, namely Kavale and Alexandroupoli. Ferries are subject to seasons time changes.