East Aegean Islands Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in East Aegean Islands, Greece.


Introduction to East Aegean Islands

East Aegean Islands consist of twelve islands located in the Aegean Sea, east of the Cyclades and southwest of the Dodecanese islands. These unspoiled islands offer amazing natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and warm Greek hospitality. Whether you are looking for some relaxation or an adventure, East Aegean Islands have something to offer for everyone!

List of Places to Visit in East Aegean Islands

  • Lesvos
  • Chios
  • Samos
  • Ikaria
  • Fourni
  • Psara
  • Inousses
  • Agios Efstratios
  • Oinousses
  • Limnos
  • Thassos
  • Samothrace

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lesvos is home to a wealth of museums and historical sites such as the Petrified Forest, the Archaeological Museum of Mytilene, and the Plomari Ouzo Museum. Chios Island, on the other hand, is known for its medieval villages and the famous Nea Moni Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Heraion, Temple of Hera, in Samos, is another must-see attraction that dates back to the 8th century BC.

Natural Attractions of East Aegean Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Aegean Islands boast a unique natural environment. The stunning beaches, the hot springs of Ikaria, and the picturesque villages of Fourni and Psara are worth exploring. Travelers interested in bird-watching can visit the wetlands of Kalloni in Lesvos or the Gavras forest in Samos. Samothrace is also a fantastic starting point for hiking to Mount Fengari, the highest mountain in the Aegean Sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Aegean Islands

Hiking and biking in the East Aegean Islands can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Lesvos is perfect for trekking routes, particularly the hike from Eresos to Skala Eressos. Samos offers options from Mount Karvounis and the ancient Roman path to the North of the Vourliotes village. An early morning ride to Asfendiou in Ikaria is an excellent way to get acquainted with the island’s terrain.

Best Things to Do in East Aegean Islands: Activities and Tours

The East Aegean Islands offer a range of activities and tours for travelers. You can take a walking tour in Lesvos or go kayaking in Samos. Limnos is famous for windsurfing, kite-surfing, and horseback riding, while Thassos is ideal for scuba diving. You can also enjoy a day trip to the nearby islands.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Aegean Islands

A week-long itinerary in East Aegean Islands can include exploring the islands of Lesvos, Chios, and Samos. You can start with Lesvos, where you can traverse the old-town of Molyvos, visit the Kalloni Salt Pans and Petra Beach. Next, head to Chios, to see the Mastichochoria, monasteries, and the famous Anavatos village. Lastly, explore Samos island’s history, beaches, and mountain villages.

Food and Drink Scene of East Aegean Islands

Must-Try Dishes

East Aegean Islands’ cuisine has a unique mix of Greek and Turkish flavors. Lesvos is famous for sardines grilled with ouzo, while Chios is known for its delicious mastic-flavored sweets. Samos offers flavorful dishes of makarounes, a local pasta dish, and the island’s signature cheese, manouri.

Local Beverages

The region is famously known for its tourist-friendly drink ouzo, produced mainly on Lesvos and Chios islands. Samos wine has a local reputation, particularly the sweet Muscat.

Where to Stay in East Aegean Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

In East Aegean Islands, you will find plenty of options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. You can stay at the beautiful Pyrgos of Mytilene in Lesvos, the Medusa Resort in Chios, or the Doryssa Seaside Resort in Samos. In the off-season, visitors can also stay in locally rented apartments and villas.

What to Buy in East Aegean Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can explore handmade crafts, embroidery, ceramics, and jewelry at the local markets in each island’s capital. Given that the islands are remote and self-reliant, local produce like mastiha, olive oil, honey, and wine are available in local stores.

Local Culture and Customs of East Aegean Islands

The islands are unique in their cultural practices, which encompasses folk-lore, music, dance, and festivals. The importance of family and community values, and daily life is best experienced in the smaller, traditional villages.

Best Time to Visit East Aegean Islands

The best time to visit the East Aegean Islands is during the shoulder season that falls in April-May and September-October. Temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds are sparse. However, the islands offer mild weather year-round, making it an idyllic getaway.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Aegean Islands

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Explore the native natural parks, towns, and villages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the waters or nature spots.
  • Don’t haggle for prices as an established cultural norm.

Safety and Health

Safety in East Aegean Islands

East Aegean Islands are generally safe for travelers. Still, it is sensible to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone in remote and dark places.

Health in East Aegean Islands

Visitors should carry their prescribed medications, as pharmacies and hospitals may not be readily accessible in remote areas. Visitors should also bring mosquito repellents to avoid insect bites.

Getting to East Aegean Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near East Aegean Islands

The international airports of Mytilene, Chios, and Samos offer daily flights to Athens and other Greek cities, along with several international routes. Visitors can also take a ferry from the nearby port cities.

Bus Stations Near East Aegean Islands

There are regular bus services in the East Aegean Islands to commute between towns and villages.

Other Options

Travelers can rent a car or a motorbike in any island, which is an excellent way to explore the area at your pace.

How to Get Around in East Aegean Islands

The transportation options for getting around East Aegean Islands are car rentals, taxis, public buses, and walking for shorter distances. The local ferries are also available to travel between the islands.

Where to Go Next from East Aegean Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the nearby destinations of Athens and Istanbul, which are accessible by plane or ferry.

Conclusion

The East Aegean Islands is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean with its rich cultural background, natural beauty, and a growing tourism scene. The serenity of the island landscape, the friendly local community, and the simmering sunsets all add up to a perfect escape from everyday life.



    Chios
    Fourni
    Ikaria
    Lesvos
    Samos