The Eastern Aegean Islands are a group of islands situated north of the Dodecanese and east of the Sporades. They are closer to Turkey than to mainland Greece, with many of them acting as a border between the two countries. Although not as tourism-oriented as many other Greek islands, they are preferred by many for their quieter, stress-free environment away from the hustle and bustle of busier destinations. Visitors can enjoy the islands’ traditional architecture, stunning beaches and picturesque villages scattered around the hills offering awe-inspiring views of the Aegean.
Nissos Rodos of Hellenic Seaways
By Ferry
Ferries to the Eastern Aegean Islands regularly depart from Piraeus Port, as well as the port of Thessaloniki. There are also ferry connections from many other Greek islands, including Mykonos and Rhodes, which are more frequent during the summer, as well as some connections from Turkey. Ferries to Thassos depart only from Kavala.
We have compiled a list of the islands of the Eastern Aegean sorted by popularity. Thus, you can find the destination that best suits your ideal holiday as you envisage it!
There are airports on the large islands of the complex, namely Chios, Ikaria, Lesvos, Limnos and Samos, which receive domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki. During the summer, the airport of Samos also receives international charter flights from countries such as Italy, Germany, Sweden, and the UK.
You can read the basic features of each of the Eastern Aegean islands below:
THE ISLANDS BY POPULARITY
Discover the islands of the Eastern Aegean by popularity.
Thassos
The beach of Psili Ammos in Thassos
Also called the Emerald Island, Thassos is preferred for its striking green landscapes and crystal blue waters. It is full of remarkable natural wonders worth exploring, none more so than Giola Lagoon, a natural pool carved into a rock by the sea with a magical atmosphere. Its scenic beaches are also ideal for a nice swim, while various hiking trails around the island take you through traditional villages and impressive caves.
Ferry Connections: Keramoti (Kavala)
Lesvos
The village of Molivos in Lesvos
The third biggest island in the country, Lesvos, features dense vegetation, endless olive groves, high mountains and enchanting beaches. An island with a rich cultural history, it is the birthplace of many painters and poets and has offered countless contributions to Greece’s artistic canon. Lesvos’ historical pedigree cannot be overstated. It is where the oldest traces of Paleolithic settlements in southeastern Europe were found, the birthplace of Biology, and the location of a UNESCO-recognized geopark.
Chios is the 5th largest island in Greece, known for its gorgeous beaches and medieval villages. Visitors can delve into the island’s rich history by visiting the impressive Medieval Castle and the Monastery of Nea Moni, before relaxing at the black pebbled beach of Mavros Gialos. Many of the villages in Chios are famous for their historic production of Mastic Gum and Mastiha, a popular liquor. The island is also the birthplace of many significant historical Greek figures, such as Adamantios Korais and Alexandros Mavrokordatos, while many claim it was also the birthplace of Homer.
Samos is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Eastern Aegean, boasting scenic beaches and unspoiled natural beauty. Its collection of must-not-miss beaches includes Tsamadou, Tsabou, Psili Ammos and Agios Konstantinos. Meanwhile, a trip to the ancient city of Pytahgoreion and the ancient Temple of Hera, two UNESCO-recognized landmarks, unlocks the island’s cultured past. A walk around the picturesque village of Vathy is also worthwhile, with many traditional restaurants serving local delicacies and offering beautiful views of the island.
Limnos is characterized by a unique landscape formed by volcanic eruptions. It is filled with interesting rock formations, huge dunes and extensive plots of fertile fields cultivated with vineyards and cereals. Visitors should make sure to stop by the Ancient Kavirio, a place strongly related to religious ceremonies, and the Medieval Castle of Myrina, the island’s capital town. According to Mythology, the god of fire Hephaestus used to run a chopper workshop on the island, leading the locals to build a town named Hephaestia in his honor.
Ikaria owes its name to the Greek mythological hero Ikarus, who was buried on the island after his tragic plummet into the Aegean. Ikaria was also known in ancient times for its thermal springs that bared therapeutic qualities and its delicious, dark red wine. Today the island is an off-the-beaten-path destination boasting sandy beaches, green hillsides and an unabashedly laid-back pace of life that contributes to its inhabitants' longevity.
Fourni is actually a cluster of many smaller islands of which only two are inhabited. Secluded and untouched by mass tourism, Fourni possesses a unique charm that is unlike many other Greek islands. It is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in crystal clear waters or a hiking expedition among lush hills. A smattering of archaeological finds can be seen in the area, such as the Cyclopean Wall on the Hill of Saint George and the shrine to Poseidon in the village of Chrysomilia.
Inhabited since the Mycenaean Era, Psara is a cluster of 7 small islands less than 20 km off the coast of Chios. It is a place of rocky terrain with a serene environment, where the beaches are never too crowded and the locals are pleasant and welcoming. History enthusiasts will not want to miss out on visiting the Church of Agios Nikolaos, built in 1793, and the Monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, where rare manuscripts and religious texts have been preserved.
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