What to see in Nisyros?

Nisyros is frequented by tourists for its craters, one of which is still slightly active, for its tranquil beaches, and for the architecture of the very white houses with very colorful decorations. The island is also well-suited for walks. The main things to see and do are listed below.

Mandraki
Charming colorful harbor and beautiful village built at the foot of a very scenic hill with a medieval castle and the white monastery of Panaghia Spiliani. The village consists of very white houses separated by narrow alleys with white and black cobblestone paving. Mandraki has a folklore museum and an archaeological museum.

Panaghia Spiliani
Large and important monastery housing the famous icon of Panaghia Spiliani (Madonna of the Cave), the protector of the island. According to legend, this icon, found in a cave, would mysteriously reappear in the cave if moved. After three miraculous relocations, the islanders decided to leave it in the cave and build a church around it.

Acropolis
Visible are towers, walls made of huge black volcanic stones from the 4th century BC, and the ancient cemetery. The site is very panoramic.

Temple of Zeus
Only the foundations of the Doric temple are visible.

Pali
Picturesque fishing village.

Emborios
Almost uninhabited village located in an area rich in fruit trees and thermal springs. The village is on high ground and is situated right on the edge of the volcano's crater. In Emborios, you can see the ruins of a Venetian castle and a very scenic monastery. Also in the area is a curious natural sauna inside a cave from which boiling vapors emerge from the rocks.

Nikia
Scenic and beautiful village of white houses and cobbled streets located in a dominant position over the island's largest crater. Nikia has a beautiful square with a geometric design pavement made with white and black pebbles. In the village, you can visit an interesting volcanology museum and reach the crater via a path.

Loutra
Village with a thermal spa and nearby the remains of a Roman villa.

Volcano craters
Located in the center of the island, they are the only active craters in all of Greece and are accessible on foot (there is an entrance fee). The ground inside the craters is quite soft with the emission of hot sulfur vapors. All around, the environment is colorful, predominantly yellow. The walls of the volcano, unlike the crater floor, are covered with vegetation (mainly fruit trees).

Walks
The island is very suitable for trekking, and several beautiful trails in good condition, sometimes even paved, can be traversed.

Boat trips
During the high season, it is possible to take day trips to the islands of Gyali and Agios Antonios.

May Day
On the evening of April 30, the islanders gather in the square and at midnight sing in honor of the beginning of May.

Ferragosto
Festival dedicated to Panaghia Spiliani with a pilgrimage in costume and a feast for all, residents and tourists.