North East Aegean

Among all the Greek archipelagos, this is perhaps, unfairly, the least known. Probably the distance from Italy has made it less popular, but the still low presence of tourism makes it very attractive for those who love beauty, tranquility, and culture.

The archipelago includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the islands that compose it, very different from each other, offer a pristine nature, beautiful sea and beaches, and a rich history that is still palpable in the traditional villages.

Being very close to the coast of Asia Minor, many innovations from the East have passed through these islands in the past, leading to significant development. Additionally, having been allies or dominated by various peoples, they have acquired diverse traditions and cultures from different civilizations, enriching them and making them very varied also from an architectural point of view.

List and Names of All 10 North East Aegean Islands Reviewed

Below you can find the list of all the 6 North East Aegean Greek Islands that we have reviewed.

Clicking on an island will open the detailed guide containing information on how to reach it, where to stay, what to see, and the beaches!

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Map of the North East Aegean Islands

Where exactly are the North East Aegean Islands located? By looking at a map of Greece, we can identify them, as the name itself suggests, in the Northern Aegean Sea, precisely to the north of the two archipelagos of the Cyclades and the Dodecanese and east of the Sporades and Euboea. They are situated opposite Turkey, in some cases very close.

Now that we have seen where they are, we can understand why, given their geographical position next to Asia Minor, the North East Aegean Islands have experienced many oriental influences throughout their history.

This archipelago is not very clustered; in fact, looking at a map of the Aegean Sea, we immediately notice how vast the area it occupies is, ranging from the northernmost Thassos to the southernmost Ikaria, which is the closest to Athens. For this reason, the islands are diverse, especially concerning the natural environment: some are lush, others are arid. Here, we have reviewed the 10 main islands.

North East Aegean Islands: Which to Choose?

If you are not familiar with the North East Aegean Islands, as is often the case, and have decided to explore this archipelago: where should you go for the first time? Which one to choose for your first approach to the archipelago?

Very different from each other, we try to suggest the most unique ones, with specific features, and briefly summarize what characterizes them.

Samothrace

For lovers of antiquity, mystery, wild and less touristy environments. This island is very green, mountainous, and rich in fresh water (not common among Greek islands). The famous statue of Nike, now in the Louvre Museum, was found here.

Chios

A very large island, homeland of Homer, perfect for those who love walking through beautiful medieval villages rich in towers, crenellated houses, Byzantine monuments, and walls. The architecture of some of its villages, characterized by geometric black and white designs, is truly unique.

Lemnos

For lovers of sand dunes, the island offers a small desert in a volcanic environment. The sea is very rich in fish.

How to Reach the North East Aegean Islands?

The island of Samos can be reached by direct flight from various European cities, others require a stopover, and still others are accessible only by sea. For these, the journey can be a bit longer, which is (perhaps) why they are less touristy; the tranquility and unspoiled environment will make up for any additional effort.

Here are the main ways to reach them:

Flight

Directly by plane to Samos (in summer with charter flights from various European cities), and sometimes also to Lesbos and Lemnos, as they have international airports. For a list of Greek islands with airports, you can check this article.

International Flight + Domestic Flight

Fly to Athens (Elefthérios Venizélos International Airport) or Thessaloniki (Makedonia International Airport) and then, always by plane (maximum 100 seats), take a short domestic flight to Lesbos, Lemnos, Chios, or Ikaria. As for the island of Samothrace, the nearest airport is on the mainland in Alexandroupolis (Democritus International Airport) but it also requires a stopover in Athens.

Flight + Ferry

Fly to Athens (Elefthérios Venizélos International Airport) and then take a ferry from Piraeus to Oinousses, Psara, Chios, Lesbos, Lemnos, Samos, or Ikaria. Alternatively, fly to Thessaloniki (Makedonia International Airport) and then take a ferry to Chios, Lesbos, or Lemnos.

Car + Ferry

Drive (or take another vehicle like a motorcycle or camper) to the departure port. Travellers from Western Europe can take a ferry from Adriatic ports (such as Venice, Ancona, Bari, or Brindisi in Italy) to Igoumenitsa or Patras. Those from Northern or Eastern Europe can drive to Greece via the Balkans. From the mainland, continue by road to the embarkation port for the chosen island. Specifically, from Kavala, you can reach all the islands of the archipelago, from Nea Peramos and Keramoti you can embark for Thassos, from Lavrio to Agios Efstratios, Psara, and Chios, while from Alexandroupolis you can reach Samothrace and Lemnos.

Where to Stay in the North East Aegean Islands?

After choosing the North East Aegean island for our vacation, we need to decide where to stay. Accommodation options range from resorts to simple campsites, including hotels and lodgings of all categories, tourist villages, and especially studios, which are typical of Greek hospitality.

For luxury accommodation, the most equipped islands are Thassos and Samos, but in general, this archipelago is not particularly suited for luxurious vacations.

If you are looking for campsites, you can choose between Thassos, Samothrace, Chios, Lesbos, and Lemnos. Note that free camping is prohibited in Greece, but it is tolerated on some islands if done respectfully towards the environment and people.

Hotels and lodgings of all categories are available on almost all the major islands. However, the most characteristic accommodations are the studios. These are small lodgings (studios or one-bedroom apartments) that are charming and styled typically of the area. They are generally affordable and family-run, furnished simply but functionally and pleasantly. They are always equipped with a kitchenette, which can be very useful if you feel like cooking a pasta dish! Some studio stays also include breakfast, and if the hosts have a garden, you are often supplied with their fruits and vegetables. It’s not uncommon to make friends with the hosts, who are usually friendly and helpful, and with the neighboring guests due to the friendly atmosphere that easily develops.

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The Most Beautiful North East Aegean Islands According to Us

Very different from each other, perhaps the most beautiful, because they are more complete and globally more fascinating, are Thassos, Chios, and Ikaria. We consider them the best from a landscape perspective, but as always, giving wise advice on where to go on vacation is challenging. Choose one of the North East Aegean islands with the awareness that you will be in an archipelago somewhat different from the “postcard” Cyclades (for example) but no less Greek and fascinating, indeed!

Returning to our three favorite islands, let's briefly see what characterizes them the most and what to see once you arrive.

Thassos

An all-around island: lush, with beautiful beaches and clear sea, charming traditional villages, well-organized, and perfect for families with children.

Chios

Birthplace of Homer, it offers many things to see: beautiful beaches, incredible medieval villages with crenellated houses, Byzantine monuments, and especially the village of Pyrgi (unique in all of Greece) with houses decorated with beautiful geometric black and white designs.

Ikaria

Very quiet and a bit wild, with thermal springs, it is perfect for those seeking tranquility in a charming natural environment featuring picturesque villages. A good starting point for visiting the beautiful archipelago of the Fourni islets.

North East Aegean Islands with Airports

The North East Aegean islands that can be reached by plane are: Samos with direct flights and Lesbos, Lemnos, Chios, or Ikaria with a stopover (as their airports are either national or not directly connected with Italy). These islands are also connected by air with each other and with other Greek islands.

For Samos, its airport is Aristarchos International Airport (SMI), located 14 kilometers from the capital. In high season, there may also be direct charter flights from many European cities to the island. Generally, Samos can be reached directly from the Italian airports of Milan (Malpensa) and Venice (Marco Polo).

The international airport of Lesbos (Odysseas Elytis – MJT) is located 13 kilometers from the capital Mytilene. Occasionally, it can also be reached directly from Italy.

The international airport of Lemnos (Hephaestus – LXS) is located in the center of the island, about 19 kilometers from the capital. Occasionally, it can also be reached directly from Italy.

The national airport of Chios (Omiros – JKH) is located 4 kilometers from the port.

The national airport of Ikaria (Island of Ikaria – JIK) is located 12 kilometers from the capital.

From Italy, all islands that are not directly reachable require a stopover in Athens (Elefthérios Venizélos – ATH) or Thessaloniki (Makedonia International Airport). The domestic flight is short, but the planes have limited capacity (about 100 seats).

Climate, Weather, and Temperatures in the North East Aegean Islands

The climate in the North East Aegean islands varies slightly depending on their location. The archipelago extends significantly from north to south, and the two northernmost islands, Thassos and Samothrace, have somewhat different weather. Here, winters are a bit colder, and summers, while hot, may have some thunderstorms and are slightly shorter. For all the other islands located further south, the climate is the classic Mediterranean: winters are not excessively cold, and summers are dry and sunny. As for the wind, this archipelago is relatively sheltered, and the Meltemi wind is much less prevalent. The best months for swimming are always the summer months, from June to mid-September.

Let's now look at the average monthly temperatures and other weather information:

Month	Air Temperature	Precipitation	Sea Temperature
January	3°-12°	moderate	13°-15°
February	3°-13°	moderate	13°-15°
March	5°-15°	few	13°-15°
April	9°-19°	few	14°-16°
May	13°-24°	few	18°
June	18°-28°	few	22°
July	20°- 31°	none	23°-24°
August	21°-31°,	none	23°-25°
September	16°-27°	few	22°-23°
October	13°-22°	few	20°
November	8°-17°	moderate	17°-18°
December	5°-14°	frequent	15°-16°

North East Aegean Islands Suitable for Families with Children

Deciding if an island is suitable for families with children, or rather, recommending a specific one, is not easy. Similarly, if the children are curious and adaptable, any place can be a good choice. Usually, a destination is considered child-friendly when it offers easy connections, a pleasant but safe natural environment, suitable entertainment and sports, curiosities or characteristic places to visit. For more anxious parents, or those with children with delicate health, the presence of a medical clinic, if not an actual hospital, can also be reassuring. As for accommodation and dining, there should never be any issues: the food is not spicy or particularly “exotic” and the accommodations in the North East Aegean islands are clean and functional.

To narrow down the choices a bit, we have selected a couple of islands where maybe not all the required characteristics coexist but that will be appreciated by children and parents for their beauty, sense of freedom, and opportunities for relaxation and fun.

Thassos

Perfect island for families with children as it offers shallow waters and sandy beaches. It also has lush greenery, entertainment, opportunities for sports, and even a hospital (if needed).

Samos

For families who find traveling with children challenging, Samos is easily accessible by flight from various European cities. The island offers a bit of everything: sandy beaches, crystal-clear sea, entertainment, lots of greenery, opportunities for sports, and a medical clinic.

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North East Aegean Islands for Those Seeking Fun and Nightlife

Surely, the islands of this archipelago are not famous for nightlife and wild parties. However, discos are available on the more touristy islands.

Planning a vacation in the North East Aegean with the intention of having fun and dancing means heading to Samos (music and dancing in Pythagorion), Lesbos (nightlife and discos in Mytilene), and Thassos (lively atmosphere in Limenas).

Most Affordable North East Aegean Islands for Budget Travelers

If you are curious to visit one of the North East Aegean islands and have a limited budget, you can relax. The archipelago includes some affordable islands, especially the less touristy ones. The golden rule remains to book early!

When planning expenses, the cost of travel is certainly a significant item, and to evaluate it, several factors must be analyzed:

• Travel by motorcycle/car/camper/bus
• Ferries with or without a vehicle
• International flight
• Renting a vehicle on the island
• Accommodation
• etc...

In the following articles, you can find specific references to the North East Aegean islands:

• Ferries to the Greek islands from Italy and Greece
• Greek islands reachable from Athens by plane or from Piraeus by ferry
• Which Greek islands have direct flights from Europe?
• Greek islands easy to reach by sea or air
• Which Greek islands have airports and are reachable by plane?

For accommodation, apart from a tent and sleeping bag, the most economical solution is always to choose one of the many “studios” available on all the islands. These are small apartments equipped with a kitchenette and usually family-run.

In this archipelago, we recommend the following islands for a budget-friendly vacation:

Chios

For those who love characteristic villages with unique architecture.

Ikaria

For those seeking a relaxing vacation in a beautiful natural and marine environment.

Lesbos

For those interested in traditions and ancient history.

Thassos

For those who love lush greenery, sandy beaches, and turquoise sea.

Least Touristy and Most Tranquil North East Aegean Islands

The North East Aegean archipelago is not particularly crowded with tourists, so most of its islands offer relaxing days. For a slow-paced vacation, choose among the less touristy and more tranquil islands of the archipelago. Here are a few suggestions to help you decide on which North East Aegean island to spend your serene days by the sea.

Among the smaller ones:

Oinousses

For those who love beautiful walks amidst greenery and by the sea.

Psara

For those seeking an oasis of peace and tranquility.

Among the larger ones:

Chios

For enthusiasts of characteristic villages and beautiful beaches.

Ikaria

For nature lovers and picturesque villages.

Limnos

For those who love fishing and snorkeling on a diverse island.

Samothrace

For a peaceful vacation amidst greenery and interesting archaeological visits.

North East Aegean Islands with the Most Beautiful Sea and White Beaches

The Greek islands generally have beautiful seas and beaches, and those in the North East Aegean are no exception. You can find long sandy beaches with shallow waters, wild pebble coves with deep, crystal-clear sea, cliffs, and pine forests by the sea. Let's take a closer look at where you can find the most beautiful beaches and sea in the North East Aegean islands.

Island	Best Beaches
Thassos	Marble Beach (Saliara), Paradisos, Alyki, Pefkari, Glyfada
Samothrace	Ammos
Chios	Mavra Volia, Nagos
Lesbos	Aghios Ermogenis, Vatera, Skala Eressos, Petra
Limnos	Akti Myrina, Aghios Ioannis, Agia Varvara, Thanos, Plati
Samos	Posidonio, Kerveli, Tsamadu
Ikaria	Seychelles Beach, Nas, Armenistis

Least Windy and Most Windy North East Aegean Islands

Due to their location in the middle of the sea, all islands are exposed to winds. However, in this archipelago, the renowned and often feared Meltemi wind is less strong than in the Cyclades, where it is at its peak.

The least windy island in the North East Aegean is Thassos; particularly the large beach of Limenaria.

If you are looking for a place to practice kitesurfing or windsurfing, Limnos is an island where the wind is almost always present: have fun!

North East Aegean Islands for Snorkeling and Diving

For snorkeling or diving enthusiasts who love exploring rich marine life and underwater wrecks in crystal-clear waters, the island of Chios is an excellent destination. Scuba diving, particularly in the area known as “The Great Wall,” is renowned throughout Europe. The island's underwater life is rich in fish, corals, and vegetation.