Ikaria
Photo: Wojtek Strzelec / Pexels
The Verdict
The island where people live longest, and where very little happens: steep green mountains, hot springs and festivals that run until dawn.
Why go
Ikaria is mountainous, green in the north and bare in the south, and its reputation is for longevity — the diet, the wine, the walking, and the fact that nobody hurries. The island has hot springs at Therma, a coastline of coves reached only by boat or on foot, and the panigyria, the summer festivals where whole villages eat, drink and dance until morning. It is a working island with no resort in it, and the beaches at Nas and Seychelles repay the drive.
Understand the place
A long, mountainous North Aegean island between Samos and Mykonos, known for its hot springs, its wine and a pace of life that ignores the clock.
Where to swim
Beaches
Towns & villages
Easy to combine with
Logically reachable by transport. Confirm current ferry/flight schedules before booking.
Nearby
Related
Sources
Booking links
Commercial links: we may earn a commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Plan this trip
Greece Field Guide helps you decide. When you're ready to arrange it, take your saved places to an itinerary.