Guide To Nisyros Island – A Remote Aegean Getaway 

Here is all the Nisyros travel advice that you need. We’ve got a list of things to do in Nisyros, top Nisyros Island sites, and tips for where to stay in Nisyros Greece.

There are not many volcanic islands in Greece other than the famous Santorini; however, if this kind of landscape attracts you and you are curious about visiting a small, remote island in the Aegean, then Nisyros Island might be just the right place for you.

In this guide, we offer you all the information you need to plan your escape, including the best things to do in Nisyros and ideas about where to stay, when to go, and where to find the best food on the island.

Are you ready for Nisyros? Let’s begin!

Where Is Nisyros Island

Part of the Dodecanese cluster of Greek islands, the island of Nisyros is situated between Tilos and the more popular Kos. The island is a true hidden gem in the country as it has remained immune to mass tourism.

Nisyros’ incredible volcanic landscape, impressive beaches, and unique natural phenomena make it a unique destination that you don’t want to miss.

How To Get To Nisyros Island

Nisyros Island is located quite close to the shore of Turkey, 185 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus in Athens. It’s a lengthy journey to reach this unique island, but well worth the effort. 

By Plane

If you are looking for the quickest route to Nisyros, a combination of a plane ride followed by a ferry ride is your option.

While Nisyros doesn’t have an airport, the neighboring island of Kos does. You can fly directly from Athens to Kos in just under one hour. Aegean Airlines offers multiple flights throughout the day between the two.

From the airport in Kos (located in the center of the island), you’ll need to take a taxi or bus to one of the ferry ports in Kos. Most large ferry companies traveling to Nisyros will depart from the Kos Town port, however a few smaller vessels also leave Kardamena port. In total, the ferry ride to Nisyros from Kos is roughly 1 hour.

Alternatively, if Rhodes is on your itinerary, you can fly from Athens to Rhodes, and then book a ferry to Nisyros. The flight is 1 hour, followed by a ferry journey of 3 hours.

By Ferry 

The cheapest option to get to the island of Nisyros is by ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens. 

Two ferries run each week between Athens and Nisyros, with short stops along the way at other island ports. You can expect the journey to take anywhere from 12-14 hours depending on the company you sail with. 

Cabins are available to book if you’d prefer the option to sleep in a bed and have a private bathroom on the journey. You can expect to pay a little under double a standard ticket price for this option. If you want to ensure cabin availability, it’s highly recommended to book in advance as these do sell out. 

The port in Nisyros is located in the main town of Mandraki, where you can find restaurants, accommodation and transportation around the rest of the island. 

When To Visit Nisyros Greece

If you’re visiting Nisyros for a summer vacation, the best time to visit will be summer, between June and early September, like with most Greek islands. The island sees little rain all year round, making it a good destination for outdoor explorations in the colder months of the year.

Best Things To Do In Nisyros Greece

Here are our top picks for the best activities and places to see in Nisyros – take a look!

Mandraki 

The island’s capital and the most important town is the picturesque Mandraki, a small settlement surrounded by hills on the northwestern side of Nisyros Island.

Dozens of whitewashed houses and little artisan shops are scattered along the unique seaside promenade of Mandraki. This is the right place for a quiet nighttime stroll after dining in one of the several traditional tavernas in the area. 

The place is also a favorite spot on the island to witness the sun setting, one of the best things to do in Nisyros after a long day spent on the beach.

Nisyros Volcano

Nobody visiting Nisyros should skip a visit to the volcano! To discover and learn how a volcanic island is made, there is no better experience than visiting this unique site featuring three main craters that locals have baptized Alexandros, Stephanos, and Polyvotis.

If you’re on the island in summer, avoid visiting during the hottest hours and go early in the morning or right before the sun sets. This way, the heat will be less intense, and you won’t find the place overcrowded. 

Volcanic Museum Of Nisyros

To learn even more about the nature of this volcanic island, it is also a good idea to check out the island’s Volcanic Museum, located in an old primary school in Nikia village. 

Here you will learn not only about Nisyros’s volcano but also about the famous Santorini and the volcanic origin of many islands in the Aegean.

Nisyros’ Hot Springs

The island’s intense and continuous volcanic activity has created incredible thermal springs scattered in different areas. 

Rich in mineral waters, some of which flow into the sea, the island is a paradise for thermal tourism and healing baths.

You can visit several hot springs, with one of the most famous ones being located on the northern side of the island, the thermal spa of Loutra (which means “baths” in Greek). It is one of the most visited springs in Nisyros and receives visitors from all over the country. 

Explore Paleokastro

On top of a hill overlooking the settlement of Mandraki, this ancient fortress (Paleo Kastro literally means Old Castle) dating back to the fourth century BC was built over an ancient Greek acropolis.

Although the remains are nothing but ruins of the protecting walls made of volcanic basalt and some traces of defensive bastions, the most curious characteristic of the ancient castle is its impressive size, given the island’s relatively small size.

The total length of the fort is about two kilometers, probably covering an area of about 130.000 square meters. 

Hiking In Nisyros

Hiking is a popular activity in such a mountainous land as Greece. The country is a famous European destination for mountain sports, and hiking is among the favorite ones.

Nisyros is a place in the country where hiking is popular. The island features a network of really remarkable paths that attract visitors from all over the world, ranging from expert hikers to total beginners.

The charm of these paths lies in the traditional landscapes that you can experience along the way, from old stone farms to ancient churches and abandoned distilleries. 

Sample Local Food

Like many destinations in the Mediterranean basin, authentic, fresh ingredients, herbs, and abundant olive oil are at the base of delicious dishes, a staple of the healthy and worldwide famous Mediterranean diet.

An island with volcanic soil is bound to offer incredible produce, rich in minerals and taste, and Nisyros is no exception. During your visit, don’t miss any of the abundant veggie-based dishes made on the island, including fresh salads or savory pies.

One island dish you should try in Nisyros is the pithia, a chickpea fritter that can also be cooked in red sauce. 

Other typical products are local capers and a variety of goat and sheep cheeses, including skouliasti and soft mizythra cheese.

And if you’re looking for something really authentic, why not try local cheese cooked in red wine? This tasty delicacy is known as trigias and is a typical festive dish served on special occasions.

If you prefer sweet dishes, then check out the local biscuits, psilokouloura, and foinikia, dipped in local honey.

Don’t miss the popular loukoumades (fried pastry balls similar to donuts), the delicious semolina cake with syrup (halva), and the unique Greek spoon sweets made from seasonal fruits.

When it comes to liquors and local spirits, Nisyros is known for the koukouzina, which is distilled from figs or grapes and resembles the Cretan tsikoudia.

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Top 5 Nisyros Beaches

Pali Beach 

A shore located on the northern part of the island, Pali is a long beach featuring white sand and shallow waters, and it’s located about 4 kilometers from the area of Mandraki. 

Even though it is one of the most popular beaches on the island, its wide extension allows for privacy, so you’ll never feel crowded. There’s plenty of natural shade thanks to the seaside tamarisk trees and several bars and taverns.

This is one of the most family-friendly shores in Nisyros.

Pachia Ammos

One of the favorite shores on the island, this beautiful black sand beach stands on the eastern coast. Although the beach cannot be reached by car, the short shore hike is worth the effort.

The beach features an area for naturists and campers.

Lyes

Also known as Lies, this is another popular seaside area in Nisyros. The shore features a collection of small coves, caves, and sand stretches that combine along the coastline of the island’s eastern region.

Although minimal organization exists, the place is beautiful and quite popular. Pack lunch and extra cold drinks if you plan to spend the day there!

Hohlaki

Although it might not be the most comfortable beach to spend a whole day for a family, this place you must see, so at least consider making a short stop for pictures. 

The beach features incredibly huge black pebbles that make it difficult to walk on the beach, and yet these dark stones contrast with the deep turquoise waters making it an unforgettable landscape.

The beach stands close to the Panagia Spiliani Monastery and it’s pretty close to Mandraki.

Katsouni

Considered the biggest beach in Nisyros, this shore is located between Pali Beach and Lyes. It’s located on the northern tip of the island, and it features a combination of sand and small pebbles while trees provide shade for free. The location is relatively calm and not often crowded.

Family Friendly Nisyros Beaches

Several small beaches near the area of Mandraki are pretty popular among families. These are the shores of Lefki and Gialiskari. 

Where To Eat On Nisyros Island

The food on the island is heavenly, so feel confident that wherever you eat, you will find fresh ingredients from local sources paired with authentic Greek hospitality. If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Nisyros, we recommend checking out these places.

Geusea 

Located in Mandraki, Geusea specializes in fresh fish and seafood dishes with a fine dining touch and a refined atmosphere.

Cafe Nosto 

This place is simply perfect for a piece of cake and a cup of coffee but also for delicious hamburgers, fresh juices, or quick snacks. It’s located on the seafront, a few meters from the port. 

Taverna To Balconi Tou Emporeiou

Located in the Emporio village, Taverna To Balconi tou Emporeiou is a traditional Greek tavern where you can taste the best dishes of the Mediterranean. 

Where To Stay In Nisyros

In the following list, you will find the best places to stay in Nisyros. Check them out when it’s time to book accommodation for your vacation on the island.

Affordable Accommodation In Nisyros: Old Traditional House

This small but comfy apartment in Mandraki features one bedroom, a living room, and a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and coffee machine.

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Mid-Range Accommodation In Nisyros: Lava House

A fantastic place to stay in Mandraki, the house comes with a fitness center, a garden, and a terrace. In the area, guests can engage in hiking, fishing, and snorkeling activities. This is a good fit for families, offering two bedrooms, a complete kitchen, and a seating area. The apartment also provides a barbecue, and bicycle and car rental services are available.

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Luxury Accommodation In Nisyros: Volcano View Nisyros

This gorgeous property is located in the small village of Emporio. It offers a terrace with amazing mountain views and a patio. The home is perfect for families as it features two bedrooms, a kitchen with a fridge a microwave, and a coffee machine.

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Now that you have all of the Nisyros travel advice that you need. We want to know which Nisyros Island sites you will head to first.

FAQ Guide About Nisyros Island

What is the best place to visit in Nisyros?

The best place to visit in Nisyros is the Port of Mandraki. Here you can explore the main settlement of the island, enjoy the picturesque view of white houses along the coastline, and visit attractions like the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani and the Volcanological Museum of Nisyros.

Is there a natural sauna in Nisyros?

Yes, Nisyros is known for its natural sauna created by the island’s active volcanoes. The Volcano of Stefanos offers a unique experience where you can take a short walk and enter the volcanic crater, where you can feel the warm steam and experience the natural sauna-like atmosphere.

How can I get to Nisyros from the Island of Kos?

To get to Nisyros from the Island of Kos, you can take a ferry from Kos Town. The ferry ride takes approximately one hour and provides a scenic journey across the Aegean Sea to Nisyros. Alternatively, you can fly to Kos and then take a ferry from the port of Kos.

Are there any fishing villages to visit in Nisyros?

Yes, there are several small fishing villages in Nisyros worth visiting. One such village is Nikia, known for its charming atmosphere, white houses, and panoramic views of the volcano and the sea. Exploring these villages allows you to experience the authentic and traditional side of the island.

Are there any medieval castles in Nisyros?

While Nisyros is not known for its medieval castles, the island offers a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, traditional architecture, and historical sites. The main attraction in Nisyros is the volcano crater, but you can also explore the abandoned village of Palloi, which has some remnants of medieval structures.

What are some must-see attractions in Nisyros?

Some must-see attractions in Nisyros include walking in the active volcano crater, visiting the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, exploring the village of Nikia, and discovering the Volcanological Museum of Nisyros. These attractions showcase the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique volcanic history.

Is it worth visiting Nisyros in the high season?

While Nisyros is beautiful throughout the year, visiting the island during the high season (typically summer) can be quite busy with many tourists. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit Nisyros in September when the weather is still pleasant, and the number of tourists decreases, allowing you to enjoy the island’s charm in a more peaceful setting.

Where is the main settlement of Nisyros located?

The main settlement of Nisyros is located in the Port of Mandraki. This picturesque town offers a range of amenities, including accommodations, restaurants, and shops. It is also the ideal starting point for exploring the island and visiting its various attractions.

Are there good beaches in Nisyros?

Yes, Nisyros is surrounded by crystal clear waters, and there are several beaches where you can enjoy swimming and relaxing. Some popular beach options include Liés, Pachia Ammos, and Avlaki. These beaches offer a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the island.

Where can I buy ferry tickets to Nisyros?

You can buy ferry tickets to Nisyros directly at the Port of Mandraki or online through various ferry ticket platforms. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season, to secure your seat and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Is there historic churches in Nisyros?

Yes, there are several small churches scattered throughout Nisyros. One notable church is located in the village of Nikia, called the Church of Agios Ioannis Theologos. These churches showcase the island’s cultural and religious traditions and can be visited during your explorations.

Is it possible to take a walk in the volcanic crater?

Yes, it is possible to take a short walk in the volcanic crater of Nisyros. The Volcano of Stefanos offers a unique opportunity to enter the crater and explore its fascinating terrain. It’s important to follow safety guidelines and instructions provided by local authorities or knowledgeable guides.

Is the Volcanological Museum of Nisyros worth a visit?

Absolutely! The Volcanological Museum of Nisyros provides valuable insights into the island’s volcanic history, geology, and the unique natural processes that have shaped the landscape. It is worth a visit to deepen your understanding of Nisyros and its fascinating geological heritage.