Scattered throughout the northeastern corner of the Aegean Sea, this group of islands offers all the village charm, beach beauty, and delicious food that comes to mind when imagining island-hopping in Greece. Whether exploring the narrow alleys of medieval villages, hiking along mountain trails, or simply hitting the beach for sunbathing and swimming, there are plenty of things to do in the Northeast Aegean Islands—especially for those who love the water as the snorkeling and sailing are excellent.
Summer is prime season throughout the Northeast Aegean Islands, with full ferries and a buzz on the beaches. Expect hot temperatures in late June, July, and August. Some visitors prefer the milder weather and decreased crowds in May, early June, or September. Summer is festival season, with events across the region, from the Members of Dance Music Festival in Ikaria to the Molyvos International Music Festival in Lesvos.
Ferries are the main means of transportation between the Northeast Aegean islands. In peak season, reserve your ferry tickets ahead of time. In the shoulder season, you can travel among the islands more spontaneously. While you can rent a car on arrival, many visitors skip this option and utilize local taxis or public transportation to get around the islands. Bike rentals are a fun option, too.
No visit to the Northeast Aegean Islands would be complete without getting out on a boat. Visitors may be surprised at the reasonable rates for renting a small boat for a day; enquire at a local marina for rates. Notably, this region, especially the island of Ikaria, is home to a large number of centenarians. Observe local food, lifestyle, and activities to glimpse “Blue Zone” culture.
