Thassos, the Greek Emerald Isle
Thassos, often called the “Emerald Isle,” is a gem in the northern Aegean Sea, known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich history.
Here’s a guide to help you plan your visit
Getting There
- By Ferry: Thassos is accessible via ferry from Keramoti or Kavala on the mainland. The ferry ride from Keramoti is shorter, taking about 35 minutes.
Info and prices here: https://www.go-thassos.gr/thassos-ferry-schedules-prices
Tickets can only be purchased in person on the day of sailing.
Thassos Town, Limenas, is the island’s capital, offering a mix of ancient ruins, a little museum, and vibrant nightlife.
The centre is busy with shops and tavernas and the promenade offers stunning sunset views and bars where to people watch with drinks on hand.
A short walk from the centre brings you to a small archaeological museum with local findings and just outside, turning right, there is the Ancient Agora of Thassos with a temple of Artemis and a sanctuary of Dionysos.
On the opposite side there are the ruins of a Poseidon sanctuary and the Hermes gate.
Visit also the Acropolis of Thassos for stunning views from the ancient theatre.
The beaches
Too many to visit them all!
There are many incredibly beautiful beaches to discover. I strongly recommend hiring a car and explore at leisure.
We only visited the eastern side of the island and there were plenty of stunning beaches to keep us occupied!
Marble beach is one of the famous spots on the island. Yes, it is stunning, but also quite small and gets crowded very easily.
Porto Vathy is equally stunning and slightly bigger but still crowded.
Paradise beach is nice and being bigger was less crowded.
Aliki was my favourite; it has ancient ruins and a picturesque double beach.
Don’t miss Giola Lagoon, a natural rock pool with crystal-clear waters, ideal for a refreshing dip.
What I didn’t like
- Overcrowded: we went in June to avoid school holidays and overcrowding and still places were packed. And I mean, jam packed. It was not ideal to relax and sadly ruined the whole atmosphere of the place.
- None of these beaches are free. They all charge a hefty fee which would include an umbrella (even if we did not want one) and some dodgy looking food. Charges vary from 10 euro per person to 50 euro for four, but they do amount to a lot if you plan to visit every day.
- Rude staff. Sadly we encountered a few in different places, greedy, careless and simply rude. If you are a foreigner, they may talk back (insult) to you in Greek; unlucky for them, I speak Greek and I was able to answer back.
But the beaches are absolutely beautiful. Maybe September is a better time to go.
When, and if, you are done with the beaches, explore Theologos village, a traditional mountain village with charming stone houses and local tavernas.
Do try Thassos’ Honey and Olive Oil: Thassos is famous for its high-quality honey and olive oil—perfect souvenirs.
And plenty of delicious Greek food for any budget and taste.
