You’ve wept at the jaw-slackening sunsets in Santorini. Danced on the tables until dawn in Mykonos. Jumped off the celestial cliffs in Milos. But have you experienced the serene green bliss of Thassos? Most likely not. This hidden, eternally verdant gem in the North Aegean archipelago is often overlooked in favour of its flashy Cycladic cousins — but with lush landscapes, crystalline waters and a truly authentic charm, Thassos is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Known as the ‘Emerald Island’ for its luxuriant, pine-covered mountains, this evergreen beauty is an ideal destination for a true taste of Greek island life. There’s beautiful traditional villages like Panagia and Theologos, archaeological sites such as Alyki, the impressive Ancient Theatre and some of the country’s best beaches, including the magnificent Marble Beach, or Saliara, which is made up of crushed white marble pebbles and searing blue-green sea. Here’s our guide on where to eat, drink and stay while holidaying on the idyllic Thassos island.
While Thassos doesn’t have an airport (all the best islands don’t), getting there is part of the adventure. The easiest route is to fly into Kavala International Airport on the mainland. From there, it’s a short taxi or bus ride to the port of Keramoti, where frequent car and passenger ferries make the scenic 35-minute crossing to Limenas, or Thassos Town. Alternatively, ferries also run from Kavala port to Skala Prinos, though less frequently.
Once on land, the best way to explore Thassos is by renting a car or ATV — or, of course, heading back to the sea. Hiring a boat allows you experience the true magic of the island; choose from either a chartered vessel, or, if you fancy yourself a skipper, rent your own speedboat and voyage to secret coves, secluded beaches, quaint fishing villages and special spots like the Giola Lagoon. Only accessible by boat, this glistening green lagoon is a hidden paradise well worth the journey.
Of course, island life means an abundance of fresh seafood, of which Thassos has plenty. Simi Restaurant has been serving its famous fish and seafood since 1952, one of the most beloved restaurants on the island. For fish on the beach, quite literally — head to Captain Fish Taverna. With tables in the sand, this casual taverna dishes out plates of grilled octopus and fried calamari to the sound of soft, rolling waves. For a more upscale take on beachfront dining, try Gatos Fish Tavern in Skala Potamias. With live Greek music, enjoy simply yet beautifully prepared fresh fish by the sea, along with stacked plates of grilled meat and gyros. In town, you’ll find wonderful renditions of homestyle Greek cooking at the exceedingly charming Tavernaki. Expect classic dishes like Spetsofai, Greek sausages with peppers and tomatoes, and Lamb Kleftiko under a romantic canopy of vines.
Being off grid means you won’t find bougie hotel chains, but you will find both charming and luxurious stays that add to Thassos’ unique character. In a beautifully restored schoolhouse, A for Art Design Hotel blends history with eclectic, contemporary art. Centrally located near the port in Limenas, this boutique artistic retreat is perfect for culture-loving travellers who appreciate imaginative design, curated aesthetics and being part of the action. If you’re more of a beach-dweller, head to Alexandra Golden Boutique Hotel. An adults-only retreat on the popular Golden Beach, these elegant rooms overlook the sea thanks to its envious beachfront locale. If you have minis in tow, try the Alexandra Beach Thassos Spa Resort. With direct beach access, a child-friendly pool and all the facilities you could ask for with kids, it’s a great option for a relaxed family holiday. But for the most luxurious digs on the island, check into the stunning 360 Luxury View Collection. This discreet, adults-only haven features four swish suites each with their own private pool and spectacular 360 views of the Aegean. The breathtaking vistas continue at Island View Villa with comfortable rooms that overlook the villa’s beautiful gardens, soaring green mountain slopes and shimmering sea.
While Thassos isn’t known for its nightlife, it has its fair share of buzzy beach clubs (because what would a Greek island be without its famous beach bars?). Karnagio is one of the island’s best, dramatically perched at the end of the Old Port of Limenas, this two-storey bar serves summer cocktails in the sand day and night. Otherwise, shade yourself under a thatched beach umbrella at the chic La Scala with mojito (or freshly squeezed juice) in hand. For a drink in town, try trendy hole-in-the-wall, Street Cafe Cocktail Bar, or the larger and lively Merlot.
