Journey to the mountain villages of Greek islands

The exploration of the Greek islands does not end at their beautiful beaches. Several of them have impressive villages, some of which are not even near the water! Lost in time, with cobbled narrow streets, special architecture and a rich natural scenery, they are ideal destinations for hot summer days, as well as throughout the year. In this way, the islands offer us their charms for more than just three months every year. Discover them and experience their beauty up close with ferry tickets from Let's Ferry.

Apeiranthos, Naxos: Located at 650 meters, this village is 27 kilometers away from the Chora and the port. Here you will find Apirathitissa, one of the largest Churches of Naxos, built in the 18th century. At the entrance of the village you will be greeted by the Tower of Zeugolis (built in the 17th century), which is embedded on a rock. The settlements of the village usually consist of beautiful two-storey houses, classic samples of Cycladic architecture. Strolling around cobblestoned streets and ancient arches that will lead you to the central square of the village, Platsa, you will find traditional coffee shops.

Apeiranthos village in Naxos

The air is filled with the local dialect that is very similar to that of Crete! Other points of interest are the Bardani Tower and the Anomeritis Library, the largest of its kind in the Cyclades. The village is home to the Folklore Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Visual Arts Museum, the Archaeological Museum and the Geological Museum.
If you are looking for what to buy on the island, in Apeiranthos you will find livestock products, local wine and handmade textiles from the Women's Traditional Art Cooperative.

Filoti, Naxos: The most beautiful plane tree of the island is located in the largest village of Naxos, Filoti. Here you will find the Church of Panagia Filotitissa, built in 1718 and dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.

The lush green village of Filoti, Naxos

If you happen to be in the village on the fifteenth of August, don't book a room just for that night, as the celebrations for the Virgin Mary last for three whole days. Other sights that you can see are the Tower of Barotsi built by the Franks, while next to it, in excellent condition, is a marble water fountain from the days of Otto. In the central square, you will try local sweets. Make sure to buy local products, such as famous Naxos graviera, mizithra, anthotyro, arseniko cheeses, sour cheese, butter as well as meat (lamb and goat). Filoti is 19 km away from the port of Naxos.

Anogeia – Rethymnon, Crete: This popular mountain village is located in the shadow of Mount Psiloritis, at an altitude of 750 meters. Anogeia is the birthplace of musician Nikos Xylouris and you can visit the museum built in his honor. In every corner of the village you can hear the Cretan lyra and mandinades songs, while many locals choose to walk around in traditional clothing.

Anogeia village in Crete

Anogeia was built in the 12th century and its inhabitants led the way in the Battle of Crete, during the Second World War. In addition to the traditional delicacies of the island, here you will also find handmade embroideries to buy.
Discover the other villages of Crete by booking tickets with Let's Ferry.

Theologos, Thassos: Simple, traditional and beautiful, the village is located 50 km from the port. There you will see the ancient Necropolis, a stone bridge built in 1917 and the Folklore Museum of Theologos.

Village of Theologos in Thassos

While Thassos is known for Giola, a dreamy, natural swimming pool, the Kefalogourna Waterfalls are also impressive. The first one is deeper, but the second one is shallow and so more accessible, even to children. If you happen to be in the village any time other than during the summer, the area around the waterfalls is ideal for hiking.

Lefkes, Paros: The village was the first capital of Paros, founded in the 15th century and named so because the area was full of poplars. Even if you cannot see the sea from here, you really don't miss it! In the picturesque narrow streets with the white houses, a relaxed vibe creates the ideal environment, as no cars are allowed in the settlement. In the central square, you will find the Church of Agia Triada with its interesting bell tower.

The picturesque village of Lefkes in Paros

The traditional cafe is a meeting point for the local residents and it serves delicious homemade lemonade. The village has several attractions, such as the Folklore Museum and the House of Literature.

Volissos, Chios: It is located on the northwest side of the island and it is rumored that the village is the birthplace of Homer. Volissos is built amphitheatrically, while at its top you will find an imposing Byzantine Castle from which the inhabitants defended themselves against pirate attacks. The settlement has stone-built mansions and windmills. It is located 40 km from the port of Chios.

Traditional cafe in Volissos village, Chios

Hysternia, Tinos: In recent years, the interest in the Cycladic island has moved away from the Church of The Virgin Mary at the port, and has shifted to exploring its villages. Ysternia is located on the west side of the island, almost 20 km from the port. From here you can see the most beautiful sunset and some of the best attractions of the island, such as the Ysternia Museum and the 8 windmills. The Church of Agia Paraskevi has a unique view of the Aegean, while Ysternion beach is one of the top ones in Tinos.

Ysternion beach in Tinos

Get off the typical touristic path that includes sandy beaches and popular villages, and follow the most intriguing ones. Travel to the Greek islands and discover mountain villages, traditional settlements and historic buildings. Book ferry tickets online with Let's Ferry.