Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
08/08/2025
Pixabay, Pexels
Ikaria, a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, is celebrated for its "Blue Zone" status, where inhabitants famously live long and healthy lives. The island offers a tranquil escape with rich natural beauty and a focus on authentic experiences.
Ikaria's social scene primarily revolves around its traditional village festivals, known as panigyria, which occur frequently from May to October. These lively gatherings feature communal feasting, local wine, and dancing until dawn, welcoming both locals and visitors into the island's unique cultural rhythm. While not known for conventional nightlife with booming clubs, towns like Agios Kirykos, Evdilos, and Christos Raches offer waterfront cafes and tavernas for relaxed social interaction.
Top 6 Things to do in Ikaria
Activities on Ikaria range from serene dips in healing thermal springs to adventurous hikes through gorges and vibrant traditional village festivals.
1. Immerse in Healing Thermal Springs
The island is renowned for its unique radioactive thermal springs, believed to contribute to the longevity of its inhabitants. Several springs are available, primarily in areas such as Therma, Agios Kirykos, and Agia Kyriaki. Visitors can experience a rejuvenating soak in organized spa facilities or find natural, communal spots where the mineral-rich waters mix with the sea. It is advised to limit time in the water to about 20 minutes due to the radioactivity.
Cost: Access to municipal thermal spas like Spilaio in Therma typically costs around €4-€5 per session. Free communal hot springs are also available.
Transport: Therma is approximately 2-3 km from Agios Kirykos port. A local bus runs hourly, or a small boat offers a ride for about €1. Taxis are also available; a ride from Agios Kirykos to Therma costs around €5-€7.
2. Discover Seychelles Beach
Tucked away on the island's south coast, Seychelles Beach is a breathtaking cove known for its gleaming turquoise waters, smooth white pebbles, and dramatic rock formations. The secluded nature of the beach adds to its allure, making the journey to reach it a rewarding part of the experience. It is often considered one of Ikaria's most beautiful beaches.
Cost: The beach is free to access. A water taxi operates daily from the fishing port of Manganitis to Seychelles Beach for approximately €10 per person, round trip. Some tour agencies may offer bus transfers from Agios Kirykos for around €15.
Transport: Access is primarily by foot via a moderate to steep path from the main road near Manganitis; sturdy shoes are recommended for the rocky descent. Alternatively, water taxis are available from Manganitis.
3. Hike Halari Gorge and Visit Nas Beach
Embark on a scenic hike through the Halari Gorge, a tranquil route that winds through lush forests, past small waterfalls, and over ancient stone bridges. This path eventually leads to Nas Beach, a popular spot featuring an emerald river flowing into the sea and the ancient ruins of the Temple of Artemis. Combining the hike with a visit to the beach offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Cost: Hiking is free. Guided hiking tours are available and often include transportation and a picnic lunch, with varying costs depending on the operator.
Transport: The Halari Gorge trail starts near the village of Nas. Nas Beach is located approximately 5 km from Armenistis, a popular tourist village. Public bus services connect major towns, but for more flexibility, renting a car or taking a taxi is recommended. A taxi from Evdilos to Nas costs around €25-€31.
4. Experience a Traditional Panigyri
Immerse oneself in the heart of Ikarian culture by attending a panigyri, a traditional village festival. These lively, all-night celebrations are held in honor of local saints, particularly from May to October, and are open to everyone. Expect communal feasting with local delicacies like goat meat and Ikarian wine, live traditional music, and dancing until dawn, offering a unique insight into the island's vibrant social rhythm and hospitality.
Cost: There is no entrance fee for panigyria; costs will be for food and local wine purchased at the event.
Transport: Panigyria take place in various villages across the island. Specific schedules are usually announced locally days before the event. Taxis or rental cars are the most flexible transport options for reaching these village celebrations, as public transport may be limited late at night.
5. Wander Through Christos Raches Village
Discover the unique pace of life in Christos Raches, a charming mountain village known for its distinctive opening hours, where shops often open late in the afternoon and evenings are lively. This village offers a glimpse into the relaxed Ikarian lifestyle, inviting visitors to slow down and enjoy the present moment. Evenings are spent wandering narrow alleys, enjoying local tavernas, and experiencing the relaxed social scene.
Cost: Exploring the village is free. Costs will be for food, drinks, and any shopping.
Transport: Christos Raches is located in the mountainous central-west part of the island. A daily bus serves the route from Agios Kirykos via Evdilos and Armenistis to Christos Raches during summer months. Alternatively, a taxi can be arranged. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region.
6. Taste Ikarian Wine at a Local Winery
Explore the island's viticultural heritage by visiting a local winery, such as Afianes Winery or Karimalis Winery. Ikaria is the birthplace of Dionysos, the god of wine, and its red wines, particularly the Fokiano variety, have been historically revered. A visit offers the chance to sample distinct local wines, learn about traditional winemaking procedures, and enjoy the scenic vineyard landscapes, often with views of the Aegean Sea.
Cost: Costs vary for wine tastings and tours. Some wineries may also offer dining experiences with their wines.
Transport: Wineries are typically located in rural or elevated areas. For instance, Afianes Winery is crowning a hill above Christos Raches. Renting a car or taking a taxi is recommended for independent visits. Some tours may include winery visits.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
