The lesser known islands that we call our Nomadic North East Aegeans are mysterious islands which are not generally that easily accessible by flight or ferry.
Yet, amongst them are some of the largest islands in Greece. So with plenty to explore, take the plunge and find out what real Greece is like away from the mass tourism.
Yet, amongst them are some of the largest islands in Greece. So with plenty to explore, take the plunge and find out what real Greece is like away from the mass tourism.
Which island will you choose?
Chios is the fifth largest island in Greece, yet still relatively undiscovered. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is most famous for its mastic, an origin-protected ingredient used in local drinks like the Mastihito, a mojito made with Mastica instead of rum.
The island is home to around 53,000 people, though its size means you wouldn’t always notice. Chios is steeped in history, with tales of pirates and claims to be the birthplace of Homer, author of the Odyssey. Most accommodation is near Chios Town, with villages along the coast developing into resorts with tavernas and beaches. Day trips to the tiny islands of Psara and Oinousses are also possible, leaving visitors spoilt for choice on what to do. Lemnos
If you’re after a Greek island with traditional flavour, few tourists, great beaches, and a port with real character – all with direct flights from the UK – Lemnos is your answer. The island still relies on agriculture and fishing rather than tourism, giving it an authentic feel. Its beaches are a delight, some even awarded the Blue Flag.
Despite being the 8th largest Greek island, Lemnos has remained largely unspoilt, with only one flight a week from the UK. Its history is remarkable too – the remains of one of its ancient cities actually predate Troy, making it a site of world significance. The island’s charm is best felt in Myrina, the capital, with its Venetian Castro and narrow lanes filled with cafés. Lemnos offers a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and authenticity – it could be the next Greek island on your list. |
Fourni
Fourni takes you back to the feel of a Greek island in the 1980s. At just 31 sq km, this hilly island between Samos and Ikaria was once the haunt of pirates, a history reflected in its rugged landscape and remote location.
The island’s charming traditional port village and secluded bays, accessible by minibus or water taxi in summer, make it a perfect spot to unwind. With the largest fishing fleet in the Aegean, fresh seafood is a highlight at the few tavernas, giving visitors a true taste of authentic island life. Lesvos
Greece’s third largest island, Lesvos (sometimes called Lesbos or Mytilini, after its capital), remains largely untouched by tourism. The locals are rightly proud of their island, with fertile plains, picturesque villages, and dramatic scenery leading down to beautiful beaches. Lesvos is also famous for the Greek national drink – Ouzo – which is well worth a try.
Mytilini, the capital, has museums and a bustling bazaar-style market that is worth exploring. Three main resorts are located in the northwest: Anaxos offers a 2km stretch of sand and shingle beach with watersports, Petra is overlooked by a hilltop church and boasts excellent tavernas, while Molyvos is the postcard village with cobbled streets, pastel houses, and a charming fishing harbour. Whether you want culture, relaxation, or beach time, Lesvos provides a little bit of everything for every type of traveller. |
Ikaria
Ikaria is one of only five ‘blue zones’ in the world, where people live longer than anywhere else, giving the island an almost enchanted reputation. Despite this, it remains off the usual tourist track, partly due to its remote location and limited ferry connections.
Named after the mythological Ikarus, who is said to have plunged into the sea nearby, the island is long and narrow, with hills soaring over 1,000 metres and offering spectacular views. Most villages have a handful of tavernas, and to explore the varied landscape – including lakes, monasteries, and traditional settlements – hiring a car is highly recommended. Samos
Another Greek island that seemed to drop off the map for UK tourists in the late 80s and early 90s is Samos. It’s hard to understand why – the island has great beaches, a good public transport network, plenty of history, and options for day trips, yet there is only one flight a week from the UK.
Samos is also known for its wine, and there are excellent tavernas for evening meals along the harbourside or by the beach. Day trips to Patmos, Ephesus, or sunset BBQ cruises all operate from Pythagorian. Accommodation is generally in Samos Town, Pythagorian, or Kokkari. Despite limited direct flights, the island’s “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” approach works well. There are no large hotels, repeat visitors return year after year, and Samos retains its authentic, relaxed charm. |
T E S T I M O N I A L S
Happy People
The team have booked three very different holidays for me, two for a couple and one for a group of nine. They listened to our requirements and used their expert knowledge of Greece to provide us with several options from which to choose. I found them to be very professional, nothing is too much trouble and they strive to find a good deal. I would not hesitate to recommend them. 
Julie from Nottingham
The business has booked me a few different holidays ranging from 2 weeks away in the sun to City Breaks. They have a great knowledge and understanding of your needs and requirements when booking a holiday. They always try to accommodate your budget and work extremely hard to get you what you're asking for. They have an extremely good knowledge of the Greek Islands and never fail when recommending specific places. I would always recommend the team as they are helpful and professional at all times. 
Tony from Nottingham
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Fantastic service. I explained what kind of holiday I was looking for and my budget and they came up with different options to choose from. Nothing was too much trouble and the communication was first class. I would definitely recommend and would not hesitate in using this 5 star service again.
Ged from Nottingham
Chris and Ian are the team that is The Greek Specialist. As a brand of Verini Travel, part of PTS (Protected Trust Services - number PTS5880), we work with ABTA and ATOL protected operators and with significant experience in the travel industry and in travelling to Greece, we can ensure that you we will provide you with the best holiday possible at the best possible price.
Verini Travel Limited is an ATOL holder, number 12280.
All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.caa.co.uk
Our privacy policy can be found at the top of this page.
Verini Travel Limited is an ATOL holder, number 12280.
All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.caa.co.uk
Our privacy policy can be found at the top of this page.
