While the big ‘bucket list’ isles of Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos get crowded, lesser known Greek islands like Nisyros remain tranquil. This volcanic island lays claim to a unique landscape and a handful of charming settlements.
Many visitors make day trips to Nisyros from Kos, but those who stay overnight experience a much more intimate and serene island.
Mandraki
Nisyros is often described as a walk-in volcano and, with its crater-dotted landscape, the island enchants visitors. This Dodecanese island is also home to a variety of castles and monasteries, traditional houses, and exquisite squares.
The capital of Nisyros, Mandraki, is a wonderful place to wander around. The streets are lined with white or colored two-storeyed houses built from volcanic rocks and insulated with pumice stone. The houses have balconies with wrought iron railings and are typically built on a sloping site. The squares are lovely to stroll in, and the plateia Delfinion (the Square of Dolphins) is especially beautiful.
In addition to the beautiful houses, there are also many cafés and restaurants in Mandraki. Visitors can enjoy the lovely view of the bay and the small cruisers floating on the sea while tasting local drinks such as Soumada or Kanelada.
Located on the south-west coast of the island, Mandraki is the place where the ferry docks. From here, you can easily access the rest of the island by bus or taxi.
When you are in the town, do not miss out on visiting the castle of the Knights of St. John, a reminder of the 14th-century presence on the island. The monastery of Panagia Spiliani is another highlight. The monastery was built in the midst of a ruined fortress and has a cave church inside.
For those who are interested in history, the Archaeological Museum of Nisyros is a great place to visit. It has a lot more than you might expect for such a small island, and the staff is very helpful in explaining the exhibits to visitors.
Located just 200 metres from Mandraki Beach, Porfyris Hotel offers rooms with a furnished balcony overlooking Mount Diavatis and the Aegean Sea. The hotel has a swimming pool and serves breakfast. It is ideal for those who want to stay close to the sights of Nisyros, but are looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday. It is also a great choice for families with children. The hotel is situated in Emporeios village and offers a range of facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Pali
Pali is a pretty fishing village, built around an impressive natural bay. It’s a lovely spot to relax with its gorgeous beach and therapeutic baths. It’s also a great base to explore the rest of the island. There are a few nice seaside taverns, and accommodation options here too.
The beaches in Pali have dark volcanic sand, which makes them very popular. The sand slopes into the water quite smoothly and there are small trees behind it, which provide much needed shade. It’s a good option for families with kids as the sea is usually calm and there are no dangerous waves. The village is only 4 km east of Mandraki and has a small hotel and rooms, as well as a few restaurants at the seafront.
There are a couple of accommodation options in the village of Pali, including Mammis Apartments, which have great reviews and excellent prices. The apartments are very spacious and have their own entrances and terraces, so you can enjoy plenty of privacy. The beach is a short walk away, and the centre of the village is within walking distance too.
Another good option is Porfyris Hotel, which is a 3-star hotel in the middle price range. It has a pool with sun loungers and is located close to the beach. There’s also free breakfast sourced from local producers and the rooms are very clean. If you want to stay somewhere that’s a bit more central, check out the hotels in Mandraki instead.
If you’re looking for a place to stay with a view of the caldera, then consider staying in Emporeios. This village is very quiet and has a few hotels as well as traditional stone houses that you can rent for your holiday. There’s a nice beach near the caldera too, and you can see some amazing views from the cliffs that surround the village.
Alternatively, you can book a room or villa in the traditional village of Nikia, where Daphne & Maria-Eliza Villas are situated. They have lovely views of the village, the mountains and the Aegean Sea. They have a large private pool, and their self-catering accommodation has a kitchen and a living room with TV.
Emporeios
In the north of Nisyros, there is a beautiful mountain village called Emporeios. It has a spectacular view of the volcano and is a great place for hiking. This village is also home to a few restaurants and a beautiful beach. It is a quiet and relaxing place to stay in and is perfect for families.
Emporeios was founded by refugees from the neighboring island of Kos. Its name is derived from the Greek mythology, when Poseidon cut off a part of Kos and threw it onto the giant Polybotes, in order to stop him from escaping. During the Middle Ages, the village was controlled by Genoese captains and adventurers, who were organized into clans that exercised sovereignty and maritime control on behalf of the Byzantine Empire.
It is located close to Mandraki and is an ideal choice for those looking for a place to relax by the beach and in the mountains. It is also a great option for those who are interested in hiking and exploring the island. In addition to its beautiful beaches, Pali has a number of good restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes and fresh seafood.
A trip to the island of Nisyros is an unforgettable experience. It is the fifth largest of the Dodecanese Islands and is separated from Turkey by the narrow Chios Strait. The island is renowned for its mastic gum and has a rich history. There are a variety of attractions, including ancient villages and monasteries.
One of the best places to stay in Nisyros is the Kafka Stone House, a unique vacation home with a traditional feel and impressive architecture. It is surrounded by nature and has a view of the volcano and the town of Pali.
Each apartment has its own entrance and a private bathroom, as well as a spacious seating area. The kitchen is fully equipped, and extras like free WiFi are available. Guests can also enjoy the lovely garden and the views of Pali.
Another great option is the Porfyris Hotel, which is just a short walk from the main port. It has a swimming pool and offers breakfast in the morning. The rooms are air conditioned and have a balcony overlooking Mount Diavatis and the Aegean Sea. They are also equipped with a fridge and TV.
Kafka Stone House
If you want to stay somewhere truly unique in Nisyros, then check out Kafka Stone House in Emporeios. The house is a traditional village home that has been beautifully renovated while keeping its character. It has two bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen, and it’s one of the most interesting places to stay on the island.
The house is just a short walk from the beach, the village square, and the taverns. It also has a roof terrace where you can relax and enjoy the view. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Another great place to stay on the island is the Porfyris Hotel. This hotel is located in Mandraki, and it’s one of the few hotels on the island. It offers a variety of amenities, including free WiFi and a rooftop terrace. It’s a good option for people who don’t want to spend a lot of money on their accommodation.
There are many other great places to stay in Nisyros, but these are some of the best options. If you’re looking for more information, check out our full guide to the island. There, you’ll find photos, maps, and reviews of all the best hotels, villas, apartments, and holiday homes on Nisyros.
Nisyros is a small island that’s perfect for people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The island has beautiful beaches, incredible local cuisine, and a unique volcanic landscape. It’s the perfect place to spend your next vacation!
The best way to get to Nisyros is by ferry or airplane. It takes about an hour to reach the island from Kos. The ferries are affordable, and the food prices on the island are much lower than in other parts of Greece. Once you’re on the island, it’s easy to get around with a rental car or taxi. Just be sure to book your tickets ahead of time! Otherwise, you might have to wait a while for the next ferry.