With its rich history and archaeological remains, wonderful beaches, variety of activities to do and friendly people, Thassos has become one of those islands holidaymakers return to year after year. It is also very popular with the Greeks because of the good food, the high-standarded services provided and the very intriguing mixture of the modern and the traditional.

The most northern island of the Aegean Sea is also called the Emerald Island, being a place of fascinating beauty. It also has a rich history and archaeological sites scattered throughout the island. One can combine amusement with archaeological interests so long as there are monuments remaining since its glory days from the past.
Thassos is mountainous and densely wooded. The lower slopes of the mountain, covered by pine forests and olive groves, seem to tumble into to sea, all around the 100km long perimeter road of the island with the beautiful coastline, the numerous beaches, the captivating inlets and estuaries.


Where to go
The little picturesque villages compose a unique bouquet of Greek architecture and folklore tradition with warm people and exquisite delicacies at the local tavernas, which make them ideal for those who want to spend quality time on excursions around the island. On the other hand, organizing a boat trip will reveal to you seductive sunsets in cut-off havens.
Among the many towns and villages of the island, we have reserved a mention to the following ones:
The capital of the island is its major port too. Actually, it is called Limenas which means “port” in Greek. The history of the island, which goes back as far as the prehistoric times, has left some very important tracks around the area of Limenas, among which we recommend strolling around the ancient ruins, as well as visiting the ancient theatre – shows are held in it in the summer time, so check for dates that suit your holiday plans. The archaeological museum offers you a more systematic acquaintance with the island’s antiquities.

If there is a place on Thassos in a strong bond with old times that is definitely Panagia. The village of Panagia (meaning “Virgin Mary” in Greek) retains its traditional character – probably because of its location away from the sea shore - in its cobblestone, narrow streets. Not easily accessible by cars, it is the perfect place for celebrating the Assumption day, on August 15, with all the features of the customs of old times. The golden sand, the shallow waters and the lush vegetation at the beach “Skala Panagias”, i.e. the closest beach to Panagia, is one of the best of the island.

Another place of interest is the Drakotrypa (=hole of the dragon) cave owing its name to a stalactite in the form of a dragon! Lying at the foot of mount Ipsario (which, with its 1.204 metres, is the highest on Thassos) there is the village of Potamia. “Potami” in Greek means “river”, “stream”; that is not a coincidence, as there is a stream running through the village. Still away from the shore, the surrounded-by-olive-groves village finds its corresponding beach in the sands of “Skala Potamia” or “Golden beach”. By the name one can easily understand that it’s about a captivating stretch of beach that has grown into a favourite tourist attraction.

Other beautiful and worth visiting settlements are Skala Rachoniou, Prinos, Sotiras, Limenaria, Maries, Potos, and Theologos.