Alonnisos: The Pure Heart of the Marine Park
Alonnisos is an island of serenity and natural wonders. As the most remote of the inhabited Sporades, it is the gateway to the largest marine park in Europe, a sanctuary for the endangered Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus-Monachus). In 2026, Alonnisos is the premier destination for eco-conscious travelers, divers, and those who seek an authentic connection with the sea. With its crystal-clear waters, lush pine forests, and a medieval capital that offers sunset views over the entire archipelago, Alonnisos is a place of rare, untouched beauty.
Things to know about Alonnisos
Geographically, Alonnisos is a long, green island surrounded by several smaller uninhabited islets. Historically, it was one of the first islands to be inhabited in the Aegean. An ideal trip length is 5-6 days. It is famous for the Alonnisos Marine Park, its world-class underwater museum (the ‘Parthenon of Shipwrecks’), and its high-quality local tuna. The island is a leader in sustainable tourism, having banned plastic bags and prioritized ecological protection for decades.
Top attractions in Alonnisos
National Marine Park of Alonnisos
The largest marine protected area in Europe, this park encompasses Alonnisos and six smaller islands. It is a haven for the Monachus-Monachus seal, dolphins, and rare seabirds. You can take a boat tour to explore the uninhabited islets of Kyra Panagia and Peristera, where the water is of incredible clarity.
The Old Village (Chora)
The former capital was abandoned after an earthquake in 1965 and has since been beautifully restored. It is a car-free maze of stone houses, bougainvillea, and traditional shops. The view from its square at sunset, overlooking the sea from both sides of the ridge, is legendary.
The Underwater Museum (Peristera Shipwreck)
Alonnisos is home to the first underwater museum in Greece. Divers can visit a 5th-century BC shipwreck containing thousands of amphorae, known as the ‘Parthenon of Shipwrecks.’ For non-divers, the experience is available through virtual reality at the Information Center in Patitiri.
Agios Dimitrios Beach
Consistently voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Agios Dimitrios is a dramatic, pointed peninsula of white pebbles and bright blue water. It is a wild, natural paradise that offers some of the best swimming in the Aegean.
Patitiri (The Port)
The main harbor and current capital is a friendly, vibrant village built into a rocky bay. It is home to the Alonnisos Museum and the Monk Seal Information Center. The waterfront is lined with taverns serving the island’s famous tuna and lobster pasta.
Kokkinokastro Beach
A unique beach characterized by its deep red cliffs and surrounding pine forest. The contrast between the red soil, the green trees, and the turquoise water is spectacular. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient city of Ikos.
Leftos Gialos Beach
A beautiful, organized pebble beach with emerald water. It is surrounded by olive groves and features some of the best beach taverns on the island, making it a favorite for those who want a blend of comfort and nature.
Votsi Fishing Village
A tiny, picturesque harbor located just a short walk from Patitiri. Its narrow entrance and turquoise water make it one of the most protected and beautiful spots on the island, perfect for a quiet dinner by the fishing boats.
Milia Beach
Located in a lush, green bay, Milia is a peaceful pebble beach with crystalline water. It is the perfect place for those who want to escape the more popular spots and enjoy the island’s natural silence.
The Monastery of Kyra Panagia
Located on the largest uninhabited island of the marine park, this 16th-century monastery is still active and offers a sense of absolute isolation and spiritual peace. It is reachable only by boat and features a beautiful interior courtyard.
Island-hopping from Alonnisos
Alonnisos is the last stop on the main Sporades ferry line. Daily ferries connect Alonnisos to Skopelos (20-40 mins) and Skiathos (1.5 hours). It is also connected to the mainland ports of Volos and Mantoudi. During summer, there are seasonal boats that visit the remote islands of Skyros and Kyra Panagia, making it a perfect base for deep Aegean exploration.
