Nisyros: The Sleeping Giant of the Dodecanese
Nisyros is an island like no other in the Dodecanese. It is a dormant volcano, a place where the earth breathes and the landscape is defined by dark volcanic rock and blindingly white-washed villages. In 2026, Nisyros remains a destination for the soul-searcher and the scientist alike, offering an energy that is both raw and restorative. It is an island where you don’t just visit the volcano; you walk inside it.
Things to know about Nisyros
Geographically, Nisyros is nearly circular, dominated by a 4-kilometer-wide central caldera. Historically, mythology says the island was formed during the battle between gods and giants, when Poseidon threw a piece of Kos at the giant Polyvotis. An ideal trip length is 3-4 days to experience the mountain villages and the thermal springs. It is famous for the Stefanos crater, the cliffside village of Nikia, and its traditional ‘Soumada’ (almond syrup drink).
Top attractions in Nisyros
The Stefanos Crater
This is the heart of Nisyros. Stefanos is one of the largest and best-preserved hydrothermal craters in the world. You can descend into the yellow, sulfur-stained floor of the crater, where you can hear the earth hissing and feel the heat beneath your feet. It is a visceral, otherworldly experience.
Nikia Village
Perched on the very rim of the caldera, Nikia offers a bird’s-eye view of the volcano. The village is famous for its ‘Porta’—an award-winning oval-shaped square paved with black and white sea pebbles. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful squares in Greece.
Mandraki Town and Harbor
The capital and port of the island is a maze of narrow alleys and houses built of black volcanic stone. It is dominated by the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, which is built inside a cave on top of a high rock overlooking the sea.
Emporios Village
Once abandoned after an earthquake, Emporios is being revitalized. It is a mountain village with a ‘natural sauna’ at its entrance—a small cave where hot air from the volcano flows out naturally. The view of the caldera from its balconies is hauntingly beautiful.
Monastery of Panagia Spiliani
The spiritual protector of the island, this monastery is built into a rock 30 meters high. To reach it, you climb 130 steps. The interior is filled with gold-leafed wood carvings and offers a sense of absolute peace high above the waves of Mandraki.
The Volcanological Museum
Located in Nikia, this is the only museum of its kind in Greece. It uses modern technology to explain the volcanic history of the Aegean and specifically the formation of Nisyros, making it a must-visit for families and curious minds.
Pali Fishing Village
A quiet, seaside village with a small marina and several excellent fish taverns. It is the best place to enjoy the island’s thermal springs at the nearby ‘Hippocratic’ baths and relax on the dark, sandy beach of Pachia Ammos.
Paleokastro (The Ancient Acropolis)
Dating back to the 4th century BC, these massive walls are built of black basalt. It is one of the most impressive ancient fortifications in the Dodecanese, and its size proves the island’s historical importance in antiquity.
Lies Beach
A long stretch of coast featuring small coves and dark volcanic sand. It is unorganized and wild, perfect for those who want to escape the more ‘urban’ feel of Mandraki and swim in deep, crystal-clear water.
Traditional Gastronomy
Nisyros is famous for its unique flavors. Try ‘Pithia’ (chickpea fritters), ‘Boukounies’ (pork cooked in lard), and the refreshing ‘Soumada’. The island’s volcanic soil also produces exceptional honey and capers.
Island-hopping from Nisyros
Nisyros is a major stop between Kos and Tilos. Local excursion boats from Kos (Kardamena) arrive daily (1 hour). It is also served by the main Dodecanese ferry lines connecting it to Rhodes, Symi, and Piraeus. Its central position makes it an easy day trip or a quiet multi-day stop in a Dodecanese itinerary.
