With Hilltop Villages, Crystal Coves, & Zero Hype—This Tranquil Greek Island is a Nature Lover’s Dream

The sleepiest of the Sporades islands, it’s more popular as a day trip than a destination. But for a quiet escape, it’s pure Greek paradise.

Tucked into the quietest corner of the Sporades island group, Alonissos is a place that feels worlds away from the tourist churn of better-known Greek islands.

Read More: Get 3 Stunning Greek Islands for the Price of One With a Trip to This Lesser-Known Island Group

There are no cruise ships here. No flashy beach clubs. No Instagram crowds waiting in line for the same photo.

Instead, Alonissos wows those “in the know” with pine-scented hillsides, quiet pebble beaches, and a charming Old Town perched at the top of a hill with views that stretch for days.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

And while most people who visit the Sporades stay on busier Skiathos or Skopelos, quieter Alonissos presents a unique opportunity to truly get away from it all when you visit this lesser-known island group.

So here’s the big question: Should you stay on Alonissos or just visit on a day trip?

When my husband and I visited the Sporades recently, we chose the day trip option. We sailed over from Skopelos and it was a fantastic time.

We explored the hilltop Old Town, swam at Leftos Gialos, and still made it back in time for dinner. But I must admit, our day on Alonissos left me wondering…did we make the right decision staying on Skopelos?

Or should we have devoted more of our time in the Sporades to charming Alonissos?

So if you’re planning a trip to the fabulous Sporades Islands, I’ll break down both options so you can decide for yourself.

But first, let’s start at the beginning.

How to Get to Alonissos

By Ferry ⛴️

While you will find plenty of things to love about Alonissos, quick and easy access isn’t one of them. The only airport in the Sporades Islands is on Skiathos. So from there, you’ll take the ferry.

From Skiathos or Skopelos, ferries run frequently in summer months. The travel time from Skopelos is just 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of ferry.

From Volos or Agios Konstantinos on the mainland, direct ferries take 3 to 5 hours.

Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is FerryHopper.com.

Ferries arrive in Patitiri, the island’s small port town. And what Patitiri lacks in charm, it makes up for in convenience.

Here, you’ll find rental cars, hotels, cafes, and local boats for day trips.

Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay

The Case for a Day Trip to Alonissos

If you’re based on Skiathos or Skopelos, a day trip to Alonissos is easy and a fantastic way to spend a day. Especially if you’re short on time.

The standard day trip hits all the highlights.

On our day trip aboard the Sporades Queen, we arrived at Patitiri and boarded a local bus for the ride up to the clifftop Chora (Old Town). The views from up there are jaw-dropping, and the town itself is quaint and refreshingly untouristy.

Our tour allowed for 90-minutes here, enough time to stroll the shops, sip a Freddo Cappuccino, and enjoy the views before heading back to the port on the bus.

From there, we cruised along the coast of Alonissos through the National Marine Park of the Sporades. We spotted dolphins along the way and stopped for a swim and dives from the boat in the crystal clear waters off the coast of Peristera.

Our last stop, a lazy afternoon at Leftos Gialos, one of the island’s prettiest beaches. We had 3 hours there, plenty of time for lunch at one of several seaside tavernas and a relaxing swim. Beach chairs were even provided free of charge.

We departed Skopelos at 10:00am and returned by 5:00pm, just in time for dinner and a sunset spritz.

Several companies run well-organized boat tours from both Skiathos and Skopelos so even if you decide not to stay on Alonissos, it’s easy to visit. And you’ll still get that off-the-beaten-path feeling without needing to change hotels.

The Case for Staying on Alonissos

If you’re looking for quiet, unhurried Greece, staying overnight on Alonissos might be exactly what you need.

The island has a slower pace and zero crowds, especially at night once the day-trippers are gone.

It’s the gateway to the National Marine Park of the Northern Sporades, where you might spot monk seals and dolphins.

There are some lovely beach bars, boutique hotels, and scenic hiking trails—just don’t expect much nightlife or shopping. But it’s ideal for couples, nature lovers, and anyone craving a little solitude.

Where to Stay on Alonissos

If you do decide to stay overnight, I would recommend staying in the Old Town versus the port town of Patitiri but there are good hotel options in both. 

Patitiri is great for convenience, port access, and car rentals. It’s small but functional, and an easy base for catching ferries or taking boat tours. 

But for charm, views, and quiet evenings, you can’t beat a stay in Old Town. Perched high above the coast with narrow alleys, tavernas, and sea views, it’s ideal for a quiet getaway.

You’ll also find a few boutique stays and traditional guesthouses tucked near the beautiful beaches of Leftos Gialos and Agios Dimitrios. Forget flashy mega-resorts, on Alonissos, it’s all about stylish boutique hotels with mega views. 

Here are a few great options around the island:

Ikion Eco Boutique Hotel (Patiri)- Thoughtfully run, walkable to town, and eco-conscious

Aletri Swim Up Boutique Hotel (Old Town) – This stylish Old Town hotel has an incredible pool and beautiful views from nearly every room. Friendly staff and a terrific breakfast make this one of my top picks on the island.

Eleon Suites (Leftos Gialos) – The chic accommodations here are all one-bedroom luxury villas with private pool and hot tub. 

Getting Around Alonissos

We visited Alonissos as a day trip from Skopelos, and while it’s a small island, getting around takes a little thought—especially if you want to visit the Old Town (Chora), which sits high on a hill above the port.

I personally chose to use the local bus to get up to Chora, and I’m so glad I did. While it’s absolutely possible to rent a car or scooter on Alonissos, after seeing the narrow, winding road up to the Old Town, I was more than happy to let someone else do the driving.

🚌 Taking the Local Bus

The local bus is budget-friendly, straightforward, and perfect for visitors like me who’d rather not tackle steep mountain roads.

• The bus runs between Patitiri (the port) and Chora, and the ride only takes about 15 minutes
• Tickets are inexpensive, and you can usually pay onboard—just bring some cash
• It dropped us off just a short walk from the village center, and we had plenty of time to explore before heading back down to the port

🚗 Renting a Car or Scooter

If you’re staying longer on the island or want to explore remote beaches and hiking trails, renting a car does give you more flexibility.

• That said, driving here isn’t for everyone—some roads are tight, twisty, and not for the faint of heart (I’m not ashamed to admit I passed on it)
• Parking in Chora is limited, but possible if you go early or outside of high season

🥾 Walking & Hiking

Alonissos is known for its nature trails and pine forests, and if you’re staying longer, hiking is a great way to explore.

• There are trails that connect Chora, Patitiri, and other inland villages
• If you’re up for a workout, walking back down from Chora to the port gives you beautiful sea views and a peaceful way to end your visit

Fun Things to Do on Alonissos

First, you’ll need a car to reach the beaches.

1. Swim at Leftos Gialos Beach 🏖️

This white-pebble beach is backed by pine trees and clear, turquoise water. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the Sporades.

Calm waters perfect for swimming but water shoes are a must. Those large pebbles are not easy to walk on in bare feet! There are a couple of stylish beach bars with shaded seating and local food.

You’ll need a car or taxi to reach it from Patitiri or Old Town.

2. Explore the Old Town (Chora) 📍

This restored hilltop village was nearly abandoned after an earthquake in the 1960s, but it’s now full of charm.

Stroll through narrow alleys with bougainvillea-covered balconies and stop for a coffee or lunch with a panoramic view.

Come in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

3. Take a Boat Tour in the Marine Park 🐬

Alonissos is the heart of the National Marine Park, the largest marine protected area in Europe.

Boat tours depart from Patitiri and offer the chance to see monk seals, dolphins, and remote beaches. Some tours also stop at nearby islands like Peristera or Kyra Panagia.

4. Visit Agios Dimitrios Beach 🌊

Located on a narrow peninsula, Agios Dimitrios is postcard-worthy. The white pebbles and bright blue water make for great photos (this is another one that requires water shoes!).

Less developed than other beaches, but very clean and peaceful. Unlike Leftos Gialos, this one is not organized so be sure to bring your own supplies.

The Verdict – Day Trip or Stay Awhile?

The question here is not whether you should visit Alonissos (the answer to that is yes!). But whether you should make it part of your Skopelos or Skiathos itinerary with a day trip, or make it your primary destination when you visit the Sporades.

If you value peace and nature over nightlife and convenience on your vacation, a stay on Alonissos is the answer.

But if your trip already includes Skiathos or Skopelos, a day trip to Alonissos is a great way to get a taste of this sleepy, scenic island without adding an extra hotel to your itinerary.

That said, Alonissos does have a way of getting under your skin.

It’s the kind of place that rewards slowing down. So if your idea of a perfect Greek holiday includes hidden beaches, zero crowds, and stargazing from a terrace in the hills, it might just be the best stop of your trip.

Looking for more fabulous Greek Islands to visit? Start here:

10 Irresistible Greek Islands to Visit This Summer (#8 is Greece’s Best-Kept Secret) ☀️

The 7 Best Greek Islands for Beaches (You’ve Never Heard of #4)

Car-Free Hydra is This Summer’s Chic Greek Island Escape

Stunning Koufonisia Island is Where Greeks Vacation (& You’ve Never Heard of It)