Nisyros is a unique island with lots to do. Whether it be hiking, enjoying a fresh fulfilling meal or drinking a local raki called Koukouzina.
Explore the medieval castle by walking up and down its alleyways, discovering traditional buildings and pretty details along the way. Staying on the island will also allow you to experience the quiet life after the ferry waves off day trippers around 5pm.
Mandraki
As the main port of Nisyros, Mandraki has a great variety of rooms to rent, restaurants and cafes. All tavernas and cafes have a traditional Greek island atmosphere and fresh ingredients. Try the island’s signature dish, pithia (chickpea fritters), or a local cheese cooked in red wine called trigias.
The monastery of Panagia Spiliani, located above the town, has a breathtaking view and a cave church. The Folklore Museum has a collection of manuscripts, books and embroidery that give a clear reflection of the island’s history.
A good restaurant in Mandraki is Geusea, which serves modern traditional Greek dishes with a fine dining touch and great sea views. Khokhlakoi is another good taverna that offers a festive atmosphere and delicious meals. The Port of Mandraki is where you’ll most likely arrive, as the small ferries and excursion boats stop here while on their way to other islands. Large ferries from Athens stop here a few times a week, too.
Pali
On the northern side of Nisyros, Pali is a quaint village with a unique seaside promenade. It’s the best place to enjoy a quiet evening stroll after dining at one of the many traditional tavernas in the area.
Local produce is excellent here, thanks to the island’s mineral-rich volcanic soil. Try the local cheeses (skouliasti and soft mizythra), fresh salads, and savory pies. Don’t miss koukouzina, the local raki with a high alcohol percentage.
The island doesn’t depend as much on tourism, so accommodations are a little bit more expensive than elsewhere in Greece. However, the food prices help balance the cost of a visit to Nisyros. The Volcanological Museum of Nisyros is well worth a stop as it provides valuable insights into the island’s volcanic history and geology.
Nikia
Nikia’s eponymous village square is paved with fine black pebbles (known as hochlakia) that form a lovely mosaic. Then, hike to the half-dead volcano – it still grumbles and coughs occasionally – and the monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos, where ancient wall paintings and rare icons are displayed.
Maria Diakomichali, who lives here, makes “psilokouloura” biscuits and halva to sell at her home; she also conducts seminars on traditional cooking and is an expert in the island’s history. In addition, she has a modern kafeneio at the new entrance to the village where spirits and wines are served.
Visitors can also take a hot-water bath at the Municipal Baths. These are used for musculoskeletal relief; sea and rainwater mix in the upper levels. The town’s main square is lined with 4-5 respectable cafe bars that don’t close until the early hours and are open for breakfast. They play music and have a fun, spirited atmosphere during the summer panigiria.
Port
In the heart of the island lies Mandraki, the main port and capital village where you can stroll through the charming alleys with cute shops and enjoy a relaxing coffee or raki in one of the many cafés. A must-do is to visit the famous Café of Andrikos, a trademark hangout of Nisyros.
If you are looking for a place to have lunch, try the delicious hamburgers at Geusea. This restaurant is located on the seafront, a few meters from the port. You can also try the local fresh fish that is grilled or served in a panini.
There is nothing like eating fresh local produce on an island with volcanic soil. On Nisyros, you can find amazing vegetables, fruits and cheeses — try the local skouliasti or the soft mizythra cheese. You can even try revithada, cooked chick peas, which is a traditional dish on the island.