Schinoussa is a hidden paradise that offers sublime beaches, picturesque footpaths and delicious cuisine. Wander through the villages of Mersini, Chora and Messaria and sample rakomela (sweet honey and raki drink) at traditional kafeneia.
The best time to visit is between early summer and September when the waters are the ideal temperature, accommodation prices are lower and the island is not too crowded.
1. Nikolas tis Schinoussas
A visit to Schinoussa wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Nikolas tis Schinoussas. It’s a must-try restaurant known for its Greek innovative seafood dishes. Sea bream carpaccio, sea urchin salad, salmon tartar, and steamed mussels are some of the must-try delicacies at this eatery.
This restaurant is located next to the port and offers amazing sea views. Its interiors are pleasantly traditional and the service is impeccable.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also book a boat trip around Schinoussa or go island-hopping and explore the Small Cyclades. Captain Manolis and his crew are exceptional hosts who offer a selection of half-day tours around the island, as well as full-day trips to nearby island gems like Iraklia. They’ll even pick you up from your hotel!
2. Livadi Restaurant
Located in Mersini, this is an institution for all arriving boats from the Koufonisia islands and, on days with kalosyni (calm winds) can be a hive of activity! It is an excellent restaurant that has helped put Schinoussa on the map.
The best places to eat in Schoinoussa also include Loza on the east end of Chora, which does good pizza as well as core Greek dishes (try the stuffed tomatoes). Okto is another traditional taverna in the heart of the Chora, with a nice setting and good meat dishes, including lamb.
It’s also worth spending time visiting the other settlements, such as the charming Messaria and the beautiful Church of the Akathist Hymn. In fact, the best way to experience all of these is by doing a full day walking north from Mersini along the footpath towards Psili Ammos, and then back again through Chora.
3. Loza Restaurant
The Small Cyclades island of Schinoussa has an impressive tally of picturesque beaches and is the ideal destination for quiet holidays. With a few days on this sleepy island, you can easily discover its main settlements and admire traditional Cycladic architecture. You can also enjoy drinks and coffee in the local kafeneias.
If you love meat, don’t miss Agnadema restaurant on the southern coast of the island. It serves locally sourced meat, as well as traditional dishes like pitaridia and rakomelo (raki boiled with honey). Try the fava dip too, which is famous in the region. It’s a great way to taste the genuine flavor of this beautiful Greek island. The legendary ferry Skopelitis Express runs all year round between its homeport in Amorgos and Schinoussa. You can book cheap ferries to Schinoussa online on Ferryhopper.
4. Okto Restaurant
A seafood lover’s dream, this gastronomic gem on the shores of Schinoussa offers dishes from all over the Mediterranean. From mouthwatering grilled octopus to the exquisitely creamy risotto, Okto is guaranteed to delight every palate.
This taverna in the heart of Chora is known for its big Greek portions at reasonable prices. Their stuffed tomatoes, chicken souvlaki and lamb kleftiko are excellent choices.
Schinoussa is a great base for exploring the Small Cyclades with trips to neighbouring beaches and island gems. Book your ferry tickets to Schinoussa online with Ferryhopper and enjoy low fares, direct routes and a convenient journey time of around 7 hours. Check out the full range of itineraries available to you and start planning your trip today!
5. Iraklia Restaurant
One of the best places to eat on Schinoussa and a must-try. Great food with excellent ingredients (many sourced from locals) that you struggle to find even in Athens. The service was also very friendly for all family members.
Schinoussa may lack the typical plethora of things to do and see but it is still an ideal island for tranquility. With its pristine beaches, picturesque footpaths and quaint settlements, the island offers a unique aquatic paradise. Moreover, it is effectively shielded from the crowds of tourists that flood other islands in the Small Cyclades. This gives it a special allure that instantly plants the seed of “what if I decided to live here permanently” in the mind of visitors. So, book your cheap ferry tickets online to Schinoussa with Ferryhopper!