7 reasons to visit the island of Leros in the Dodecanese archipelago

Green and hilly, the island of Leros is not the best-known of the Dodecanese islands. And so much the better! This discreet pearl of the Aegean Sea has retained its traditional, authentic character. But there’s much more to Leros than its natural beauty. Its proximity to the Turkish coast and its rich historical past make it an ideal destination for an enriching and relaxing vacation in Greece. Here are 7 reasons to visit Leros with your partner, family or friends!

1. Leros is a peaceful Greek island accessible by air.

If you’re looking for an easily accessible Greek island untouched by mass tourism, you’ve come to the right place! Indeed, Leros Island enjoys a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the ideal destination for enjoying lush greenery, uncrowded beaches and picturesque villages.

Located in the Aegean Sea, just 35 km from Turkey, this is the most traditional island of the Dodecanese archipelago. Its surface area is only 54 km², but its largely untamed coastline stretches for over 70 km.

You can combine your visit with a stay on nearby islands such as Patmos and Lipsi. You can also fly in from Athens, as Leros is one of the few Greek islands with an airport.

2. The villages and hamlets of Leros have a charm all of their own!

The island of Leros is dotted with traditional villages and picturesque harbours. Charming Platanos spreads its steep streets and neoclassical architecture all the way to the beautiful coastal town of Agia Marina. This astonishing ensemble forms the island’s capital.

Further away, traditional hamlets typical of Leros are scattered across the hillsides. The fruit of the expertise of the island’s builders, they marvel at their simplicity and their beauty in harmony with the natural environment.

Along the coast, the fishing villages of Lakki and Alinda also exude charm, with their colorful houses, cosy tavernas and authentic atmosphere. Only the markets, summer festivals and a few nightlife spots sometimes add a discreet touch of animation to the gentle pace of life!

3. Leros has preserved the beauty of its nature and beaches

The island of Leros is also characterized by the beauty of its wild nature and beaches. Lined with fertile soils and pine forests, it’s teeming with particularly pleasant hiking trails. In fact, ancient footpaths criss-cross the green hills, linking secluded coves, small chapels and coastal villages. Something for nature-lovers!

On the seaside, Leros offers a wide range of possibilities. The beaches of Xirokambos, Blefoutis, Gourna and Dio Liskaria are perfect for relaxing in the heart of nature, away from the crowds. And the more popular beaches of Pandeli and Vromolithos are surrounded by fish tavernas where you can sample the local cuisine. The island’s coastline is a magical place to moor your ferry or sailboat!

4. Leros Island has an extraordinary history

A former pirate hideout in the Middle Ages, Leros was then occupied in turn by the Turks and Italians. During the Second World War, the island played an important military role as an Italian and then German naval base. This past has of course left visible traces, notably in the Venetian and neoclassical architecture that is very much in evidence at Platanos.

Take a trip back in time with a visit to the Venetian fortress of Leros! You’ll also enjoy a splendid panoramic view of Panteli Bay. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the fascinating War Museum, where you can learn more about Leros’ role in the Second World War.

5. The island of Leros is rich in churches and monasteries

Another amazing feature of the island of Leros is that Lakki is home to a major Orthodox bishopric, the Metropolis of Leros, Kalymnos and Astypalea. Religious celebrations regularly punctuate the island’s tranquil life.

Leros boasts several monasteries, churches and chapels well worth a visit.

• In Platanos, visit the majestic Cathedral of the Annunciation, which peacefully dominates the town, and enjoy the view.
• In the bay of Gourna, cross the stony path linking the chapel of Agios Isodoros to the coast. Posed as if by magic on its promontory in the middle of the sea, it’s just waiting to be photographed. Don’t miss the sunset!
• Near Agia Kioura beach, the Agia Matrona-Kioura church and its frescoes painted by prisoners exiled during the Greek dictatorship are also well worth a visit.
• Or the charming little church of Panagia Kavouradaina, built on the rocks where a fisherman found the icon of the Virgin Mary guarded by crabs. A must-see on the island of Leros!

6. Leros Island is a top destination for scuba diving

The island is a paradise for outdoor activities, from hiking to visiting historic sites. However, for some years now, it has also stood out for the exceptional interest of its seabed.

The sea surrounding the island is particularly rich in reefs, underwater caves and wrecks dating back to the Second World War. If you love scuba diving, get properly equipped and take the plunge: many treasures await you at the heart of an ecosystem of astonishing diversity!

From Leros, you can also visit the surrounding islands and uninhabited islets. Rent a boat or take a cruise in the Dodecanese, and you’ll find Lipsi, Patmos, Arki, Kalymnos and the islet Archangelos with its unique taverna opposite Partheni. And why not take a trip to Bodrum in Turkey?

7. Leros gastronomy is unique and delicious!

And last but not least, the island of Leros offers absolutely delicious traditional cuisine! The island’s gastronomy blends East and West, with a focus on local ingredients: fish caught daily, seafood, fresh meat and seasonal herbs. We recommend the following dishes: fish marinated in rosemary, as well as grilled octopus, Saganaki mussels and sea urchins. Leros also boasts local wine production, so this is the perfect opportunity for a tasting session.

And don’t leave without trying the local drink, soumada, and the local version of yoghurt cake, patsavouropita!

A brief travel guide to prepare your stay in Leros

How to get to Leros?

Getting to Leros is fairly easy, as the island hasan airport and 2 ports.

• Ferry : certainly our favourite mode of navigation, what better way to get to an island than by boat! To book your tickets, we recommend Ferry Hopper intuitive and easy to use.
• Plane: less exotic but much faster, the plane is also a great alternative at a moderate cost. There are 1 or 2 daily flights from Athens Eleftherios Venizelos airport to Leros in summer, and only 1 in winter. Leros is also linked by air to Rhodes and Kos. Find your flight on Aegean airline with genuine, efficient customer service. Leros airport (LRS) is at the very north of the island.

Where to stay in Leros?

For accommodation in Leros, we recommend the following villages: Lakki, where you’ll arrive by ferry; Alinda, a charming fishing village; Panteli, famous for its beach; and Agia Marina, the capital of Leros.

In Lakki, the island’s main port

• L’eros Villa Grandma’s house, in Lakki, a 2-bedroom villa with an unobstructed view of the island, just 5 mins from the port.
• Aellia Hotel and Suites Leros, 3-star guest rooms with stylish decor, are close to the port and town of Lakki. A convenient car rental service is also available.

In Alinda, a small fishing port

• Emerald Hotel and Alea Mare Hotel in Alinda, two establishments offering rooms or apartments close to the beach
• Alidian bay suites Leros, in Alinda, right on the beach with free sun loungers and a saltwater pool facing the sea. It offers apartments and rooms with cooking facilities, as well as a restaurant and bar.
• Vareladiko Studios: small, comfortable and quiet self-catering apartments by the beach
• or this apartment with a superb sea view with a huge terrace and private beach.

Agia Marina, close to everything

• Hidden Oasis Private Villa: I love the terrace of this little vacation home, where I can see myself admiring the sunset!
• Siridaki Homes: 2 houses are available for rent: 1-bedroom or 3-bedroom. Well-decorated and in an excellent location, with Alinda beach just 600 m away, as well as bars and tavernas nearby.
• Il Canto Delle Cicale offers colorful double rooms with an Italian flair and a beautiful view. Ambra, the hostess, is very attentive and also speaks French. What more could you ask for?

In Panteli, to make the most of the beach

• Stella Marina: tastefully decorated studios, terrace overlooking the bay and close to one of Leros’ best beaches.
• Anna House: Less than 100 m from Vromolithos beach, this 2-bedroom apartment has all the comforts of home and a terrace with sea views.

You can also find other apartments, houses or hotels on Booking by browsing the map below:

We wish you a wonderful stay in Leros!

Extend the pleasure of discovering Greece by reading our other articles on the Dodecanese islands .

Sandra B.