Increase visibility and reservations
Surface
3.684 km²
Airport
No
Port
Karystos, Marmari, Loutra Edipsou, Kimi
Faster connection
Direct flight
Connections
Direct flight, Ferry
Healthcare
Hospital
Tourist presence
Nightlife under 30
Nightlife over 30
Beaches
Sand, Pebbles, Rocks
Beach services
Free
Beaches for children
Yes
Equipped campsite
Yes
Naturism
Yes
Points of interest
Ancient Eretria, Moni Agios Nikolaos (Galataki), Archaeological Museum Karystos, Red Castle (Moly, Karystos), Thermal Baths (Loutra), St John the Russian (Limni), Kokkino Spiti (Chalkidi), Roman Aqueduct (Chalkidi), Bourtzi (Karystos )
Activity
Holiday type
Family holiday, Romantic trip, Sea and Relax
Evia, also known as Evia, is the second biggest island in the whole of Greece. It is so close to the mainland that it doesn’t even look like an island. In fact it so close to mainland that a bridge that connects the two has been built so you can even reach this island by car.
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If you are looking for a quiet place without many tourists Evia is the place for you. Even during high season you will hardly ever find very crowded beaches and busy roads. Not many international tourists visit it and in fact you will mostly find Greek tourists.
Evia is a green island to visit in three stages, an island to visit from north to south. Evia is a very green island thanks to the lush nature that grows on it. In the center of the island there are also quite a few mountains (during winter it snows almost every day), in the western coast you will find some very nice beaches while in the eastern coast you will find some very high cliffs from where it is almost impossible to access the sea.
If you want to explore the island and admire its beauties you should divide the trip into 3 parts. Since the island is very long and narrow the trip should only last 4 hours.
Northern Evia
In the northern part of the island you will find Loutra Edipsou (one of the few places in Evia where you can take an evening walk), a town famous for its thermal springs that fall into the sea.
In the place where the sulfurous waters mix with the sea you will find a truly unique view. In this part of Evia the sea has a particular green color as there is a lot of vegetation in the sea in that area. In the locality of Gregolimano you will find a small beach covered in fine sand where there is also club Med.
In this area you will find traditional Greek food prepared with local and fresh ingredients. There are many taverns on the roads that run in the northern coast and these will give you the chance to spend the hottest hours of the day and where to get something to eat or drink. According to traditional Greek rules lunch usually starts around 13:00 before starting a second time around 17:00. A traditional and typical Greek atmosphere.
Center of Evia
Evia is famous for the production of honey. In fact in this area you will find many local people selling honey besides oil and fruit and vegetables. In the central part of the island you will also find Chalkide, Evia’s main town. Here you will find many discos and bars. The central part of the island is the most touristic area and here you will find luxurious hotels and resorts.
The sea in this part of the island changes from beach to beach. In the western part there are quite a few beaches with green and calm waters as the sea is surrounded by a canal. On the eastern coast you will find a high coast with small creeks with a beautiful sea that goes from a turquoise color to a light blue.
If you are in one coast and you want to visit the one on the other side of the island remember that you will take quite some time as there are some high mountains to cross. You may want to stay in the eastern coast where the beaches are nicer.
Southern Evia
The southern part of Evia is famous for its beaches. These are truly marvelous and covered in fine white sand and surrounded by turquoise water. A perfect place if you are looking for isolated and unique beaches. Compared to the northern and central part of the island this part of Evia is very barren and reminds some of the views of the Cyclades islands.
This is because of the Meltemi, that like in the Cyclades, blows constantly during the summer. Karystos is the main town of this gulf.
There are countless beaches on the island of Evia. In general, it can be said that the beaches on the east side of the island are more steep on the sea and that the current is even stronger than the west or south side of the island. beaches are usually not organized and there are no rescue or supervision personnel. To keep in mind if you are not very good swimmers and do not risk being too far from the coast. Let's see in detail the main beaches of Evia.
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The Northern Beaches
In the north of Evia we find many beaches, most of which are pebbly, and are mostly immersed in the green of the rich vegetation of the island. Furthermore, it is possible to reach the islet of Lichadonisia, where in addition to diving in sandy beaches, you can see the monk seal. Here are the most beautiful beaches in the north of Evia.
Agia Anna beach
It is the longest beach on the island located on the northern side of Evia. It is a sandy beach with blue waters. Agia Anna is well organized with numerous services including sun beds, umbrellas, water sports facilities, beach bars and tavernas. The beach is an ideal destination for relaxation and tranquility.
Kavos Beach
It is a long beach of sand and pebbles with turquoise waters and pine trees behind it located in the western area of the south side of Evia. It is a well organized beach with many services including sun beds and umbrellas. There are beach bars. Kavos is also an ideal destination for windsurf lovers .
Pefki Beach
It is a long sandy beach with blue waters and green vegetation located on the northern side of the island. The beach has strong currents ideal for kite surfers . The surrounding area offers taverns and restaurants, while there is also a campsite in the area.
The beaches of the central area
An important distinction must be made when talking about the beaches of the central area of Evia: the side towards the Continent and the one towards the Aegean. While on the western side, therefore towards the mainland, the beaches are easy to access and with generally calm waters, on the Aegean side, on the other hand, the coast is very high and access to the beaches is therefore not always easy. It is also easy to find the sea rough from the afternoon hours. But we can safely say that the colors that this central-eastern side of Evia offer are unique. The sea here is crystal clear as in few other parts of Greece. So let's find out which are the beaches to visit in the central part of Evia.
Alikes Beach
Alikes beach is not far from the capital Chalkidi. In summer it is possible to rent umbrellas and sunbeds and there are taverns and snack bars open . A long sandy beach where you can practice water sports.
Kalamos beach
It is a white sand beach with turquoise waters with pine trees behind it located in the central part of the island. The beach forms two enchanting bays separated by a rocky peninsula. The first beach is well organized with canteens and restaurants, while the second is ideal for nature lovers. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with an exceptional natural environment. There are also a few tavernas and a single hotel in the area.
Korasida beach
It is a sand and pebble beach with turquoise waters and lush vegetation located in the central part of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Euboea which stands out for its rare geographical formations. The spring flowing on the beach is said to have healing properties for kidney and stomach diseases. The beach has intense landscapes surrounded by rocky cliffs.
Limnionas beach
It is a beautiful beach located on the east side of the island of Evia, one hour and fifteen minutes away by car from the capital Chalkidi. Composed of sand and pebbles, it boasts turquoise waters and dense vegetation. The surrounding sea caves are ideal for exploration. There are tavernas and restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the beach.
Thapsa Beach
It is a white pebble beach with crystal clear turquoise waters located in the central part of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with fascinating sceneries. However, it is also one of the most inaccessible beaches on the island, as you will have to get there via a ten-kilometer dirt road.
Sarakiniko beach
It is a long beach of volcanic sand and pebbles with turquoise waters located in the central part of the island. It is a beautiful beach with an exceptional natural environment. The beach is ideal for nature lovers.
Beaches south of Evia
Traveling along the island of Evia, you immediately understand that you have reached the south when you meet more arid and barren stretches, different from the lush green of central-north Evia. The landscape in fact recalls the territory of the nearby Cyclades islands, barren and often drawn by Meltemi, who blows over this area of Greece between July and August. In fact, if you choose to visit the beaches of this corner of Evia you may have to deal with the Meltemi, which often blows hard and incessantly on the beach.
But if you love beaches of clear sand and shallow waters, you are in the right place: this point of Evia offers beaches that have nothing to envy to the beautiful white beaches of Naxos. Let's see in which beaches to spend the days during a holiday in Evia.
Agios Dimitrios beach
These are actually two quiet and picturesque beaches, Agios Dimitrios and Kallianos. They are located on the southeastern side of the island of Evia. They can be reached from the crossroads of the main road of Marmari. Both beaches are quite wide and are sandy. And they both have a small tavern open in the summer months. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and a ideal place for camping lovers . The last stretch, up to Agios Dimitrios beach, is accessible only with an off-road vehicle, otherwise you will have to get there for about 15 minutes on foot. The color of the sea is a beautiful turquoise.
Bouros beach
It is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. The beach is sheltered from the winds . Bouros is well organized with numerous amenities including sun beds, umbrellas and a canteen. The end of the beach becomes rocky, ideal for snorkeling. On the western end of the beach is a distinctive statue of the centaur and the nymph. On a hill near Bouros beach is a large dilapidated complex of what was once a large bungalow hotel. It is now completely abandoned and collapsed.
Psili Ammos Beach
About half a kilometer from the center of Karystos on the east side is the 300 meter long Psili Ammos beach (which means "fine sand"). This beach slowly flows into the sea and is safe for children. It is accessible from the main road that runs along the coast via a stone staircase . There are tavernas and restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the beach.
Potami Beach
It is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south east side of the island. The beach is the longest beach in the Cavo D'Oro area has beautiful sand dunes that are located on the mountain of the Platanistos stream. It is an isolated beach ideal for those seeking tranquility and relaxation.
Zarakes Beach
In the south-east not far from Styra is Zarakes beach. White pebble beach with emerald waters. It is located in a quiet bay and is usually not very crowded. There are two tavernas on the beach. It is ideal for those seeking relaxation.
Evia is an island for all seasons, so when asked what to do in Evia? Must follow, what time of year? During the summer season the beaches are obviously the favorite places for tourists. All the beauty of the Greek sea, with equipped beaches and with stretches of coast less frequented by mass tourism.
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But Evia is also an island with city centers that encompass thousands of years of history, a territory with a varied conformation with hills, mountains, lush nature and snow in winter. So any time of the year is the right time to plan a holiday in Evia.
Cities to visit in Evia
Chalkida or Calcide, is the largest city in Evia, the capital. The seafront of Chalkida has a wide promenade with a number of bars and taverns where you can enjoy good local food. If you love views, don't miss the best view of the gulf from Fourka Hill. It also combines a visit to the beautiful castle of Kanithos or Karababa which is located right there. The town's small Archaeological Museum contains finds from Chalika and other sites on the island.
A spectacular curiosity is the phenomenon of the tides in the Strait of Euripus . From the old bridge that connects Evia to the mainland you can observe the tide that reverses its flow even more than 10 times a day. The particular behavior of the tides in the Strait of Euripus was among the most popular even in ancient times.
66km north of Chalkida (on the road to Limni) you will reach the beautiful Monastery of Saint Nicholas in Galataki. The frescoes preserved inside the church are valuable and in general the whole Byzantine complex is worth a visit. Also starting from Chalkida, 100 km further north is Edipsos, famous spa . The remains of the ancient Roman baths testify that the site was exploited even at that time for the curative properties of its waters. You can take advantage of the various facilities available to book a relaxing day at the SPA.
A little further south of Chalkida we meet the city of Eretria, where you can visit the ruins of the temple of Apollo ( 6th century BC) and the remains of the theater located near the Archaeological Museum. Don't miss the House of Mosaics, another artistic gem of that archaeological area.
On the opposite coast from Chalkida is Kimi, one of the oldest cities in Evia, with an interesting Folklore Museum . Not far from Kimi
Explore the villages of Cavo d'Oro
Cape Karifeas, also known as Cavo d'Oro, is a promontory on the southeastern tip of Evia. The villages located on the slopes of the Golden Cable mountains are some of the most remote villages on the island. Time seems to have stopped several decades ago. The sceneries are arid dominated by landscapes of wild beauty, gorges and steep coasts. Most of the villages nestle high up in lush valleys.
Going from south to north, the most predominant settlements include Kastri, Platanistos, Panohori, Andia, Komito, Evangelismos, Kapsouri, Thymi, Zaharia, Amygdalia, and Schizali. Platanistos is the largest village with numerous attractions including two stone bridges, waterfalls and windmills together with the archaeological site of Hellinika.
Trekking, mountain biking, hiking
Evia offers many opportunities for mountain excursions and inland areas. The trekking route to the Dimosaris gorges is the oldest and best known on the island. Another destination frequented by tourists are the Drymona waterfalls , a walk in nature, also suitable for families with children.
For lovers of mountain biking there are several routes both in the paths and in some sections of the cycle path on the coastal part of the most touristic areas. Outdoor activities are plentiful and can be considered for off-season holidays in Greece.
Evia, a winter destination
Evia is also a must-see destination for winter holidays in Greece. In addition to the spas of Edipsos , visits to archaeological sites and all the trekking and hiking activities described above, in Evia it is possible to spend a holiday in the snow.
Mount Dirfi , the highest on the island (1,700 meters), is a winter attraction for many tourists who love mountaineering and mountain walks in winter . The snowy landscape is very suggestive, but the walks to the summit are not always so easy. Being the island exposed to the Aegean winds , during the ascent you are often forced to go back due to sudden changes in climatic conditions.
How to get around Euboea or Evia, the second largest island in Greece? Narrow and long, it will take you about 5 hours and 30 minutes to travel it all from north to south, despite the fact that the kilometers are approximately 250. The hilly and mountainous reliefs prevent the roads from being straight, but if you are a lover of on the road we recommend this tour by car (to do perhaps in several stages) to enjoy the nature of the island.
Moving by car remains the recommended option, but if you don't have it , do not worry, on the KTEL company website ktelevias.gr you can check all bus departures from Chalkida (Chalkida).
The island of Evia (or Evia) can be reached by land or by sea. Yes, by land, because is connected to the continent by a bridge 694.5 meters long. You can choose between car, train, bus or ferry, or the port of Rafina. All proposed routes have Athens as their starting point, where you can arrive by plane or by ferry.
Where do you need to go? Northern Euboea or Southern Evia? The advantage of the ferry is that you can choose whether to land directly in the north or south of the island. This is if you prefer to avoid traveling by car on the internal roads which, crossing a hilly and mountainous territory, do not always have straight paths. If you want to learn more about the ways to reach Athens from Italy go to our guide.
Getting to Euboea by car from Athens
The most practical and fastest way to reach Euboea is undoubtedly landing in Athens and renting a car at the airport . The journey from Athens International Airport to Chalcis (Calkida), the first city beyond the bridge is about 95 Km. The route passes through the new bridge, but you can choose to pass from the old bridge over the Euripus (you will lengthen the journey by about 10 km) if you have some time to stop and witness the particular phenomenon of the mysterious Euripus tides.
Reach Euboea by bus from Athens
As an alternative to the car we can use the buses that depart from the airport El. Venizelos of Athens . On the KTEL company portal you will find all the departures. the journey time is approximately one hour and 30 minutes, arriving in Chalkida.
Reaching Euboea by train from Athens
If your means of transport is the train, you can find out about the departures for Chalkida on the OSE (Hellenic Railways Organization) website http://www.trainose.gr/en/ the departure station of Athens is in Theodore Diligiannis 50 .
Reach Euboea by ferry
The advantage of the ferry is that we can go directly to the north or south of the island. For north Euboea the connection from the mainland is the port of Arkitsa for Edipsou (1 hour and 20 min.). If you have to disembark in the south the connection by sea is from the port of Rafina (Athens) towards Marmari . The crossing takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. We recommend this route only or if you need to reach the south of Evia.
Accommodation and hotels in Evia? Let's say there is a lot to choose from when it comes to deciding where to stay in Evia. Popular with Greeks, Karystos is South Evia's main resort with a neoclassical waterfront, and staying here also means being close to the mountains. If you are looking for lush views, the best places to stay in Evia are in the north of the island. Pefki is a good choice. If you are looking for a private villa, you will find many on the east coast of the island, in one of the many small towns and hamlets.
Where to sleep in Evia
One of the most well known and good value for money hotels is located just south of Agkali in the northeast of Evia Perfect for those who want to relax in style and on a limited budget. There are 60 rooms, a gorgeous pool, a smooth and pebble beach bar, and an excellent restaurant. The decor is elegant, with lots of glass and polished stone.
One of the areas of Eviaa richest in accommodation facilities is Loutra Edipsou located in the north west of the island, where there are thermal resorts, hotels and studios, while in Eretria in the west of the central part of Eviaa, the scepter of the largest number of low-cost hotels. Here you will also find organized campsites near the beaches.
On the seafront of Paralia Kymis you are instead in the center-east of the island on the port that connects the main islands of the Sporades , Skyros and Alonissos. Here you will find reliable, simple and clean facilities at reasonable prices and strategically positioned.
To the south instead there is Karystios where you can find, at modest prices, hotels with modern and well-furnished rooms with hearty breakfasts and helpful staff who also speak English (in Eviaa it's not that simple).
