The first time we set foot on the 17 km² island in the East Aegean Sea was in 2017, as part of a day trip from Patmos. We rented a scooter and drove across the island, used the few hours to stroll through the main town and swim on the beautiful beach of Platis Gialos. Unfortunately, that wasn’t enough time for Lipsi. Eight years later, we returned for a second visit in mid-June and stayed for three days.
“If we close our eyes and imagine the typical Greek island, it’s white cube houses, rocking fishing boats in the harbor, blue church domes, rustic taverns with cats dozing in the sun and that typical island scent that can’t be described – Lipsi combines all of this in the smallest of spaces.”
This time we drove through all corners of the small island dwarf with our own car and discovered what makes this inconspicuous island so special. Here the clocks tick differently, here Greece is still authentic and unadulterated. Between thyme-covered hills, turquoise bays and windswept juniper bushes, we have found those moments that make travelling so precious.
Our most beautiful experiences and highlights as well as the most important Lipsi travel tips we have summarized here for you – so that you too can discover this little paradise in the Aegean Sea for yourself:
#1 Walk through Lipsi Chora
As soon as we arrive by ferry, we are greeted by the gleaming white cube houses of the small Lipsi Island. The ferry pier is located on the western edge of the main town, which is typically also called Chora. As the only real place on the island in the southeast, it is home to the majority of the 790 inhabitants, while only a few live in the scattered hamlets of the hinterland.
During our visit in mid-June, there was a relaxed atmosphere on the island, which immediately had a decelerating effect. Sailors had settled comfortably in the sheltered, bulbous pier, while along the picturesque harbour promenade the taverns had already opened their doors and filled with life in the evening, especially Italians have long since discovered the island for themselves.
The absolute eye-catcher of the place is the church of Agios Ioannis Theologos with its bright blue dome – it completes the perfect postcard motif of Lipsi and towers majestically above the action as the largest church on the island. It was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the foundations of an older church – with generous financial support from emigrated Lipsiots from America.
The large Platia at the fishing harbour invites you to take a relaxed stroll and embodies Greek idyll in its purest form. Directly behind the village square is a large, modern children’s playground, which we visited daily as a family. In the pier, the fishermen’s colourful kaiki’s bob in the water, while children romp around on the promenade in the evening. Meanwhile, the adults sit relaxed in one of the resident ouzeries, Greek ouzo tapas bars.
In general, the entire harbour area is particularly family-friendly due to its traffic calming – a true paradise for the little ones, who can romp around here carefree. Our daughter loved whizzing up and down the harbor promenade on her scooter. In general, cars are rarely seen on the mini island, the scooter is the most popular means of transport for the Greeks, even for distances of only 200 meters.
Daily needs are well catered for in the tranquil village: a supermarket at the harbour, a mini market in the upper village, two bakeries, a pharmacy, an ATM and the tempting delicatessen Casa di Vino with exquisite island specialties such as local wines and cheeses cover the supply of individualists. In the very south of the harbor pier you will also find the only gas station on the island.
You can easily walk through Lipsi Chora. In principle, there is only one main alley, from which small paths lead off that lead you to cozy cafés (tip: Avli Botanica) and many shops. The boutiques Boubou and Marcellas Tourist Shop are recommended, as is the jewelry store Ya-Lena, owned by the friendly Magdalena from Germany. Take a look at her shop and leave greetings from us.
You can enjoy the most enchanting view of Lipsi Town from the slightly elevated school – especially in the evening, when the golden light bathes the white houses in warm tones, the view is simply magnificent! You quickly fall in love with Lipsi. Somehow, however, the island also has something mysterious about it. Tom, in particular, reminded the old police car of the Greek film all the time Small crimes (on Amazon Prime*), in which new policeman Leonidas solves a big case on a small island.
#2 Monodendri: Where time stands still
The flat island is easy to explore and the sea is always in sight. At our first stop, we drive past beautiful bays to the remote east of the island. There you will find an almost meditative place with Monodendri – the name says it all. A single juniper tree (mono: single, dendro: tree) stands here quite lonely on the coast and forms a bizarre photo motif with the reddish gravel.
The pebble beach of Monodendri can only be reached on foot via a narrow path. A dilapidated gravel road leads to a parking bay where you can park your vehicle or mountain bike. From here you follow the Monopati down to the coast – sturdy shoes are recommended.
Once at the bottom, wonderful turquoise blue sparkling bays await you, which were deserted when we visited. The Monodendri beach is rocky, if you want to swim here, you are well advised to wear bathing shoes.
Or you can simply squat under the tree marked by wind and weather and meditate for a round. Directly under the tree is a kind of throne, which is literally ideal for this. Either way, this place leaves its mark – especially if you’re traveling alone.
By the way, we had one of our typical research moments here, which you experience as freelance journalists with a toddler: The little one had fallen asleep in the car on the bumpy drive to Monodendri and so we took turns visiting the beach. First Ella was down for ten minutes, then it was Tom’s turn with the camera. We were equally fascinated by the scenery and everyone was able to enjoy the tree moment for themselves.
In summer, Monodendri Beach is also popular with nudists, who can drop all their covers here in seclusion. By the way, from Monodendri you can look over to the uninhabited islands of Aspronisi, which are often visited as part of a day trip due to their white pebble beach and Caribbean blue water (see point #6).
🗺️ 12 Islands with maps
🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights & attractions
🔍 Our best planning tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
#3 Platis Gialos: The beach paradise of Lipsi
Perhaps one of the most beautiful beaches of the entire Dodecanese archipelago: The beach of Platis Gialos in the very northwest of the island is a dream in turquoise blue and the most popular and most visited beach of Lipsi.
The journey along the north coast to the bay alone is an experience in itself. From afar, you can see the sea in the bay sparkling blue – an almost Caribbean backdrop! Tamarisk trees provide sufficient shade on the bright sandy beach, while the shore area slopes so gently that you can walk meters into the sea.
For our little daughter, Platis Gialos was probably the Lipsi Highlight par excellence – so we had to plan a swim stop here every day. If you want to swim, you have to walk further out, but you will definitely get your money’s worth.
In June, the beach was already well visited, but not overcrowded. Especially in the afternoon it emptied noticeably. Every now and then a duck family stops by, which has their home here on the beach – maybe there are still a few breadcrumbs with one or the other beach towel.
The Tavern of Platis Gialos above the beach we tested for lunch and found it to be good, even if you have to be patient with the service, especially at peak times. The food was homemade and tasty, the prices very fair.
After your visit to the beach of Platis Gialos, it is worth taking a short detour to the Moschato Bay in the northwest of the island. The deeply cut bay with its natural harbour is primarily used by fishermen and offers an excellent photo motif, especially in the late afternoon with its blue and white chapel Agios Ioannis Theologos and the silvery-green olive trees!
💡 Archipelagos on Lipsi: The Institute for Marine Conservation Archipelagos has set up a rescue station for marine animals on Lipsi, which is unique in Greece. Here, injured and sick dolphins, seals and sea turtles found in Greek waters are nursed back to health. During their recovery, the animals live in the protected Vroulia Bay – almost like in a natural hospital in the sea. The center works entirely with solar energy and shows how sustainable animal welfare works. After their healing, the animals are released back into the wild. The station serves as a model for similar projects worldwide and is not open to the public.
#4 Hiking on Lipsi: From church to church
In the southwest of the island lies the lonely Kimisi Bay with its pebble beach and emerald waters. A concrete track leads down to the beach, but is not completely passable for vehicles. It’s best to park a little above and walk the last bit down to the beach.
Here you will also find the small white one on the left Kato Kimissi Chapel, which was unfortunately closed for our visit. Just below the chapel is a hidden moss-covered spring where you can refresh yourself a little before or after the hike.
To the right of Kimissi beach, follow the paved path for about 900 meters. The hiking trail above the coast is picturesquely laid out and the views of the offshore islands are simply fantastic!
After a leisurely 30 minutes you will reach the Pano Kimissi Church, which used to be inhabited by monks. We were lucky and were able to take a look inside. Light a candle and leave a small donation. On the square in front of the church, you can take a break and unpack your picnic – a truly wonderful place of silence with a view of the deep blue Aegean Sea.
#5 Beautiful beaches on Lipsi
While on other Greek islands the sun loungers are close together, on Lipsi they decided against commercial beach use years ago. This means: You bring your own umbrella and beach towel if necessary. In this way, the beautiful beaches of the island remain natural. We’ll tell you which ones we liked best here:
Platis Gialos
For many people, Platis Gialos Beach is the most beautiful beach on the island of Lipsi. Light sand and turquoise blue water provide a Caribbean flair here. Through the offshore sandbank you can walk meters into the sea. The beach is especially popular with families with children and is very frequented in summer. All information can be found under point #3.
Lientou Beach
The urban beach of Lipsi is only five minutes away from the waterfront and is therefore always very busy. The shallow sandy beach with crystal clear water and some shady tamarisk trees is particularly popular with families with children. Practical: changing rooms are available, as well as a Seatrack for people with walking difficulties. Opposite you will find a café bar in the Aphrodite Hotel for a little refreshment in between.
Kampos Beach
This narrow sandy beach with crystal clear water and some shady tamarisk trees was almost deserted when we visited. Nevertheless, it is a perfect alternative to Lientou Beach if it is too crowded.
Katsadia Beach
A beautiful golden sandy beach with a shallow shore area, which also has shady trees. Katsadia is a popular anchorage for sailors and on site you will find a beach bar, albeit quite expensive.
Tourkomnima Beach
Together with the Xerokambos Beach it forms a charming coastal strip in the far east of the island. The three pebble beaches have crystal clear waters and are great for swimming and snorkeling.
The focal point is the pretty blue and white church of Agios Nikolaos on a rocky outcrop by the sea. You will find such photogenic gems scattered all over the island – this is one of our favourite chapels. In the hinterland there are some summer houses and holiday villas. These beaches are also completely natural – there is no operator on site.
Chochlakoura Beach
This stone beach scores with crystal clear water, shady tamarisk trees and sandy seabed. Due to the stony entry, bathing shoes are recommended. Our tip: If you follow the path to the right of the beach a little further, you will reach some lonely bays with interesting caves and rock formations.
💡 Pilgrimage site on Lipsi: On the way to Chochlakoura Beach you will pass the church Panagia tou Charou (Our Lady of Death), one of the most important places of worship on the island. The miraculous icon depicts the Mother of God with a crucifix and is now located in the main church of Agios Ioannis Theologos. The miracle of the lilies makes this church special: since 1943, wilted lilies have bloomed again in front of the icon every year on 23 August – an inexplicable phenomenon that is celebrated at the big church consecration festival. The three-day festival attracts believers from all over the region and symbolizes the endless circle of life for the residents.
#6 Boat tour from Lipsi: Aspronisi, Arki & Co.
In the summer months, Captain Yannis offers a day trip to five small islands around Lipsi with his sailboat Rena, stopping at the islands of Makronisi, Aspronisi, Tiganakia, Agrelousa and Arki. The latter is the only inhabited island, the others are pure swimming stops.
Special highlights of the tour are swimming in the turquoise lagoon of Tiganakia and the beautiful Aspronisia Beach – both real postcard motifs! Afterwards we continue to the island of Arki. With its almost 80 inhabitants, it is a true gem among the Greek islands. You can enjoy a delicious lunch at the local taverns before heading back.
Tours depart from the port of Lipsi from 10:30 AM (return around 6:00 PM) and cost from €45 per person including snacks and drinks. At the harbor you will find the agency Lipsi the Rena, which runs the so-called “5 Islands Tour”. A field report on the Lipsi Excursion can be found here: agreekoddity
#7 Activities on Lipsi
Orama farm to table
A special experience on Lipsi is offered by the two dear hosts Caite and Chris on the beach of Katsadia. On their farm property, they have created a wonderful refuge where you can immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
With local products, they conjure up an extraordinary Farm to Table Experience, where vegetables and fruit come directly from their own garden. Perfect for a special occasion such as a private dinner for two or for a whole group. More information about Orama farm to table on Instagram: Orama Lipsi
Dimitris Farm and Vineyard
Owner Kostas continues his father’s legacy here and runs a farm where local products and natural wine are offered. Organically grown vegetables, figs, melons and much more thrive here. Our little one especially enjoyed the chickens and cats that live everywhere on the grounds of Dimitris Farm and Vineyard wander.
It is also possible for young people to do a workaway on the farm. And during our visit, we also met a young, cheerful group that had just been served a delicious Greek lunch by Kostas. Why didn’t we hear from Lipsi 20 years ago? The idyllic seating area invites you to linger and products such as olive oil, wine, herbs and more can be purchased on site. Information about the Eco-farm of Lipsi can be found here: DimitrisFarm
Lipsi Horse Riding
This family-run riding stable south of Lipsi Chora is particularly known for its sunset rides, where you can enjoy the beautiful evening hours on Lipsi extensively. The friendly owners also offer excursions for children and inexperienced riders – perfect for those who want to sit on a horse for the first time. On a horseback ride you will meet the friendly donkeys of Lipsi.
Lipsi Winery
The island’s only commercial winery opened in 2013 and offers an exciting insight into the local winemaking tradition on Lipsi. Every Friday evening in the summer months, there is a tour with tasting of different grape varieties, including the local grape Fokiano, as well as Assyrtiko, Athiri and Syrah.
Prices start from €15 per person for four wines and a snack platter with cheese and olives. Pre-registration at Lipsi Winery is required as there are no regular opening hours. The wines of the Lipsi Winery are available from €12 per bottle and are also available in shops on the island. You can find more information on their website Website.
#8 More travel tips for Lipsi
How to get to Lipsi
Lipsi is located in the eastern Aegean Sea between the islands Leros and Patmos and doesn’t have its own airport, so you can only reach Lipsi by ferry.
The Kos Island is usually the ideal starting point for this, as it has an international airport. For example, you can find cheap flights via Skyscanner* Display:
Ferry connections to Lipsi
During the season, the fast catamarans of Dodekanisos Seaways depart daily from Kos to Lipsi and take about 1 hour 50 minutes for the crossing. Ferryhopper*.
➲ To the ferry search with Ferryhopper*
The large car ferries of Blue Star Ferries also head for the island from Piraeus or Kos several times a week, but usually arrive on Lipsi at night. From Samos Lipsi can also be reached in the season with Saos Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways or Leros Express – the crossing takes between 2-4 hours.
Due to its central location on the Dodecanese, Lipsi can be wonderfully integrated into island hopping, for example with Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos and Kos. You can find a lot of tips for this in our Travel Guide Island Hopping Dodecanese.
Hotel tips on Lipsi
Years ago, the island government of Lipsi decided that no hotels with more than 60 beds could be built. Thus, you will not find any large hotel bunkers and resorts on the small island. Most individual tourists rent private apartments, studios or holiday homes for their stay. If you want breakfast, you can switch to one of the two hotels, which are quite simply furnished:
Enclosed we have picked out three beautiful accommodations on Lipsi for you. Click on the links from Booking.com*to see prices and availability:
Getting around Lipsi
With an extension of only 8 km, Lipsi is a really small island where you can reach many places on foot. Local rental companies such as Moto Rent George and Moto Rent Marko & Maria offer small cars, scooters, quads and bicycles (including e-bikes).
Especially by bike or scooter you can get around on Lipsi. You should check the vehicles for functionality before renting, because some are already a bit old. In the high season, we recommend that you reserve your desired vehicle in advance due to the high demand.
The travel agency Lipsi Travel Services offers the only public bus transfer on the island in high season. In the summer months, the bus runs daily from Lipsi Chora to the beaches of Platis Gialos, Katsadia and Chochlakoura. You can check the departure times at the Lipsi Travel Services office directly on the waterfront.
There are also two taxi drivers on Lipsi, who charge €4-7 one way, depending on the destination. The most common route is from Chora to Platis Gialos Beach. In summer, however, taxi drivers are very busy. Those who have not reserved in advance have to walk home.
Lipsi restaurants: Our recommendations
Compared to other Greek islands, Lipsi is not necessarily a paradise for gourmets or a mecca for lovers of fusion cuisine – but it doesn’t have to be, because here you will always find homemade Greek cuisine with good local ingredients. The numerous ouzeries on the waterfront promenade are well filled in the evening. However, it is advisable to take a look at the reviews on Google and Tripadvisor in advance.
The prices are still quite fair, but have of course adapted to the menus of some Cycladic islands in recent years due to international tourism. We have tested the following taverns and cafés ourselves and found them to be good:
Vasilikos Lipsi
This modern mezedopoleio with adjoining delicatessen is located directly on the old port of Lipsi and convinces with tasty small dishes that are ideal for sharing. The authentic atmosphere and the nice people make the visit a special experience.
Pefko Restaurant
Located directly on the waterfront, the Pefko scores with a beautiful, green ambience and an extensive menu. The friendly and attentive service is exemplary, but even in June it was already really crowded in the evening – a reservation is therefore recommended.
Manolis Tastes
Creative Greek cuisine awaits you here, although not every dish achieves a 10/10. In the evening it was too hectic for us and you have to make a reservation. Our tip: Stop by for lunch, then the atmosphere is much more relaxed.
Ouzerie Asprakis
This cozy ouzerie, right on the harbor, serves tasty Greek meze with a focus on fish and seafood at slightly higher prices. The friendly staff and the great evening atmosphere make the visit worthwhile.
Kairis Lipsi Bakery
In addition to bread, pastries, cakes and ice cream, the hub in Lipsi Chora also offers local products of the island such as cheese and wine as well as other food and drinks (attention: expensive!). Completely sufficient for a Freddo break, but can get very crowded and hectic at times.
Best time to visit Lipsi
The tourist season on Lipsi starts in June and ends in September. If you stop by in May, you can enjoy the island in full bloom and usually all to yourself, but you have to expect that many restaurants and shops are still closed.
In July and August, the small island fills up with individualists, sailors, Italian regulars and day trippers from Patmos – then it can get very crowded, especially on the beaches and in the tavernas. At this time, the overnight accommodations are usually booked up to the last room.
With the beginning of September, it gets quieter again on Lipsi and you can really enjoy the island again with fantastic weather and warm sea. From October, many facilities on the island of Lipsi close and the season comes to an end.
➝ You can find an overview of more useful travel tips to the neighbouring islands of Lipsi here: Dodecanese Islands Blog
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