10 Best Things to Do in Thasos

With clear water and fine sand, Paradise Beach is an ideal Greek island getaway. Nearby amenities offer umbrellas and sunbeds, and the beach is large enough that you'll have plenty of space to yourself. There are also food options and beach volleyball easily accessible.

The small island just off-shore provides a striking backdrop to the scene – a memory that's sure to stay with you. The steep drive and surrounding forest make the area feel truly secluded – just like paradise should.

There may not be much left in the site of the ancient kingdom of Alyki, but the ghosts of lives past seem to linger as you stroll along the coastline. Walls remain where houses stood nearly 3,000 years ago, providing a glimpse of what life was like during the Hellenic Period. Signs provide information on what you can see here, so you can enjoy a relaxing and informative stroll.

Once a thriving port where the residents mostly traded marble, this spot by the sea offers views of marble rock just off-shore. You can also find the remains of 5^th-century basilicas higher up.

All kinds of artisanal creations abound on this vibrant avenue, like traditional candies and olive oil. Aside from food, you can also browse locally made clothes, shoes and jewellery.

The art and souvenir shops along the pedestrian street are refined and, unlike the kitschy shops you find in more touristic Greek destinations, offer the kind of shopping experience you could only find on an island as small and tucked away as Thasos. An evening on Limenas is a great way to mingle with locals and indulge in some window shopping.

Panagia is a quaint town nestled in the mountains with a church at its social centre. Residents are devout and daily life is simple, lending the town a surreal yet charming air. Narrow alleyways and wooden verandas further immerse residents (and visitors) in quietude.

The church itself stands at an imposing 18 metres high and is almost 200 years old. The history of the town is carved indelibly into this edifice, displaying treasures like the town's old currency.

Archaeological Museum of Thassos boasts a collection of antiquities frozen in time. You can see mythical and historical figures captured in busts, statues and reliefs, as well as pottery and other artefacts dating back thousands of years. You don't need to be well-versed in Ancient Greece to feel the awe of its mysterious relics.

The sights are not all contained inside either, as you can access the ruins of an ancient forum nearby. Also not to be missed is the Ancient Theatre of Thasos just a short walk away.

Giola Lagoon in Thasos is a naturally formed pool that glows with emerald and sapphire colours that are both relaxing and captivating. A small sliver of land separates the cave-like beauty from the ocean, creating a rare sight. Just imagine the geological epochs that led to all this!

Jump in from the highest point and splash into the cool water below, then explore the shadowy coves below. You won't need to worry about reservations here – this natural site is free to visit. When you're full up with gorgeousness, walk back up the rocks to regroup at Giola Tavern nearby for Greek wine and olives.

Venture inland from the coast of Thasos to visit Kastro, a town with origins dating back to Middle Ages. Here, you can enjoy local specialities at the tavern and see a church built from stones from the castle that gave the town its name.

Though the town was abandoned for many years, recent renovations breathe new life into the historic Kastro. If you're lucky, you may even catch some local festivities. Many of the houses have been turned into cottages – a great option for accommodation when visiting Thasos. Modern roads keep Kastro well-connected with the rest of the island.

There’s nothing like a sumptuous dinner to cap off a long day of walking in Thasos. Thassian-Doukas isn't far from the shopping street, and outdoor seating provides a front-row seat to the setting sun. The wait staff are happy to make recommendations and will have you feeling part of a big Greek family in no time.

Whether seafood, gyros or pasta, this restaurant serves up dishes with local ingredients. The dish to try here is the squid, but if you’re not into tentacles, make sure to at least sample some starters, wine and dessert. Foodies may also want to visit the Olive Oil Museum in Panagia.

Archangel Michael Monastery in Thasos is a truly magnificent sight that sits upon the edge of a cliff and affords a beautiful view of the Aegean Sea. Though the date of construction is unknown, it was at least before AD 1287. Various renovations have allowed visitors to see religious architecture spanning a millennium.

This monastery also bears a great deal of religious significance, having reportedly been built at the command of Archangel Michael. Many make their pilgrimage here to see the Holy Nail.

Karnagio Beach Bar in Thasos is a candlelit tavern by the water. On the terrace, sofas and tables are set out for lounging, but plenty of seats extend onto the beach, as well. Underwater lights illuminate the blue water, further adding to the romantic atmosphere. The bar serves cocktails, coffee, meals and desserts.

Live music is also common at Karnagio, and you might even catch local couples dancing on the beach. The bar stays open until 3am and is always lively, so it’s a good spot to go when you don’t want your day on Thasos to end.