Thassos is a green island in northern Greece. It does not have the popularity of Santorini and Crete, but it has natural charm, many ancient monuments and everything you need for a relaxing holiday. You won’t get bored here, but it’s quite possible to replenish the luggage of vivid impressions. What to see on Thassos and what sights this Greek island has prepared?

Ancient Thassos

The capital of Thassos, the city of Limenas, is not just the bustling center of the island, but also the keeper of the ancient heritage. Here it is worth visiting the ruins of the ancient city, the excavations of which began in 1910 and have not been completed to this day. The objects are scattered over an impressive area. Among them you can see:

  • Sanctuary of Hercules;
  • An amphitheater built on a hill. It offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Limenas amphitheater hosts festival events, concerts and performances throughout the year;
  • The Antique Odeon, which dates from the 2nd century AD;
  • Agora - the political, religious and commercial center of ancient Limenas;
  • Acropolis, located above the agora at an altitude of more than 130 m. Walking along it, you can take a walk through the centuries. Among the attractions of the acropolis are the pagan temple of Athena and the sanctuary of the god Pan.

At the excavation site of ancient Limenas, archaeologists have made many finds. All of them are stored in the Archaeological Museum of the city. His collection includes sculptures, ceramics, coins, weapons.

Address: center of modern Limenas, near the port
Ticket price: many monuments of Ancient Thassos are open for free admission. Museum ticket price - 2 euros

Monastery of the Archangel Michael

The largest and most famous monastery of Thassos is named after the Archangel Michael. The monastery was founded in the 18th century and was originally the property of Athos. It stands on the edge of a wild cliff, which offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. According to some historical sources, the monastery was built on the site of a church dating back to 1287. Others speak of the existence of a monastery of the 8th century on this site. Today, the monastery houses a rich collection of religious objects and rare icons painted by monks. In the main cruciform church with a dome and arches, you can bow to the icon of the Archangel Michael. The saint is considered the heavenly patron of the entire island. His day is celebrated on November 8, when pilgrims come to the monastery.

Address: Thassos 640 04, 25 km from Limenas. From the capital of Thassos there are direct buses to the monastery

Theologos village

Theologos is one of the oldest villages in Thassos, full of magnificent mansions and houses. In the late 70s, the Greek government declared it a traditional settlement for the good preservation of architecture.

An interesting fact: due to the decision of the government, the inhabitants of Theologos lost the opportunity to modify houses. Therefore, many sold them to the Germans and the British, who turned the houses into cozy cafes and mini-hotels.

It is worth coming to Theologos to admire its houses, visit the taverns that serve traditional Thassos dishes, and see an interesting reconstruction of the local wedding, which is held every year in June. There is a Folklore Museum in the village. It is located in one of the mansions and keeps a collection of household items, national costumes and tools of representatives of various professions.

Address: 52 km south of Limenas. You can get to Theologos by a regular bus from Limenas, which departs 4 times a day (the first flight is at 9:00). The ticket price is 6.70 euros. The village is also connected by direct communication with Limenaria. Buses run 4 times a day, ticket price - 1.80 euros

Castro Village

The historic village of Kastro (the name literally translates as "castle") was a lively and wealthy settlement in Venetian times. Now the oldest village of Thassos is practically deserted: there are only 3 taverns from the infrastructure, the entire population has long since moved closer to the coast. Only in recent years have the houses been reconstructed to open apartments. But tourists are drawn here like a magnet. They come to see the remains of the Genoese castle, on the walls of which inscriptions are distinguishable, and the church of St. Athanasius, the oldest on the island. You can also wander through the historic streets and enjoy the views that open from above.

Address: The village is located in the central part of Thassos at an altitude of 450 m, 47 km from Limenas and 9 km from Theologos. A dirt road leads to Castro, so buses do not go to it. You can first drive to Theologos, and from there take a taxi or immediately hit the road in a rented car

Giola Lagoon

Among the natural attractions of the island of Thassos is the Giola lagoon. Her image has long become recognizable and adorns all advertising booklets. This small pool, 15x20 m in size, carved into the rock, is famous for its emerald sea and incredible photogenicity. And in shape, Giola resembles a shell with a pearl inside. The depth of the water in the lagoon is 3 m, and it is updated in a natural way. When planning to relax on the banks of Giola, it is worth remembering: you can only sit here on the rocks, there is nowhere to hide from the sun either. Despite this, there are many people on Thassos who want to see a natural miracle with their own eyes and swim in its waters.

Address: Giola is located 40 km from Limenas, in the south of the island. The reference point will be the village of Astris, which can be reached by car, and then follow the signs to the lagoon. On a dirt road you will have to drive 3 km, and then walk

Archaeological site of Aliki

In ancient times, Thassos was famous for its marble. The center of its production was the Aliki Peninsula, which flourished from ancient to Byzantine times. Today Aliki is of great archaeological interest. On its territory you can visit an ancient marble quarry, the remains of early Christian basilicas and pagan sanctuaries. Sailors who visited the temples often made inscriptions on their steps. They have survived to this day. Part of Aliki's facilities is located near the beach, the other part is on a hill with beautiful views.

Address: 32 km from Limenas. You can get to Aliki by bus from Limenaria, Limenas, Potos, Skala Potamya. Buses depart once a day (the schedule must be specified in advance). Ticket price - from 2.7 to 4 euros
Additional information: it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for walking through the ruins, and also to take a bottle of water.