Northern Aegean
Agios Efstratios
The most isolated inhabited island in Greece — and almost no one has heard of it.
Getting around
Walkable
Cost
€€€
In peak season
Quiet
Best months
Jun – Aug
From Athens
Ferry only
In pictures
Agios Efstratios
Agios Efstratios (or Ai-Stratis) is a tiny island in the northern Aegean, halfway between Lemnos and Skyros, with around 200 permanent residents. It was used as a place of political exile in the 20th century. There is one village (rebuilt after a devastating 1968 earthquake), one beach, no cars, no tourist infrastructure to speak of, and ferry connections only a few times a week. For the right person, it's extraordinary.
How it scores
- Beaches
- Nightlife
- Food
- Culture
- Nature
- Family
- Accessibility
- Value for money
The catch
Ferries are infrequent, small, and weather-dependent. Almost no tourist facilities whatsoever.
Where it sits
Northern Aegean, Greece
Agios Efstratios — frequently asked
- When is the best time to visit Agios Efstratios? +
- The best months to visit Agios Efstratios are June to August. It's very quiet, even in August, so even peak season is workable.
- How do you get to Agios Efstratios from Athens? +
- Agios Efstratios has no airport — you'll need to take a ferry from Piraeus or Rafina. Some travellers fly to a nearby island and ferry across.
- Is Agios Efstratios good for couples? +
- Agios Efstratios is more about scenery than swoon — better for active or family trips than honeymoons.
- Is Agios Efstratios good for families with kids? +
- Agios Efstratios is not the easiest island for families with young kids.
- Is Agios Efstratios expensive? +
- Agios Efstratios is one of the cheaper Greek islands — and it's one of the better-value picks in its tier.
- Do you need a car on Agios Efstratios? +
- Agios Efstratios is small and walkable — you don't need a car or scooter for most stays.
- What's the catch with Agios Efstratios? +
- Ferries are infrequent, small, and weather-dependent. Almost no tourist facilities whatsoever.