Cyclades
Donousa
The Small Cyclades island with nothing to do — which turns out to be everything.
Getting around
Walkable
Cost
€€€
In peak season
Quiet
Best months
Jun – Sep
From Athens
9h ferry
In pictures
Donousa
Donousa is the easternmost and most remote of the Small Cyclades, and the ferries connecting it to the wider world run a few times a week in high summer and less in the shoulder season. This filters the visitors down to those who specifically want the experience — people who heard about the island from someone who went, and decided that the enforced simplicity was the point rather than an obstacle. Kendros, the main beach, is a long curve of fine sand with water so clear you can read the seabed at considerable depth. The hiking between the island's three settlements takes a full day and covers dramatic, exposed terrain with exceptional views. There is one bakery, one small supermarket, several tavernas, and no nightlife whatsoever. The stars at night, in the complete absence of light pollution, are extraordinary.
How it scores
- Beaches
- Nightlife
- Food
- Culture
- Nature
- Family
- Accessibility
- Value for money
The catch
Infrequent ferry connections. Very limited accommodation — book well ahead.
Where it sits
Cyclades, Greece
Donousa — frequently asked
- When is the best time to visit Donousa? +
- The best months to visit Donousa are June to September. It's calm and uncrowded most of the year, so even peak season is workable.
- How do you get to Donousa from Athens? +
- Donousa has no airport — you'll need to take a ferry from Piraeus or Rafina, which takes about 9 hours. Some travellers fly to a nearby island and ferry across.
- Is Donousa good for couples? +
- Donousa is a charming pick for couples, especially shoulder season.
- Is Donousa good for families with kids? +
- Donousa is not the easiest island for families with young kids.
- Is Donousa expensive? +
- Donousa is affordable by Greek-island standards.
- Do you need a car on Donousa? +
- Donousa is small and walkable — you don't need a car or scooter for most stays.
- What's the catch with Donousa? +
- Infrequent ferry connections. Very limited accommodation — book well ahead.