Posted by Lipsi (area 17 km²), also called Lipsos, lies between Patmos and Leros in the northern Dodecanese in Greece. Lipsi is a small island with lots of charm, good tavernas, reasonable prices, very good beaches and lots of nature. Because of its small size, the island is not one of the main islands of the Dodecanese, but it is a larger island among the small islands. Since the island is off the main ferry routes, it is not yet very touristy. However, the number of holidaymakers has rightly increased significantly in recent years.
By waldviertler – own photo, CC-by-sa 3.0/de, Link
A good time to visit the island of Lipsi is during the local wine festival, which takes place for a few days in August. On August 24th there is a big religious festival on Lipsi. Then the island is overrun with Greeks and rooms are very expensive and difficult to find.
Lipsi Town: Lipsi Town, the main village on Lipsi Island, is a picturesque and traditional Greek island settlement. It is built around a natural harbor full of fishing boats and yachts. The charming atmosphere is created by white, cube-shaped houses with blue doors and shutters, narrow, winding streets and small squares, giving the place a classic Aegean feel. A landmark is the main church of Agios Ioannis Theologos, known for its impressive dome and the beautiful icons inside.
All ferries arrive in the only major town on Lipsi. About 500 of Lipsi’s 650 inhabitants live in the village. Almost all tourists stay here. There are several good hotels and guesthouses with prices starting at around €40 for a double room in season. There are also many high-quality tavernas with low prices. The restaurant in the Kalipso Hotel is very good and inexpensive, and is also a good option for accommodation. Admission to the small museum of Lipsi is free. The town has a safe harbor where yachts and sailors like to dock. You can stay well and cheaply at “O Glaros”, about 150 meters from the harbor.
Beaches on Lipsi: Liendu beach, just a few hundred meters from the town, is the most popular beach on Lipsi. Quieter and also excellent beaches include Kambos and Platis Gialos, 1 and 3 km away respectively. There are taverns on some beaches and simple private rooms on some from about 35 euros.
Hiking Lipsi: Lipsi offers a variety of hiking trails that lead to remote beaches, hills and impressive viewpoints.
Snakes Lipsi: There are poisonous snakes of the mountain viper species. A snake bite is a medical emergency! There are also non-poisonous snakes in the area. The poisonous mountain viper also lives on other islands in the area (Dodecanese).
Ferries to Lipsi: Lipsi can be reached almost daily in summer from Patmos and Leros island. There are also connections to Kalymnos islandseveral times a week. More expensive fast ferries connect the island more or less frequently with Rhodes island, Samos island, Kos island, Patmos island and Ikaria island. In winter there are significantly fewer connections.
Boat trips to Lipsi: You can visit small, uninhabited islands in the vicinity, for example Arki, Marathi and Aspronisia. There you will find deserted beaches with crystal clear water. Boat trips from Lipsi to remote beaches and bays that can only be reached by sea are also interesting.
Diving and snorkeling: The waters surrounding Lipsi are ideal for divers and snorkelers. Boat trips allow guests to explore the underwater world of the Aegean, which is rich in marine life and fascinating rock formations.
Fishing trips: For those who enjoy fishing, there are also trips where you go out with experienced fishermen and have the opportunity to catch something yourself.
Map Lipsi
All small islands around Lipsi are uninhabited. The largest are Frankos, Makronisi and Aredousa.
Getting around and buses Lipsi: The small island bus connects the main town with some beaches every hour during the season. Specifically, the minibus drives daily to the beaches: Platis Gialos in the north, Katsadia and Hochlakoura. Otherwise, you can also walk. Next to the bus stop in town, there is an ATM and sometimes a taxi with cheap fares. Two shops in Lipsi rent mopeds and bicycles. However, the vehicles are often fully booked in summer.
Church of Panagia tou Harou, about 3 kilometers from the harbor, is one of the most important religious sites on Lipsi. The small church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who is venerated there as “Panagia tou Harou,” which means something like “Madonna of Death.” The icon of Panagia tou Harou shows the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus in an unusual depiction – instead of a child, she holds Christ as an adult man who is already hanging on the cross. This depiction is rare in Orthodox iconography and gives the icon a special meaning. It is considered the source of numerous miracles and attracts many pilgrims, especially on August 23rd when the feast of Panagia is celebrated. The church makes a great destination for a short hike. Also great scenery.
Platis Gialos Beach: It is the most beautiful beach of Lipsi, known for its fine sand and shallow turquoise waters, making it a great place for families and swimmers. The beach offers a relaxed atmosphere as it is less crowded than many other beaches in Greece, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere. Several tamarisks (trees) along the shore provide natural shade and add to the comfort of the place. The clear waters of Platis Gialos are ideal for swimming and snorkeling and allow you to explore the underwater world. The beach is located just a few kilometers from the main town of the island and is easily accessible on foot, bus, bike or moped. A nearby tavern serves local dishes and refreshments, allowing visitors to spend the whole day enjoying the beach and its surroundings.
InseLipsi ( 
German version)
Top 10 Lipsi Island Attractions, Beaches and More
Platis Gialos Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches on Lipsi Island with fine sand and clear waters. Ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Monodendri Beach
A secluded beach surrounded by rocks and turquoise waters. Perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
Chora (Lipsi main town)
The heart of the island with white houses, narrow streets and traditional taverns. Here you can experience authentic Greek island life.
Panagia tou Harou Church
The most famous church on the island with a unique icon of the Virgin Mary depicting a crucifixion scene. An important pilgrimage site.
Tour small islands
From Lipsi you can take boat tours to nearby uninhabited islands such as Makronisi, Aspronisi and Marathi.
Lientou Beach
A family-friendly beach close to the main town with shallow waters and a calm atmosphere.
Katsadia Beach
An idyllic beach with a small beach cafe. The perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.
Hiking Lipsi Island
There are many hiking trails that lead through olive groves, hills and small chapels. Discover the island’s nature away from the beaches.
Greek taverns
Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties in the taverns, e.g. in “Manolis Taverna” or “Nikos Taverna”.
Sunsets
The sunsets on Lipsi are spectacular. A popular place for this is the hill above the Chora or the beaches on the west coast.
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