Northeast Aegean Art & Culture: Top 5 Island Experiences

Planning a trip to Greece? Very often forgotten by tourists, the Northeast Aegean Islands do, in some respects, offer a totally unique travel experience compared to, say, Santorini or Mykonos. We’re talking about islands steeped in history, loaded with local traditions, and almost, you know, filled with artistic inspiration. They each present a different flavor, a certain vibe that you won’t find anywhere else. So, we’re going to, in short, take a peek at the top five islands for soaking up art and culture in this special corner of Greece. Read our full review: Northeast Aegean Islands Full Review and Details

1. Lesbos: A Hub of Artistic Heritage

First off, we have Lesbos, maybe best known as the birthplace of Sappho, the archaic Greek poet whose lyrical work continues to resonate even now. But Lesbos is very, very much more than just Sappho’s birthplace. The island itself actually has a rather awesome artistic atmosphere, with numerous art galleries and workshops scattered all around Mytilene, the capital, you know. You might, arguably, want to check out the Archaeological Museum, too. This museum houses a rich collection of artifacts revealing the island’s past, so giving visitors a greater understanding of Lesbos through the ages.

Beyond the museums, Lesbos boasts really cool traditional villages like Molyvos (also known as Mithymna), basically where you can, by the way, find local artisans creating pottery and, too, other craftwork. Wandering through these villages, you get the feeling, you know, that time has, actually, stood still. Each little corner reveals something charming, giving a snapshot of life on the island.

For something completely different, why not check out the Theofilos Museum, set just a short hop away from Mytilene. Dedicated to the folk painter Theofilos Hatzimihail, so the museum hosts his amazing depictions of Greek life and mythology. Getting to grips with his artwork, so it kind of delivers a glimpse into the soul of rural Greece and, clearly, that is quite special. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lesbos Tours)

2. Chios: Mastic Culture and Byzantine Art

Chios is, clearly, quite unique. What makes it so? Mastic! You know, Chios is actually world-famous for its mastic production. Mastic is this resin that’s harvested from the mastic trees found almost, literally, nowhere else on the planet. Actually, the Mastic Museum tells the history and cultivation of mastic, almost taking guests on a tour that highlights the special place that mastic holds in Chios’ economy and culture.

Now, aside from the unique Mastic Museum, Chios boasts something else completely different: the Nea Moni Monastery. This is an 11th-century Byzantine monastery with fantastic mosaics which really need seeing. So well preserved, the mosaics depict key religious scenes and events with extreme artistic skill, arguably revealing something of the craftsmanship of the Byzantine era. You may want to enjoy, you know, this awesome display. It might be just the thing!

Then we get to the villages. Very unusual on Chios is the “painted village” of Pyrgi, featuring buildings decorated with “sgraffito,” geometric patterns etched into the walls. Now, meandering down the alleys, and seeing these detailed designs, arguably provides insight into the folk art traditions of the island. Getting there, and enjoying a coffee in the central square, very soon makes you realise that life is rather different in these islands. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Chios Hotels)

3. Samos: Archaeological Wonders and Wine Culture

Alright, then we arrive in Samos, famed for its sweet wine. So there’s that. But even apart from its vineyards, there’s really plenty on offer when it comes to arts and culture. History buffs? Then the Archaeological Museum of Samos is pretty much what you’d hope for: this museum holds an enviable collection of statues, pottery, and ancient sculptures, the best, of course, being the colossal Kouros statue, offering us more or less tangible glimpses into the island’s distant history.

The Sanctuary of Hera, or Heraion, is yet another popular location. Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, so it’s a chance for you to investigate the remains of this old sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera. Now, standing here amongst these ruins, gives you a feeling of Samos’ awesome classical past. The temple may have largely vanished now, though it’s definitely worth a look. You can, in short, stand amongst bits of history and feel something, which can’t always be claimed.

Too, Samos is just perfect for lovers of local wineries! Take some vineyard tours for the full authentic experience. While on the tour, you may want to discover traditional winemaking techniques and sample a range of locally-made wines – it’s, basically, just something you’ve really got to do! That feeling of, anyway, taking in the beauty of the island while sampling locally-produced wine is pretty great, let’s be honest. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Samos Wineries)

4. Lemnos: Ancient Civilizations and Volcanic Landscapes

Lemnos offers another travel experience totally different to all those we have talked about up to now. Its landscape is very dramatic: volcanic formations and wide open spaces await. What you should definitely check out is the archaeological site of Poliochni, usually cited as being among the earliest European settlements. Exploring the ancient ruins and what they tell of the island’s ancient history and Aegean culture, almost makes it feel like a really good day out.

Another must-see thing on Lemnos, so it is the Sanctuary of the Kabeiroi. This is a pre-Greek religious site associated with mystery cults. Its ancient origins arguably invite further analysis from people who have a specific fascination for this particular strand of Mediterranean history. Seeing it offers visitors quite a profound link to a time completely separate to today’s modern world.

Now, to get more familiar with island culture, a visit to one of Lemnos’ traditional villages might be what you require, very especially if they put on one of their cultural festivals with conventional music and dance! It really adds to any visitor’s knowledge and provides some lovely entertainment. These festivities basically represent the spirit and ethos of Lemnos. What’s not to love? See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lemnos Travel Deals)

5. Ikaria: The Island of Longevity and Unique Traditions

Then there is Ikaria, so known, almost uniquely, as “the island where people forget to die”! So Ikaria’s something really special. But besides its rep for long living, it’s also a fantastic place to, by the way, uncover distinct elements of Greek art and culture.

If you happen to find yourself in Ikaria, so you’ve just gotta see the traditional villages, often located within rocky hills. What makes it all rather different is actually experiencing that distinct Ikarian identity first hand. It also, more or less, allows a glimpse into a relaxed and happy approach to life.

The island puts on cultural events all through the year. The celebrations are not to be missed! Participating allows tourists to basically lose themselves within conventional Ikarian music, dance and cuisine, further linking you to this island that really is something out of the ordinary. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Ikaria Activities)