This summer, why not visit the most beautiful villages of the Dodecanese? In the heart of the Aegean Sea, this Greek archipelago invites you to discover some exceptional communities.
The Dodecanese is an emblematic archipelago in the Aegean Sea, comprising some 160 different islets. Most of them, however, are uninhabited. The main islands are formed around traditional communities, home to magnificent historical remains. Over the centuries, this territory has been conquered many times. As a result, it has developed around multiple cultural influences. This is what makes the region so attractive to visitors. They also take the opportunity to discover its history through its ruins and atypical architecture. The best way to explore this archipelago is to visit the most beautiful villages of the Dodecanese. Between history and nature, you’ll never get bored!
1. Zia
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Esin Deniz
The magnificent hamlet of Zia, or Lagoudi Zia, is one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese. This mountain village is actually located on the slopes of Mount Dikeos. A popular destination for tourists, it features splendid cobbled streets and traditional shops. Its atypical buildings will give you the impression of travelling through the centuries. Along the way, you can also admire the stunning Orthodox churches and their domes.
A visit to one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese will also allow you to take advantage of the region’s fabulous natural setting. Zia is the starting point for many hiking trails. But it also offers extraordinary views of the surrounding valley.
2. Patmos
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Nejdet Duzen
Patmos is not only one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese. In fact, it’s the only village on a small island in the eponymous archipelago. In the heart of the Aegean Sea, it has just over 3,000 inhabitants. Nevertheless, it attracts many tourists from the region every year.
In fact, this must-see hamlet is particularly popular with history buffs. Over the centuries, the island has been conquered by Greeks, Romans, Ottomans and Venetians. Today, it boasts numerous vestiges of these exceptional influences. Nature lovers will also enjoy its amazing environmental heritage. The town offers many hiking trails to explore the island’s fabulous landscapes.
3. Asklipiio
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If you’re visiting the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese, you certainly can’t miss Asklipiio. This village is part of the splendid island of Rhodes, just a few kilometers from Patmos. However, its visitors are seduced by its extraordinary historical sites. Visitors can discover the famous Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos. They can also admire the magnificent 14th-century paintings preserved in this place of worship.
But Asklipiio is particularly renowned for the ruins of its legendary castle, which has overlooked the town for several centuries. After exploring this exceptional vestige, you can enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the village. In the evening, you can even stop off at a delicious specialty restaurant. You’ll be able to fully appreciate the richness and traditions of one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese.
4. Masouri
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Anna Jedynak
This exceptional hamlet is part of the craggy island of Kalymnos. Masouri is a must-see for those with a passion for discovery. In fact, it’s the starting point for many hiking trails and outdoor activities. However, this small seaside resort is particularly appreciated for its beaches. An essential stop on your tour of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese, you’ll love diving into its turquoise waters. The Aegean sun will warm you up and invite you to spend pleasant afternoons lazing on the fine sand.
Masouri is also one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese, thanks to its incredible popularity. Over the years, the village’s affluence has given rise to magnificent hotels, shops and places to relax. Today, it is home to some of the archipelago’s finest restaurants. Take the opportunity to try some delicious local specialties. There’s no better way to round off a great day out in this seaside resort.
5. Pandeli
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A small fishing port, Pandeli has stood on the shores of the island of Leros for almost two millennia. The town is built around its eponymous bay, attracting visitors from all over Europe. An emblematic hamlet of the archipelago, it is one of the most stunning villages in the Dodecanese. It offers travelers the chance to discover the region’s excellent culinary specialties and admire its historic remains.
But it’s Pandeli’s exceptional setting that gives it its unrivalled charm. The town is surrounded by rugged mountains, lush vegetation and splendid coves. So it’s a must for nature and hiking enthusiasts. But above all, this Dodecanese village invites you to relax and discover. As you explore its wild setting, you’ll be able to appreciate its heavenly landscapes all the more. You’ll also be lulled by its extraordinary warm atmosphere.
6. Lipsi
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Like Patmos, Lipsi is one of the villages of the Dodecanese, but also an island. It lies to the north of Leros, just a few kilometers south of the fabulous Samos. In the archipelago of the same name, it is one of the smallest islets. However, it is home to one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese. Samos is characterized by its splendid beaches, such as Platis and Katsadia. They are the ideal place to relax and swim for visitors to the region.
However, Lipsi is particularly noteworthy for its many independent islets. Surrounding the municipality, they each measure just a few dozen square meters. As such, they are an exceptional place of discovery for adventure-seekers. Tourists can hire pleasure boats or jet skis to explore them. Their secluded, protected bays also give them a heavenly feel. What could be better for an unforgettable experience in the most beautiful villages of the Dodecanese?
7. Astipalaia
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The island of Astipalaia, or Astypalea, is the largest in the Aegean archipelago. It’s also home to one of the most extraordinary villages in the Dodecanese. This eponymous hamlet is particularly representative of this Greek region. It has developed thanks to the multiple influences of the peoples who have conquered it. It’s brimming with historical remains and architectural treasures. As you stroll along its cobbled streets, you’ll gain a better understanding of its diverse cultural influences.
Nevertheless, this Dodecanese village also boasts a pleasant fishing port. Visitors can discover the amazing local traditions and customs. In the evening, they can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the quayside after a day of discovery. Alternatively, they can opt for an afternoon of relaxation on its splendid sandy beaches. In mythology, Astypalea is said to have been kidnapped by Zeus before being turned into an island paradise. It’s easy to guess that its magnificent natural setting reflects the beauty of the divinity who created it.
8. Symi
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Since ancient times, Symi has been a particularly strategic village in the Dodecanese. An essential commercial center of the archipelago, it was also at the heart of the Peloponnesian War. Today, its economy depends in part on the region’s exceptional tourism. However, it is the hamlet’s many historical remains that attract visitors. These include the Mixalis Monastery and the Knights’ Castle.
However, Symi is also one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese, thanks to its magnificent cobbled streets. As you walk along, you’ll admire the amazingly colorful houses that make up these streets. These astonishing buildings will take you back in time and immerse you in the region’s traditions. We recommend that you take the opportunity to snap some superb photos of this island that can’t be ignored.
9. Olymbos
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The ancient independent city of Olymbos is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in the Dodecanese. It lies on the splendid island of Karpathos, in the heart of the eponymous archipelago. Nevertheless, it stands out from the other villages of the Aegean Sea. It has been isolated and independent for many decades. As a result, it invites visitors to discover its fabulous regional traditions.
In fact, its buildings and customs will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. As you stroll along its cobbled streets, you’ll see buildings that are almost out of time. If you attend a local festival, you can even enjoy traditional songs accompanied by the lyre. This unusual visit will plunge you into the heart of the region’s extraordinary history.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Dodecanese