As Santorini hasn’t exactly lived up to the fairytale image this year for a multitude of reasons, ranging from natural disaster risks to hotels not being informed that Greece is supposed to be affordable, travelers far and wide are scouting out the next best alternative.
Home to roughly 6,000 islands and islets, there’s no shortage to choose from. But hey, that’s what we at Travel Off Path are here for — to help you narrow down your options to ensure a seamless trip in paradise.
Steeped in mythological folklore and famed for its blue and white aesthetics reminiscent of Santorini, other travel experts are hyping up a stunning, lesser-known island that will surely become one of Greece’s new hotspots.
Described as ‘the perfect place to lose yourself in dreamy corners’, you can put your travel anxiety to bed knowing you’ll experience fewer crowds, wallet-friendly prices, and secluded coves on the island of Leipsoi (a.k.a. “Lipsi”).
So Long, $600 Hotels! Enjoy More Bang For Your Buck in Lepsi
Lipsi is one of the smaller inhabited islands in the Dodecanese. As such, it’s overshadowed by travelers jetting off or setting sail to Rhodes and the likes.
But that’s the good part!
The low-key vibes have been a deterrent for tourists seeking out the household names, until they realize Santorini is a bank breaker.
Demand for posh stays to show off on the ‘gram is minimal. Comfy hotels with magnificent views can easily be found in double digits — something that can’t be said for Santorini or even other notable names.
For example, the idyllic capital of Lipsi is Chora. You’d be hard pressed not to find a steal of a deal here.
In walking distance from the main port and maze of whitewashed walkways, there are numerous boutique stays under $100.
Hotel Calypso is $42 throughout fall and a stone’s throw from must-visit Ouzerie Nick and Loulis, one of the island’s best eateries in a cozy building echoing Santorini’s charm.
Speaking of food, that’s cheap across the board too. Fresh catches are commonplace and don’t come marked with American prices.
Whether it be grilled octopus or other decadent delights, come hungry and you’ll leave happy. Well, if you ever decide to leave…
Authentic Greek Life & Authentic Greek Beaches
Most travelers won’t walk away from Santorini being able to say they gained a sense of true Greek life, nor will sororities or fraternities guzzling beer bongs.
Those visiting Lipsi, however, might just.
Life moves at the village’s pace, and it’s one where slow and steady wins the race.
Bars feel more like family living rooms, alarm clocks are swapped out for stray cats and fishing boats, and nightlife consists of a carafe of local wine and distant cheers of “Opa!”.
You know — the real Greece. Not the curated nonsense.
Beaches are Lipsi gets even better since this island is just beginning to come to light.
The showstopper is arguably Platis Gialos, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters without the crowds that other Greek islands attract.
Katsadia Beach is picture-perfect — literally. There’s not an eyesore in sight, not even provided loungers.
But best of all, Lipsi is a place to be explored. Even as small as the island may be, there are too many secret coves to name that you can easily stumble upon if you close your guidebook and let wanderlust take charge —Tourkomnima being one of many.
The Best Ways To Reach Lipsi
The bad news is there’s no airport on the island of Lipsi.
The good news is that ferries are frequent and offer unmatched views of the shimmering Aegean Sea.
Yeah, they may be a lot less convenient than zipping through the skies at break-neck speed, but hopping aboard a ferry in Greece almost feels obligatory.
There are numerous ferries serving Lipsi, but since Athens is a hugely popular gateway, chances are that’s the most convenient for you departing from the main port of Piraeus.
Be warned, it’s a long-haul route, taking upwards of 8 hours. Otherwise, there are lesser-known islands with connecting routes, such as Patmos, Leros, and Kos, and most notably Rhodes.
Best of all, some routes are as low as $5 like Patmos to Lipsi.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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