Plizio Visual Lab
Schinoussa
ℹ️Practical info — Schinoussa
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The island is very small and walkable; most beaches are easily reached on foot from the main village (Panagia).
- There are no banks and only one ATM, which may occasionally run out of cash; bring enough euros with you.
- Book your dinner table in advance during August, as the few tavernas fill up quickly.
- Embrace the slow pace of life; service can be unhurried, reflecting the island's relaxed atmosphere.
🍽 Food
Yellow split pea purée, locally grown and served in Panagia's tavernas.
Enjoy the catch of the day at a seaside taverna down in Mersini port.
Local sour cheese often served over traditional Greek salads.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
Buy a packet of the island's famous yellow split peas from the mini-market.
Small seasonal shops in the main village offer unique artisanal pieces.
The dirt path down from the Chora is peaceful with beautiful sea views.
Wander behind the main street for absolute residential tranquility.
Water temperature…
Schinoussa is an under-the-radar destination in the Aegean with an area of only about 8.5 square kilometers. The island consists of two main settlements: Chora (Panagia) in the interior and Messaria to the north. The main port, Mersini, is considered one of the safest anchorages for yachts in the entire Aegean, giving the island an exclusive yet down-to-earth flair. There are no large hotels or paved main roads here, preserving the authentic Cycladic character. The landscape is characterized by gentle hills and a total of 18 sandy beaches, most of which are only accessible on foot or by boat. The bays of Tsigouri, Livadi, and Psili Ammos are particularly popular, boasting crystal-clear water and natural shady spots. Since Schinoussa is very small, the entire island can easily be explored on foot, making it a paradise for hikers seeking peace and seclusion. The highest point is only 133 meters above sea level. Culinary-wise, the island is famous for its fava (split pea puree), which enjoys a protected status here for its quality. In the few tavernas in Chora, freshly caught fish and local goat cheese specialties are served. The best time to visit is from June to September, with ferries operating from Naxos or Amorgos. It is the handy place for travelers who want to experience the original Greece without animation and noise.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: Gerolimnionas · Tsigouri beach · Psili Ammos
- Nearby: Koufonisia Town (10 km)
- Population: ~229
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 21 | 17 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 82 | 45 | 26 | 19 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 17 | 43 | 63 | 85 |
Geography
Facts
- Area of approximately 8.5 km²
- Part of the Little Cyclades island group
- Mersini port is extremely wind-sheltered
- Famous for the cultivation of fava beans
- No public buses on the island
- A total of 18 accessible swimming beaches
- Highest point is Mount Vardies (133 m)
- Regular ferry connection to Naxos
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Start your day at the lively Tsigouri beach near the main town. By midday, make your way past the tiny Portokali to the broad sands of Livadi. The afternoon belongs to quieter coves, beginning with the highly picturesque Phountana. End your walking tour relaxing at Pori as the evening light shimmers on the water.
Tsigouri beach
Portokali
Livadi
Phountana
Pori beach
Morning at Tsigouri starts with a misty breeze. At noon, seek shelter at Livadi as the rain intensifies. Afternoon at Phountana offers a dramatic view of the grey Aegean. Evening at Pori is calm, with the rhythmic sound of rain on the water. Paths may be muddy and rocks slippery; wear waterproof gear and enjoy the island's rare, moody atmosphere in complete solitude.
Tsigouri beach
Portokali
Livadi
Phountana
Pori beach
Crisp morning at Tsigouri with a refreshing sea breeze. Noon at Livadi is perfect for a brisk walk under the mild winter sun. Afternoon at Phountana reveals the island's greening hills. The day ends early with a soft sunset at Pori around 17:00. Dress in warm layers as the temperature drops quickly once the sun disappears behind the neighboring islands.
Tsigouri beach
Portokali
Livadi
Phountana
Pori beach
Your bike tour kicks off at the popular Tsigouri before quickly rolling to Portokali and Livadi beaches. Around midday, pedal to the shallow, family-friendly waters of Paralia Lioliou. Unspoiled nature awaits at Phountana in the afternoon. The grand finale is the fine sand of Psili Ammos under the setting sun.
Tsigouri beach
Portokali
Livadi
Paralia Lioliou
Phountana
Psili Ammos
Morning ride to Tsigouri on wet roads requires caution. Noon at Livadi brings the fresh scent of damp herbs. Afternoon at Phountana is dramatic under heavy clouds. Evening at Psili Ammos offers total isolation. Use your brakes gently on the slippery asphalt and avoid unpaved paths that turn into mud. A high-quality rain poncho is your best friend during this adventurous island tour.
Tsigouri beach
Portokali
Livadi
Paralia Lioliou
Phountana
Psili Ammos
Morning cycling in the sharp, invigorating air. Noon at Paralia Lioliou is quiet and sunny. Afternoon reaches Phountana as the low sun creates long shadows. Return to the village before the 17:00 sunset. Wear gloves and windproof layers to maintain body heat. The roads are empty, allowing you to enjoy the island's peaceful landscapes at your own pace.
Tsigouri beach
Portokali
Livadi
Paralia Lioliou
Phountana
Psili Ammos
Take advantage of the car to reach remote gems like Gerolimnionas and quiet Phukio in the early morning. Midday brings the fine sand dunes of Psili Ammos, followed closely by idyllic Phountana. In the late afternoon, explore Pori and Paralia Lioliou. Finish your island road trip lounging on the broad sands of Livadi.
Gerolimnionas
Phukio
Psili Ammos
Phountana
Pori beach
Paralia Lioliou
Livadi
Morning drive to the rugged north as rain hits the glass. Noon at Psili Ammos offers a view of turquoise waters under grey skies. Afternoon at Pori is perfect for watching waves from the dry cabin. Evening ends at Livadi's calm bay. Drive slowly on narrow roads; the car provides a perfect mobile shelter to explore the island's moody beauty.
Gerolimnionas
Phukio
Psili Ammos
Phountana
Pori beach
Paralia Lioliou
Livadi
Explore the sleeping island in the comfort of your car. Morning at Gerolimnionas shows the wild Aegean. Noon at Psili Ammos is bright and clear. Afternoon covers Pori and Lioliou in golden light. The day concludes at Livadi before the early darkness at 17:00. The heater makes exploration cozy. Enjoy the crystal-clear visibility and the absolute silence of winter.
Gerolimnionas
Phukio
Psili Ammos
Phountana
Pori beach
Paralia Lioliou
Livadi
Sights in the town Schinoussa (3)
Frequently asked questions
How big is Schinoussa?
Are there organized beaches?
Where do most visitors stay?
How to get to Schinoussa?
Is the island suitable for sailors?
Schinoussa: where is it located?
Schinoussa: what is there to see?
Schinoussa: when is the best time to visit?
Schinoussa: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
