Lipsi, a small, picturesque island in Greece’s southern Aegean Sea, has been named the second most exotic and authentic destination in the world by the influential Far Away Travel Blog.
The island, which is part of the Dodecanese Islands, ranks just behind Fulhadhoo Island in the Maldives on the blog’s list of top travel trends for 2025.
Far from the tourist crowds that flock to popular Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini, Lipsi remains a relatively unknown destination, offering visitors a quiet, authentic Greek atmosphere.
The island’s main town, also called Lipsi, is a charming village of whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets, and a small port lined with tavernas, cafés, and shops.
The blog describes the island as “idyllic and incredibly picturesque.”
The island’s beaches are a major draw, known for their crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings.
Platis Gialos, a sandy beach with turquoise waters, is praised as one of the most beautiful, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Lipsi is not only celebrated for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage.
One of its most significant religious sites is the Panagia tou Harou Church, which dates back to the 7th century.
The church is known for its unique icon of the Virgin Mary holding a cross, rather than the traditional image of her with baby Jesus.
Another highlight of the island is the Monodendri cliffs, where visitors can take in breathtaking views of the sea.
Amidst these rugged cliffs stands an ancient juniper tree, which has withstood centuries of harsh weather, adding to the island’s surreal beauty.
Lipsi has also made headlines for its commitment to sustainability. In 2023, the local government banned the construction of swimming pools to conserve water and launched a campaign promoting eco-friendly vacations.
The initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Fotis Mangos, encourages tourists to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without excessive use of resources, a step that many Mediterranean islands may have to follow in the future due to increasing heatwaves and water shortages.
“Our vision for holidays is not a thing of the past but of the future, where sustainability and environmental protection will be at the forefront,” Mangos said.
