The North Aegean island of Thassos has been crowned “Greece’s Leading Authentic Island Destination 2025” at the prestigious World Travel Awards ceremony, held on 22 October in Sardinia. The international recognition shines a light on one of Greece’s most beloved yet under-the-radar destinations – an island that, despite growing popularity, has managed to retain an unhurried, authentic spirit amid an increasingly crowded market.
Thassos stood out among strong contenders including Kefalonia, Lefkada, Naxos, Skopelos, Andros, Samos, and Karpathos.
The award recognizes the island’s ability to blend lush natural landscapes with cultural depth and a warm sense of Greek hospitality. Mayor Eleftherios Kyriakidis, joined by his delegation and regional tourism officials, accepted the honor on behalf of the community. He emphasized that the award “belongs to everyone who works daily to keep the character and authenticity of our island alive,” adding that while the recognition brings joy, it also reinforces their commitment to quality, cooperation, and sustainable development.
Tucked into the far north of the Aegean, just a short ferry ride from Kavala or Keramoti, Thassos – often nicknamed the “Emerald Isle” – offers pine-clad slopes, golden beaches, and aquamarine waters, along with a wealth of archaeological sites. For families, history lovers, and nature seekers alike, it delivers an experience that feels refreshingly grounded and unspoiled.
While visitors from the neighboring Balkans form the bulk of summer arrivals, a steady trickle from northern Europe keeps the island’s rhythm alive in the off-season. Travel writers have praised Thassos as “pleasantly low-profile,” offering a rare mix of ancient ruins, mountain villages, and family-friendly beaches. Highlights include the spectacular Hellenistic-era theater, overlooking Limenas and the sea, and the excellent Archaeological Museum of Thassos. Along the coast, Paradise Beach, near the village of Kinira, and Limenas Beach are among the island’s most popular stretches of sand.
For the more adventurous, the island’s southern coast hides one of its most photographed spots – Giola, a 20m-long natural rock pool nicknamed “Aphrodite’s Tear,” carved into the cliffs by millennia of wave action.
Beyond the coast, hillside villages like Theologos, Panagia, and Potamia reveal another side of the island – stone-built houses, shaded squares, and tavernas serving traditional dishes. Thassos is also celebrated for its Throuba olives (with PDO status), pine honey, fresh goat cheese, and grilled seafood. A visit to the Olive & Olive Oil Museum or a seaside taverna offers a chance to savor the slower pace that defines the island’s charm.
With this latest distinction, Thassos strengthens its position as a model of authenticity and sustainable tourism in the Aegean. The recognition underscores an ongoing partnership between the island, the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, and local tourism bodies – all working to showcase the genuine Greek island experience. For travelers seeking somewhere real, relaxed, and richly Greek, Thassos is, at last, claiming its moment.
