1. Mandraki, stay in the capital of Nisyros
Best Hotels in Mandraki
- (€) Romantzo: a traditional hotel with rooms with kitchenette, garden and lounge, 50m from Mandraki port
- (€) Porfyris Hotel: a 2-star hotel with swimming pool, breakfast and bar, 200m from Mandraki beach
2. Emporios, a quiet and traditional area to stay in Nisyros
Emporios is a quaint, traditional village perched on the edge of the caldera at an elevation of 330 meters, about 8 kilometers from Mandraki.
The village is a picturesque cluster of small white houses built close together, reminiscent of a castle, with narrow alleyways and arches adding to its charm.
Make sure to climb the ruins of the 14th-century Pantonikis Castle. I recommend heading up the cobblestone path early in the morning—you can hear the faint rumblings of the volcano and admire the 13th-century frescoes in the tiny chapel of Archangel Michael.
Just 8 kilometers away lies Pachia Ammos Beach, arguably one of the most beautiful on the island. It requires about a kilometer walk to reach and you’ll need to bring your own supplies as it’s not a developed beach, but it’s totally worth it for the pristine setting.
Staying in Emporios is truly a unique experience. There are a few tavernas and guest rooms available for rent. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a stay in a traditional and tranquil village. It’s definitely my kind of place for a peaceful retreat.
Best Hotels in Emporios
- (€€€) MELANOPETRA boutique apartments: elegant apartments with kitchen and view to the Aegean Sea, in Emporios
- (€) Pyrgos Stone House: a traditional house with units for 2 or 4 people, located in Emporios
3. Nikia, a village with a view of Stefanos crater
Nikia is a charming hillside village perched at 390 meters above sea level on the southern edge of Nisyros, about 13 kilometers from Mandraki. Resting on the rim of the caldera, it offers sweeping views of the crater, making it a magnet for visitors.
The village is made up of tightly clustered white houses with terracotta roofs and pebbled courtyards, creating a fortress-like appearance.
Wandering through its winding alleyways brings you to the central square, known as “Porta,” featuring a pebble-laid floor and dominated by the striking Church of the Presentation of the Virgin.
I love exploring the maze-like streets here, which reveal tiny chapels at every turn. Make your way up to the highest point where the remnants of a medieval knights’ castle stand.
Don’t miss the Volcanological Museum either; it’s a fascinating place where you can delve into the volcano’s history and examine rocks under a microscope—a unique experience for sure.
Accommodation options are few but delightful, mostly transformed into charming guesthouses. For a bite to eat or a leisurely coffee, the Porta square is the place to go.
Best Hotels in Nikia
- (€€€) Oniropagida Nisyros apartment #1: a traditional apartment with kitchenette and free WiFi, located in Nikia
- (€€) Peaceful 2 bedroom heritage vacation house: a modern house for 5 people – 2 bedrooms, well-equipped kitchen, WiFi, in Nikia
4. Pali, best area to stay in Nisyros for families and kids
Pali is a picturesque seaside village on the northern tip of Nisyros, just a mere 4 kilometers from Mandraki. It hosts a quaint harbor that once served as the port for Emporios, hinting at its historic charm.
The island is known for its thermal springs due to volcanic activity, and one such spring, Thermiani, is located right in Pali. A short 3-kilometer jaunt to the west takes you to the Nisyros Municipal Thermal Baths—a must-visit for wellness enthusiasts.
Pali Beach, with its sandy shores and tamarisk trees providing natural shade, is a haven for families. It’s an ideal spot for young children to play safely by the water’s edge.
Personally, if I were traveling with kids, Pali would be my top pick for a stay. It combines the convenience of being near the island’s capital with the tranquility and safety of a family-friendly beach.
Along the coastal road, you’ll find a line-up of taverns and cafes perfect for enjoying local cuisine or a coffee with a view. The village offers several accommodation options, mostly in the form of full apartments.
It’s the kind of place I’d choose to stay for its balance of beauty and convenience, making it easy to relax and soak in the local culture.
Best Hotels in Pali
- (€€) Astradeni luxury apartments Kratir: a fully equipped apartment for 4 people – 2 bedrooms, kitchen, terrace, parking
- (€) Pali Sea: a traditional apartment with fully equipped kitchen and parking
One Response
Great article Pantelis. We are going to Nisyros in August, unfortunately only for one day. All your recommended accommodation is booked on booking.com, do you have any other local alternatives (especially in Mandraki)?
Kind regards,
David