Evia, pronounced “efia,” is also known as Euboia. It is the second largest island in Greece, just after the great island of Crete. But for most foreign travelers, Evia is almost invisible on the travel radar. However, it is very easy to get to this Greek island, it has great culinary traditions, hot springs and interesting archaeological sites.
Where is Evia and who goes there?
Evia is located along the east coast of mainland Greece, not far from Athens. Even for the shyest drivers, it is a relatively easy route along the wide highway that leads from Athens to Thessaloniki. There is a bridge to Evia in Chalkidiki and a car and passenger ferry between Arkitsa on the mainland and the spa town of Edipsos or Aedipsos in Evia. A similar ferry operates between Glyfa on the mainland and Agiokambos. If you come from Athens, Arkitsa will be more convenient. From Thessaloniki, the Glyfa ferry will be the best option.
Evia is one of the “secret” islands that the Greeks seem to keep to themselves. Overall, it will be a less touristy, more ‘Greek’ experience. Most of the people who work in the service industry will speak English, but you might find some who don’t and may actually be able to use that Greek language cheat sheet or want to learn the letters of the Greek alphabet before you go. .
Do not miss
Evia is known for its seafood and crafts. Like Crete, Evia has many small mountain villages in beautiful settings. They often have local handicrafts and unusual food products, and many of them have significant chapels that are worth finding ‘the lady with a key’ to open for a look. It is customary to leave a coin in the coin box and I also like to give one to the key holder.
tourism
Do you like hot springs? There are several sites that offer mineral baths. The most developed is in Edipsos. One thermal option is the luxurious Thermae Sylla hotel. See more about spas and natural springs throughout Greece. The extensive ancient site of the city of Eretria in the southern part of the island is open to visitors.
Travel to Evia
A trip to Evia at very reasonable prices for foodies is from Cultura y Cocina en Evia, a company that focuses on exploring Evia and delving into its gastronomic traditions. Their trips begin and end in Athens and provide transportation to and from Evia.
Another option is to explore the coast of Evia on a yacht tour that can provide an affordable and unique way of looking at the coast.
Evia has a wide variety of places to stay. Most hotels in Edipsos are close to hot spring spas or offer their own.
