Leros

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get to Leros?

Leros is well-connected to both Athens and the neighboring Dodecanese islands.

• By Air: Leros has its own airport with daily flights from Athens that take about 50 minutes. Because the runway is short, the planes are small, so it is important to book early.

• By Ferry: Large Blue Star ferries connect the port of Piraeus to the port of Lakki. The journey is usually overnight and takes between 8 and 10 hours. You can also easily reach Leros via a short 1 hour catamaran trip from Kos or Kalymnos.

2. What is special about the architecture of Lakki?

Lakki is one of the most unusual towns in Greece. During the Italian occupation in the 1920s and 30s, the Italians built a new town called "Porto Lago" in a style known as Italian Rationalism.

• The Design: Unlike the typical narrow Greek alleys, Lakki features wide boulevards, circular plazas, and bold, minimalist buildings like the Art Deco cinema and the circular "Agora" market.

• The Vibe: It feels like a mix of an Italian movie set and a Mediterranean version of Bauhaus architecture. It is currently being considered for recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Is Leros a good island for history buffs?

Leros played a massive role in World War II due to its strategic natural harbor.

• The Battle of Leros: The island was heavily fortified and was the site of a major conflict between German and Allied forces in 1943, which later inspired the novel The Guns of Navarone.

• War Museum Tunnel: You can visit an incredible museum housed inside a genuine wartime tunnel in Merikia. It is filled with artifacts, uniforms, and equipment from the battle.

4. Do I need to rent a car?

A car or scooter is highly recommended if you want to see the various parts of the island.

• Layout: Leros is shaped like a series of interconnected bays. While there is a local bus that runs between the main towns of Lakki, Platanos, and Alinda, many of the best sites and secluded coves are easier to reach with your own transport.

• Walking: The distance between the capital, Platanos, and the picturesque fishing village of Panteli is short and very walkable.

5. Can you drink the tap water?

No, you should not drink the tap water on Leros.

• The water is generally safe for showering and washing, but it can be salty or high in minerals.

• You can buy bottled water at any mini market. Interestingly, the island has several public "desalination points" where you can refill your own water containers for free or a very small fee.

6. Where are the best places to stay?

Most visitors stay in one of the following three areas:

• Alinda: The most developed tourist resort with a long beach, plenty of hotels, and waterfront tavernas.

• Panteli: A charming, traditional fishing village with a great atmosphere and several popular fish tavernas right on the sand.

• Agia Marina: A beautiful harbor town with neoclassical mansions and a sophisticated vibe, located just below the capital.

7. What is the "Castle of the Virgin Mary"?

The Castle of Pandeli (or Castle of Panteli) sits high above the villages of Platanos and Agia Marina.

• The View: It offers a 360 degree view of the entire island and the surrounding sea.

• The Hike: You can drive to the top, but many people prefer to walk up the hundreds of stone steps from Platanos, especially during sunset.

8. Which are the best beaches on Leros?

The beaches on Leros are mostly pebbly with very calm, crystal clear water.

• Alinda: Long, organized, and family friendly.

• Vromolithos: A beautiful bay with deep blue water and several excellent seaside tavernas.

• Agios Isidoros: This is not a beach in the traditional sense, but a tiny church built on a rock in the sea, connected by a narrow stone causeway. It is a favorite spot for a quick dip and a photograph.

• Blefouti: A quiet, unorganized beach in the north with turquoise water and tamarisk trees for shade.

9. What is the unique fruit of Leros?

Leros is the only place in Greece where you can find a tropical fruit called Gavafa (Guava).

• It was likely brought to the island by Lerian immigrants returning from Egypt. It ripens in late autumn and has a very distinct, sweet, and aromatic flavor. You can often find it used in local jams or served as a fresh treat.

10. How many days should I stay?

Leros is an island that requires at least 4 to 5 days to appreciate.

• This gives you time to explore the Italian architecture of Lakki, visit the War Museum, hike up to the castle, and spend time in the various bays like Panteli and Alinda.