Unique destinations that traditionally offer something different this season
How would you feel about spending Easter in a place surrounded by endless blue and intoxicating aromas, a place that has managed to preserve its uniqueness by faithfully observing its customs and local traditions? For those who love short trips and want to experience something truly special, Easter on one of the Greek islands—each celebrating the greatest feast of Orthodoxy in its own distinct way—is an unforgettable experience in itself.
Would you like to discover which Greek islands have managed to keep tradition alive and stand out for their deeply spiritual and awe-inspiring rituals? Keep reading…
Andros
Andros is the second largest island in Cyclades and stands out for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and picturesque villages. It’s the ideal destination for those looking for a mini escape to a stunning island with many different faces. Known for its strong maritime heritage, Andros impresses both with its enchanting atmosphere and its remarkable architecture. It’s also famous for its rich vegetation, dotted with watermills and stone-built bridges that together create a unique Cycladic landscape.
This island combines everything in the most magical way. It is peaceful and serene, yet offers a vibrant nightlife. It features impressive, green landscapes and golden beaches with turquoise waters that evoke exotic destinations. Some beaches are surrounded by dramatic cliffs, perfect for those seeking complete tranquillity, while others are well-organised and ideal for sports lovers. Whatever one seeks from a holiday, they’ll find it in Andros—especially at Easter, when the island seems to travel back in time, honouring its traditions in the most reverent manner.
It’s no coincidence that Andros is considered a must-visit destination for Easter. On Good Friday, the island’s beautiful villages take centre stage, as both locals and visitors gather to venerate the Epitaphs. In the evening, processions take place in a deeply spiritual atmosphere across Chora, Gavrio, Batsi, Korthi, and other villages.
On Holy Saturday morning, the Lemon Festival is held in Chora, where visitors can sample various lemon-based sweets and drinks. That evening, the sky is lit up with thousands of fireworks during the Resurrection service, while the Easter Sunday celebrations reach their peak in the larger villages—such as Paleopolis and Syneti—where, in the afternoon, locals play tsounia, a traditional game resembling bowling, in the streets.
Chios
The beautiful island of Chios is one of the most unique destinations in the North Aegean, having preserved its natural beauty and authentic character. First and foremost, it is renowned for mastic, as well as its medieval villages and golden beaches—over 90 in total—which attract visitors from all over. It is the fifth-largest island in Greece, harmoniously blending modern and traditional ways of life. Its wild, unexplored beauty is perfectly complemented by its stunning landscapes. Holidays in Chios mean exploration, relaxation, fun, and connection with local traditions. As the island is globally known for its mastic production, a visit to the Mastichochoria (mastic villages) is a must, to sample local products and traditional delicacies.
And what about Easter? During this time, churches, Byzantine monasteries, and remote chapels are the focal points of activity. Starting on Good Friday, Epitaphs are decorated early in the day, followed by solemn processions. People gather in the main square of Chora, where the atmosphere is simply unforgettable. In the Mastichochoria, the custom of the Fanós is revived, where locals collect piles of branches and logs and light them on the night of the Resurrection.
However, the most famous Easter custom on the island is the Rouketopolemos (rocket war) in Vrontados. As the bells ring out to signal the Resurrection, rockets and fireworks are launched between the churches of Saint Mark and Panagia Ereithiani, turning night into day and filling the entire island with a truly special atmosphere.
Skopelos
Considered one of the most beautiful and distinctive islands in Sporades, Skopelos is known for its lush vegetation and paradise-like beaches. It is the ideal destination for those who cherish peace and want a short break from everything. Each season brings out a different charm—sometimes glowing under the blazing summer sun, and other times appearing fresh and idyllic. One thing is certain: whenever you visit, you’re guaranteed the most relaxing and rejuvenating holiday in a stunning natural setting.
Skopelos is full of breathtaking landscapes, scenic routes, picturesque villages, and dreamy beaches. It’s perfect for nature-based activities, making it a favourite among action-lovers. However, what many may not know is that it’s also a fantastic Easter destination, especially famous for its many small chapels.
On Good Friday, all churches hold a reenactment of the earthquake described in the Gospels following the Crucifixion—everyone inside the church bangs on any wooden surface to represent the tremor. By the evening, each parish has decorated its Epitaph, and the processions begin in traditional order: first the Epitaph of “Christ”, followed by “Saint John’s”, then “Panagia’s”, and lastly “Faneromeni’s”. Locals and visitors chant the Lamentations (Engomia) during the procession, which concludes along the harbour road.
There, colourful lanterns and the soft glow of candles create a deeply spiritual atmosphere. After the procession, church doors are closed and the hymn “Arate Pylas” (“lift up the gates”) is chanted—symbolising Christ’s triumphant entry into Hades.
Holy Saturday is a joyful day across the island. Locals draw a cross above their doorways and light the sanctuary lamp using the Holy Light, which they keep burning for 40 days. As the priest chants “Christos Anesti” (Christ is risen), the sky fills with fireworks and flares, marking the celebration with splendour.
Folegandros
A land of wild beauty, Folegandros is a stunning, turquoise paradise located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, known for its tranquil pace and breathtaking landscapes. It’s an island like no other. Traditional architecture, cobbled alleyways, and mesmerising beaches form a setting of rare charm, while its Chora is considered one of the most beautiful and picturesque in the Cyclades. The view from Panagia Church at the top of the hill is simply breathtaking.
The two main settlements—Karavostasis, the island’s port, and Ano Meria—are both must-visits. It’s no surprise that those who arrive in Folegandros often find themselves enchanted, returning summer after summer (and not only then) for peaceful, low-key holidays on this magical island with its uniquely relaxing vibes.
But Folegandros is also an island rich in history and tradition. Especially during Easter, locals faithfully uphold their customs, and the celebrations extend until Tuesday. The people of the island create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, with fireworks and songs lasting for hours. Every house opens its doors to welcome the procession of the icon of the Virgin Mary, offering raki, wine, and local delicacies to all who accompany it.
The traditional journey of the miraculous icon begins on Easter Sunday in Chora and continues through Ano Meria, Petousis, and Livadi, finally reaching Karavostasis. It is a moving and unforgettable experience—one that will surely stay in your heart forever.
Tinos
Tinos is one of the most distinctive islands in the Cyclades, and many people associate it with religious tourism. It’s a beautiful island nestled between Andros and Mykonos, ideal for peaceful holidays surrounded by scenic landscapes. A blue paradise with a rich cultural heritage, Tinos is a place where locals faithfully preserve traditions, and its charming villages and impressive natural beauty are iconic features. The island is also renowned for its marble craftsmanship, with a long tradition in sculpture, and its village festivals are legendary—locals warmly welcome visitors from all over Greece and beyond with unmatched hospitality.
Every trip to Tinos is a unique experience in itself, and Easter in this northern Cycladic island takes on a different kind of beauty and atmosphere—one that will touch you from the very first moment.
If you’re seeking a spiritually rich Easter experience, Tinos will immediately win a place in your heart. The procession of six Epitaphs through the narrow lanes of Chora, and especially the Epitaph of Saint Nicholas entering the sea with lit torches, is something truly unforgettable—etched forever in your memory and heart.
In the island’s chapels, you’ll hear sacred chants and laments unlike any other, as locals honour this great feast with deep reverence, faithfully observing all traditions.
On Holy Saturday morning, the First Resurrection is celebrated with lemon leaves scattered throughout the church. Worshippers try to catch one mid-air to keep as a blessing and a token of good luck. Later that evening, after “Christos Anesti” is joyfully proclaimed, each parish competes with the others in a unique and festive display—creating a magical Easter night that feels both ancient and timeless.
Corfu
A land rich in history and rare natural beauty, Corfu is a heavenly island filled with stunning beaches and lush landscapes—an ideal choice for gastronomy lovers. Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is one of the northernmost islands in Greece. Its grand monuments, picturesque villages with Venetian architecture, and dense vegetation are all trademarks of this enchanting destination.
Corfu offers both cosmopolitan holidays and peaceful escapes from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, blending everything in perfect harmony. For first-time visitors, a walk through the Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is an absolute must. Narrow cobbled alleyways and impressive mansions evoke a different era, creating a scene of exceptional charm. Meanwhile, the locals provide warm hospitality that stays in visitors’ hearts forever.
Aside from the summer months, Corfu is a perfect Easter destination, as the locals have preserved their traditions and celebrate the most important feast of Orthodoxy in their own unique way. On Good Friday, the Divine Passion reaches its climax with the grand procession of the Epitaphs. The first to come out is that of the Pantokrator Church in the Kampiello district, followed by the others throughout the day, ending with the Metropolitan Church’s procession in the evening. In an emotionally charged atmosphere, philharmonic bands perform mournful marches as crowds follow the procession in slow, reverent steps. Leading the way are people carrying lanterns and processional canopies (skoles), with banners (flamboura) fluttering nearby.
On Holy Saturday, at 6 a.m., the tradition of the artificial earthquake takes place at the Church of Panagia ton Xenon, followed by the procession of the Epitaph from the Church of Saint Spyridon. Then, at 11 a.m., the bells ring out joyfully, and the sorrow of mourning gives way to celebration. The famous “botides” (large clay pots) are hurled from decorated balconies, crashing loudly in a symbolic gesture of renewal. The philharmonic bands flood the streets, playing cheerful music and ushering in the joy of the Resurrection.
Also read: Easter 2025 price check: What’s on the table this year?
Source: Check In Cyprus – glow.gr
