THASSOS · PLACES TO VISIT

Limenas – the capital of Thassos

Limenas is not just the gateway to the island – it is the lively heart of Thassos. Thousands of years of history, beaches within walking distance, tavernas by the port and evenings full of Greek music.

Aerial view of Limenas, the capital of Thassos, with ferries, the port and part of the town
THE GATEWAY TO THE ISLAND

Why visit Limenas

Limenas, the capital of the island of Thassos, is a lively centre where thousands of years of history meet the modern atmosphere of a seaside resort. Thanks to its port, beaches within walking distance and plenty of entertainment, it is an ideal place both to start your holiday and as a destination in its own right.

Limenas (which means “port”) offers a great combination – a practical location, a varied range of activities and excellent facilities for travellers. It is the gateway to the island’s most beautiful beaches, boat trips and evenings full of Greek music and flavours. You will also find the largest supermarkets on Thassos here, such as Masoutis and Lidl.

You will find the current ferry timetables on the island’s official website (in Greek).

At a glance

Name

Limenas means “port”

History

Flourished from the 7th century BC

Shopping

The largest supermarkets, Masoutis and Lidl

Trips

Daily boat trips around the island

Geography of Thassos: Limenas seen from the ferry
Limenas from the ferry
The port of Limenas on Thassos at sunset
The port of Limenas at sunset
HISTORY AND SIGHTS

Limenas: what to see

A walk through the old town takes you to the ancient theatre with a view of the sea, the remains of the ancient agora and parts of the original walls. The historic part of the town is compact, so you can walk round it in a few hours, ideally with a camera in hand.

The first settlement dates back to the Neolithic, but the town flourished in the 7th century BC, when colonists from Paros arrived. Thanks to gold and silver, Thassos was an important trading centre and passed through the rule of the Athenians, the Macedonians, the Romans and the Byzantines. Today Limenas keeps its historic charm and at the same time works as a modern tourist town.

The archaeological museum

If you want to get to know the history in more depth, you will find artefacts from the Bronze Age, classical Greece and the Roman period here – a great complement to a tour of the old town.

The ancient theatre

With a view of the sea – one of the most beautiful spots in the old town for photos.

The kouros in the museum in Limenas on Thassos
The museum in Limenas
Ancient vessels in the museum in Limenas, Thassos
The museum in Limenas
RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTLIFE

Where to eat well and relax

Limenas is a paradise for lovers of good food – from traditional tavernas with fresh fish and octopus to modern bars with cocktails at sunset. Try the local honey, olive oil and wine from the Thassos vineyards.

By the port you can eat well, Greek style, for example at the Karas restaurant. On the headland at the very end of the town is the most beautiful beach bar, with a romantic atmosphere: Karnagio.

Karnagio – book ahead

Especially in high season I recommend booking in advance – the places at sunset go quickly.

The Karas restaurant in the capital, Limenas, on the island of Thassos
The Karas restaurant
The Karnagio beach bar in the capital, Limenas, on the island of Thassos, photographed from above at night
The Karnagio beach bar
BEACHES AND TRIPS

Beaches and trips from Limenas

Thanks to the good connections, you can try a different beach every day:

Papias Beach – a beach right by the town.

Nisteri Beach – by the town, with a quieter atmosphere.

Tarsanas Beach – a short distance from the town.

Glyfada Beach – fine sand and crystal-clear water.

Boat trip – boats leave the port every day for a cruise around the island with swimming at remote beaches.

Supermarkets – Masoutis and Lidl, from fresh food to beach gear.

MY TRIP TIPS

Trips I recommend

Trips I recommend as a tour rep. Local agencies list them on GetYourGuide mainly in season. On jeep trips, depending on the group, you may also get to drive yourself.

MY ACCOMMODATION TIP

Where to stay in Limenas

In Limenas I like the relaxed, well-equipped Sirens Fresh studios – a great location if you want to be close to everything. Or the pleasant Vournelis hotel, even closer to the centre, with a view of the sunsets and the ferries arriving from the mainland.

You will find more tips in the article Resorts on Thassos.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Limenas – FAQs

It means “port”. Limenas is the island’s capital, and ferries from the mainland arrive here.

The ancient theatre with a view of the sea, the remains of the ancient agora, parts of the original walls and the archaeological museum. The historic part is compact – you can see it in a few hours.

Right by the town are Papias Beach and the quieter Nisteri Beach; nearby are Tarsanas Beach and Glyfada Beach with fine sand.

You will find the largest supermarkets on the island here, such as Masoutis and Lidl.

Yes. You can combine relaxing on the beach, discovering history, boat trips and evenings with Greek music and food.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Limenas is not just a transport hub – it is a place where you can spend your whole holiday. If you are looking for a place where tradition meets modern life by the sea, Limenas will delight you.