September is the perfect time to enjoy Evia at its best. The weather remains summery, ideal for swimming in beaches and seaside resorts, while at the same time the opportunity opens up to discover the imposing mountain landscapes, wander through picturesque villages, and start outdoor activities in nature.
In North Evia, nature is being reborn and invites visitors to rediscover its pine forests, monasteries, and coastal jewels. In Central Evia, the vibrant Chalkida and the alpine village of Steni reveal the beauty of mountain scenery and traditional villages.
As you head towards South Evia, the landscape changes with imposing mountain masses, secluded beaches of the Aegean, and picturesque towns and villages creating images that remain unforgettable. September is the best moment to discover Evia in all its glory.
1. Chalkida – The gateway to Evia with the “crazy waters”
Chalkida city, the capital of Evia, is a city full of life and energy. It combines history, sea, and vibrancy, offering visitors experiences that remain unforgettable. The Euripus phenomenon with the “crazy waters” and the old bridge are its landmarks, while the coastal promenade filled with cafés, restaurants, and bars creates the ideal setting for scenic walks.
Chalkida seaside / Photo Amazing Evia
At the same time, Avanton Street, the city’s main shopping street, provides the pulse with shopping and wandering in the center, giving Chalkida the character of a city that blends tradition with modern lifestyle.
Attractions
Chalkida has much to offer every visitor. The Euripus Strait with the “crazy waters” and the old bridge are absolute must-sees, while the seaside promenade is ideal for an afternoon stroll and an unforgettable sunset. From there, you can climb up to Karababa Castle for panoramic views of the city and the Evian Gulf.
In the city’s museums, such as the Archaeological Museum of Arethousa and the Folklore Museum, you will discover history and tradition, while neoclassical buildings – the Red House and the House with the Statues – offer an atmosphere of another era.
Agia Paraskevi, an important Byzantine church in the center, and the House of the Roman general Vailo, a monument of historical significance, are integral parts of the city’s cultural heritage. Finally, the War Museum of Chalkida with its rare exhibits highlights important moments of Greece’s military history.
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Beaches
Although it is a city, Chalkida offers many options for refreshing swims, either within the center or at very close distances. Papathanasiou Beach is the classic choice for those who want a quick escape and a swim without leaving the city. Its organized facilities, infrastructure, and immediate access make it particularly popular with families and locals.
A little further away, Souvala Beach is a favorite among locals thanks to its calm atmosphere and clean waters. Here, you will enjoy a more relaxed pace, ideal for those seeking quiet moments by the sea.
In the city center, Kourenti stands out – a small but organized beach with sandy shore and shallow waters, perfect for families with children. The spot is easily accessible and offers beautiful views of the Evian Gulf, making it a pleasant choice for those who don’t want to go far.
For a more cosmopolitan setting, Alykes Drosias is the most popular option. With modern beach bars, music, cafés, and water sports, it attracts a youthful crowd as well as those who want to combine swimming with vibrant summer fun.
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Activities
Chalkida is suitable for every kind of activity. A walk along the seaside promenade with views of the Evian Gulf is a must, especially at sunset. Exploring the city brings you face to face with historical monuments, shopping streets, and squares, while photography lovers will enjoy the neoclassical buildings and picturesque alleys. Avanton Street is ideal for shopping, while nightlife along the seafront and in the center promises lively entertainment with bars and clubs.
Food & Drink
The gastronomic scene of Chalkida is just as strong as its attractions. On the seafront, you’ll find traditional fish taverns with fresh seafood and ouzo places with meze, while modern restaurants with Greek and international cuisine are also present. In the center, cafés and meze restaurants offer relaxed moments, while pastry shops impress with local sweets and creative treats.
See here all food and drink options in Chalkida
Accommodation
Accommodation in Chalkida covers all tastes and budgets. In the center, you’ll find hotels with views of the Evian Gulf, while a little further away, in Lefkandi and Drosia, there are seaside lodgings that combine sea and relaxation. For a more unique experience, choose boutique guesthouses or studios that offer a sense of hospitality and comfort.
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2. Steni Dirfyos – The most famous mountain village of Evia with unique landscapes
Steni is the most famous mountain village of Evia, built at the foot of the imposing Mount Dirfys. It combines tradition with an alpine landscape, running waters, and a cool atmosphere that make it a favorite destination all year round. The Steni Aesthetic Forest, the plane trees, and the authentic hospitality give the village a unique charm, while its location makes it an ideal base for nature lovers and travelers seeking outdoor activities.
Attractions
The central square of Steni, with its plane trees, cafés, and traditional taverns, is the lively meeting point for locals and visitors alike, while the stone-paved alleys and old houses preserve its traditional character. Just a little further up, the Vrysi (spring) tou Giatrou with its crystal-clear waters offers moments of freshness and rejuvenation, making it one of the most photographed spots in Steni.
Of course, wandering through the Steni Aesthetic Forest with its trails provides authentic contact with nature and unforgettable images. Nearby, the village of Kampia hosts the church of Agia Kyriaki, nestled in a stunning natural setting worth discovering.
Beaches
Although a mountain village, Steni offers easy access to some of the most famous beaches of the Aegean. Chiliadou Beach is the most famous, with wild natural beauty, turquoise waters, and a large sandy shore that combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with quieter corners.
Metochi Beach features pebbles and crystal-clear waters, ideal for more peaceful moments. Thapsa Beach stands out for its exotic scenery and turquoise waters; though increasingly popular, it remains impressive.
Through the village of Agios Athanasios and along the enchanting Agali Gorge, you can reach more secluded coasts such as Vythouri Beach, with its dramatic landscape, and the tranquil Petali Beach, both offering authentic encounters with nature.
Petali and Vithouri beaches / Photo Amazing Evia
Activities
Steni is the heart of mountainous Evia and its greatest natural attraction. At the foot of the imposing Dirfys, the island’s highest peak, unfolds a unique landscape that combines alpine atmosphere, deep gorges, aesthetic forests, and running waters. The area connects Xirovouni with the peaks of Dirfys and extends to the Aegean, creating a mosaic of nature rarely found on another Greek island.
Popular hiking routes begin from Steni towards the Agali Gorge, with streams and waterfalls, as well as to the mountain refuge “Michalis Nikolaou,” a reference point for excursions to the summit Delfi (1,743 m). From here, the view opens magnificently towards the Aegean and mainland Greece.
The Aesthetic Forest and the Magical Landscapes of Dirfys/ Photo Amazing Evia
Dirfys is a paradise for active travelers: hikers, trail runners, cyclists, and jeep adventurers find endless challenges on every path. At the same time, the nature around Steni is ideal for landscape photography, peaceful wanderings, and moments of relaxation under the village’s plane trees. A coffee or a traditional spoon sweet in Steni’s square becomes in itself an unforgettable experience.
Food & Drink
Steni is renowned for its traditional taverns serving grilled meats, local recipes, and homemade dishes, making it a gastronomic destination. Cafés serve spoon sweets and traditional homemade desserts, while small meze restaurants offer a warm, family-like atmosphere.
See here all food and drink options in Steni
Accommodation
In Steni you will find traditional guesthouses, family hotels, and cozy lodgings with fireplaces, ideal for the cooler seasons. For more budget-friendly options, there are rented rooms in and around the village, while its location makes it a perfect base for excursions to Dirfys and Central Evia.
See here all accommodation options in Steni
3. Edipsos – The Famous Wellness and Spa Destination of North Evia
Edipsos is not just a spa town, it is the largest and most famous spa city in Greece, with a history that stretches back centuries. It was already mentioned by Aristotle, Strabo, and Plutarch for its healing springs. With more than 80 thermal springs bubbling up through geothermal activity, rich in elements such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, Edipsos is considered one of the most important wellness centers in the country.
The town also stands out for its neoclassical influences: grand hotels and hydrotherapy centers of the Belle Époque, elegant facades, terraces over the sea, and palm-lined promenades.
Attractions
In Edipsos, history and architecture meet wellness. Highlights include the old Hydrotherapy Center “Agioi Anargyroi,” the imposing Cave of Sylla associated with the Roman general, and the Archaeological Collection of the Greek National Tourism Organization, which houses finds from the wider area.
The city is full of elegant neoclassical buildings, with the wooden octagonal structure “KYMA” on the seafront being a trademark. Strolling through the center reveals the atmosphere of the era when Edipsos was a reference point for kings, prime ministers, and notable personalities of the 20th century.
Beaches
The spa town of Edipsos boasts some of the most unique shores in Greece, where hot thermal waters flow directly into the sea, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. Of particular interest are the coastal rocks with cavities, where thermal waters gather and form small natural pools with therapeutic properties.
The Edipsos beaches with thermal springs lies right in front of the town and offers the unique sensation of combining seawater with thermal water in every swim. A little further away, Agios Nikolaos Beach is organized with sunbeds and beach bars and is famous for its clear waters. In the nearby village of Ilia, the hot springs flow straight into the sea, forming a rare natural spa that attracts visitors all year round.
Beach of Edipsos with thermal springs / Photo Amazing Evia
Edipsos is also home to luxurious spa hotels along the coastline, which utilize the thermal waters with specialized wellness programs and treatments, giving travelers the chance to combine relaxation and indulgence by the sea.
At the same time, the town serves as an excellent base for excursions to more beaches in North Evia. To the north, you will find long sandy shores at Neo Pyrgos and Oreoi villages, while at the northwestern tip of the peninsula, Lichada stands out with its beautiful beaches and the famous Lichadonisia, also known as the “Seychelles of Greece,” impressing with their exotic scenery and turquoise waters.
Activities
Edipsos is not only for relaxation; it is also an ideal base for nature escapes. Nearby Mount Telethrio rises to 970 m, covered with forests, ravines, and small waterfalls. From the village of Ilia, trails lead to the summit with panoramic views of the Evian Gulf.
Equally impressive are the Drymonas Waterfalls at 620 m altitude, where the waters cascade into a lush green forest. For nature lovers and more active visitors, the area offers hiking, mountain running, mountain biking, jeep tours, as well as milder experiences such as landscape photography and walks in forests and streams.
A significant experience is also visiting the Monastery of Saint David the Elder, one of the most famous monasteries of Evia, with a rich spiritual tradition and an impressive natural setting.
Food & Drink
Edipsos combines its reputation as a spa town with a rich gastronomic tradition. Along the seafront and in the alleys of the center, you will find traditional fish taverns serving fresh fish and seafood straight from the North Evian Gulf. Next to them, ouzo taverns with local meze (appetizers), local wines, and tsipouro drinks create an authentic Greek atmosphere with a sea view.
The local cuisine also stands out for the meats of the inland villages, with grilled dishes, stews, and traditional recipes that allow visitors to taste the flavors of North Evia. The town also offers modern restaurants with creative menus, as well as cafes and bars for coffee, sweets, or drinks at sunset.
For a complete experience, it is worth trying local products such as the region’s honey, spoon sweets, and excellent olive oil produced in the villages around Edipsos.
See here best options for food and drink in Edipsos.
Accommodation
Edipsos offers one of the most complete ranges of accommodation in Evia. In town, you will find some of the most famous spa hotels in Greece, with luxurious facilities, indoor and outdoor thermal pools, as well as specialized wellness programs combining lodging with treatments.
For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, there are seaside accommodations and small hotels offering warm hospitality and easy access to the beach. In the surrounding villages, you will find traditional guesthouses and family-run appartments, ideal for visitors seeking peace and authenticity.
Edipsos covers all tastes: from luxury suites and resorts with every comfort to more affordable options with friendly service and a homely feel.
See here all options for accommodation in Edipsos.
4. Eretria – The Ancient City That Became a Modern Destination in Evia
Eretria was one of the most important city-states of ancient Greece, with commercial power, colonies, and cultural prosperity that left an indelible mark. Traces of its history are visible everywhere to this day: from the ancient walls and theaters to the famous mosaic houses and the exhibits in the museum.
Today, Eretria city is a lively seaside town, with a beautiful promenade, cafés and tavernas by the sea, organized beaches, and nightlife that attracts visitors all year round. Its location, opposite Oropos and just one hour from Athens by the Oropos–Eretria ferry, makes it ideal for short getaways as well as longer vacations.
Attractions
Eretria is an open-air museum of history. The Archaeological Museum of Eretria showcases treasures from the Mycenaean to the Roman period. The Ancient Theater impresses with its stage and tiers, while the Temple of Apollo Daphnephoros and the Iseion (Temple of Isis) testify to the city’s religious significance.
Archaeological Sites in Eretria / Photo Amazing Evia
The House of Mosaics, with scenes from mythology, is unique in Evia. The ancient Walls and Gates demonstrate the city’s former power, while the Gymnasium and public facilities reveal its organized social and educational life.
In the newer part of the town, neoclassical mansions stand out, such as the mansion of the Kanaris family, and the bridge connecting Eretria to the Island of Dreams, a beloved spot for walks and summer events.
Beaches
Eretria’s main beach is organized, sandy, with sunbeds and beach bars, ideal for families and for those wanting immediate access from the center. To the east, you will find quieter options such as Magoula and Malakonta, offering clean waters and a relaxing atmosphere.
Opposite, the small islet of Island of Dreams, is a unique destination for swimming and strolling, combining the sea with natural beauty.
Activities
Eretria offers an ideal mix of seaside and mountain activities. Along the seafront, you can enjoy swimming, sailing, kayaking, and SUP, while a boat trip to the small islets opposite provides unique views.
For nature lovers, just a few kilometers away rise Xirovouni and Dirfys, two of Evia’s most beautiful mountains. Here, you will find marked hiking trails through pristine landscapes, mountain bike routes through forests and gorges, as well as organized jeep tours reaching spots with panoramic views over the Aegean and the South Evian Gulf. Eretria thus becomes an excellent base not only for the sea but also for authentic outdoor experiences.
Food & Drink
Eretria’s gastronomic scene caters to all tastes. On the seafront, you will find fish tavernas with fresh seafood, while in the center stand out restaurants with Greek and international cuisine. At the cafés along the promenade, you can enjoy coffee or dessert with a sea view, while the bars set the rhythm for the nightlife.
See here all the food and drink options in Eretria
Accommodation
Eretria offers a wide range of accommodations. From seaside hotels with all amenities and pools to boutique guesthouses with traditional aesthetics and a family atmosphere. There are also budget accommodations and rooms for more relaxed holidays, making the town accessible to every traveler.
See here all the accommodation options in Eretria
5. Kymi – The Balcony of the Aegean with Centuries of History
The city of Kymi is one of the most cosmopolitan and historic destinations in Evia, often called the “Balcony of the Aegean” thanks to its breathtaking location overlooking the endless blue of the sea. Since ancient times, it has been a powerful naval city, founding colonies such as Cuma in Italy, while today its picturesque seafront serves as a gateway to the island of Skyros.
It is also the birthplace of Georgios Papanikolaou, the renowned researcher and inventor of the Pap test. The town stands out for its charming square, neoclassical mansions, and traditional neighborhoods adorned with architectural gems, while the surrounding villages, Platana, Andronianoi, Konistres, and Vrysi, add authentic local color.
Attractions
Kymi boasts the Folklore Museum, one of the most important in Greece, with rich collections of nautical artifacts, traditional costumes, and tools. The House of Doctor Papanikolaou pays tribute to the pioneering scientist, while the church of Panagia Liaoutsianissa impresses with its rare architectural style and marble iconostasis.
Kymi Attracrions / Photo Amazing Evia
The archaeological site of Viglatouri connects the town with its ancient past, while in Oxylithos, at the top of an inactive volcano, stands the church of Panagia Oxilithiotissa, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views.
Nature lovers will appreciate the idyllic site of Choneftiko, a forested area with flowing streams and springs, perfect for peaceful walks and moments of relaxation.
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Beaches
The beaches around Kymi are a mosaic of easily accessible shores and pristine, exotic landscapes. Right next to the harbor lies the small Latses beach, calm and family-friendly with water activities. Nearby, Soutsini beach offers crystal-clear waters and serenity, ideal for those seeking relaxation away from crowds.
Stomio beach impresses with its long stretch of sand that merges with Mourteri, one of the most famous and photographed beaches of central Evia.
On the way to the renowned Thapsa beach, you’ll find Tsilaro, a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and a serene setting. Although it does not share the fame of Thapsa, it is an ideal stop for those seeking calmer moments before reaching the area’s exotic landscape.
Thapsa beach, which is the absolute jewel of Kymi, tropical scenery, wild natural beauty, and turquoise waters that feel like a postcard. Although access is demanding, the reward is unforgettable.
Further north, Metochi beach retains its authentic charm, while the iconic Chiliadou beach, one of the most legendary beaches of the Aegean, combines wild cliffs, emerald waters, and a sense of freedom unlike any other.
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Activities
Kymi is a starting point for a wide range of activities. The famous “Kymi uphill Rally Race” attracts motorsport enthusiasts each year, while in Manikia village, rock climbing on dramatic cliffs is growing in popularity while the hike to the waterfalls offers beautiful scenery views.
The Kotylaia Mountains with their trails and the alpine area of Vromonera attract mountaineers and nature lovers. From the summit of the imposing Ortari Mountain, the view over the Aegean is truly breathtaking.
Food & Drink
Life in Kymi revolves around its lively main square, full of traditional cafés, bakeries, and sweet shops famous for local delicacies. Don’t miss the renowned baklava of Kymi with its deep tradition, and of course, the famous Kymi figs, a PDO product celebrated for their exceptional taste.
Down by the seaside Kymi, the mood is more vibrant with seaside tavernas, fish restaurants, and ouzeris serving fresh seafood and meze paired with local wine. In the evening, the cafés and bars along the waterfront come alive, creating the cosmopolitan vibe that Kymi is known for.
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Accommodation
Kymi offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit every preference. In the town, you’ll find central hotels and traditional guesthouses with views over the Aegean, while at the seafront there are family-run hotels and small beachside lodgings. For greater comfort, modern facilities with spa and wellness services are also available in the wider area.
See here all the accommodation options in Kymi.
Why Visit Evia island in September
September may be the best time to experience Kymi and Evia in general. The beaches retain their summer charm but with more tranquility, the mountains and forests take on golden autumn hues, and the villages welcome visitors with genuine hospitality.
From the peaks of Dirfys and the hiking trails of north Evia, to the endless beaches of Kymi and the picturesque fishing harbors scattered across the island, September in Evia offers a unique mosaic of experiences, the perfect way to say goodbye to summer and welcome autumn in style.
