Villages of Kea

Kea’s villages are compact, practical and unusually varied for a small island. Korissia is the ferry arrival point; Ioulida is the inland capital; Vourkari is the sailing harbour; Otzias and Pisses sit beside broad beaches; Koundouros faces the southwest coast with windmills and organized swimming; Kato Meria opens the rural interior and the routes toward Karthaia.

Ioulida — The Hill Capital

Kea’s car-free capital, set inland on a hillside rather than by the sea. Stegadia (slate-roofed houses), narrow stone-paved lanes, the central Piazza and the ruins of a Venetian Kastro make Ioulida the best village for culture, walking and a traditional atmosphere — and the starting point for the path to the Lion of Kea.

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Korissia — The Port

Kea’s main port in Agios Nikolaos Bay, and most visitors’ first sight of the island. Korissia combines ferry logistics with genuine character: the 45-metre chimney of the old Enamel Factory, the archaeological remains of ancient Korissos, and an easy beach a short walk from where the boat docks.

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Vourkari — The Sailing Harbour

A sheltered natural harbour a few kilometres from Korissia, popular with sailing yachts and known for its waterfront tavernas. Vourkari is the best village for evenings, couples and dining by the water, and sits close to the important prehistoric site of Agia Irini.

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Otzias — The Northern Bay

A growing village beside Kea’s longest beach, a 700-metre bay backed by tamarisks with small churches at either end. Otzias has become one of the island’s most popular family bases, with a range of accommodation and a relaxed, beach-centred pace.

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Pisses — The Western Valley

A village beside an organized beach on Kea’s western coast, set in a green valley near the remains of ancient Poiessa. Pisses suits a low-key beach stay, with camping among its options and a quieter rhythm than the southwest resort areas.

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Koundouros — The Southwest Coast

One of Kea’s most developed tourist areas, known for restored stone windmills, an organized beach, a popular anchorage for boats, and the nearby water-sports beach of Koundouraki. Koundouros is the best base for travelers prioritizing beach facilities, villas and an active coastline.

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Kato Meria — The Rural Interior

The quiet inland area of southern Kea, worth visiting for travelers who want to see another face of the island beyond its coast. Kato Meria is the gateway to the longer routes toward Ancient Karthaia and suits walkers and those seeking the island’s least touristic corner.