Kea (island)

Kea (also called Tzia) is a Cycladic island in the Aegean Sea, administratively part of the South Aegean region of Greece. It is known for a mix of ancient archaeological remains, quiet villages and accessible hiking routes.

The Archaic-period stone sculpture known as the Lion of Kea, the ancient site of Karthea on the southeast coast and the hilltop main town of Ioulis with traditional Cycladic architecture. The island has a network of footpaths and ancient mule tracks linking beaches and ruins.

Kea lies relatively close to the Attica mainland and is commonly visited from the port of Lavrio; ferry crossings from Lavrio typically take around an hour, making the island a convenient short-break destination from the Athens region.

• Access from Attica: One of the closest Cycladic islands to the Attica mainland and commonly reached by ferry from the port of Lavrio, with crossings typically around one hour depending on service.
• Hiking and beaches: Known for well-marked hiking trails that link archaeological sites, coastal villages and secluded beaches, making it popular with walkers.

What to See #

• Lion of Kea: The Lion of Kea, an Archaic-period carved limestone lion standing near the east coast and dating to around the 6th century BC.
• Karthea archaeological site: Karthea (Karthea/Kartha), an archaeological site on the island's southeast coast with remains of an ancient sanctuary and classical-period structures.
• Ioulis (main town): Ioulis (Chora), the island's principal town and administrative centre, located inland on a hillside with narrow streets and traditional houses.