Easter 2025 in Greece: Discover the Islands with the Most Unique Traditions

Easter in Greece is a celebration rich in customs and traditions that highlight the country’s deep cultural heritage. Experiencing Easter on a Greek island is something truly magical. With their natural beauty and strong connection to tradition, the islands offer a unique and unforgettable atmosphere during this sacred time of year. Each island celebrates Easter in its own distinctive way, creating memorable moments for every visitor.

Tinos, Paros, Naxos, Rhodes, Corfu — whichever island you choose to visit this Easter, driving is the ideal way to explore these enchanting destinations. You’ll enjoy scenic routes and discover hidden gems along the way. And your perfect travel companion? Autohellas Hertz makes car rental simple, fast, and hassle-free. With a modern fleet available all across Greece, your Easter journey becomes even more comfortable and enjoyable.

Let’s take a closer look at what each island has to offer for an unforgettable Easter getaway:

Tinos

In Tinos, Easter combines Orthodox and Catholic traditions, creating a spiritual and cultural mosaic. One of the main customs is the “Common Table of Love,” where locals share food and wine with each other. On Holy Thursday, the ceremonial removal of Christ from the Cross is observed, while on Good Friday, the “Mysteries of the Passion” are reenacted. One of the most impressive traditions is the procession of the Epitaphios (funeral bier), with that of Saint Nicholas even entering the sea. On Easter Sunday, the celebrations continue with music, festivities, and the joyful sound of firecrackers known as “triponies.”

Paros

Easter in Paros is a blend of deep religious devotion and a cosmopolitan flair. Throughout Holy Week, locals dye eggs and prepare traditional sweets. On Holy Thursday, women beautifully decorate the Epitaphios, and on Good Friday, moving reenactments of the Passion take place. On Holy Saturday, people gather aromatic herbs during the First Resurrection, and on Easter Sunday, processions and open-air feasts are held, offering free food and wine. In the villages of Naoussa and Parikia, Epitaphios processions converge, creating a festive and communal atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over. Paros is an ideal destination for celebrating Easter.

Naxos

In Naxos, Easter traditions reflect the island's rich folklore. On Easter Monday in the village of Komiaki, young men swing girls on decorated swings—a custom known as “Kounia.” On Lazarus Saturday, locals bake special breads called “Lazarakia,” which are distributed on Good Friday at Panagia Drosiani. In the village of Eggares, torches made of bamboo are lit during the Epitaphios procession. The traditional Easter dish is "Patoudo"—stuffed goat, prepared with local variations in different villages. On the night of the Resurrection, the faithful bring red-dyed eggs to church, which are blessed and cracked in celebration.

Rhodes

Rhodes offers a wealth of Easter customs. On Lazarus Saturday, children sing carols and collect eggs and money for the priests. On Good Friday, the decorated Epitaphios is paraded through the villages, with women adorning it with flowers. On Easter night, red eggs are blessed and cracked as people exchange wishes of joy and renewal. Easter Sunday is celebrated with roasted lamb, live music, and festive gatherings, welcoming visitors with warmth and authentic Greek hospitality.

Corfu

Easter in Corfu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, steeped in tradition and musical grandeur. Celebrations begin on Palm Sunday with the procession of Saint Spyridon, accompanied by the island’s famous philharmonic bands. On Holy Thursday, the Passion Service includes the reading of the Twelve Gospels at the Catholic Cathedral. On Good Friday, solemn processions with Epitaphios take place across the city and villages, accompanied by hauntingly beautiful music from the philharmonics. On Holy Saturday, the famous “botides” (large clay pots) are thrown from balconies in a dramatic display of renewal and joy. Easter Sunday is marked by open-air feasts, music, and traditional dishes shared among locals and visitors alike.

Travel with Autohellas Hertz

With Autohellas Hertz by your side, exploring these beautiful islands becomes even easier and more enjoyable. With one of the largest and most modern car fleets in Greece and 72 locations nationwide, you’ll have fast and convenient service wherever you are. Plus, if you're a member of AEGEAN's Miles+Bonus program, you can earn up to 1,500 award miles with each car rental, which you can redeem for future trips. You can also use your miles to reduce your rental cost. Learn more about car rentals at hertz.gr.