Astypalaia - Do & See

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Astypalaia

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Overview

Do & See The guide was updated: 2024-09-16

There is plenty to do and see in and around the island. Those who dare venture out of the island's attractive, well-groomed Chora will be duly rewarded with nature trails, secluded coves and beaches, remains of ancient structures, and a rare sense of discovery in virgin lands. Heading even further out, smaller islands very close to Astypalaia are perfectly reachable by boat (tours are offered throughout, especially during high season).

Chora

Chora

The island's main port and capital, Chora is the hot-spot for shopping, dining, and cultural pursuits. With its scenic cascade of white houses which dot the Venetian hilltop castle, windmills, museums, and a plethora of photo-ready locations, this is the epicentre of life on Astypalaia.

The Windmills

The Windmills

Nine well-preserved, picture-perfect windmills, possibly dating back to as early as the 18th century, are one of the island's main visitor attractions.

Pera Gialos

Pera Gialos

Just a kilometre south of Chora lies the village of Pera Gialos, once the island's main port. Today it boasts a relatively well-developed tourist infrastructure and a charming beach, ideal for a refreshing swim. Boat tours run from here to nearby sites and other beaches.

Astypalaia Castle

Astypalaia Castle

The scenic views from Astypalaia's hilltop Venetian castle reward those who dare to make the climb - although little remains of the castle itself, the views of the whitewashed houses leading to the azure waters of Aegaen are simply spectacular.

Drakos Cave

Drakos Cave

Drakos Cave, or "cave of the dragon" is a natural cave bedecked with stalactites and stalagmites in the island's north (not far from the village of Vathi). The color of these whimsical rock formations changes depending on the mineral content of the water, which makes each visit unlike the other.

Archeological Museum of Astypalaia

Archeological Museum of Astypalaia

The compact yet informative archaeological museum of Astypalaia provides visitors with a brief runthrough the rare finds which have been made on the island. Exhibits include jewellery, tools, ceramics, and other items dating from between the prehistoric period and Medieval times.

Church of Panagia Portaitissa

Church of Panagia Portaitissa

An embodiment of the iconic Greek white-with-a-blue-dome, postcard-ready look that dominates postcards, this structure is set atop a high hill and dates back to the 18th century.

Maltezana (Analipsi)

Maltezana (Analipsi)

The seaside resort of Maltezana (named after Maltese pirates who used the island as their hideaway) is a popular place to stay among vacationers. Some of the must-see attractions include the Hellenic Talaras Baths, ruins of an early-Christian basilica, and the ancient Analipsi church.

Vathi

Vathi

The shape of the shoreline near the village of Vathi makes its waters appear a stunning crystal-blue color. In and around the village, see the whimsical rock formations of the Drakos Cave, the remains of an ancient Minoan settlement at their entrance, and the lost lake of Chameni Limni.

Boat Tours

Boat Tours

Take a guided boat tour and explore some of the island's most secluded, lesser-known beaches (multiple tours are offered in Chora), as well as the beautiful islands of Koutsomyti and Syrna.

Hiking

Hiking

The island offers a plethora of hiking trails, best explored outside of the hottest summer months when the sun is ablaze. Enthusiasts may thoroughly enjoy hiking up the “Ftera” terrain, with 20 different climbing routes to choose from.

Livadia

Livadia

Just two kilometers from Chora, the small seaside village of Livadia lies in a valley bordered by citrus groves and lush vineyards. Must-see attractions include the Negros Cave in Vatses (reachabale by boat from Chora) and the Agios Vasileios hilltop ruins.

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