Amorgos, one of the most enchanting and less-commercialized Greek islands in the Cyclades. Known for its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and traditional Cycladic charm, Amorgos is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, history buffs, and those looking for a quieter island experience.
📍 Overview
- Location: Southeastern Cyclades, Greece
- Best Time to Visit: Late May to early October
- Famous For: Stunning hiking trails, the monastery of Hozoviotissa, and the film The Big Blue (1988)
✈️ How to Get There
- By Ferry: No airport on the island. You can reach Amorgos from:
- Athens (Piraeus Port) – ~7–10 hours (regular or high-speed ferry)
- Nearby Cycladic islands (Naxos, Paros, Santorini) – 1–5 hours
Tip: There are two ports: Katapola (main port) and Aegiali (closer to many beaches and villages). Check where your accommodation is before booking.
🏨 Where to Stay
- Katapola: Central location, good for first-timers
- Aegiali: More beachy and laid-back, with hiking trail access
- Chora (Amorgos Town): Picturesque, traditional, and elevated for epic views
🌟 Top Attractions
1. Monastery of Hozoviotissa
- Clings dramatically to a cliff 300m above the sea
- Built in the 11th century
- Modest dress required (they offer wraps if needed)
- Spectacular views over the Aegean
2. Chora (Amorgos Town)
- Charming old town with Cycladic architecture
- Windmills, narrow alleys, and sunset views
- Lively tavernas and cozy bars
3. Agia Anna Beach
- Crystal-clear waters
- Popular snorkeling spot
- Scene of The Big Blue movie
4. Ancient Minoa
- Ruins of an ancient city near Katapola
- Easy hike with panoramic sea views
5. Asfondilitis
- Abandoned stone village on a hiking trail
- Known for rock carvings and rural authenticity
🏖️ Best Beaches
- Agia Anna – Clear water, rocky beauty, ideal for snorkeling
- Mouros – Dramatic cliffs, turquoise sea
- Levrossos – Near Aegiali, clothing-optional
- Maltezi – Boat trip or hike from Katapola
- Kalotaritissa – Remote, quiet, beautiful cove
🥾 Hiking in Amorgos
The island is a hiking paradise with ancient paths connecting villages and beaches.
- Hike from Chora to Hozoviotissa and down to Agia Anna
- Aegiali to Chora trail – passes through Langada and Tholaria villages
- Aegiali to Asfondilitis and Hozoviotissa – more advanced trail
🍴 Local Food to Try
- Patatato – Goat stew with potatoes
- Xerotigana – Fried dough sweets with honey and cinnamon
- Fava – Yellow split pea purée
- Rakomelo – Warm raki with honey and spices
- Fresh fish, capers, and local herbs are staples
Top tavernas:
- Transistoraki (Chora) – Meze and live music
- Koralli (Katapola) – Fresh seafood
- To Limani Tis Kyra Katinas (Aegiali) – Sunset views and home cooking
🌅 Nightlife
- Relaxed and low-key compared to Mykonos or Santorini
- Chora has some lively bars with music (e.g., Jazzmin Bar)
- Most nightlife revolves around tavernas and cafés
📸 Instagrammable Spots
- Monastery of Hozoviotissa
- Chora windmills
- Agia Anna beach at sunset
- Hiking views from Ancient Minoa
✅ Quick Tips
- Bring good walking shoes for hikes and cobbled paths
- Cash is king in small villages (though cards are accepted in many places)
- Car or scooter rental is highly recommended
- Water is not drinkable – buy bottled