Amorgos

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