Andros, the second-largest island in the Cyclades, Greece. This island blends rugged nature, rich history, and serene beaches, offering something for every traveler.
📍 Overview
- Location: Northernmost island of the Cyclades, Greece
- Known for: Lush landscapes, neoclassical architecture, waterfalls, hiking trails, and quiet beaches
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (June and September are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant weather)
🚢 Getting There
- By Ferry: Regular ferries from Rafina Port (Athens) – ~2 hours
- By Car + Ferry: Drive to Rafina, park or bring your car on the ferry for exploring the island easily
🏞️ Top Places to Visit
🏛️ Chora (Andros Town)
- Elegant neoclassical mansions
- Archaeological Museum & Museum of Contemporary Art
- Famous Tourlitis Lighthouse, perched on a rock in the sea
- Walk along the old Venetian Kato Kastro (Lower Castle)
🏖️ Best Beaches
- Tis Grias to Pidima – dramatic cliff backdrop and turquoise waters
- Achla Beach – remote and wild, reached by boat or 4×4
- Vitali Beach – crystal-clear, good for swimming
- Batsi Beach – sandy and family-friendly with tavernas nearby
🥾 Nature & Hiking
- Over 180 km of marked trails (Andros Routes network)
- Notable hikes:
- Apikia to Pythara Waterfalls
- Menites Springs to Chora
- Panachrantou Monastery Trail
- Ideal for eco-tourism and adventure lovers
⛪ Cultural Highlights
- Panachrantou Monastery – 10th-century gem with stunning views
- Agios Nikolaos Monastery
- Traditional villages: Stenies, Menites, Apoikia, Messaria
🍽️ Food & Drink
Local Specialties
- Fourtalia – omelet with sausage and potatoes
- Ladotyri cheese
- Almond sweets (amygdalota)
- Local wines and raki
Recommended Tavernas
- Oti Kalo (Gavrio) – fresh seafood
- The Dolphin (Batsi) – sea view dining
- Endochora (Chora) – local dishes with a modern twist
🏨 Where to Stay
- Batsi – lively, beachside town with restaurants and bars
- Chora – historic and elegant, great for sightseeing
- Gavrio – near the port, practical for short stays
🎭 Events & Festivals
- Orthodox Easter – vibrant local celebrations
- Andros International Festival (July–August) – music, theater, art
- Cultural events at the Goulandris Museum and open-air theaters
📝 Tips for Travelers
- Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended
- Many beaches are unorganized – bring water and umbrellas
- Cash is useful for small villages, though cards are widely accepted
- Hike early in the morning during summer to avoid heat
Popular