Welcome to Astypalea
Astypalea is a small Greek island that forms part of the Dodecanese island group in the Aegean Sea. It is known for its picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
The island is home to the Chora, which is a hilltop fortress that overlooks the sea. The Chora is also known for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and traditional white windmills. It is a great place to wander around and explore the island’s traditional architecture and history.
One of the most popular beaches in Astypalea is Livadia beach, which is located on the island’s north side. The beach is sandy and offers clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Another beautiful beach on the island is Kaminakia, which is located on the south side of the island. It offers turquoise waters and a rocky coastline, making it perfect for snorkelling and exploring.
Astypalea also has a rich culture and history, as it has been influenced by the Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman empires. Visitors can see this history reflected in the island’s architecture and archaeological sites, such as the Venetian castle that is located in the Chora.
The island’s cuisine is also worth trying, as it is a combination of traditional Greek dishes with a unique Astypalean twist. Visitors can try seafood, souvlaki, and other local specialties at one of the island’s tavernas.
Overall, Astypalea is a beautiful and relaxing destination that is perfect for those who want to experience Greece’s traditional island lifestyle.
How to reach it
Astypalea can be reached by both air and sea.
By air:
The island has its own airport, that receives domestic flights from Athens. Flights to Astypalea from Athens are operated by Olympic Air and Sky Express. The flight time is approximately 45 minutes. During the summer season (from May to September), there are also direct flights from other Greek islands, such as Rhodes and Mykonos.
By sea:
Astypalea is also accessible by ferry from the ports of Piraeus in Athens and Rhodes. The journey time from Piraeus to Astypalea is around 10 hours, while the journey time from Rhodes is around 7 hours. During the summer season, there are also ferry connections from other islands in the Dodecanese, such as Kos and Kalymnos.
It is recommended to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak season.
Where to stay
Astypalea offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences such as hotels, villas, apartments, and guesthouses.
Chora
is the most popular area to stay on the island, as it is close to the castle and has plenty of restaurants, cafès and bars. There are various accommodation options available in Chora ranging from traditional houses and small boutique hotels to luxurious villas with sea views.
Livadia
is another popular area to stay in Astypalea, especially for those looking for a beachfront holiday. Livadia has a range of hotels and guesthouses available for all budget types.
Other areas to consider for accommodation on the island include Maltezana, Analipsi, and Vathi. These areas offer a quieter and more secluded atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of Chora and Livadia.
It is recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak season, as Astypalea gets crowded during this time.
Highlights: what to see/what to do
Astypalea has plenty of highlights for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do on the island:
1. Explore the Chora:
Astypalea’s hilltop fortress is its most significant landmark. Featuring a maze of narrow streets, traditional white houses, and white windmills, this charming village has a lot of history to discover.
2. Visit the Venetian Castle:
Located in the heart of the Chora, the Venetian castle is one of the oldest and most remarkable monuments in Astypalea. It was built in the 13th century and offers fantastic views of the surroundings.
3. Enjoy the beaches:
Astypalea has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea. Among the most popular are Livadia, Pera Gialos, and Kaminakia.
4. Go hiking:
Astypalea is ideal for hiking and nature lovers. The island has several hiking routes that offer breathtaking sea views, including the path leading to Analipsi beach, which is a 40-minute walk from Chora.
5. Taste local cuisine:
Astypalean cuisine features traditional Greek dishes, seafood, and local specialties with a unique twist. Be sure to try some of the local dishes such as “chlori” (spinach pie), “patoudo” (a famous Astypalean dish with goat), and “kaltsounia” (sweet cheese pastries).
6. Discover caves and archaeological sites:
Astypalea has several caves, such as the Agios Ioannis cave near Maltezana village, that are worth exploring. The island is also home to several archaeological sites, including the ancient acropolis of Astypalea.
7. Experience local festivals:
The island of Astypalea has several cultural events throughout the year, including religious festivals, such as the Feast of the Virgin Mary (Panagia Portaitissa) on August 15th, and traditional celebrations like the summer dance festivals, which take place in various villages around the island.
Beyond the Selfies: The Affordable Soul of Santorini
Santorini Is Not Too Touristy, Too Expensive, or Boring — It’s Simply Misunderstood
Did You Know What a Caldera Is?
The Greek €1 it’s a bridge between the ancient and modern worlds.
3 Days in Athens: best way to enjoy
