Andros

The second largest island of the Cyclades, Andros, boasts a rich maritime tradition and is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. It is a lush green island, dotted with springs in every village and waterfalls cascading down the hills most days of the year. Renting a car is highly recommended to access the trails, many of which are paved with stone and lead to stunning landscapes filled with wildflowers and archaeological remains.

Andros is one of the most accessible Cycladic islands from Attica due to its fast and regular connection with the port of Rafina. The journey takes only 2 hours, making it an ideal choice for short getaways or weekend trips.

Its connections with Tinos, Mykonos, and other Cycladic islands offer excellent opportunities for island hopping. Especially in the summer, the increased frequency of transport makes travel easier for tourists and locals.

Chora (Andros)

The capital of Andros, Chora, stands elegantly on a small peninsula, offering stunning views from its houses toward two large sandy beaches on either side. Chora is known for its beautiful pastel-colored houses and squares, influenced by Venetian heritage and the presence of seafaring families who lived there. Its cultural heritage is highlighted by impressive attractions such as the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Maritime Museum, and numerous significant churches.

Batsi

Batsi is a charming seaside village with numerous hotels, bars, and taverns, known for its vibrant nightlife. Its fully organized beach, with fine sand, is ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts.For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, the nearby Ateni Beach, located just 12 kilometers away, offers a serene alternative.

Korthi

Ormos Korthiou, also known as Gialos, is located in the southern part of Andros. The settlement is surrounded by stunning views of the nearby villages, while the Castle of Faneromeni (Pano Kastro) dominates the area. For swimming, you can visit the beaches of Mylos, the tranquil little harbor of Agia Aikaterini, and the famous beach "Tis Grias to Pidima". From Korthi, in about ten minutes, you can reach Episkopeio, where the "Bridge of Love" is located—one of the most romantic attractions of Andros, which gained popularity through the film Little England.

To get around the island, you can use the local buses that serve the main areas. The buses connect the port of Gavrio with Chora, Batsi, and Korthi, making them an ideal option for traveling without a car. If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car or a scooter from Gavrio, Batsi, or Chora. Alternatively, you can call a taxi for more direct transport.

Andros boasts an impressively diverse coastline stretching over 176 kilometers, featuring more than 30 beaches. Each beach offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences—whether you seek sandy or rocky landscapes, organized spots with sun loungers and beach bars, or secluded, hard-to-reach shores.

Vitali Beach

Vitali Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Andros, renowned for the scenic route required to reach it. Starting from the port of Gavrio, visitors travel 15 kilometers, the last 3 kilometers being a well-maintained dirt road, to arrive at a breathtaking bay of unparalleled natural beauty.

Kypri Beach

Kypri Beach, located in the southwestern part of Andros near the port of Gavrio, is a stunning bay with calm, turquoise waters. Its waters are so serene that no waves form, even during strong winds or the seasonal Meltemi winds, making it ideal for a tranquil swim.

Chalkolimionas Beach

Chalkolimionas Beach is approximately 24 kilometers from Gavrio port and 12 kilometers from Chora. It is quite spacious and features a mix of sand and pebbles, creating a unique landscape. The beach is easily accessible via a fully paved road that reaches right down to the sea.

Achla Beach

Achla Beach is truly a small paradise, filled with authentic beauty and special energy. Nestled in a secluded bay surrounded by lush landscapes and turquoise waters, it stands out as one of the most distinctive beaches on Andros.

The journey to Achla is part of the experience itself. Access is via a dirt road, which adds a sense of adventure, while the view from above is breathtaking and awe-inspiring. 

Zorkos Beach 

Zorkos Beach, located in the northeastern part of Andros near Gavrio, is one of the island’s most beloved beaches. It features a long and beautiful sandy shore with crystal-clear waters.Part of the beach is organized, offering amenities for visitors, while the remaining stretch remains unspoiled and free, allowing you to set up your spot and enjoy the tranquil surroundings at your leisure.

Archaeological Museum of Andros

Founded in 1981 through a donation by the Vassilis & Elisa Goulandris Foundation, the Archaeological Museum of Andros houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts. Notable exhibits include the Hermes of Andros, a Hellenistic copy of Praxiteles' work discovered in 1833 in Paleopolis, headless Kouros and the torso of Artemis, a Roman copy from the 2nd century B.C.

Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art, also established by the Vassilis & Elisa Goulandris Foundation, stands as one of Greece’s most significant cultural institutions. Open since 1979, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of works by Greek and international artists such as Picasso, Miró, and Tsarouchis, among others. With a dynamic combination of permanent and temporary exhibitions, the museum offers a fresh perspective on contemporary art, featuring cutting-edge curatorial practices.

Castle of Faneromeni (Upper Castle)

The Castle of Faneromeni, also known as Upper Castle or Grias Castle, was once the largest medieval settlement on Andros. Remnants of Roman fortifications are also found at the site.

Built by the Venetians to defend against pirate raids, the castle is located north of Korthi Bay, at an altitude of approximately 600 meters. Visitors can explore the ruins of houses, aqueducts, and ancient walls.

Hiking in Andros

Andros is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering a unique experience of exploration through its rich natural landscape. With over 20 trails of varying difficulty levels and durations of up to 6 hours, it caters to all preferences — from beginners to seasoned hikers.

The remarkable work of the Andros Routes team, in collaboration with volunteers, has maintained and promoted these paths, establishing Andros as a top hiking destination. This effort has earned the island international recognition, as its trails are officially certified by the European Ramblers Association (ERA).